Cost Comparison 2025

MontrealvsLondon

Canada
United Kingdom

Overall

💰

+46.2%

Montreal is 46.2%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+112.5%

Housing is 112.5% higher

Dining

🍽️

+39.7%

Restaurants 39.7% pricier

Groceries

🛒

+6.7%

Food shopping 6.7% more

Comparing the cost of living between Montreal, Canada and London, United Kingdom reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Montreal is more expensive than London by approximately 46.2%. 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 London by 53%. A one-bedroom apartment in Montreal's city center costs around CA$1,500, while the same in London is approximately £2,500.

Dining out in Montreal offers significant savings compared to London. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$18 in Montreal versus £18 in London.

Public transportation in Montreal is more affordable, with monthly passes at CA$94 compared to £180 in London.

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 London, the same lifestyle would cost around £716. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CA$1,994 monthly in Montreal versus £2,505 in London. 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

Item
Montreal, Canada
London, United Kingdom

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
CA$1,500
£2,500
1BR Outside Center
CA$1,100
£1,800
3BR City Center
CA$2,600
£5,500

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
CA$18
£18
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
CA$80
£80
Cappuccino
CA$5
£4
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
CA$6
£6

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
CA$2
£1
Bread (500g)
CA$3
£2
Eggs (12)
CA$4
£3
Cheese (1kg)
CA$16
£10

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
CA$4
£3
Monthly Pass
CA$94
£180
Taxi Start
CA$4
£4
Gasoline (1L)
CA$2
£2

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
CA$90
£200
Internet (60 Mbps)
CA$65
£35
Mobile Minute
CA$0
£0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Montreal to London, 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 London 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

Cost of Living Index65
Rent Index40
Purchasing Power Index85

London

Cost of Living Index95
Rent Index85
Purchasing Power Index90

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Montreal more expensive than London?

Yes, Montreal is approximately 46.2% more expensive than London overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

How much salary do I need in Montreal compared to London?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.5x of your London salary when living in Montreal. For example, if you earn $50,000 in London, you'd need about $73,077 in Montreal for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Montreal and London?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 53%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.

Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?

London offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, London provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Montreal if you prioritize cultural experiences, or London for better value.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Montreal vs London?

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 London, these figures are £2,516 for singles and £6,005 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Montreal and London 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.

Need to calculate salary equivalence?

Find out how much you need to earn in London to maintain your lifestyle from Montreal

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-28 • Data sourced from multiple providers