Digital Nomad Life in Quebec City, Canada
Summary: Digital nomads like living in Quebec City, Canada because of its low cost of living, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Quebec City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its cobblestone streets, old-world charm, and stunning architecture. The best neighborhood to live in is the Old Town, which is the oldest part of the city and is full of historic sites, restaurants, and cafes. The approximate population of Quebec City, Canada is 531,902. The weather in Quebec City, Canada (Farenheit) is generally mild with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s in the winter to the mid-70s in the summer. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Quebec City is approximately $1,500 USD. This includes rent, food, transportation, and entertainment. The cost to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Quebec City is approximately $1,000 USD per month.
How do I meet people in Quebec City?
When we asked people living in Quebec City about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Meeting people in Quebec City is easy! Take advantage of the city's parks and outdoor green spaces and attend free public events such as festivals and outdoor concerts. Biking and walking tours of the city are great ways to meet locals and other travelers. Take classes at a local community center or language school and join clubs and groups related to your hobbies and interests like yoga, dance, cooking, art, or outdoor sports. Explore the neighborhoods and visit different cafes, pubs, and bars to unwind and meet people. Lastly, take advantage of the city's ample selection of bars and restaurants, many of which host quiz nights, trivia and open mic nights," said one expat in Quebec City.
What is life like in Quebec City?
When we asked people living in Quebec City what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Expat and digital nomads in Quebec City enjoy a vibrant and diverse culture, with a mix of French and English influences. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, stunning views of the St. Lawrence River, and a variety of outdoor activities. Expats and digital nomads can find a wide range of accommodation options, from traditional apartments to modern condos. The city is also home to a number of coworking spaces, making it easy for digital nomads to stay connected and productive. The cost of living in Quebec City is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads. With its rich culture, vibrant nightlife, and stunning natural beauty, Quebec City is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads," explained one expat living in Quebec City, Canada.
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Where should I live in Quebec City?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"To find a place to live in Quebec City, there are a few options: searching rental websites, checking local newspapers and classifieds, asking family and friends, or looking into temporary accommodation or subletting while you find something more permanent. You can also look into the Quebec government's website, which can provide information on housing, subsidies and other programs that are available in the area. Additionally, real estate agents, rental agencies, and apartment buildings can be useful when searching for a new home. Whichever method you choose, make sure to schedule viewings as soon as possible as it is a competitive market to find a place to live," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Quebec City.
What do I need to know before moving to Quebec City?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Quebec City, they said:
"Before retiring in Quebec City, it is important to understand the local culture and customs. Although French is the predominant language spoken in this area of Quebec, knowledge of French is not a prerequisite for enjoying retirement in the city. Although it may be helpful to participate in the local culture, English is spoken by much of the population. Tax implications should also be taken into consideration prior to retiring in Quebec City. Residents of Quebec generally pay lower income taxes than residents of other parts of Canada, and certain benefits such as rent rebates and other provincial tax credits are available to retirees. Additionally, Quebec participates in the Canada Pension Plan, so retirees may benefit from the extra income stream provided by this program. Paperwork should also be reviewed to ensure you are properly registered with the local health care system. All Canadian provinces provide health care coverage and long-term care benefits to their residents, and Quebec is no exception. Private and public insurance plans, as well as government programs, can provide invaluable assistance to retirees who need additional support with medical and long-term care expenses. Finally, consider your housing options. Living in a condominium or apartment in the centre of Quebec City can provide easy access to shops, restaurants and cultural attractions, while living in the suburbs may be more affordable and provide better access to green spaces. Retirement living communities also offer a variety of housing options and social activities geared towards seniors. Whatever you choose, make sure to understand your housing needs prior to making a commitment," said one person in Quebec City.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Quebec City?
"Expats in Quebec City appreciate the city's rich cultural heritage and attractive setting with its plus 400-year history. They enjoy the old-world European charm with its narrow, cobblestone streets and centuries-old buildings as well as the vibrant modern city festooned with cafés, museums, and parks. The city is also well known for its beautiful waterfront and offers exceptional cycling and walking paths. The locals are friendly and welcoming and the unique blend of English and French offers a unique cultural experience. Quebec City is considered to be a culturally creative city with numerous festivals, concerts, exhibitions and performances that are available throughout the year. The city also has a rich culinary scene with fresh local ingredients, traditional dishes and a variety of international cuisines," explained one expat living in Quebec City, Canada.
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What do people find most challenging about the culture in Quebec City?
"Expats often find adjusting to a new culture and language challenging, as well as making new friends and settling into a new environment. Working in a foreign country for the first time can also be daunting, with expats having the added task of acclimating to a different work culture and expectations. Additionally, expats may feel emotionally isolated from their family back home, as well as find it difficult to navigate visa and immigration requirements," said one expat who made the move to Quebec City.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Quebec City for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Quebec City for more than six months, you will need to apply for a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ). This document is required to apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate (QSC), also known as a Quebec long-stay visa or work permit. You must provide proof of savings, language proficiency, and sufficient medical coverage before you can be granted a CSQ. You will also need to provide a valid passport and all other necessary travel documents. Depending on your country of origin and the length of your visit, you may be required to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). You should contact the Canadian embassy or consulate in your home country and the Arrima portal to find out more about the requirements and to begin the application process," said one person in Quebec City.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Quebec City?
We asked people in Quebec City if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"In Quebec City, it is important to be aware of the language and culture. Being polite and respectful of the Quebecois culture is always a good idea. It is considered discourteous to speak English in places where French is spoken, so it is important to remember to always speak in French. Being overly critical or disrespectful of French Canadian culture, customs or language is also considered impolite. Additionally, when dining with Quebecois, it is considered unacceptable to cut food with a knife, as it is viewed as too violent and impolite. Finally, it is important to remember to ask for permission before taking pictures or videos of people or areas without prior consent," said one person in Quebec City.
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What are healthcare services like in Quebec City?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Quebec City, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Quebec City are provided by the provincial government and are available to all residents. The city has a wide range of hospitals, clinics, and other health care facilities that offer a variety of services, including primary care, emergency care, mental health services, and specialized care. The city also has a number of specialized centers for cancer care, cardiology, and other medical conditions. In addition, there are a number of community health centers that provide preventive care and health promotion services. Quebec City also has a number of pharmacies and other health-related businesses that provide a variety of products and services," said one member in Quebec City.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Quebec City?
"Expats and digital nomads living in Quebec City appreciate the city's rich culture and history, as well as its vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene. They also enjoy the city's affordable cost of living, its proximity to nature, and its friendly locals. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the cold winter months and the language barrier to be challenging," said one member in Quebec City.
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About the Author
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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