Cost of Living Montreal vs Vancouver

by Richard Morrison
March 2, 2020
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Are you debating whether to move to Montreal or Vancouver? Freedom-seekers often consider cost of living. I’ll compare the two cities’ costs to help you decide.

Montreal and Vancouver are desirable Canadian cities with vibrant city life and many work and leisure options. How do they compare for what matters most—your wallet? We’ll compare each city’s cost of living in this article to find the best value.

Finally, we’ll consider safety, quality of life, and job availability to help you choose between Montreal and Vancouver.

Table of Contents show

Quick Summary

The cost of living in Montreal is generally less than in Vancouver, with consumer prices being 6.28% lower without rent, and 19.55% lower with rent. Renting in Montreal is significantly cheaper than in Vancouver, with costs being 41% less. Vancouver is more expensive than Montreal, especially when it comes to housing prices.

City Overview: Comparing Basic Information

Montreal and Vancouver are major Canadian cities. Both cities offer a vibrant lifestyle due to their diverse populations, climates, and geography. Montreal has French culture and cuisine, while Vancouver has breathtaking ocean and mountain scenery.

Both cities have diverse climates and populations. Montreal averages 2 degrees Celsius in winter and 26 degrees Celsius in summer. Vancouver, on Canada’s Pacific coast, has milder winters (6-12°C) and warmer summers (25-30°C). Both cities have excellent air quality due to environmental regulations that keep emissions low year-round, making them attractive places to live even compared to other major urban centres.

Both cities offer a wide range of recreation, cultural, and city life options, making them top destinations for adventurers and newcomers. Let’s consider food and transportation costs when comparing the cost of living in the two cities.

Cost of Living: Basic Needs in Comparison

Both Montreal and Vancouver have high basic-needs costs. Montreal has higher water rates than Vancouver, but Vancouver has higher food prices. Vancouver has cheaper gas than Quebec. Electricity bills vary by consumption but are generally similar across cities. Internet, phone, and clothing prices favour Vancouver over Montreal. BC has lower childcare and education costs than Quebec, but healthcare is also expensive. If budgeting is important, researching these two Canadian metropolises’ pricing structures may help when choosing a home.

Housing Costs: Which City is More Affordable?

Montreal and Vancouver have affordable and expensive housing. Montreal rentals are much cheaper than western ones. Montreal’s average apartment or condo rent is $1,000 CAD, while Vancouver’s ranges from $2,000 to $3,500. Both cities’ median home prices have increased, but Montreal’s mortgages are more affordable than Vancouver’s.

The difference in housing costs in these two Canadian cities shows that Montreal is the best place to find financial freedom when it comes to housing. With lower rents and mortgage payments, city residents can spend more without sacrificing quality of life. We then examine commuter transportation costs in each metropolitan area.

Transportation Expenses: Comparing the Cost of Getting Around

Montreal and Vancouver transportation costs differ greatly. Montreal’s public transit is cheaper than Vancouver’s. Montreal’s flat terrain and bike-friendly infrastructure make bike sharing cheaper. Taxi fares are similar when distance is considered, but car rental costs vary by city.

Gas prices vary slightly across both cities, but are generally consistent. Vancouver has higher bus, train, car insurance, parking, and bike insurance rates than Montreal. Montreal seems to have cheaper transportation than Vancouver. This makes it ideal for budget-minded travelers.

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Grocery Prices: Which City Offers Better Value for Money?

Montreal and Vancouver have very different grocery prices. Montreal has 13% lower grocery prices than Vancouver. In Montreal, you can save $20 for every $150 spent at the supermarket! Consider what’s included when comparing grocery prices in two cities: staples like bread, meat, eggs, dairy; fresh produce like fruits and vegetables; non-perishables like canned goods and snacks. Gluten-free and organic foods may also vary by store.

For comparison, a gallon of whole milk costs $4.50 in Montreal and $5.10 in Vancouver; a dozen large eggs costs $3 in both cities; and a pound of boneless chicken breast costs $7 in both cities.

