Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Montreal (2026)
Most Affordable On-Island Neighborhoods
If staying on the island of Montreal is important to you, several boroughs still offer rents well below the city average. Montreal North has the lowest rents on the island, with 4½ apartments averaging $900–$1,150. Saint-Léonard offers a strong Italian-Quebec community feel with 4½ rents of $1,000–$1,250. Anjou and LaSalle round out the affordable options at $1,050–$1,350, both with better transit access than Montreal North.
Côte-des-Neiges deserves mention as one of the most affordable centrally-located neighbourhoods, with 4½ rents of $1,050–$1,350 and direct metro access. Parc-Extension, just north of the Acadie metro, offers some of the lowest rents near downtown at $900–$1,200.
Affordable Off-Island Options
For maximum savings, the off-island suburbs deliver significantly lower rents with more space. Longueuil averages $1,000–$1,300 for a 4½ with metro access. Laval offers similar pricing with newer apartment stock. Further out, Châteauguay and Repentigny offer 4½ apartments under $1,000, though commute times increase substantially.
Hidden Costs to Watch For
Low rent doesn't always mean low cost of living. Factor in transit passes ($94/month for an STM pass in 2026), car costs if the neighbourhood isn't metro-accessible, and grocery prices — some affordable areas have fewer competitive grocery options, pushing food costs up. Also check heating inclusion: many older buildings in affordable areas don't include heat, adding $80–$150/month in winter.
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