Toronto vs Montreal: Which Is Better? A Complete Guide
Toronto vs Montreal, which city is the best? Definitely, there is not a one and quick answer to this question because it depends on different factors. For example, do you want to live in one of these cities, apply for universities, or just want to visit as a tourist? Is the weather in the city important to you or not? And most importantly, can you speak French?
Both Montreal and Toronto are undeniably among Canada’s most livable cities. However, there are still things to compare and find the best place based on your preferences.
These are the important things that you must consider before choosing any of these cities. For instance, food festivals in Toronto may be a big point toward this city for some while others aren’t a fan of these kinds of activities.
Here in this article, we provide you with a thorough comparison between these two big cities in different areas so you can choose between Montreal or Toronto. Let’s start.
Which City is More Populated: Toronto vs Montreal
Toronto is a major player in the world economy right now. With a population of more than six million, it is the largest city in Canada. In industries including banking, technology, education, and the arts, this city is a key player. It is, in fact, a bustling center full of opportunities.
On the other hand, based on statistical calculations, the population of Montreal is approximately 1.7 million. It consistently exhibits strong economic growth, with a diversified economy highlighted by industries like technology, design, and internationally recognized arts.
So if you ever wondered about the population Toronto vs Montréal, you know that Toronto is more populated than Montreal. So, if you want a more quiet place, Montreal might be your choice but is it easy to find a job in Montreal like finding a job in Toronto?
Continue to find out.
Cost of Living: Montreal vs Toronto
Undoubtedly, the cost of living is one of the most crucial factors to consider when choosing a city to live in. You’re probably thinking that Montreal wins hands down between these two cities. Well, you are correct. Living in Toronto is pricey. However, as a major city in the country, it is not surprising at all!
Everyone is aware is the cost of living in Toronto is high. According to Crea, In the Toronto area, the average property price right now is $1,161,200. This price in Montreal is around $520,000 which is far cheaper and about less than half of what you have to pay in Toronto.
However, you may be able to find some affordable studio apartments in downtown Toronto, which come with comprehensive amenities and facilities for living.
What about the money you’ll spend on regular expenses such as groceries? These are the prices for an individual and it can change if you have a family or are living with your partner.
The estimated cost of living in Montreal is $1,287. Which is high, but somewhat still affordable. The cost of living in Toronto is going to be around $1,515 but it can change depending on your lifestyle. Living in Montreal vs Toronto can be very different. However, the cost of living is an important factor that must get enough attention.
Education: Toronto or Montreal
Are you a student who is looking for the best universities in Canada? Undoubtedly, education is an important factor and can be the main one for students from Canada or around the world. The robust educational systems in Toronto and Montreal make the Montreal vs Toronto comparison a little harder.
Toronto’s school system is well known for its diversity and quality. It is home to numerous highly regarded elementary and secondary schools as well as esteemed colleges like York, Ryerson, and the University of Toronto.
On the other hand, like its rich culture, Montreal has a predominantly French-speaking educational system. Nevertheless, this city provides top-notch education that is regarded globally thanks to internationally renowned schools like Université de Montréal and McGill University.
In this case, both cities have top educational systems that have little differences from each other. However, what might be a problem here is that Montreal is a French-speaking city. So, if you have a problem speaking French, it would be harder for you to study in Montreal.
Net Income: Toronto vs Montreal
In the case of income and how to find a job in Toronto or Montreal you can expect that Toronto is on top, well let’s see how things are sorted out in this category.
As we discussed before, living in Toronto will cost more money. However, you also need to think about the other aspect: how much money can you make in each of these big cities?
To balance things out, we’ll take a look at income after taxes. Of all the provinces, Ontario has some of the lowest tax rates, while Quebec has the highest.
According to Statistics Canada, using each city’s after-tax income for households (the most recent Stats Canada figures date from 2021), we obtain the numbers:
- $65,500 in Montreal
- $85,000 in Toronto
Here, Toronto is the undisputed winner and there is a big margin between the two cities.
Montreal vs Toronto Which is Better to Visit
Both of these cities, Toronto and Montreal, are incredibly diverse cities that provide a wide range of exciting cultural events to suit every taste. But how do they measure up in a side-by-side comparison?
Often referred to as “the New York City of Canada,” Toronto nightlife is full of fun activities, such as fine dining, music festivals, and upscale retail establishments. Some of the well-known sights in Toronto include the theater sector, and the hip Queen West Quarter, which is teeming with vibrant music and culture.
It is also worth mentioning the tall CN Tower, which is one of the popular landmarks in Toronto with its edge walk and fine restaurants with a sparkling view of the city at night.
However, Montreal, the city that is famous for its festivals, never ceases to astound with its blend of modern flair and historic beauty.
Montreal is a city that loves its shows, from ‘Cirque du Soleil’ to the well-known ‘Just for Laughs festival,’ fine cuisine on ‘Rue Saint-Denis’ to the vibrant nightlife on ‘Boulevard Saint-Laurent.’
Both of these cities have some of the best entertainment in North America that can be an attraction for you if your goal is just to visit and have some fun.
So, if you are a traveler who enjoys visiting museums and attending music festivals occasionally, Toronto museums are the most popular attractions in the whole country and Toronto summer festivals are so fun. Therefore, Toronto might be a better destination for you.
On the other hand, if you like to walk in the quiet atmosphere of Quebec’s Old Town and join one of the top circuses of the country, choose Montreal as your travel destination.
Transportation: Toronto vs Montreal
Toronto is home to an extensive, dependable network of easily accessible, effective public transportation options. Residents’ commutes are made easier by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), which operates buses, streetcars, and subways across the city.
In a similar way, Montreal offers first-rate public transportation. The Metro system and buses are run by the Société de transport de Montréal (STM), which links the city’s neighborhoods.
Additionally, both cities have bike-sharing programs for environmentally friendly transportation.
All and all, both cities are top-tier in transportation and there is nothing to worry about when you are in the city for your visit or study.
Conclusion
Montreal has its European flair and takes things a little slower than Toronto, which is all about tall skyscrapers and the fast rhythm of life that a huge metropolis has. Toronto, the largest city in Canada, is typically more expensive than Montreal. At the end of this Toronto vs Montreal debate, it all depends on your choices, as both cities have a plethora of fascinating activities and experiences to enjoy, as well as wonderful growth chances. The two, however, differ significantly in terms of lifestyles and expense of living.
FAQs
Montreal or Toronto? Which one is better? Well, this is a topic that can bring up so many questions in different areas. Here are some of the most common questions that might also be in your head and we didn’t answer in the main article:
1. Is Montreal Better Than Toronto?
If you are a fan of smaller and greener cities that have the vibe of European cities, well, Montreal is definitely a better choice for you. However, Toronto has the advantages of being a metropolis that Montreal may lack in some of them, such as job opportunities and wages.
2. Is Toronto Better Than Montreal?
Toronto is known for being the New York City of Canada. This shows the importance of this metropolis. Toronto has a high living cost. However, there are more job opportunities and wages are much higher than in Montreal. In the end, if you love a more fast-paced city that can not rest, Toronto is the choice for you.
3. What Language Is Spoken in Montreal vs Toronto?
Quebec is mostly a French-speaking province, as you are probably already aware if you have done any study on Canada. Most people in Ontario speak English. Thus, compared to Toronto, there are far more French speakers in Montreal.
4. Is Toronto Warmer Than Montreal?
Montreal experiences somewhat colder winters than Toronto, with an average temperature of -8.9°C in January. Summertime temperatures are fairly similar, with Montreal’s July average temperature being the same as Toronto’s.
