MontrealvsGeneva
Overall
💰+69.2%
Montreal is 69.2%more expensive
Rent
🏠+150.0%
Housing is 150.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+76.5%
Restaurants 76.5% pricier
Groceries
🛒+53.3%
Food shopping 53.3% more
Comparing the cost of living between Montreal, Canada and Geneva, Switzerland reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Montreal is more expensive than Geneva by approximately 69.2%. 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 Geneva by 60%. A one-bedroom apartment in Montreal's city center costs around CA$1,500, while the same in Geneva is approximately CHF 3,000.
Dining out in Montreal offers significant savings compared to Geneva. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$18 in Montreal versus CHF 25 in Geneva.
Public transportation in Montreal is more expensive, with monthly passes at CA$94 compared to CHF 80 in Geneva.
Purchasing power in Geneva is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Montreal.
Grocery shopping in Montreal is more affordable by approximately 35%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
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 Geneva, the same lifestyle would cost around CHF 798. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CA$1,994 monthly in Montreal versus CHF 2,794 in Geneva. 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 Geneva, 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 Geneva 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
Geneva
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Montreal more expensive than Geneva?
Yes, Montreal is approximately 69.2% more expensive than Geneva overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Montreal compared to Geneva?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.7x of your Geneva salary when living in Montreal. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Geneva, you'd need about $84,615 in Montreal for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Montreal and Geneva?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 60%, 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?
Geneva offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Geneva provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Montreal if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Geneva for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Montreal vs Geneva?
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 Geneva, these figures are CHF 2,998 for singles and CHF 6,794 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Montreal and Geneva in 2025 shows significant 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.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Geneva to maintain your lifestyle from Montreal
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