MontrealvsEdmonton
Overall
💰+4.6%
Montreal is 4.6%more expensive
Rent
🏠+12.5%
Housing is 12.5% higher
Dining
🍽️+2.9%
Restaurants 2.9% pricier
Groceries
🛒+4.0%
Food shopping 4.0% more
Comparing the cost of living between Montreal, Canada and Edmonton, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Montreal is more expensive than Edmonton by approximately 4.6%. 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 Montreal are lower than in Edmonton by 11%. A one-bedroom apartment in Montreal's city center costs around CA$1,500, while the same in Edmonton is approximately CA$1,400.
Dining out in Montreal costs about the same compared to Edmonton. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$18 in Montreal versus CA$18 in Edmonton.
Public transportation in Montreal is more affordable, with monthly passes at CA$94 compared to CA$100 in Edmonton.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Montreal can expect to spend approximately CA$570 per month (excluding rent), while in Edmonton, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$695. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CA$1,994 monthly in Montreal versus CA$2,431 in Edmonton. 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
Montreal
Edmonton
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Montreal more expensive than Edmonton?
The cost of living in Montreal and Edmonton 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 Montreal compared to Edmonton?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.0x of your Edmonton salary when living in Montreal. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Edmonton, you'd need about $52,308 in Montreal for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Montreal and Edmonton?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 11%, 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 Montreal if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Edmonton for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Montreal vs Edmonton?
In Montreal, a single person needs approximately CA$1,670 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about CA$3,894. In Edmonton, these figures are CA$1,795 for singles and CA$4,331 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Montreal and Edmonton 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 Edmonton to maintain your lifestyle from Montreal
Calculate Salary Equivalence