Calgary vs. Montréal: 9 Things to Know Before Moving

Calgary and Montréal are both appealing cities, and comparing the two cities can help you decide which one to call home. Calgary generally has higher living costs compared to Montréal but offers more job opportunities. Calgary's public transport is efficient and affordable, while Montréal's system is known for its flexibility with pricing zones. Montréal boasts a rich cultural scene with diverse food options and vibrant nightlife. Calgary, on the other hand, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts with easy access to hiking and skiing. 

Each city has its unique charm, so before moving to Calgary or settling down in Montréal, weigh your priorities to make the best choice for your lifestyle.

Calgary vs. Montréal Highlights

• Calgary has higher living expenses than Montréal.
• Montréal requires new residents to speak some level of French.
• Calgary has more job opportunities than Montréal.
• Montréal has better public transportation options.
• Both cities boast rich cultural scenes and outdoor activities.

Calgary vs. Montréal: Cost of Living

When evaluating the cost of living in these two Canadian cities, Calgary has a slightly higher cost of living than Montréal. When considering various factors, living costs in Calgary are just over 10% higher than in Montréal. 

However, Calgary has lower taxes than many other cities in Canada, including Montréal. The city has no provincial sales tax, which can help residents save up to 15% on goods and services. Further, no land transfer tax can helps make Alberta one of the most affordable places to buy a home in Canada.

Understanding the nuances of the cost of living disparities between Calgary and Montréal can benefit individuals contemplating a move between these cities. By accounting for these cost differences, potential residents of either city can effectively plan their budget and make informed decisions regarding their living arrangements.

Job Opportunities & Economy in Calgary vs. Montréal

Calgary and Montréal present diverse job opportunities and economic landscapes for individuals seeking employment in various industries. Major industries in Calgary include aerospace, logistics, energy, and technology. This city boasts some of the highest incomes in Canada, with the highest median household after-tax income.

Conversely, Montréal’s key sectors include aerospace, IT services, and health technologies. New residents can find many job opportunities in these industries and more.

Calgary's unemployment rate is around 7.7%, higher than Montréal's, which is approximately 5%. Both cities have stable economies, but Calgary's focus on industries like energy and technology contributes to its higher number of available job positions and higher median incomes.

Montréal, with its emphasis on aerospace and IT services, also offers competitive job opportunities, attracting individuals looking for well-paying jobs in these sectors. Overall, both cities provide solid job prospects and economic stability for job seekers.

Public Transportation in Calgary & Montréal

Comparing the public transportation options in Calgary and Montréal reveals distinct features in their public transit systems. Calgary boasts the CTrain and bus networks, including the Blue Line and Red Line, offering quick and cost-effective transportation solutions. On the other hand, Montréal features the STM Metro and bus services, which provide extensive coverage but come with slightly higher costs when compared to Calgary.

In terms of public transportation offerings, Calgary primarily relies on buses and the CTrain, while Montréal boasts buses, trains, and a metro system operating at various times throughout the day. Calgary's public transit is recognized for its efficiency and affordability, while Montréal's system is structured with pricing zones for added flexibility.

Both cities heavily depend on public transportation, with Calgary's system being praised for its reliability and Montréal's for its wide-reaching coverage. 

Housing and Rental Costs

Exploring housing costs in Calgary and Montréal gives insight into the overall expenses of living in each city. Renters in Calgary can find average apartment rentals in the $1,600 per month to $2,000 per month range. In comparison, Montréal apartment rentals run slightly higher, with many in the $2,000 per month range. 

Home values vary between the two cities as well. Since they’re both big cities, they offer both detached homes and multi-family homes across broad price ranges. The average price of homes for sale in Calgary is typically in the high $500s, while Montréal’s average is in the low to mid-$500s. Many detached homes cost between $400,000 and $800,000, with million-dollar homes available as well. 

Condos in Calgary typically range from the $100s to the $600s, with an average price in the mid-$300s. In Montréal, residents can find homes at various price points, with most selling from the high $300s to the $900s.

Lifestyle and Culture Contrasts

Exploring the lifestyle and cultural differences between Calgary and Montréal reveals a diverse range of activities and culinary experiences unique to each city. Montréal's rich cultural scene includes theatres, art galleries, museums, and historic sites, offering diverse entertainment options for residents and visitors alike. On the other hand, Calgary is renowned for its outdoor adventures. Residents regularly enjoy mountain biking, skiing, water sports, and hiking in Calgary.

When it comes to culinary experiences, Montréal boasts nearly 5,000 restaurants representing over 120 cultures. This diversity is reflected in unique dishes like poutine, Montréal-style bagels, and smoked meat, providing a gastronomic delight for food lovers. In contrast, Calgary has made its mark with creations like ginger beef and the Caesar cocktail, showcasing the city's high-quality Alberta beef and diverse culinary offerings.

Moreover, Montréal's vibrant nightlife scene includes numerous microbreweries, adding to the city's lively atmosphere. In comparison, Calgary offers nightlife spots such as Cowboys Dance Hall and Commonwealth Bar & Stage, catering to those looking for entertainment after dark.

These lifestyle and cultural contrasts highlight the distinct personalities of Calgary and Montréal, offering residents a wide array of experiences to enjoy.

Education Systems in Calgary vs. Montréal

When analyzing the education systems in Calgary and Montréal, it's crucial to examine the curriculum differences and teacher qualifications. These points provide valuable insights into how each city's educational framework operates and impacts the learning outcomes of students.

