Living in Toronto vs. Montreal: Which is Better? 2024

Are you considering moving to Canada? Then you’re probably debating living in Toronto vs. Montreal.

After all, these are two of the biggest and most popular cities in the country.

They both have a lot to offer, from great job opportunities to vibrant nightlife.

Toronto is home to the CN Tower and the beautiful Toronto Islands for summer kayaking.

Montreal is known for its French culture, charming cobblestone streets, and world-renowned cuisine.

So, how do you choose between the two?

To help you make your decision, we’ve put together a handy guide comparing these two great Canadian cities. Keep reading to learn more about living in Toronto vs. Montreal.

Differences Between Toronto and Montreal

There are a few key differences between Toronto and Montreal that you should keep in mind when making your decision.

For starters, Toronto is the business capital of Canada. If you’re looking for job opportunities, this is the city for you.

Montreal, on the other hand, is known for its arts and culture scene. This is the perfect place to be if you’re looking for a creative and vibrant community.

Another key difference is that Toronto is a much bigger city than Montreal.

This means that there’s more to do and see, but it also means that it can be more expensive to live here.

The third key difference is the language. Toronto is a very English-speaking city, while Montreal is bilingual.

This means that you’ll be able to get by with English in Toronto, but you’ll need to know some French if you want to live and work in Montreal.

Similarities Between Toronto and Montreal

Toronto and Montreal may seem very different on the surface. I mean, they’re even located in different provinces.

But there are more similarities than you’d think between these two cities.

Both cities are popular tourist destinations, so you’ll find a lot of things to do here no matter which one you choose.

They’re both also very multicultural cities, so you’ll be able to find people from all over the world to connect with.

And finally, they’re both great places for nightlife. Montreal may be slightly better as it caters to more people with the lower drinking age in Quebec. But in both cities, you’ll find plenty of bars and clubs to enjoy.

Toronto vs. Montreal Weather

Toronto Weather

Toronto is a city of extremes.

Summers see highs of 30C, with the humidity and smog making it feel like 40C!

Most days, you’ll be able to enjoy heat that feels like 25-30C from July to early September.

In winter, you’ll need to bundle up to face the -8C averages from January to March.

You’ll see the highest snowfalls in January and February, with an average of 20-30cm per month.

Due to its location beside Lake Ontario, Toronto temperatures are actually considered more temperate than in many parts of Canada.

Montreal Weather

Montreal has a similar climate to Toronto, but the weather is a little more moderate.

Summers see highs of 27C, with most days feeling like 25-30C from July to early September.

The lack of humidity and smog makes it much more bearable than the heavy temperatures in Toronto.

In winter, you’ll need to bundle up to face the -12C averages from January to March.

You’ll see the highest snowfalls in February, with an average of 20-30cm per month.

However, Montreal is known for its freezing cold winters and you can expect temperatures to drop below -20C on occasion.

It is also record-breaking in its snowfalls, with cars on sidewalks regularly getting buried overnight!

Toronto vs. Montreal Cost of Living

Toronto Cost of Living

Toronto is an expensive place to live.

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment downtown is $2,200 per month.

If you want to live in a nicer neighbourhood or in a house, be prepared to pay even more.

To save money, you can look for an apartment outside of the city centre.

This will give you access to cheaper rent and groceries, but it also means longer commute times.

The housing market in Toronto is extremely inflated, with small houses in the suburbs of Etobicoke selling for over $1.4 million for two bedrooms. This is below average actually for Toronto’s housing market in 2022.

A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant will cost you about $100, and a cappuccino will set you back $7.

You will need an estimated $2,500 per month BEFORE rent or housing.

So that means that monthly you need about $5,000 to live in Toronto.

While this is a high cost of living, there are a lot of pros to living in Toronto that allow people to overlook the prices.

Montreal Cost of Living

Montreal is a fairly affordable place to live.

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is $1,400 per month.

On average it’s 53% more affordable to rent a home in Montreal.

If you want to buy a house, the average price is $350,000.

A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant will cost you about $75, and a cappuccino will set you back $6.

You will need an estimated $1,500 per month BEFORE rent or housing.

