QC
vs
NB
Cost of Living: Montreal vs Saint John
Making a move? Compare the exact 2026 data for housing, food, and transit to see exactly how your lifestyle budget will change between these two cities.
The Verdict
Living in Saint John is 31% cheaper than living in Montreal overall.
To maintain your exact standard of living, a $100,000 salary in Montreal is mathematically equivalent to earning $68,627 in Saint John.
Expense Breakdown
Average Rent
1-Bed City Center
Montreal
$1,700
35% cheaper
Saint John
$1,100
Groceries
Monthly Basket (1 Person)
Montreal
$400
5% cheaper
Saint John
$380
Transportation
Monthly Transit Pass
Montreal
$97
23% cheaper
Saint John
$75
Calculate Your Exact Salary
Ready to see how much you'll keep after taxes in NB? Use our Canadian Income Tax Calculator to get a precise breakdown.