Living in Montréal

Montréal ranks among the world's best student cities: 1st in Canada and 2nd in North America (QS Best Student Cities 2027). The metropolitan area is home to some 320,000 university students, about 40,000 of them from more than 150 countries. What’s more, 450 laboratories and research centres are helping to make Montréal a world-class university town.

City skyline at dusk with illuminated Ferris wheel near river.

A festive ambiance year-round

Montréal is vibrant cultural hub with a host of festivals, comedy shows, and musical performances of all genres.

The Montréal food scene reflects the diversity of its inhabitants—there is something for everyone! And the nightlife? Montréal’s reputation speaks for itself.

Finding accommodations in Montréal: How to find housing

For many people, finding a place to live can be stressful. It’s worth taking the time to consider all your options.

Typical outdoor staircases on a Montreal residential street.

University residences

The ÉTS university residences are conveniently located in the heart of the city and can accommodate 1,100 students. Here you’ll find a vibrant community with quick access to campus buildings and to all the amenities on offer to students.

Visit the ÉTS residences web page for an overview of the apartments, prices, and how to reserve housing.

Finding off-campus housing

Renting an entire apartment can be a big financial burden. Many students prefer to rent a room in a shared apartment or set up a roommate situation themselves in order to share certain fixed costs such as electricity, heating, and internet. If you need to come to campus regularly, it’s best to find a place no more than 45 minutes away.

Where to find housing ads

Typically, landlords post vacancies on classified advertising websites or on social networks. Facebook groups and MarketPlace are becoming increasingly popular for finding housing or a roommate.

The adventure of choosing your neighbourhood!

If you choose to live off campus, know that each Montréal neighbourhood has its own personality, features, and charm!

Take the time to learn more about each part of the city so you can find the place that’s right for you. From the historic appeal of Old Port to the artistic buzz of the Plateau and the cosmopolitan ambiance of Mile End, each neighbourhood has its own vibe, creating a mosaic of experiences and cultures.

To learn more, visit
the City of Montréal website

Demystifying the classifieds

What do 2½, 3½, 4½, 5½, and so on, mean? These numbers refer to the rooms in an apartment (a bathroom counts for half a room). A 3½, for example, consists of a bedroom, kitchen, living room, and bathroom.

Semi-furnished means basic appliances (stove and refrigerator) are provided and included in the rent.

If you see the words “heated” (or “heating included”), “electricity,” and/or “hot water,” the cost of these services is included in the rent. When in doubt, check with the landlord to confirm what the rent includes.

Students engaging in lively discussion on a sunny campus street.

Coming from outside Canada and ready to get started?

Visit our page for international students.

International students