So that means that monthly you need about $3,000 to live in Montreal.

This is a very affordable cost of living, especially when compared to cities like Toronto and Vancouver.

Average Salary in Toronto vs. Montreal

Toronto

The average salary in Toronto is $91,987 before taxes.

However, the typical salary is $60,510 before taxes.

Montreal

The average salary in Montreal is $86,424 before taxes.

However, the typical salary is $47,635 before taxes.

Cost Groceries in Toronto vs. Montreal

Toronto

In Toronto, a trip to the grocery store will cost you about $250 for one person eating meat, fresh vegetables, and snacks for a week.

You can find cheaper food prices, especially if you don’t eat meat or if you meal prep.

The prices are higher if you have any dietary requirements that require lactose free or celiac-friendly foods.

Montreal

In Montreal, a trip to the grocery store will cost you about $200 for one person eating meat, fresh vegetables, and snacks for a week.

However, it is more common to shop daily in Montreal or to go to farmers’ markets. This can mean an increase in your grocery budget, but will ultimately equate to yummier food.

Rent/Housing in Toronto vs. Montreal

Toronto

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Toronto is $2,200.

If you want to buy a house, the average price is $1.4 million.

You can find cheaper options outside of downtown, but that means longer commute times.

Some popular areas for living further from downtown are Etobicoke, Mississauga, Peterborough, and North York.

You will have to factor in additional transit costs.

Montreal

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Montreal is $1,400.

If you want to buy a house, the average price is $700,000 for a detached home.

There are cheaper options available if you are willing to live further from downtown.

You will likely have to factor in additional transit costs.

However, it’s more common for people to live directly in downtown Montreal.

Public Transit in Toronto vs. Montreal

Toronto

In Toronto, the public transit system is composed of the TTC and the Go Train.

The TTC is made up of buses, streetcars, and subways.

A monthly pass costs $156, and a single ride is $3.25.

You can get additional discounts for seniors and students.

The TTC runs from 6am to 2am daily.

The Go Train is a regional train that services the Greater Toronto Area and further.

You can even use it to get from Toronto to Niagara Falls!

Prices vary depending on your trips. You can calculate your fares here.

Montreal

In Montreal, the public transit system is called the STM.

A monthly pass costs $90.50, and a single ride is $3.50.

You can get additional discounts for seniors and students.

You can catch these buses and trains from 5:30am to 1am daily.

Gas Costs

Toronto

1L of gas in Toronto costs, on average in 2022, $1.99.

Montreal

1L of gas in Montreal costs, on average in 2022, $2.07.

Safety in Toronto vs. Montreal

Toronto

Toronto is a relatively safe city.

The crime rate has been decreasing since the early 2000s. It is now 41.67 on the crime index.

The highest incidents of crime currently are for home robberies and car theft.

However, there are still areas of the city that you should avoid, especially at night.

Some of these areas include: downtown east, Jane and Finch, and Regent Park.

Montreal

Montreal is even safer than Toronto.

Its crime rate is 30.82.

The most worrisome forms of crime in Montreal are reported to be crimes dealing with drugs or vandalism.

People feel very safe walking at night, even after going to night clubs.

However, like Toronto, there are still areas of Montreal that you should avoid.

Some of these areas include: Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, Verdun, and Ville-Marie.

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Lifestyle/Culture

Toronto

Toronto is a cosmopolitan city.

You’ll find people from all over the world here.

It’s Canada’s financial hub, so there are a lot of young professionals.

The downtown core is very lively, with lots of bars and restaurants. Yorkville is a trendy neighbourhood with high-end shops.

Toronto is also a very culturally diverse city.

You’ll find Chinatown, Little Italy, and Greektown – among others!

You can find any type of food here, often with an annual festival to further celebrate the ethnicities.

The arts scene is also thriving in Toronto.

There are world-renowned museums and theatres you won’t want to miss, like the AGO and the ROM.

However, Toronto’s culture is more fast-paced. We operate a lot like New Yorkers (which has earned us the nickname of the “New York of Canada”).

Don’t be surprised if people work beyond their hours or don’t smile on the street.

Montreal

Montreal is a very European city.

