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Digital Nomad Guide to Montreal, Canada | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Digital Nomad Life in Montreal

By Betsy Burlingame

Summary: Digital nomads like living in Montreal, Canada because of its vibrant culture, affordable cost of living, and excellent quality of life. The population of Montreal is approximately 1.7 million people. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Montreal is estimated to be around $1,500 USD. The cost to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Montreal is approximately $1,200 USD. The best neighborhood to live in Montreal is the Plateau Mont-Royal, which is known for its vibrant nightlife, great restaurants, and beautiful parks. The weather in Montreal, Canada is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to mid-30s Fahrenheit in the winter and the mid-60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit in the summer.

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How do I meet people in Montreal?

When we asked people living in Montreal about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Montreal can join a variety of clubs and activities to meet people and make friends. Popular activities include joining a sports team, taking a language class, or attending a meetup group. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art shows. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests. Finally, expats can also meet people by simply exploring the city and talking to locals," remarked one member in Montreal.

What is life like in Montreal?

When we asked people living in Montreal what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Montreal is vibrant and exciting. The city is known for its diverse culture, with a mix of French and English-speaking people, and a variety of international cuisines. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other major cities in North America, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads. Montreal is also home to a thriving tech and startup scene, with plenty of opportunities for networking and collaboration. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. With its beautiful parks, museums, and galleries, Montreal is a great place to explore and experience the culture of Canada," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Montreal.

Where should I live in Montreal?

We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"When looking for a place to live in Montreal, it is important to consider your budget, desired location, and the type of housing you are looking for. Start by researching different neighbourhoods in Montreal to find one that fits your needs. You can also search online for rental listings, or contact a real estate agent to help you find a place. Additionally, you can look for rental postings on websites such as Kijiji or Craigslist. Once you have found a place that meets your criteria, you can contact the landlord or property manager to arrange a viewing," explained one expat living in Montreal, Canada.

"We are in our 4th home in 8 years, moving from rental to rental until buying 5 years ago. Our neighborhood was really decided upon by the schools available to us with Quebec's language laws. If we could use any schools we would live more downtown rather than in the burbs," said one person in Montreal.

What do I need to know before moving to Montreal?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Montreal, they said:

"Before retiring in Montreal, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, French. It is also important to research the cost of living in Montreal, as well as the availability of healthcare and other services. Additionally, expats should consider the climate and the type of housing they would like to live in. It is also important to research the local job market and the types of activities available in the city. Finally, expats should consider the cultural differences between their home country and Canada, and how they will adjust to the new environment," said one expat who made the move to Montreal.

What do people appreciate most about the culture in Montreal?

"Expatriates in Montreal appreciate the city's vibrant cultural scene, which includes a wide variety of festivals, events, and activities. They also enjoy the city's diverse population, which brings together people from all over the world. Expats also appreciate the city's excellent public transportation system, which makes it easy to get around. Additionally, Montreal is known for its delicious food, with a variety of restaurants offering cuisine from around the world. Finally, expats appreciate the city's friendly and welcoming atmosphere, which makes it easy to settle in and feel at home," said one expat who made the move to Montreal.

What do people find most challenging about the culture in Montreal?

"One of the most challenging aspects of the local culture for expats in Montreal is the language barrier. French is the official language of the province of Quebec, and many services and businesses are conducted in French. This can be difficult for expats who do not speak French, as they may find it difficult to communicate with locals or access certain services. Additionally, Montreal has a unique culture that is distinct from the rest of Canada, which can be difficult for expats to adjust to. Finally, the cold winters can be a challenge for expats who are not used to the cold weather," explained one expat living in Montreal, Canada.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Montreal for a while?

"If you plan to stay in Montreal for a while, you will need to apply for a Canadian Temporary Resident Visa. This visa will allow you to stay in Canada for up to six months. You may also need to apply for a work permit if you plan to work while in Canada. Additionally, you may need to apply for a study permit if you plan to attend school in Canada," said one expat who made the move to Montreal.

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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Montreal?

We asked people in Montreal if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"It is important to be mindful of cultural differences when visiting Montreal. It is important to be respectful of the French language and to avoid speaking English in public places where French is the primary language. It is also important to be aware of the local customs and to dress appropriately for the occasion. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of the local Indigenous peoples and their culture, and to avoid making any insensitive comments or jokes. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local laws and regulations, and to avoid engaging in any activities that are illegal or considered inappropriate," said one expat who made the move to Montreal.

What are healthcare services like in Montreal?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Montreal, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Montreal are provided by the public health system, which is funded by the provincial government. The public health system provides a wide range of services, including primary care, hospital care, mental health services, and home care. Primary care services are provided by family doctors, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare professionals. Hospital care is provided by a network of hospitals, including general hospitals, specialized hospitals, and long-term care facilities. Mental health services are provided by a variety of professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers. Home care services are provided by a range of professionals, including nurses, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists. Montreal also has a number of private healthcare providers, including clinics, hospitals, and home care services," said one foreigner in Montreal.

What are the pros and cons of living in Montreal?

"Expats and digital nomads living in Montreal often appreciate the city's vibrant culture, diverse population, and affordable cost of living. They also enjoy the city's many parks, museums, and restaurants. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the cold winters and language barrier to be challenging. Additionally, the city's high taxes can be a deterrent for some," explained one expat living in Montreal, Canada.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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