Did you know that the average cost of Instant Quinoa in Montreal is 25 cents cheaper than in Vancouver? IThis may not seem like a significant difference, but over time it can add up!

These price differences may seem minor at first, but monthly grocery purchases add up. Relocating or travelling long-term requires knowing which city has the best grocery deals.

After that, let’s compare Montreal and Vancouver’s entertainment and leisure prices…

Entertainment and Leisure Prices: Which City is More Affordable?

Vancouver has higher entertainment and leisure costs. Montreal movie tickets cost around $11, while Vancouver tickets cost $15–20 depending on location. Concert tickets are comparable, but hockey games in Vancouver cost almost twice as much as in Montreal. Vancouver bowling alleys cost nearly $20 per game, compared to $14 in Montreal.

Amusement parks, theatre shows, night clubs, and park admission fees are similar in both cities. Both offer great museum and zoo deals. Leisure costs:

Bowling Alley Prices – Around $14/game in Montreal vs Almost $20/game in Vancouver

Movie Theater Tickets – About $11/ticket in Montreal vs $15-$20/ticket in Vancouver

Concert Ticket Prices – Comparable across both cities

Sporting Event Tickets – Hockey games double the price in Vancouver ($50+) compared to Montreal ($25+)

Amusement Park Tickets – Similar pricing across both cities

Theater Show Tickets – Usually about the same throughout Canada Zoos often offer discounts.

Montreal has cheaper movie theatre tickets and bowling alleys than Vancouver, but other entertainment and leisure activities are similar.

Healthcare and Insurance Costs: Comparing Toronto vs Vancouver

Healthcare and insurance costs affect any city’s cost of living. Montreal and Vancouver too.

Montrealers receive full provincial medical coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, medications, and more. Since the province covers most doctor visits in Montreal, there may be minor fees. Hospital stays are covered regardless of type or length.

Vancouver residents do have provincial coverage as well, but many still choose to pay for private health plans on top of provincial coverage. This costs $30–$70 per month depending on the plan.

Healthcare and insurance costs should be considered when moving to Montreal or Vancouver in Canada! Comparison shopping can help people enjoy their newfound freedom without worrying about unexpected medical bills. Next, we’ll see if either city has a taxation advantage.

Tax Rates: Understanding the Differences Between the Two Cities

Montreal and Vancouver differ greatly in taxation. Some rates are similar, but others differ greatly between the cities. Compare these tax systems:
The combined federal and provincial tax rate is between 27.53% and 53.31% depending on the source, and the tax rates in Montreal, Quebec, range from 15% to 25.75% of income. The amount of income earned determines the exact tax rate.

The combined federal and provincial tax rate is between 20.06% and 53.5% depending on the source, and the tax rates in Vancouver, British Columbia range from 5.06% to 20.5% of income. The amount of income earned determines the exact tax rate.

Depending on the source, the sales tax in Vancouver, British Columbia is 12% of the purchase price (7% PST + 5% GST). The cost of the goods and services will determine the exact tax rate.
Depending on the source, the sales tax in Montreal, Quebec, is 14.975% (GST + QST). The cost of the goods and services will determine the exact tax rate.

Depending on the source, Quebec has the highest effective personal income tax rate of 28.0% for those who earn over 100 000 CAD annually. Among other provinces and territories, British Columbia has the lowest average tax rate for a $100,000 income.. The amount of income earned determines the exact tax rate. According to the sources, it is unclear whether Vancouver or Montreal have higher income tax rates for individuals earning over $100,000 CAD annually.

Income Opportunities: Which City Offers Better Earning Potential?

Montreal and Vancouver offer many job opportunities. However, these cities have different cost of living. Let’s compare salary, employment, and wage growth in the two cities.

Computer network technicians, programmers, software engineers, electrical engineers, and creators of interactive media are a few of the professions in Montreal that are in high demand. In Quebec (which includes Montreal), some of the most sought-after positions include registered nurses and artificial intelligence consultants/data scientists.

