EdmontonvsMontreal
Overall
💰-4.4%
Edmonton is 4.4%cheaper
Rent
🏠-11.1%
Housing is 11.1% lower
Dining
🍽️-2.9%
Restaurants 2.9% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-3.8%
Food shopping 3.8% less
Comparing the cost of living between Edmonton, Canada and Montreal, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Edmonton is more affordable than Montreal by approximately 4.4%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Edmonton are higher than in Montreal by 13%. A one-bedroom apartment in Edmonton's city center costs around CA$1,400, while the same in Montreal is approximately CA$1,500.
Dining out in Edmonton costs about the same compared to Montreal. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$18 in Edmonton versus CA$18 in Montreal.
Public transportation in Edmonton is more expensive, with monthly passes at CA$100 compared to CA$94 in Montreal.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Edmonton can expect to spend approximately CA$695 per month (excluding rent), while in Montreal, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$570. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CA$2,431 monthly in Edmonton versus CA$1,994 in Montreal. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Montreal to Edmonton, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Edmonton to Montreal requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Edmonton
Montreal
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Edmonton more expensive than Montreal?
The cost of living in Edmonton and Montreal is relatively similar, with only minor differences in specific categories. Your actual expenses will depend on your lifestyle choices.
How much salary do I need in Edmonton compared to Montreal?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 96% of your Montreal salary when living in Edmonton. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Montreal, you'd need about $47,887 in Edmonton for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Edmonton and Montreal?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 13%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show smaller variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Edmonton offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Edmonton provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Edmonton if you prioritize earning potential, or Montreal for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Edmonton vs Montreal?
In Edmonton, a single person needs approximately CA$1,795 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about CA$4,331. In Montreal, these figures are CA$1,670 for singles and CA$3,894 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Edmonton and Montreal in 2025 shows moderate differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Montreal to maintain your lifestyle from Edmonton
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