Expat Housing Guide: Moving to Montreal

Housing Market Overview

Montreal's housing market offers excellent value compared to other major Canadian cities, with a diverse mix of historic duplexes, triplexes, and modern condominiums. The rental market is tenant-friendly due to Quebec's strong rent control laws, keeping price increases moderate. The city features distinctive architecture including iconic spiral staircases and colorful row houses. Montreal attracts significant international student and professional populations, creating a dynamic multilingual housing environment with both French and English-speaking communities.

Quick Stats

Housing Score

3.0 /5

Cost of Living

3.0 /5

Avg Rent (2BR)

$1,400-$1,800

Neighborhoods

Estimated Costs

One-Time Costs

$12,500

Monthly Costs

$1,442/mo

Sample Costs

Full Breakdown →

One-Time

Shipping Container $3,500

Furnishing $4,500

Security Deposit $0

Monthly

Electricity $70/mo

Water $0/mo

Heating $85/mo

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Popular Neighborhoods

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Verdun

Safety 4.0

Schools 3.0

Transport 4.0

2BR: $1,200–$1,900/mo

Saint-Henri

Safety 3.0

Schools 3.0

Transport 4.0

2BR: $1,250–$2,000/mo

Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie

Safety 4.0

Schools 5.0

Transport 4.0

2BR: $1,250–$2,000/mo

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Practical Tips

Time your apartment search for late May to early June

most leases end June 30th, creating the highest inventory due to Quebec's traditional 'Moving Day'

Consider offering to take over someone's lease transfer instead of signing new

you inherit their rent rate, which is often significantly lower than market rate due to Quebec rent control laws

Try looking for apartments in Verdun or Hochelaga neighborhoods

they're rapidly gentrifying and still offer lower rents than Plateau or Mile End with good metro access

You could negotiate including heating costs even in 'chauffage non-inclus' listings

many landlords will include it to secure good tenants, especially for October-March lease starts

Useful Links

Société d'habitation du Québec (SHQ)

Official Quebec housing corporation providing rental regulations, tenant rights, affordable housing programs, and housing assistance information.

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Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)

Federal housing agency offering mortgage insurance, housing market data, homebuying guides, and rental market reports.

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Régie du logement du Québec

Official Quebec rental board governing landlord-tenant relations, lease regulations, rent increases, and dispute resolution procedures.

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Centris Quebec Real Estate

Professional real estate platform for Montreal property listings, market statistics, and certified realtor connections for buying.

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Kijiji Montreal Rentals

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Frequently Asked Questions

A 2-bedroom apartment in Montreal typically costs between $1,400 and $1,800 per month for expats, depending on the neighborhood.

Verdun, Saint-Henri, Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie are popular choices for expat families in Montreal, offering good safety scores, international schools nearby, and family-friendly amenities.

When relocating to Montreal, expect one-time housing costs including a security deposit, real estate agent fees, and moving services. Create a free ReloPlanner account to see a personalized cost breakdown.

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Data verified: March 2026

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