Montreal
Finding Accommodation, Flatsharing, Hostels in Montreal
Cost of Living in Montréal
The cost of housing is one of the key considerations in the cost of living in a country. Rental prices are dependant on the location, size, and quality of property and the price structure in Montréal is extremely complex. Pricing is primarily based on a series of concentric rings that have their focal point at Mont-Royal. The history of the neighborhood and other factors such as amenities affect the variations in this kind of regional pricing.
On average, rents are usually between $600 to 800 for two bedroom apartments, and $850 to $1,600 for a three-bedroom house.
- Three-course Meal for 2 in a mid-range Restaurant - $70.00
- Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught) - $5.00
- Cappuccino (regular) - $3.00
- Water (0.33 liter bottle) - $1.50
- Milk (regular), 1 liter 2.00
- Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) - $2.59
- Eggs (12) - $3.05
- Chicken Breasts (Boneless, Skinless), (1kg) - $10.00
- Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) - $15.00
- Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle) - $3.50
- Pack of Cigarettes (Marlboro) - $9.00
- Pair of Jeans (Levis 501) - $65.00
- Summer Dress in a Chain Store - $40.00
- Pair of Men Leather Shoes - $100.00
Use the cost of living calculator to estimate costs and living expenses.
Prepare for your Housing Search
Research, research, and introspection should define your pre-accommodation search. Familiarize yourself with the different areas of Montréal and find where you want to live. Read blogs, study the character of different areas, and contemplate the distance from work, child-care, etc. Ask yourself questions, like:
How big a place do you want? A studio? A three room flat?
Where do you want to live? Somewhere close to your work?
What's your price range? What are you comfortable paying?
What amenities do you require? Garden? Gym? Internet connectivity?
With answers to these important questions you can begin to think of a specific place.
Flatsharing
A flatshare (colocation) can be an excellent way to save money on your accommodations. It also offers an opportunity to get to know a new city with a local. A flatshare is where two or more people live in a property together. Each person usually has their own bedroom. Where the property is a house the term is usually houseshare (although flatshare is often used in English for both). Shared accommodation in Montréal range from $375 - 600 per month according to the furnishing and the inclusive charges.
An important trait in any roommate situation is having boundaries and a clear understanding of what each roommate requires. To protect yourself against potential problems, try to co-sign the lease, or at least sign an official lease with the owner of the accommodation. This makes all the roommates responsible for whatever happens to the property.
Hostel
Hostels are plentiful across Canada, and there are many wonderful accommodation in Montréal. Most are clustered within the city, although a few can be found on the outskirts. Expect to pay between $17-30 per bed, per night.
What to Consider When looking for a Hostel
Location
Check out the map carefully an determine distance from area of interest. Is it important to be close to museums, or nightlife? Can you easily get around by public transportation?
Noise
Some hostels have a raucous environment, while other hostels maintain a much quieter house. Check out reviews and listen to what people have stayed before say. Find out if there are posted quiet hours and if there are bars nearby or within the hostel.
Security
Most hostels foster a safe environment where you should feel free to leave your things in the provided closets and beds within a shared room. Most also offer locks for your private locker, or a safe box behind the desk to hold valuables like passports, cameras, etc. Check with the staff to see if they allow non-guests into your building. Do they lock the doors at night? Any security guards on staff?
Staff
A helpful friendly, staff can make your stay more pleasant and interesting. A good staff keeps the facility in working order, and are great resources for getting to know a city.
Perks
Some hostels offer really luxurious extras like a pool, sauna, free Wi-Fi, breakfast, or beach access.
Price
While many hostel-goers are just looking for the best deal, be sure to examine reviews to find a place that will also be comfortable to stay.
Update 21/05/2013
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