Canada presents a wealth of opportunities for those contemplating a move, with two prominent provinces often in the spotlight: Quebec, home to Montreal, and Alberta, encompassing Edmonton each with its own unique charm. But when it comes to choosing the ideal place, which of these city is better to live in?
We have compared Edmonton and Montreal across various factors including living costs, job opportunities, and more. If you’re still weighing your options, we’ve got the answer for you!
- Cultural Diversity
- Economy
- Cost of Living
- Weather
- Quality of life
- Education system
- Job Opportunities
Montreal vs Edmonton: Cultural Diversity
Photos by Marcjodoin and J-Photo on Unsplash,
Montreal is known for its rich cultural diversity and is often considered the cultural capital of Canada. It is the second largest city in Canada, the largest in the province and the 9th largest city in North America with an estimated population of 1.75 million as of 2016. It has a significant French influence and is a bilingual city. With a significant portion of the population speaking French. People of European ethnicities formed the largest cluster of ethnic groups.
According to World Population Review site, the largest ethnic groups are those of European origins. The largest European ancestries in Montreal include French (26%), Italian (7%), Irish (6%), English (4%), Scottish (3%) and Spanish (2%). About 31% of the Montreal population belong to a visible minority, up dramatically from just 5% in 1981. The most common visible minorities are black (9.1%), Arab (6.4%), Latin Americans (4.2%), South Asians (3.3%) and Chinese (2.9%).
Montreal was once the leading city in the country, although it has been passed since then as its population growth has slowed. Toronto passed Montreal in population in the 1970s, and the cities are now worlds apart in terms of size. In another 60 years, Vancouver is predicted to surpass Montreal. For the past five years, Montreal has also been behind the national average growth rate.
By 2030, the Greater Montreal Area is expected to grow to 5.275 million, of which 1.72 million will belong to a visible minority group.
Photos by Darby, JustinHu and Alicia Paydli on Unsplash
Edmonton is the capital of the province of Alberta in Canada and located on the North Saskatchewan River in the center of the Edmonton Capital Region, and it is the northernmost city in North America with a metro population of at least one million.It hosts a year-round slate of festivals, reflected in the nickname “Canada’s Festival City”. However, it might not be as strongly associated with a particular cultural identity as Montreal as Edmonton is predominantly English-speaking.
According to Wikipedia, in the 2016 census reveals the diverse ethnic makeup of Edmonton’s population, with 55.8% identifying as of European descent, including English, Scottish, German, Irish, Ukrainian, French, and Polish origins. Other significant ethnic groups include Canadian, East and Southeast Asian (with notable percentages of Chinese, Filipino, and Vietnamese), South Asian (predominantly Indian), Aboriginal (First Nations and Métis), African, Latin, Central and South American, West Central Asian and Middle Eastern (including Lebanese), and Caribbean communities. The census also indicates that 37.1% of Edmonton’s population identifies as visible minorities, with South Asian, Chinese, Black, Filipino, and Arab being the most prevalent groups among them. The data paints a vivid picture of Edmonton’s multicultural and inclusive demographic landscape.
Montreal vs Edmonton: Economy
Photos by m. , Dylan Ferreira , Etienne Martin , Josh Appel on Unsplash
Montreal’s economy is the second largest of all cities in Canada and the first in Quebec. Montreal is a centre of commerce, industry, technology, culture, finance, and world affairs. In 2022, Metropolitan Montreal was responsible for $233 Billion CDN of Quebec’s $425 Billion CDN GDP, with a population of 4.37 million people. Montreal’s economy, therefore, comprises approximately 54.8% of Quebec’s overall GDP. Montreal is subject to both federal and provincial taxes. According to Intuit, the provincial tax rates in Quebec are progressive, ranging from approximately 15% to 25.75%. Additionally, there is the Goods and Services Tax (GST) at the federal level, currently set at 5%.
Meanwhile Edmonton is the major economic centre for northern and central Alberta and a major centre for the oil and gas industry. Edmonton traditionally has been a hub for Albertan petrochemical industries, earning it the nickname “Oil Capital of Canada” in the 1940s. Much of the growth in technology sectors is due to Edmonton’s reputation as one of Canada’s premier research and education centres. Edmonton residents are subject to federal and provincial taxes in Alberta. According to Intuit, Alberta has a flat provincial income tax rate, currently at 10%. At the federal level, individuals pay taxes based on a progressive system, with rates ranging from 15% to 33%. Alberta is known for having one of the lowest provincial income tax rates in Canada.
Both Montreal and Edmonton have unique economic strengths, with Montreal excelling in diverse industries and Edmonton undergoing economic diversification. In terms of tax rates, the progressive tax system in Quebec applies to Montreal, while Edmonton benefits from a lower provincial income tax rate in Alberta.
Montreal vs Edmonton: Cost of Living
Photos by Markus Winkler , micheile henderson , Aleksandr Popov on pexels and Mathieu Stern on unsplash
Living expenses in Edmonton and Montreal are quite comparable. The average monthly living cost in Edmonton is $2,370, slightly cheaper than Montreal’s $2,424. The data is from LivingCost.org as per November 06, 2023. When exploring into specific aspects, such as rental prices, utility rates, and childcare expenses, substantial variations become evident. Edmonton offers more affordable rental prices, making it an attractive option for housing, while Montreal takes the lead with lower childcare costs and utility rates.
