Expat Topics
Cost of Living in Montreal (2026)
Monthly budget breakdown for expats living in Montreal, Canada
Last updated: March 2026
The cost of living in Montreal, Canada for an expat in 2026 averages CAD 1,600–2,200 per month for rent (1-br, city center). Key costs include rent (1-br, city center) (CAD 1,600–2,200), rent (1-br, rosemont/verdun) (CAD 1,100–1,600), groceries (CAD 380–520).
Montreal is a popular destination for expats relocating to Canada. Montreal is Canada's cultural capital — a French-speaking city with a uniquely North American energy. Home to some of the continent's best restaurants, a legendary underground city that handles brutal winters with style, world-class jazz and comedy festivals, and rents that are still remarkably affordable by Canadian standards. Below is a detailed monthly budget breakdown based on real expat spending data.
Monthly Expenses Breakdown
| Expense | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-BR, city center) | CAD 1,600–2,200 |
| Rent (1-BR, Rosemont/Verdun) | CAD 1,100–1,600 |
| Groceries | CAD 380–520 |
| STM Monthly Pass (metro+bus) | CAD 98 |
| Utilities (electricity, internet) | CAD 150–250 |
| RAMQ supplement / private top-up | CAD 70–130 |
| Dining out (2–3×/week) | CAD 220–350 |
| Entertainment & misc. | CAD 180–300 |
| Total (comfortable, central Montreal) | CAD 2,700–3,800 |
Montreal Quick Facts
English Level
Very good (bilingual city)
Best For
Bilingual professionals, artists, students, families
Monthly Budget
CAD 2,800–4,000 ($2,050–$2,950)
1-BR Center Rent
CAD 1,600–2,200/mo
Internet Speed
~200 Mbps avg.
Languages
French (primary), English (widely spoken)
Public Transit
STM metro + buses
Airport
YUL Trudeau — 130+ direct routes
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Montreal per month?
Monthly costs in Montreal depend on your lifestyle. Key expenses include rent (1-br, city center) (CAD 1,600–2,200), rent (1-br, rosemont/verdun) (CAD 1,100–1,600), groceries (CAD 380–520). See the full breakdown above for a complete picture.
Is Montreal affordable for expats?
Montreal is a popular expat destination with costs that vary by neighborhood and lifestyle. Many expats find they can live comfortably on a mid-range budget.
What is the average rent in Montreal?
Rent (1-BR, city center): CAD 1,600–2,200. Rent (1-BR, Rosemont/Verdun): CAD 1,100–1,600