Cheapest neighbourhoods to rent in Montreal

Montreal is one of Canada's more affordable major cities for renters, and there is significant variation in average rents across its neighbourhoods and boroughs. The city's outer residential areas and east-end neighbourhoods consistently offer lower rents than the downtown core, while still providing good transit access and a full range of amenities. This guide covers five of Montreal's most affordable neighbourhoods for renters.

For current average rent figures by neighbourhood, see the Montreal Rent Report.

Hochelaga-Maisonneuve

Consistently among Montreal's most affordable neighbourhoods, Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, widely known as HoMa, is a vibrant east-end area with a rich working-class history and a growing arts and dining scene. It sits adjacent to Parc Maisonneuve and the Montreal Botanical Garden, giving residents easy access to green space. Housing is predominantly older character apartments and renovated lofts in historic buildings. Downtown Montreal is about 20 to 30 minutes by car or 30 to 40 minutes by bus. Search listings in Montreal.

Ahuntsic-Cartierville

A peaceful, family-oriented borough in Montreal's north end, Ahuntsic-Cartierville has extensive green spaces including Parc-nature de l'Île-de-la-Visitation along the Rivière des Prairies. The area is quiet and residential in character, with local shops, restaurants, and good public transit connections to the rest of the city. Housing includes older but well-maintained apartments, duplexes, and some single-family homes. Downtown is about 25 to 35 minutes by car or 35 to 45 minutes by bus.

Villeray and Parc-Extension

Villeray and Parc-Extension sit north of the Plateau and are among Montreal's most culturally diverse neighbourhoods. Parc-Extension, often called Parc-Ex, is home to one of the city's most concentrated multicultural communities and borders Jean-Talon Market, one of Montreal's largest open-air markets. Villeray has a more residential character with parks, community centres, and an increasingly active local food and arts scene. Both offer a range of rental options from older affordable apartments to more modern units. Downtown is about 20 to 30 minutes by car or 25 to 35 minutes by bus.

Saint-Laurent

A large, diverse borough on Montreal's west island, Saint-Laurent combines residential areas with commercial and industrial activity, making it a practical choice for professionals working in nearby business parks. It has good public transit, several parks, and shopping centres, with rents well below the city-wide average. Housing is a mix of older spacious apartments and newer condo developments. Downtown is about 25 to 35 minutes by car or 35 to 45 minutes by bus.

Notre-Dame-de-Grâce and Côte-des-Neiges

Two adjoining neighbourhoods on the western slope of Mount Royal, Notre-Dame-de-Grâce (NDG) and Côte-des-Neiges are among Montreal's most culturally rich areas. NDG has a more suburban feel with tree-lined streets, parks, and family-friendly amenities. Côte-des-Neiges is denser and more urban, with a wide variety of ethnic restaurants, shops, and proximity to the Université de Montréal. Both areas have strong transit connections and are popular with students, families, and professionals. Housing ranges from older charming apartments and duplexes to modern condos. Downtown is about 20 to 30 minutes by car or 30 to 40 minutes by bus.

A Note on Quebec Leases

Montreal's rental market operates under Quebec tenancy law. Landlords must use the mandatory Bail obligatoire lease form, and no damage deposits are permitted. Tenants have the right to refuse rent increases. For more on your rights as a renter in Montreal, see our [Quebec rental laws guides].

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