Finding the right place to live as a student in Montreal can feel overwhelming. With so many factors to consider—budget, location, roommates, lease terms—it’s easy to get lost in the search. Whether you're moving into your first apartment, choosing between dorms and private rentals, or navigating Montreal’s rental market as an international student, making an informed decision is key.

Montreal is known for its vibrant student life, affordable living (compared to other major Canadian cities), and diverse neighbourhoods. However, not all accommodations are created equal. Before signing a lease, consider these top 10 factors to ensure you find a place that suits your lifestyle and academic needs.

1. Location & Proximity to Campus

One of the most critical factors in choosing student accommodation is location. Living near campus can save you time and money commuting, especially during Montreal’s harsh winters.

Here are some popular student-friendly neighbourhoods:

• Milton Park (The McGill Ghetto) – Ideal for McGill students, just minutes from campus.
• The Plateau is Trendy, artsy, and close to McGill and UQAM.
• Côte-des-Neiges – A great area for Université de Montréal students.
• Downtown (Ville-Marie) – Convenient for Concordia and McGill students, but pricier.

If you live further from campus, ensure you’re near a metro station or major bus routes. Montreal’s public transit system (STM) offers discounted OPUS student passes, making commuting more affordable.

2. Budget & Affordability

‍Your rent is likely to be your most significant monthly expense, so setting a realistic budget is crucial. Here’s a general idea of student housing costs in Montreal:

• Shared apartment (per room) – $500 to $900/month
• Studio apartment – $800 to $1,400/month
• On-campus residence – $1,000 to $1,500/month (including meal plans in some cases)

Additional costs to factor in:

• Utilities (if not included in rent) – $50 to $100/month
• Internet – Around $60/month
• Groceries – $250 to $400/month

If affordability is a concern, consider finding roommates to split costs. Facebook groups like Montreal Student Housing and university housing boards often have listings for shared accommodations.

3. Safety & Neighborhood Environment

‍Your safety and comfort are non-negotiable. Before committing to a rental, research the neighbourhood’s safety using resources like:

• Montreal Police Crime Maps – Check crime statistics in different areas.
• University Housing Offices – Many universities guide safe neighbourhoods.

Things to check:
✔ Is the building secure (locked entrance, cameras, well-lit streets)?
✔ Are there grocery stores, pharmacies, and public transport nearby?
✔ Is the area known for nightlife? (Great for socializing, but noisy for studying!)

4. Lease Terms & Rental Agreements

‍Reading the lease agreement carefully is crucial, especially for first-time renters. In Quebec, most leases run from July 1st to June 30th, but some landlords offer flexible terms.Key things to clarify:

• Lease duration – Is it a 12-month commitment, or can you opt for a shorter term?
• Security deposit – Unlike in other provinces, landlords in Quebec cannot legally ask for a deposit.
• Subletting rules – If you plan to leave for the summer, ensure subletting is allowed.
• What’s included? – Ask if heating, hot water, and electricity are covered.

Knowing your tenant rights under Quebec’s Régie du logement (rental board) can help protect you from unfair rental practices.

5. Utilities & Internet Availability

‍Many student rentals do not include utilities in the rent, meaning you’ll have to pay separately for:

• Heating (Hydro-Québec)
• Electricity
• Water (usually included)
• Internet (Bell, Videotron, or independent providers like Fizz and Oxio)

Heating efficiency is key in winter. Older buildings in Montreal can be poorly insulated, leading to high heating costs. Always check if heating is included in your rent or if the apartment has good insulation.

6. Amenities & Facilities

‍Before choosing a place, ask yourself:
✔ Does it have laundry facilities?
✔ Is it furnished, or will you need to buy furniture?
✔ Are there common areas or study spaces?Some student residences and private buildings offer extra perks like:

• Fitness centers
• Rooftop terraces
• On-site security

If you’re renting an unfurnished apartment, IKEA and Facebook Marketplace are great places to find affordable furniture.

7. Roommates & Shared Living Considerations

‍Living with roommates can be a great way to cut costs, but it requires good communication.

Tips for a successful shared living experience:

• Discuss expectations early – Cleaning schedules, noise levels, and guest policies.
• Split bills somewhat – Apps like Splitwise can help manage shared expenses.
• Choose compatible roommates – If possible, meet them before signing a lease.

Facebook groups like Montreal Roommate Finder can help connect you with potential roommates.

8. Accessibility & Public Transportation

‍If you don’t live within walking distance of campus, ensure public transit is convenient.

• Metro – Montreal’s STM system has four metro lines, with many student-friendly areas on the Green and Orange lines.
• Buses – Many areas rely on buses; check schedules on the STM app.
• Biking – Montreal has a great BIXI bike-sharing system and many bike lanes.

Students can apply for discounted OPUS transit cards, significantly reducing monthly metro and bus costs.

9. Reputation & Reviews

‍Never sign a lease without checking reviews of the landlord or building. Resources to use:

• Google Reviews – Search the building’s address for complaints.
• Facebook Housing Groups – Other students often share experiences.
• University Housing Offices – They may have lists of recommended landlords.

An evil landlord can make student life miserable, so constantly research.

10. Future Flexibility & Moving Out Policies

‍Plans can change—study abroad programs, co-op placements, or switching schools. That’s why it’s important to check:

• Subletting policies – Can you rent your place if you leave for the summer?
• Lease-break clauses – What happens if you need to move out early?
• Storage options – Where can you store your belongings if you leave for summer but return in the fall?

If you anticipate moving frequently, short-term rentals or student residences with flexible leases may be a better option.

Final Tips for Choosing Student Housing in Montreal

1. Visit the place in person before signing a lease.
2. Compare at least 3-4 different options before deciding.
3. Read the lease carefully and understand your rights as a tenant.
4. Factor in all costs, not just rent (utilities, internet, transport).
5. Choose a location that balances affordability, safety, and accessibility.

Finding the right student accommodation takes time, but with these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to make the best choice for your student life in Montreal!