Understanding these aspects will illuminate the strengths and areas for improvement in both Calgary and Montréal's education systems.

Curriculum Differences

The education systems in Calgary and Montréal differ in their approach to curriculum. Calgary’s schools place a strong emphasis on specialized programs, offering students the opportunity to explore specific fields of study within the publicly funded education system. 

In contrast, Montréal features a unique CEGEP system that connects secondary school education to university or professional life. This distinctive system bridges the gap between secondary school and higher education or professional pathways, showcasing world-class universities such as McGill University and Université de Montréal. Montréal provides a more diverse educational landscape compared to Calgary, including private and international schools with varied tuition fees.

Both cities offer publicly funded education systems. Mount Royal University and the University of Calgary are both within biking distance of Downtown Calgary. 

Thanks to its internationally renowned universities, Montréal attracts students from around the globe seeking high-quality higher education opportunities.

Teacher Qualifications

Calgary emphasizes specialized programs within its publicly funded schools, requiring teachers to possess relevant expertise in their subject areas. This specialization often leads to a high level of subject proficiency among educators, enhancing the quality of instruction received by students. Mount Royal University is located adjacent to the luxurious Altadore neighbourhood; the University of Calgary is located directly north of the University Heights neighbourhood, which is known for its high-end detached homes.

In Montréal, the presence of esteemed universities like McGill University and Université de Montréal influences the standards of teacher qualifications. The unique CEGEP system further connects secondary school education to university or professional life, impacting the skills and knowledge teachers need to effectively prepare students for higher education or careers.

Both cities prioritize the importance of well-qualified teachers, but their approaches differ slightly. Calgary focuses on specialized programs and standardized curriculum, while Montréal benefits from a strong academic reputation and internationally recognized institutions. These factors contribute to the overall quality of teacher qualifications in each city, ultimately influencing students' educational experiences.

Calgary vs. Montréal: Outdoor Activities & Attractions

When comparing Calgary and Montréal for outdoor activities and attractions, you'll find a diverse range of options that cater to different preferences and interests. Calgary, nestled near the Rocky Mountains, offers a plethora of unique outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, biking, and even river surfing. 

With over 8,000 hectares of parkland and natural areas, Calgary provides ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore. Calgary’s renowned festivals, including GlobalFest and the Calgary Stampede, are significant draws for residents and visitors alike.

On the other hand, Montréal boasts a blend of culture, outdoor sites, and festivals that appeal to a wide audience. In downtown Montréal, you can engage in diverse outdoor activities ranging from historical tours to skiing, wakeboarding, and water sports. Iconic outdoor sites like Mount Royal Park, Old Montréal, and the picturesque Saint Lawrence River further enhance the outdoor experience in Montréal.

Whether you prefer the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains in Calgary or the vibrant cultural scene in Montréal, both cities offer a rich array of outdoor activities and attractions to explore.

Weather Patterns in Calgary vs. Montréal

In considering the weather patterns in each city, Calgary and Montréal exhibit distinct seasonal variations and temperature ranges. Calgary experiences milder winter temperatures compared to Montréal's winter. The coastal Chinooks from the Rockies benefit Calgary, providing a sense of spring in winter and aiding in snow melting. Even though the Chinooks don’t warm the city enough to bring golfers to Calgary’s best courses, they provide a tremendous reprieve from the cold.

On the other hand, Montréal has a wider temperature range with warmer summers and snowier winters than Calgary. Montréal receives more snowfall annually, making it a snowier city overall.

These temperature variations play an important role in shaping the lifestyle and activities in each city. Montréal's warmer summers may appeal to those who enjoy outdoor activities, while Calgary's milder winters might be more inviting to those seeking a respite from extreme cold.

Lifestyle Differences

Comparing lifestyle differences between Calgary and Montréal can help you make a well-informed choice based on your preferences and priorities. Calgary offers a sunny climate and an extensive trail network, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is known for its welcoming community and laid-back atmosphere, appealing to those seeking a more relaxed lifestyle. 

Calgary’s best parks are sprawling and abundant, and many enjoy them year-round. Nose Hill Park is one of the largest urban parks in all of North America, and Fish Creek Provincial Park’s natural feel and wildlife draw residents from all across the city.

On the other hand, Montréal boasts a rich cultural heritage, diverse gastronomy, and a vibrant nightlife scene. The city exudes energy and liveliness, catering to individuals looking for a bustling urban experience. While Calgary excels in outdoor activities like skiing and hiking, Montréal shines in its diverse cuisine and entertainment options.

Your decision between Calgary and Montréal will ultimately hinge on whether you prioritize outdoor adventures and quality of life or cultural vibrancy and nightlife experiences.

Calgary vs. Montréal: Which City is Right for You?

When deciding between Calgary and Montréal, consider the cost of living, job opportunities, housing options, culture, outdoor activities, and climate. Activities in Calgary tend toward the outdoors, while Montréal’s cultural offerings are world-renowned. 

Both cities offer unique experiences and attractions, so take the time to research and weigh your priorities before making a decision. Ultimately, the choice between Calgary and Montréal will depend on what matters most to you and your preferences.

If you're interested in Calgary real estate, contact Justin Havre Real Estate Team with eXp Realty with Calgary Homes at (403) 217-0003 to get in touch with a local real estate agent who can help you find your Calgary dream home today.