Comparing Montreal and Toronto: Pros and Cons of Two Canadian Megacities
Both Montreal and Toronto are bustling cities in Canada, each offering distinct qualities that appeal to different lifestyle preferences. If you're considering moving to either city, it's crucial to understand the unique aspects that make each one a great choice for its own reasons. Both cities are rich in culture, history, and amenities, but they differ in many specific ways.
General Comparisons
Montreal vs. Toronto: Are there any cities better than the other? The simple answer is no, as both are excellent cities to live in. Just remember that in the province of Quebec, everything is done in French, which means you'll need to embrace the French language to fully experience what these cities have to offer.
Living in Montreal vs. Toronto
Montreal: Montreal is as busy as Toronto, but I lean towards Montreal for its vibrant atmosphere. While both cities are well-paved with drivers and traffic, the food quality is better in Montreal, and rents tend to be lower compared to Toronto.
Toronto: Toronto is more business-oriented, while Montreal is more culturally oriented. Each city has its strengths, and the choice depends largely on personal preferences.
Personal Experiences and Insights
Personal Experience: Having lived in many cities in Canada, I much prefer Montreal over Toronto due to its vibrancy. However, someone who grew up in Quebec might have a different perspective. If you have a non-French name, prepare for the language barrier, as Quebec is a country of small enterprises primarily run by French Canadian families, known for their ultra-chauvinistic hiring practices.
Retirement: For retirees, Quebec offers less expensive houses, although subzero temperatures in January might be challenging. Living in Toronto or Montreal typically involves enduring harsh winters, which can be tough for those unaccustomed to them.
City Visits and Impressions
It's not just about the cities themselves; visiting each one can give you a clear idea of which city suits you better. For tourists, Montreal is impressive for North Americans due to its European-like vibe, while Toronto stands out to Europeans with its size and modern urban layout. For residents, Toronto can offer more business opportunities and a hectic lifestyle, whereas Montreal is ideal for those who want to enjoy life and raise a family.
Montreal's Unique Factors
Parental Leave: In Quebec, workers make direct contributions to the Quebec Parental Insurance Plan, resulting in lower EI premiums. Parents receive generous benefits, including no waiting period, a threshold of 2000 in earnings for payments, and coverage of up to 75% of lost income for up to 55 weeks. Nearly 90% of Quebec mothers choose to receive parental benefits.
Daycare: Daycare in Quebec is government-controlled and affordable, with costs as low as 8 CAD per day or about 160 CAD per month. This is a significant contrast to other parts of Canada, where daycare can be much more expensive.
University Fees: Students in Quebec pay half the tuition compared to students in other provinces. Additionally, they only pay 10% of the actual class cost. A year of university tuition in Quebec costs around 3800 CAD, covering around 8 courses or 24 crédits.
These unique factors can make living in Montreal more affordable compared to Toronto, especially for families with young children or students.
Conclusion: Both Montreal and Toronto are world-class cities, each with its own set of pros and cons. The best choice depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. If you're new to Canada, a scouting trip in both cities can help you decide which one is the right fit for you.