Jobs in business and administration, technology, and construction and engineering are some of the most sought-after professions in British Columbia, which includes Vancouver. The most in-demand trades in British Columbia, according to WorkBC.ca, are construction managers, painters and decorators, and electricians. Payroll managers and information systems analysts are two additional in-demand positions in British Columbia.

Montreal and Vancouver have strong job markets and competitive salaries, ensuring job security. Vancouver has a higher minimum wage than Montreal, but households earn more there. While both cities have good job prospects, the cost of living should be considered when choosing where to live or work. Before moving or changing jobs, research the industry to see if one city offers better career growth. We can now compare Montreal and Vancouver education costs.

Education Costs: Comparing Toronto and Vancouver

When comparing cities, consider education costs since families must invest in education. Depending on needs, moving to Montreal or Vancouver could save money on education.

In Vancouver, British Columbia, undergraduate tuition costs typically range from $5,000 to $30,000 CAD annually. The university and the course of study will determine the exact tuition cost. International students at UBC must pay a minimum of $4,204 USD per year, while domestic students pay about $7,693 CAD annually. In 2019–20, international undergraduate students will pay CA$29714 (roughly $22,500) in tuition fees.
In Montreal, Quebec, the annual cost of undergraduate tuition ranges from $1,800 to $50,000 CAD. The university and the course of study will determine the exact tuition cost. For domestic students, the basic tuition rate in Quebec is anticipated to be $96.04 CAD per credit ($1,440.60 CAD per term) in 2023–2024, while tuition for international students will be made up of the Quebec rate plus a 10% international supplement. Another source claims that Canadian graduate students in Quebec pay an average annual tuition of $3,353 CAD.

Daycare costs also vary between cities. For an infant and a toddler, full-time, full-day care in Vancouver cost on average about $1,400 and $1,407, respectively. With a median monthly cost of $175 CAD, Montreal has the lowest childcare costs. The type of child care, the location, and the child’s age all affect the final price.

Private School Fees: Finally, private school fees are much higher than public schools.

Private school tuition varies between Vancouver and Montreal. In Canada, the average yearly day school tuition is $21,000 CAD. Private school day tuition in Vancouver ranges from $14,000 to $17,000 CAD per year (without boarding). The cost is determined by the institution and the course of study. According to the sources, it is unclear whether Montreal charges more or less for private education than Vancouver.

Educational costs vary across Canadian provinces and even within each province, making location an important factor when deciding whether to move due to schooling costs. With this education cost information before choosing a city, families can make more informed decisions based on their budget and desired quality.

Utility Bills: Which City Offers Better Value for Money?

Montreal and Vancouver have different utility bills. Montreal’s electricity costs $0.093/kWh, compared to Vancouver’s $0.133/kWh. Montreal’s water bills average $17 a month, compared to Vancouver’s $25–$50. Gas prices vary daily, but Montreal is cheaper than Vancouver. Both cities have similar heating costs, but phone, internet, cable TV, and garbage collection fees depend on your provider. Rogers Cable offers affordable packages in both cities and recycling services in most Canadian residential rental agreements.

Montreal and Vancouver have comparable utility costs, so shop around before choosing a provider or package plan. However, taxes and cost of living must be considered when choosing a city.

Final Cost-of-Living Comparison: Toronto vs Vancouver

Montreal’s cost of living is unlike Vancouver’s. The table below compares their financials:

Expense	Montreal	Vancouver
Basic Needs	Moderately Low	High
Lifestyle Costs	Low	High
Living Expenses	Moderate	Very High
Quality of Life	Good	Excellent

As you can see, these cities have very different grocery and housing costs. However, both have many expensive activities. Due to its affluence and high service demand, Vancouver has higher living costs than Montreal. Finally, Montreal’s quality of life isn’t as good as Vancouver’s, which has some of Canada’s best scenery and amenities. Considering all this, each city has its own living cost advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Living In Each City

When choosing between Montreal and Vancouver, weigh their pros and cons. Moving to either requires knowledge of the job market, climate, crime rate, cultural attractions, outdoor activities, public transportation, air quality, healthcare, and education systems.