This indicates that both cities present favorable choices for families with children. While one city provides affordable housing, the other offers lower monthly utility bills and tuition fees.
The table below highlight some items of the average living costs in Montreal and Edmonton:
|
List of Expenses |
Montreal |
Edmonton |
|
Rent & Utilities |
||
|
1 bedroom apartment in Downtown |
$1,384 |
$1,190 |
|
3 bedroom apartment in Downtown |
$2,520 |
$2,033 |
|
Utility Bill one person |
$75.1 |
$198 |
|
Utility Bill for a Family |
$127 |
$310 |
|
Apartment price to Buy in city Center |
$8,009 |
$4,154 |
|
House price to Buy in Suburbs |
$5120 |
$2857 |
|
Internet |
$58.3 |
$86.9 |
|
Transportation |
||
|
Local transport ticket |
$3.67 |
$3.4 |
|
Monthly ticket local transport |
$95.3 |
$101 |
|
Taxi Ride |
$19.1 |
$18.6 |
|
Gas / Petrol |
$1.72 |
$1.44 |
|
Groceries |
||
|
Weekly |
127.35 |
103.41 |
|
Education |
||
|
Daycare or Preschool |
$907 |
$919 |
|
International Primary School |
$10,943 |
$11,062 |
Source by Livingcost.org
Montreal vs Edmonton: Weather
Photos by Nunzio Guerrera , Khysrow Akbari, Steven Fortier, Joy Realand Fred Amini on unsplash.
The weather in Montreal and Edmonton presents distinct experiences, reflecting the diverse climates of Eastern and Western Canada. Montreal experiences a humid continental climate characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters are cold with significant snowfall, offering a picturesque snowy landscape but demanding winter readiness. Summers are warm and humid, providing pleasant conditions for outdoor activities.
In contrast, Edmonton, situated further west, has a subarctic climate with milder winters compared to Montreal. However, Edmonton winters can be more severe, with colder temperatures and occasional heavy snowfall. Summers in Edmonton are warm and short, with longer daylight hours.
The choice between Montreal and Edmonton in terms of weather preference depends on individual tolerance for cold temperatures and preferences for the duration and intensity of winter. Montreal offers a more moderate winter experience, while Edmonton provides a true Canadian winter with colder temperatures and a longer period of snow cover.
Montreal vs Edmonton: Quality of life
Photos by Praveen Kumar Nandagiri , Michael Descharles, Cam Fattahi, and Jay Thousand on unsplash.
Choosing between Montreal and Edmonton for your new home involves weighing the unique aspects that contribute to the quality of life in each city. Montreal, a cultural gem, is celebrated for its lively arts scene, multicultural atmosphere, and culinary delights. Residents relish in the bilingual environment, diverse festivals, and the abundance of green spaces like Mount Royal for outdoor enjoyment. On the other hand, Edmonton boasts natural beauty with its proximity to the Canadian Rockies, creating a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The city’s strong sense of community, family-friendly neighborhoods, and lower crime rates contribute to a safe and engaging environment. Edmonton’s efforts to diversify its economy provide residents with economic stability and affordable housing options. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preferences, whether it’s the vibrant urban lifestyle of Montreal or the natural tranquility and community-oriented living of Edmonton.
Below is the Quality of Life table Between Montreal and Edmonton according to Numbeo.com as of February 2024:
|
Evaluation Criteria |
Montreal |
Verdict |
Edmonton |
Verdict |
|
Purchasing Power Index |
Moderate |
High |
||
|
Safety Index |
High |
Moderate |
||
|
Health Care Index |
High |
High |
||
|
Climate Index |
Moderate |
Moderate |
||
|
Cost of Living Index |
Moderate |
Moderate |
||
|
Property Price to Income Ratio |
Moderate |
Very Low |
||
|
Traffic Commute Time Index |
Moderate |
Low |
||
|
Pollution Index |
Low |
Low |
||
| Result | ||||
|
Quality of Life Index |
High |
Very High |
Although the Quality of Life Index of Edmonton appears to be much higher compared to Montreal, it’s important to keep in mind that these reports come based on data and user surveys collected by Numbeo. It takes into account various factors that impact one’s quality of life, including purchasing power, pollution levels, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare quality, commute times, and climate conditions. The index is designed to provide a comparative measure, where a higher index value indicates a better quality of life.
Montreal vs Edmonton: Education system
Montreal stands out as an excellent educational hub in Canada, renowned for its globally recognized universities and the vibrant cultural immersion it provides to international students. The city offers a wealth of enriching experiences, including music, art, sports, and a lively array of events that consistently captivate students. An intriguing aspect of Montreal is the flexibility it provides, allowing students to pursue their studies in either English or French, adding a unique dimension to the academic experience. The city houses renowned institutions such as McGill University and the Université de Montréal, both recognized globally for their academic achievements.
