MontrealvsToronto
Overall
💰+15.4%
Montreal is 15.4%more expensive
Rent
🏠+75.0%
Housing is 75.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+10.3%
Restaurants 10.3% pricier
Groceries
🛒0.0%
Food shopping 0.0% same
Comparing the cost of living between Montreal, Canada and Toronto, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Montreal is more expensive than Toronto by approximately 15.4%. 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 Toronto by 43%. A one-bedroom apartment in Montreal's city center costs around CA$1,500, while the same in Toronto is approximately CA$2,400.
Dining out in Montreal costs about the same compared to Toronto. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$18 in Montreal versus CA$20 in Toronto.
Public transportation in Montreal is more affordable, with monthly passes at CA$94 compared to CA$156 in Toronto.
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 Toronto, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$739. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CA$1,994 monthly in Montreal versus CA$2,588 in Toronto. 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 Toronto, 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 Toronto 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
Toronto
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Montreal more expensive than Toronto?
Yes, Montreal is approximately 15.4% more expensive than Toronto overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Montreal compared to Toronto?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Toronto salary when living in Montreal. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Toronto, you'd need about $57,692 in Montreal for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Montreal and Toronto?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 43%, 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?
Toronto offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Toronto provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Montreal if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Toronto for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Montreal vs Toronto?
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 Toronto, these figures are CA$2,639 for singles and CA$5,588 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Montreal and Toronto in 2025 shows notable 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 Toronto to maintain your lifestyle from Montreal
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