Montreal has lower housing costs than Vancouver. For job seekers, the city has a low unemployment rate and many festivals to keep residents busy. Montreal’s winters are colder than Vancouver but milder than most of Canada. It has moderate crime rates but higher violent crime than Vancouver. Buses and metro lines run 24/7, making public transportation easy. Due to its distance from industrial areas, Montreal has cleaner air than many Canadian cities.

Vancouver has beautiful mountains, hiking trails, and skiing. Since 2001, Mercer Human Resource Consulting firm surveys have ranked it among the top 10 cities in the world for quality of life. Like Montreal, it has a low unemployment rate. Moving to this coastal paradise is expensive compared to Montreal because housing costs are high. Due to traffic congestion from frequent rain and milder winters, air pollution is higher than in other parts of Canada. However, crime rates remain low, making it one of the safest places in North America and Europe, alongside Tokyo and Zurich, according to 2019 Economist Intelligence Unit safety index ratings.

Both cities offer unique advantages depending on individual needs and preferences, making it difficult for someone who wants freedom without compromising lifestyle choices or affordability when moving somewhere new.

Quality Of Life

Montreal has half as many people per square kilometer as Vancouver. This shows population density differences between these cities, which can affect quality of life for potential residents.

Several factors affect quality of life:

Family-Friendly Amenities

Cultural activities Outdoor activities

Safety ratings

Greenspaces

Urban living, shopping, public transportation, biking trails, and dining options

Both cities have family-friendly cultural, outdoor, safety, and green space options. Vancouver’s Stanley Park offers stunning ocean and wildlife views, while Montreal’s Old Port district has cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages. Both cities have great shopping districts with many stores and restaurants. Montreal has a metro system, while Vancouver has extensive bus routes. Both cities’ waterfronts have bike paths for cyclists to ride around town or enjoy the fresh air. Finally, foodies will enjoy both cities’ diverse restaurant scene, which includes comfort food and gourmet international cuisine.
Montreal and Vancouver offer something unique to their populations, making them desirable destinations for anyone seeking a vibrant metropolitan lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Time Does It Take To Journey From Montreal To Vancouver?

Montreal-Vancouver travel has many factors. The decision depends on cost, travel time, and mode of transportation. How long it takes to get between cities is important when comparing costs of living.

Montreal-Vancouver flights are most popular. Flight times can range from 4 hours 30 minutes (direct) to 17 hours (multiple stops) depending on when and which airline you choose. Car trips take 48–72 hours, depending on route and speed. Gas prices make this option cheaper than flying, and commuters can sightsee along the way without a time limit.

Five interesting Montreal-Vancouver commuter facts:

Skyscanner Canada’s 2019 report on Montreal flights found that roundtrip tickets averaged $461 CAD ($353 USD).

The fastest train connection only covers 1/3 of the distance from Montreal to Ottawa, Winnipeg, and Calgary before requiring at least one transfer, adding 10+ hours to the total transit time compared to planes and cars.

Highway 2 runs 5232 km through Toronto and Edmonton on both provinces.

BC Ferries’ 9-hour ferry across British Columbia offers stunning views that planes cannot!

Joining ridesharing services like Poparide or BlaBlaCar could help you save and make money!
Traveling between these two Canadian cities requires advance planning to account for delays. Travelers must consider their budget and commute preferences when comparing Montreal-Vancouver transportation options.

How Does the Employment Landscape Compare in These Two Cities?

Montreal and Vancouver have strong job markets. These Canadian cities offer great employment, salary, and job prospects. Which city is best? Let’s compare job prospects.

Montreal has many job opportunities. With some of Canada’s biggest employers here, technology and finance jobs are plentiful. Comparatively, the average salary range is competitive. Montreal’s cost of living is low, so salaries go further than elsewhere. Montreal’s job market offers many opportunities.

