HelsinkivsMontreal
Overall
💰-13.3%
Helsinki is 13.3%cheaper
Rent
🏠-11.1%
Housing is 11.1% lower
Dining
🍽️-15.0%
Restaurants 15.0% cheaper
Groceries
🛒+7.1%
Food shopping 7.1% more
Comparing the cost of living between Helsinki, Finland and Montreal, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Helsinki is more affordable than Montreal by approximately 13.3%. 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 Helsinki are higher than in Montreal by 13%. A one-bedroom apartment in Helsinki's city center costs around €1,100, while the same in Montreal is approximately CA$1,500.
Dining out in Helsinki is notably more expensive compared to Montreal. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs €12 in Helsinki versus CA$18 in Montreal.
Public transportation in Helsinki is more affordable, with monthly passes at €60 compared to CA$94 in Montreal.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Helsinki can expect to spend approximately €422 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 €1,478 monthly in Helsinki 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 Helsinki, 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 Helsinki 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
Helsinki
Montreal
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Helsinki more expensive than Montreal?
No, Helsinki is approximately 13.3% cheaper than Montreal. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Helsinki compared to Montreal?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 88% of your Montreal salary when living in Helsinki. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Montreal, you'd need about $44,118 in Helsinki for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Helsinki and Montreal?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 18%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Helsinki offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Helsinki provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Helsinki if you prioritize earning potential, or Montreal for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Helsinki vs Montreal?
In Helsinki, a single person needs approximately €1,272 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about €2,978. 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 Helsinki and Montreal in 2025 shows notable 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 Helsinki
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