MontrealvsMalaga
Overall
💰-7.7%
Montreal is 7.7%cheaper
Rent
🏠-12.5%
Housing is 12.5% lower
Dining
🍽️-11.8%
Restaurants 11.8% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-26.7%
Food shopping 26.7% less
Comparing the cost of living between Montreal, Canada and Malaga, Spain reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Montreal is more affordable than Malaga 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 Malaga by 14%. A one-bedroom apartment in Montreal's city center costs around CA$1,500, while the same in Malaga is approximately €900.
Dining out in Montreal is notably more expensive compared to Malaga. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$18 in Montreal versus €12 in Malaga.
Public transportation in Montreal is more expensive, with monthly passes at CA$94 compared to €40 in Malaga.
Purchasing power in Montreal is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Malaga.
Grocery shopping in Montreal is more expensive by approximately 36%. 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 Malaga, the same lifestyle would cost around €381. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CA$1,994 monthly in Montreal versus €1,333 in Malaga. 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 Malaga to Montreal, 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 Montreal to Malaga 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
Malaga
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Montreal more expensive than Malaga?
No, Montreal is approximately 7.7% cheaper than Malaga. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Montreal compared to Malaga?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 93% of your Malaga salary when living in Montreal. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Malaga, you'd need about $46,429 in Montreal for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Montreal and Malaga?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 36%, 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, Montreal provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Montreal if you prioritize earning potential, or Malaga for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Montreal vs Malaga?
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 Malaga, these figures are €1,081 for singles and €2,433 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Montreal and Malaga 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 Malaga to maintain your lifestyle from Montreal
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