You’ll find a lot of old architecture and narrow streets.

It’s known for its art scene, with many underground galleries and street art.

Montreal is also famous for its festivals. There’s the Jazz Festival, the Comedy Festival, and the Just For Laughs Festival.

Montreal is a very bilingual city. You’ll hear people speaking French and English all over the place. In fact, all of the signs are in both languages!

Montreal feels like Europe in Canada.

Between the cobblestone streets and the authentic French cuisine, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to France.

Montrealers are also very passionate people.

They Bleed Blue (for their hockey team, the Montreal Canadiens). And they love to party!

The nightlife here is intense and goes until the early hours of the morning.

People

Toronto

Torontonians are busy people. They’re polite, as are all Canadians, but they’re focused on getting to where they need to go.

They are notorious fast walkers who don’t smile at strangers on the street.

However, they’re warm and welcoming behind their frosty exterior.

You’d be frosty too in a city of 2 million people! There’s just no time to smile at everyone all day.

Montreal

Montrealers are a passionate bunch.

They’re known for being outgoing and friendly, but they can also be fiercely opinionated.

They love to debate, so don’t be afraid to speak your mind around them.

They’re also very proud of their city and its unique culture.

Things to Do in Toronto vs. Montreal

Things to Do in Toronto

There is no shortage of things to do in Toronto.

If you’re into the arts, there are world-renowned museums and galleries to explore. I recommend stopping by the ROM to learn about natural history and see some cool dinosaur bones.

If you’re into sports, you can catch a game at the Air Canada Centre or take a tour of the stadium.

There are also plenty of parks to walk or relax in, like High Park and Trinity Bellwoods Park.

And if you want to shop till you drop, there’s the Eaton Centre and Yorkdale Mall.

Take in a food tour to discover the wonders of different cuisines across the city.

Things to Do in Montreal

Montreal is a great city for foodies.

There are plenty of restaurants to try, as well as markets selling fresh local produce.

I recommend going to the Jean Talon Market to pick up some groceries, then heading to one of Montreal’s many bakeries for a delicious treat.

Montreal is also renowned for its nightlife.

There are lots of bars and clubs to check out, as well as live music venues.

And if you’re into gambling, the Casino de Montreal is definitely worth a visit.

Whenever I visit, I stop by the Biodome to learn about the different ecosystems of the world.

It’s a really cool place and it’s always fun to see the penguins!

Location

Toronto

Toronto is the capital city of Ontario. It’s located on the southern shores of Lake Ontario in Canada.

Montreal

Montreal is the largest city in Quebec. It is situated at the confluence of the Saint Lawrence and Ottawa Rivers.

Population of Toronto vs. Montreal

Toronto

2,794,356 people (2021)

Montreal

1,762,949 people (2021)

Education

Toronto

Toronto is home to some of the best universities in Canada, including the University of Toronto, York University, and Ryerson University.

The city also has a number of colleges and trade schools. Some of the most popular are George Brown and Humber College.

Students come from around the world to study at these institutions.

Montreal

Montreal is home to two of Canada’s top universities: McGill University and Concordia University.

The city also has a number of colleges and trade schools. Some of the most popular are Vanier College and Dawson College.

As with Toronto, students come from all over to study in Montreal.

However, some of the programs require students to be fluent in French.

You will need to check the program requirements before applying to the universities in Montreal.

Job Opportunities in Toronto vs. Montreal

Toronto

Toronto is a major financial center.

As such, there are many opportunities for those in the financial sector.

There are also lots of jobs in the tech industry, as well as in healthcare and education.

However, Toronto has a higher than average unemployment rate for Canada, with over 6% of people being unemployed.

While Toronto does have many opportunities for jobs and seems like a great place to work in Canada, too many people come here looking for jobs.

This strains the jobs market with the pressure of so many individuals.

As well, Toronto heavily prioritizes Canadian job histories. So foreigners can struggle to find work in areas that require advanced degrees or in upper level positions.

Montreal

Montreal has a lower unemployment rate than Toronto, at 4.7%. It’s actually nearly 1% below Canada’s unemployment rate.

