As moving season approaches, many Montrealers are on the hunt for affordable housing — a mission that’s becoming increasingly difficult. According to a recent report from the platform liv.rent, the average monthly rent for an unfurnished 1-bedroom apartment in the city has climbed to $1,726, marking a 6% increase compared to April 2024.
📉 On the bright side, that number has dropped by 2.4% since March.
Of course, rent prices vary widely depending on the neighbourhood. In April 2025, there’s a $600 difference between the most expensive and most affordable areas of Montreal.
How much do you need to earn to rent a 1-bedroom?
The Government of Canada recommends that housing costs should not exceed 35% of your gross income (before taxes). Based on this rule and the latest rental averages, here’s the minimum annual gross salary you’d need to comfortably rent a 1-bedroom (3 ½) in several Montreal boroughs:
| Neighbourhood | Average Rent | Recommended Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve | $1,460 | $50,057 |
| Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension | $1,484 | $50,880 |
| Ahuntsic-Cartierville | $1,514 | $51,908 |
| Saint-Laurent | $1,648 | $56,502 |
| Saint-Henri | $1,701 | $58,320 |
| Côte-des-Neiges / Notre-Dame-de-Grâce | $1,728 | $59,245 |
| Plateau-Mont-Royal | $1,822 | $62,468 |
| Westmount | $1,901 | $65,177 |
| Downtown | $1,939 | $66,480 |
| Verdun | $2,060 | $70,628 |
Mercier–Hochelaga: Montreal’s Most Budget-Friendly Option
Among all neighbourhoods listed, Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve remains the most affordable, with a rent average of $1,460/month, requiring a minimum annual salary of about $50,000.
At the opposite end, Verdun tops the chart with an average rent of over $2,000, meaning you’d need to earn at least $70,628/year to stay within the recommended budget guidelines.
⚠️ Keep in mind: These numbers are based on average prices in April 2025 and may vary depending on specific unit features, building amenities, and location.
Before signing any lease, it’s always smart to explore current listings and compare different options in real time.
