Congratulations! If you’ve received a job offer in Montreal, you already have a source of income in your future home. An employer may also be able to help you with technicalities like getting a work visa that will allow you to reside in the city legally. Montreal is home to many globally minded companies, with international employers spanning industries from aerospace (Bombardier, Airbus, etc.) to gaming (Ubisoft). The city’s many universities are also a major employer of international people.

Dig Deeper. Read more about Getting a Work Visa in Canada

If you’ve gained admission to one of Montreal’s many top-tier universities, you’re sure to have an exciting educational experience. There are both anglophone and francophone universities in the city, including McGill University, Université de Montréal, University of Québec at Montréal and Concordia University. There are also two technical schools, the Polytechnic School of Montreal and the School of Higher Technology - University of Quebec.

As mentioned, Montreal is one of the largest French-speaking cities in the world, with French being its official language. This makes it a great place to immerse yourself in the language. There are many language programs in the city. You can also take courses at one of the many aforementioned universities. That said, if you want to truly immerse yourself in the French language, you’ll have to choose your location wisely. Some neighborhoods are more predominantly English-speaking than others.

If you’re looking to enjoy a vibrant urban culture without having to pay an exorbitant cost of living, Montreal is a solid choice. The estimated monthly cost of living for a single person in the city is about $863 (without rent). For a family of four, the estimated monthly cost of living is about $3,171 (also without rent). Montreal is estimated to be about 30% less expensive than New York City, while rent in Montreal is estimated to be about 68% less expensive than in New York City.

Rosemont features a few Montreal highlights, including the Jean-Talon Market, the city’s largest farmers market, and Little Italy. There are also many bakeries, coffee shops, and trendy restaurants and bars in the area. If you want to spend some time relaxing outdoors, head to Parc Molson. While residential, Rosemont offers easy access to everything you need.

This trendy neighborhood is located alongside Montreal’s famous mountain. It’s known for its signature rowhouses, which house a mix of families, students and young professionals. The quartier is decidedly French, giving you a chance to practice your skills. However, it’s not too far from the McGill University campus. As an anglophone university, this is a great spot to escape if you need a break from flexing your French skills.

Montreal is an LGBTQ+ friendly city. Nowhere is that more evident than in the Gay Village, which hosts the city’s annual pride festival (and features some rainbow-painted buildings). This close-knit residential community is home to vintage furniture stores, bars and restaurants.

This is a family-friendly neighborhood that features plenty of green space, where you can take the kids or dog for water. The residential streets feature flower-filled front yards and community gardens. Pay a visit to Jarry Park, which features a public pool, fountain, sports field and other entertainment. You can also find restaurants, shops and cafes nearby.

Old Montreal is Montreal’s historic center and the oldest neighborhood in the city. This is where you really get a sense of Montreal’s European roots, thanks to the centennial buildings and cobbled roads. Vieux Montreal is situated alongside the city’s Old Port. It’s also home to the Grand Notre Dame Cathedral. Tourist attractions aside, it offers a comfortable ambiance.