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Downtown, Montreal: Neighborhood Guide for Expats

Business and shopping hub. Underground city, McGill University, central location.

Commute to Center

5 min

walk

Safety Rating

4/5

Safe

Vibe

centralbusinessshopping

Rent Prices in Downtown

Monthly rent in CAD ($). First-hand contracts are directly with the landlord or housing company. Second-hand (sublet) contracts are typically more expensive.

Apartment SizeFirst-Hand RentSecond-Hand Rent
1 Bedroom$1,600 - $2,000/mo$1,800 - $2,200/mo
2 Bedrooms$2,100 - $2,600/mo$2,300 - $2,900/mo
3 Bedrooms$2,700 - $3,400/mo$3,000 - $3,700/mo

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is rent in Downtown, Montreal?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Downtown costs $1,800 - $2,200/month (second-hand contract) or $1,600 - $2,000/month (first-hand). A 2-bedroom ranges from $2,300 - $2,900/month, and a 3-bedroom from $3,000 - $3,700/month.
Is Downtown safe for expats?
Downtown has a safety rating of 4/5 (Safe). It is generally considered a safe area for expats and families.
How long is the commute from Downtown to Montreal center?
The commute from Downtown to Montreal city center takes approximately 5 minutes by walk.
What is Downtown like to live in?
Business and shopping hub. Underground city, McGill University, central location. The neighborhood is known for being central, business, shopping.

Other Neighborhoods in Montreal

Plateau Mont-Royal

15 min metro to center

1BR from $1,700/mo

artsycafeswalkable

Mile End

18 min metro to center

1BR from $1,600/mo

creativetechindie

Griffintown

12 min walk to center

1BR from $1,900/mo

newcondoscanal

Verdun

20 min metro to center

1BR from $1,400/mo

affordableriversidediverse

Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie

20 min metro to center

1BR from $1,500/mo

familiesparksvalue

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Updated Mar 2026

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© 2026 AffordWhere. Estimates only, not financial advice.

2026 tax rules • Mar 2026 rent data