Posted on Thursday, May 30 2024
Moving to Montreal may be one of the most exciting and inspiring decisions you can make. Montreal, Canada, is a city with a little bit of everything for everyone. It uniquely blends old and new while combining Canadian heritage with European flair. It delivers the buzz of big cities while honouring small-town quaintness and a soul rich with culture and diversity.
The charm of Montreal will undoubtedly win you over, but before you say “allons y,” here are some friendly tips and essential things you should know before starting your journey to this fantastic city: 10 Essential Things to Know Before Moving to Montreal.
With four highly reputable Universities (McGill, Concordia, UQAM, UdeM) in the heart of the city, Montreal is home to 180,000 students, translating to a concentration of just over four students per 100 residents. As the student capital of North America, student life in Montreal offers an exciting, vibrant, and cultured university experience for all ages.
Living in a city that caters to a younger demographic certainly has unique perks. There will never be a shortage of entertainment, shows, festivals, dining options, or community events. Montreal prides itself on staying innovative, fresh, and exciting while paying homage to its rich history. The countless opportunities to meet new, like-minded people help make a big city feel just that much smaller. Whether you’re embarking on your university years or are young at heart, embarking on your student life in Montreal will feel like home in no time.
Quite often, the biggest question mark is whether one can enjoy living in Montreal as an English speaker. The answer is oui, of course! Even though Montreal is indeed a bilingual city, with the majority of its residents speaking both English and French, being bilingual helps, but it certainly isn’t mandatory. You can definitely forge ahead by speaking only English or only French.
It’s important to know that Montrealers and Quebecers take pride in their French heritage, and as such, some neighbourhoods are much more Francophone than others. Do your research and ensure you’re comfortable with your new surroundings. But remember, that part of the excitement of moving to a city like Montreal is taking on new adventures and learning new things. What better way of immersing yourself in Montreal’s European-like culture than by learning a new language? Challenge yourself to learn one new word a day, and before you know it, you’ll be ordering your complete meal - from appetizer to entree - entirely in French.
Yes, Montreal winters are indeed very frigid, but rest assured that you’ll be soaking up the sun all summer long. The reputation of Montreal winters (and its snow-filled activities) precedes it, but thankfully, the city celebrates all four seasons with gloriously varying temperatures. Summers in the city can see temps up to 38°C (100°F).
Lather on sunscreen, hydrate and hit the streets to enjoy the festivities. Montreal boasts an unrivalled repertoire of festivals in the summer. The city’s largest and most popular festival is the Festival International de Jazz; Pop Montreal is one of the world’s top independent rock festivals; and ‘Mutek’ is home to all techno music lovers. Montreal also hosts the world-renowned ‘Just For Laughs’ comedy festival. Throw on your shades and soak it all in.
The cost of living in Montreal is very reasonable compared to other cities in Canada. Residents typically pay lower rent and take advantage of very affordable public transit amenities. The plethora of entertainment and dining options is also significantly less expensive than in other provinces in Canada.
Montreal's enduring affordability is due to the stability and history of the housing market. This may be why everyone seems to celebrate something in Montreal!
Canadians across the nation celebrate Canada Day on July 1st, the anniversary of the Canadian Confederation—Canada’s birthday! Everyone sports their red and white apparel, celebrating in their own unique way, and Montrealers are no different.
July 1st also marks another occasion for those living in Montreal: Moving Day. All rental leases end on July 1st, and as a result, you can see a mass exodus of residents packing their things and moving to their new homes. It’s important to note that Moving Day is more of a custom than a legal enforcement.
The day brings a lot of movement and energy. The fact that it falls on a national statutory holiday can also be seen as an added convenience since you’ll be sure to find some time to rest and enjoy a spectacular fireworks display after the hustle and bustle of the day.
It is worth repeating if you may not have already gathered: Montreal sure knows how to have fun. The agenda is always packed: festivals, concerts, parties, street fairs and an electric nightlife. The restaurant scene is exceptional, with endless cuisine options for every taste and mood. Staying true to its European history, Montreal offers social options like no other. When the workday is done, it’s time to enjoy Montreal’s version of happy hour with “cinq a sept” (5 to 7) for casual drinks and delicacies at the end of the day.
The buzz of Montreal can be overwhelming, but there is always an escape if you need some downtime. You can easily find a moment of stillness in a serene stroll by Lachine Canal or explore several scenic spots such as Parc Jean-Drapeau, Ruisseau-De Montigny Nature Park, and Cap Saint Jacques Nature Park. The key is finding what’s right for you at that moment and living your life to the fullest.
Montreal has a striking shortage of family physicians. Finding a family doctor, let alone one with whom you are comfortable is not simple. The Montreal Gazette reports that non-vulnerable patients could wait a staggering 506 days to find the right doctor.
This can be attributed to Montreal’s high population density. Still, on a positive note, it allows for plenty of exposure to different doctors and their practices, which has proven to work for many Montealers. Since a relationship with a family doctor needs a personal rapport first, newcomers are urged to start the search early, ask the right questions and be diligent. Until then, you can always rely on the many walk-in clinics available in the city.
Montreal's rich history manifests itself in some spectacular architecture and picturesque buildings. However, a downside is the constant need for modernization and reconstruction of the city’s infrastructure. Because of the harsh winters, construction work (as in most major Canadian cities) is usually scheduled for the warmer months. quirking
Allow for some added time to your commute or take advantage of the extensive public transportation options available in the city. Montreal is also known as a cyclist’s paradise with generous bike lanes throughout the city, which means you can comfortably and safely avoid traffic and congested roads on a bike.
Montreal is an authentically cosmopolitan city and a melting pot in every sense of the word. The high student population contributes to this diversity, as does the city’s unique aesthetic, which has global appeal and attracts people worldwide.
This diversity gives the lifestyle in Montreal a distinctive character and a never-ending source of life. Cultural events are always happening, and there is always a chance to connect with people from different backgrounds. It really is a North American window into the wonders of Europe. With multiculturalism and diversity comes a variety of food like no other. Go ahead and start with the resident poutine offerings, then get your taste buds ready for authentic worldwide cuisine experiences.
Unfortunately, Montreal's affordability comes at a price: disproportionately high tax rates compared to other cities in the country. Quebec has the highest personal income tax rate in North America.
Be sure to budget appropriately for the tax season, and don’t hesitate to speak to an expert to help you with potential savings and deductions. Celebrate that you are moving to an incredible city that will surely inspire you with the opportunity to have the time of your life. The higher taxes may be worth it, after all.
There is something freeing about starting a chapter in a new city, and with that city being Montreal, brace yourself for so much life and possibilities. Montreal is adorned with many neighbourhoods, each with a unique character, ambience, and demographic. Bienvenue—Montreal is waiting.
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