MontrealvsGlasgow
Overall
💰+7.7%
Montreal is 7.7%more expensive
Rent
🏠-5.0%
Housing is 5.0% lower
Dining
🍽️+2.9%
Restaurants 2.9% pricier
Groceries
🛒-13.3%
Food shopping 13.3% less
Comparing the cost of living between Montreal, Canada and Glasgow, United Kingdom reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Montreal is more expensive than Glasgow by approximately 7.7%. 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 higher than in Glasgow by 5%. A one-bedroom apartment in Montreal's city center costs around CA$1,500, while the same in Glasgow is approximately £1,000.
Dining out in Montreal costs about the same compared to Glasgow. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$18 in Montreal versus £14 in Glasgow.
Public transportation in Montreal is more expensive, with monthly passes at CA$94 compared to £70 in Glasgow.
Grocery shopping in Montreal is more expensive by approximately 15%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher 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 Glasgow, the same lifestyle would cost around £496. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CA$1,994 monthly in Montreal versus £1,737 in Glasgow. 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 Glasgow, 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 Glasgow 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
Glasgow
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Montreal more expensive than Glasgow?
Yes, Montreal is approximately 7.7% more expensive than Glasgow overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Montreal compared to Glasgow?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Glasgow salary when living in Montreal. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Glasgow, you'd need about $53,846 in Montreal for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Montreal and Glasgow?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 15%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Montreal offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Glasgow provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Montreal if you prioritize earning potential, or Glasgow for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Montreal vs Glasgow?
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 Glasgow, these figures are £1,246 for singles and £3,037 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Montreal and Glasgow 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 Glasgow to maintain your lifestyle from Montreal
Calculate Salary Equivalence