Montreal is also a great city for those in the financial sector.

However, Montreal has a large number of jobs in the tech industry as well. In fact, it’s sometimes referred to as “Canada’s Silicon Valley.”

There are also lots of opportunities in healthcare and education.

BUT you almost always need to know French to work in Montreal.

In fact, some jobs prefer francophones over people who are even certified as bilingual.

You need to learn French to successfully live in Montreal and find work.

Need help learning a new language? I recommend iTalki! I’ve tried ALL the apps, but iTalki is the only way I’ve managed to learn as much as living in the local country.

Taxes in Toronto vs. Montreal

Toronto

Taxes operate differently between Quebec and Ontario.

In Ontario, you pay income tax rates of:

• 5.05% on the first $45,142 of taxable income.
• 9.15% on the next $45,145 and over.
• 11.16% on the next $59,713 and over.
• 12.16% on the next $70,000 and over.
• 13.16 % on the amount over $220,000.

You also pay 13% HST on goods.

And then you pay federal taxes, which are the same rate between Toronto and Montreal of:

• 15% on the first $49,020 of taxable income, plus
• 20.5% on the next $49,020 of the taxable income (on the portion of taxable income over 49,020 up to $98,040), plus
• 26% on the next $53,939 of taxable income (on the portion of taxable income over $98,040 up to $151,978), plus
• 29% on the next $64,533 of taxable income (on the portion of taxable income over 151,978 up to $216,511), plus 
• 33% of taxable income over $216,511.

Montreal

Quebec has higher taxes than Ontario.

Which can often make what seems like a cheaper place to live more expensive than living in Toronto, especially if you run a business.

Income tax in Quebec is:

• 15% on the first $45,105 of taxable income.
• 20% on the next $45,105 and over.
• 24% on the next $90,200 and over.
• 25.75% on the amount over $109,755.

As you can see, the starting rate is 10% higher than in Ontario.

As well, Quebec doesn’t pay HST. Instead, they pay GST and PST, which combined add up to 14.975%.

So as you can see, taxes in Montreal are not cheaper than in Toronto.

Language in Toronto vs. Montreal

Toronto

Although Canda is bilingual, Toronto is a predominantly English-speaking city.

While some residents speak French fluently (and many speak other languages from around the world), the primary language of businesses and on signs is English.

Montreal

Montreal is a predominantly French-speaking city.

While some businesses will have English signs and translators, the primary language of business and on signs is French.

This can be difficult for those who only speak English or who are not fluent in French.

So, if you don’t speak French, Montreal may not be the best place to live in Canada.

Need help learning a new language? I recommend iTalki! I’ve tried ALL the apps, but iTalki is the only way I’ve managed to learn as much as living in the local country.

Hockey

Toronto

The Toronto Maple Leafs are one of the most popular teams in the NHL.

They’re also one of the most valuable, with a worth of $1.4 billion.

The Maple Leafs haven’t won a Stanley Cup since 1967, but that doesn’t stop fans from packing the Air Canada Centre to watch them play.

Montreal

The Montreal Canadiens are the most successful team in NHL history.

They’ve won 24 Stanley Cups, more than any other team.

The Canadiens are also one of the most valuable teams in the NHL, with a worth of $1.3 billion.

Like the Maple Leafs, fans pack the Bell Centre to watch the Canadiens play.

Montreal is right for you if…

• you want to live in a predominantly French-speaking city
• you want a European feel in Canada
• you’re looking for a cheaper cost of living
• you don’t mind colder winters

Toronto is right for you if…

• you want to live in a large, multicultural city
• you’re looking for job opportunities in a variety of industries
• you don’t mind a higher cost of living in exchange for lower taxes
• you’re looking for a big city with a lot to do

FAQs Toronto vs. Montreal:

What Is the Biggest Difference Between Montreal and Toronto?

The biggest difference between Montreal and Toronto is the language. Toronto is a predominantly English-speaking city, while Montreal is a predominantly French-speaking city. This can be difficult for those who only speak English or who are not fluent in French.

Where to Live in Montreal?

The best places to live in Montreal are the Plateau, Mile End, Downtown, and West Island.