Popular Universities in Montreal:
- McGill University
- University of Montreal
- Concordia University
- Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM)
- HEC Montréal
Edmonton, the vibrant capital of Alberta, stands out as a preferred destination for international students seeking academic excellence. Much of the growth in technology sectors is due to Edmonton’s reputation as one of Canada’s premier research and education centres. Boasting world-renowned public research universities, the city is immersed in a lively academic atmosphere.
Popular Universities in Edmonton:
- University of Alberta
- MacEwan University
- Northern Alberta Institute of Technology
- Concordia University of Edmonton
- The King’s University College
In Montreal, residents are typically encouraged to enroll in French-language public schools, although there are options for English-language public schools as well. Keep in mind that certain study programs at Montreal’s universities may necessitate fluency in French. Prior to applying to any of the universities in Montreal, it’s advisable to review the program requirements carefully.
Montreal vs Edmonton: Job opportunities
Photos by Markus Winkler , Eric Prouzet and Markus Winkler on unsplash.
Referring to Statistics Canada data, Montreal exhibits a slightly more favorable job market compared to Edmonton. As of January 2024, Montreal’s unemployment rate stands at 6.1%, In contrast, Edmonton faces a slightly higher unemployment rate of 6.7%.
Montreal industries include aerospace, electronic goods, pharmaceuticals, printed goods, software engineering, telecommunications, textile and apparel manufacturing, tobacco, tourism and transportation. The service sector is also strong and includes civil, mechanical and process engineering, finance, higher education, and research and development. Montreal is now the 3rd largest aerospace center in the world, after Toulouse and Seattle
Edmonton has been the birthplace of several companies that have grown to international stature. The local retail market has also seen the creation of many successful store concepts, such as The Brick, Katz Group, AutoCanada, Boston Pizza, Pizza 73, Liquor Stores GP (which includes Liquor Depot, Liquor Barn, OK Liquor, and Grapes & Grains), Planet Organic, Shaw Communications, Empire Design, Running Room, Booster Juice, Earl’s, Fountain Tire and XS Cargo.
We created the table below to give you an overview of the job lists in Montreal and Edmonton:
|
Montreal |
Edmonton |
|
Software Engineers/Developers |
Software Engineers/Developers |
|
Data Scientist/Analyst |
Registered Nurse |
|
UX/UI Designer |
Mechanical Engineers |
|
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Specialist |
Financial Analyst |
|
Healthcare Professionals: Doctors, Nurse, Pharmacists and other healthcare professionals) |
IT Security Specialists |
|
Aerospace Engineer |
Civil Engineers |
|
Digital Marketing Specialist |
Mechanical Engineers |
|
Financial Analyst |
Pharmacists |
|
Research Scientists (especially in biotechnology and aerospace) |
Project Managers |
|
Cybersecurity Analyst |
Oil and Gas Engineers/Technicians |
|
Environmental Engineer |
Construction Managers |
|
Administrative Assistant |
Marketing Specialists |
|
Bilingual Customer Service Representative: fluent in both English and French |
Administrative Assistant |
|
Content Writers/Copywriters |
Environmental Scientists |
|
Social Media Manager |
Heavy Equipment Operators |
Despite their differences, both Edmonton and Montreal offer diverse employment landscapes, with opportunities spanning financial services, technology, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that fluency in French is often a prerequisite for securing employment in Montreal. If you’re not proficient in French, it will be challenging in securing lucrative job opportunities. Therefore, investing time in learning the language before starting on your career journey in Montreal is highly recommended.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between Edmonton and Montreal ultimately rests on individual preferences and the specific qualities you seek in a city. Selecting the city that aligns with your lifestyle preferences or financial considerations is key. Edmonton and Montreal each present a unique urban landscape, showcasing individual charm alongside the inherent challenges of city life.
At the end of the day, the decision is yours, shaped by what resonates most with your personal values and aspirations.
|
Category |
Description |
Verdict |
|
Cultural Diversity |
Montreal is known for its rich cultural diversity and is often considered the cultural capital of Canada. It has a significant French influence and is a bilingual city. Edmonton is predominantly English-speaking. |
Montreal |
|
Economy |
Edmonton benefits from a lower provincial income tax rate in Alberta (currently at 10%). |
Edmonton |
|
Cost of Living |
Edmonton ranked slightly lower in Cost of Living Index with score of: 65.17. Housing costs, in particular, can be more affordable. |
Edmonton |
|
Weather |
Montreal offers a more moderate winter experience, while Edmonton provides a true Canadian winter with colder temperatures and a longer period of snow cover. |
Montreal |
|
Quality of life |
Edmonton ranked high Quality of Life Index with score of: 164.47. |
Edmonton |
|
Education system |
The city houses renowned institutions such as McGill University and the Université de Montréal, both recognized globally for their academic achievements. |
Montreal |
|
Job Opportunities |
Montreal, as a cultural and economic hub, offers a diverse array of job opportunities. The city excels in aerospace, technology, healthcare, and finance. |
Montreal |
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