Vancouver has a robust job market. This coastal city offers high-paying tech, finance, and healthcare jobs. Several growing companies offer great career opportunities for those willing to try new things and explore their field. Despite lower salaries than other parts of Canada, the cost of living is still low, so workers have more money left over after bills and expenses. Thus, Vancouver residents have many lucrative career options.

With so many job opportunities in both cities, it comes down to personal preference: higher wages, lower costs, more stability, or more flexibility.

Are There Any Cultural Contrasts Between the Two Cities?

Montreal vs. Vancouver: cultural differences? If you’re looking for the perfect city to live in, you should ask. Today’s urban mobility makes cost of living comparisons difficult. Culture is a major factor in lifestyle comparison. Let’s examine these two Canadian cities’ differences!

Transportation, job markets, education, entertainment, and more affect Montreal and Vancouver cultures. Both cities have efficient public transit networks with buses and subway lines (Montreal) or skytrains (Vancouver). Each city’s job market also varies by industry.

While technology and finance are booming in Vancouver and Montreal, other industries may be struggling. Education options vary, from McGill University and Concordia University in Montreal to UBC and Simon Fraser University in Vancouver, not to mention great community colleges on both coasts. Finally, choose between a show at Place des Arts de Montréal or a music festival like FVDED In The Park in downtown Vancouver.

So whether you want a lively nightlife scene with bars and clubs or a relaxed atmosphere perfect for families and outdoor adventurers, understanding how different cities function culturally will help you decide where to move! Before committing, explore Canada and see why Canadians love urban living so much!

What Is the Weather Like in Both Cities?

Montreal and Vancouver’s climates appeal to potential residents. These locations have different temperatures, precipitation, and humidity. Comparing climates:

Montreal’s winters average -2 °C (28 °F) and summers 25 °C (77 °F). Winters also bring snow.

Vancouver has mild winters but still gets snow. Summer highs average 21°C (70°F) and winter lows 4°C (39°F).

Vancouver receives 1250 mm per year from November to March, while Montreal receives 950 mm evenly throughout the season. Montreal has 60% relative humidity, while Vancouver averages 50%.

Climate alone is not enough to choose a location. Some prefer extreme seasons, moderate temperatures, or lower rainfall and humidity. Before moving cross-country, prospective residents must research the local climate!

Top Neighborhoods to Live in Each City: Are There Any Good Ones?

City life is a maze. Know which neighbourhoods are safe, affordable, family-friendly, and have the amenities you need. Montreal and Vancouver are great places to live due to their climates and cultures.

Rent costs, safety, real estate prices, and neighbourhood amenities should be considered when choosing a city neighbourhood. Plateau-Mont Royal, Westmount, Griffintown, Ville Marie, and Notre Dame de Grace are some of Montreal’s best neighbourhoods. In Vancouver, Yaletown is close to downtown, Kitsilano has beaches, Mount Pleasant is artsy, Commercial Drive has ethnic restaurants, and Kerrisdale is quieter.

Since housing prices vary by location, it’s also important to watch out for potential risks, especially in terms of affordability. Before committing to a new home or apartment, carefully review listings, ask locals about the area, read trustworthy reviews online, and trust your instincts. So you won’t live somewhere unsafe or uncomfortable!

Conclusion

Montreal and Vancouver are clearly distinct cities. Montreal’s vibrant culture contrasts with Vancouver’s stunning mountain views.

Both cities have pros and cons for cost of living. Montreal has a lower cost of living than Vancouver but a less competitive job market. If you want an exciting job with higher pay, move to Vancouver. Housing prices are high, but not compared to other major Canadian cities. Climate and scenery compensate!

Your preferences will determine whether you move to Montreal or Vancouver. Living in any city is an adventure!

Sources:

https://www.expatistan.com/cost-of-living/montreal

https://www.expatarrivals.com/americas/canada/vancouver/cost-living-vancouver

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