Plateau: The Plateau is a trendy neighbourhood with a lot of young people and artists. It’s known for its cafes, restaurants, and nightlife.

Mile End: Mile End is a creative neighbourhood with a lot of independent businesses. It’s also home to a large number of artists and musicians.

Downtown: Downtown is the financial and commercial centre of Montreal. It’s home to a lot of businesses, office towers, and high-end shopping.

West Island: The West Island is a suburban neighbourhood with a more family-oriented feel. It’s quieter than the other neighbourhoods on this list, but it’s still close to the city centre.

Where to Live in Toronto?

The best places to live in Toronto are Downtown, the Annex, King West, and East York.

Downtown: Downtown is the financial and commercial centre of Toronto. It’s home to a lot of businesses, office towers, and high-end shopping.

Annex: The Annex is a wealthy neighbourhood with a lot of Victorian homes. It’s close to Downtown, making it a convenient place to live.

King West: King West is a trendy neighbourhood with a lot of young people and artists. It’s known for its restaurants, bars, and nightlife.

East York: East York is a suburban neighbourhood with a more family-oriented feel. It’s quieter than the other neighbourhoods on this list, but it’s still close to Downtown.

Is Montreal better than Toronto?

Yes and no.

Montreal is better than Toronto for cheaper housing prices, a European feel, and a more laid-back lifestyle. However, Toronto is better than Montreal for job opportunities, a larger city size, lower taxes, and multiculturalism.

It really depends on what you’re looking for in a city. If you want a big city with a lot of opportunity, then Toronto is the better choice. But if you’re looking for a smaller city with a more laid-back feel, then Montreal is the better choice.

Is living in Montreal more expensive than in Toronto?

No, living in Montreal is cheaper than living in Toronto. The cost of living is lower in Montreal, and housing prices are also cheaper. However, taxes are higher in Montreal than they are in Toronto.

Ultimately, you should still be able to save more money while living in Montreal than living in Toronto.

Is Montreal colder than Toronto?

Yes, Montreal is colder than Toronto.

Because Toronto lies on Lake Ontario’s shores, it gets milder winters with less snowfall.

On average Montreal is 7C colder than Toronto and receives many inches more of snow every year.

Why is Montreal so popular?

Montreal is popular for a variety of reasons. It’s a beautiful city with a lot of history and culture. It’s also cheaper to live in than other major Canadian cities, such as Toronto and Vancouver. Additionally, Montreal has a more laid-back lifestyle than many other cities.

Between the nightlife and the amazing things to do, it’s clear to see why Montreal is so popular with tourists and locals alike.

Can I get by speaking English in Montreal?

Yes, you can get by speaking English in Montreal for a visit.

However, if you plan to live in Montreal, it’s important to learn some French. Most Montrealers speak both French and English, but French is the dominant language. It’s also the language of business in Montreal.

So while you can get by speaking English, learning some French will make your life easier in Montreal.

Is Tax Cheaper in Montreal vs. Toronto?

No. Taxes in Montreal are signficantly higher than in Toronto.

Quebec’s income tax is 10% higher than Toronto for base salaries under $45k.

Their sales tax is also 2% higher for purchases of any goods.

Property taxes are also much higher in Montreal. The average homeowner pays $4,259 annually, while in Toronto the same home would only cost $2,975 in property taxes.

Income tax, sales tax, and property taxes are all more expensive in Montreal than in Toronto.

Wrap Up: Living in Toronto vs. Montreal

So, is Montreal better than Toronto?

The answer to that question really depends on what you’re looking for in a city.

If you want a big city with lots of opportunity, then Toronto is the better choice.

But if you’re looking for a smaller city with a more laid-back feel, then Montreal is the better choice.

No matter which city you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the amazing culture and lifestyle that Canada has to offer.

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Related Posts:

• Moving to Toronto from Montreal: Is it Worth it?
• Living in Ottawa vs. Toronto: Which City is Right for You? [2022]
• Living in Vancouver vs. Toronto: Where Should You Move in 2022?
• 30 Pros and Cons of Living in Toronto: Beyond the CN Tower
• Average Cost of Living in Canada by Province [2022]

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