Starting your journey at the Max Bell School of Public Policy is more than just enrolling in a world-class program. It is also about finding your place in one of North America’s most dynamic and diverse cities. Montréal, Canada’s second largest city, is home to six universities and consistently ranks as the #1 student city in Canada and North America. Known for its affordability, cultural richness, and vibrant student life, Montréal is an ideal place to live and learn.
Whether you’re an incoming student or already in the city and considering a move, this guide will help you navigate the neighbourhoods, housing options, and public transportation system available to you as a MPP student.
Getting Around
Montréal’s Société de transport de Montréal (STM) provides a reliable and affordable way to get around, with four major lines (Green, Orange, Blue, and Yellow) connecting the city. As a McGill student you are eligible for a reduced-fare OPUS card (through Minerva) providing discounts on monthly student transit passes. The city also has an excellent bike lane network and public bike-sharing system called BIXI.
The McGill metro station is located right near campus on the Green line, making it convenient to commute from many different neighbourhoods.
While Montréal's public transit system is generally reliable year-round, the winter season can occasionally affect bus service during snowfall days. Students who live within walking distance of a metro station may find their commute more predictable, especially during colder months. When choosing where to live, proximity to the metro can be important, even if it means a slightly longer walk or marginally higher rent.
Finding the Right Neighbourhood
Montréal is made up of 19 boroughs, each containing distinct communities that reflect the city’s multicultural character. Many Max Bell students choose to live in a variety of neighbourhoods across the city, depending on their lifestyle, budget, and proximity to McGill.
Beyond location and affordability, Montréal's neighbourhoods are often defined by a strong sense of local community. Building relatioshipswith neighbours and local shop owners and visiting community spaces can make a meaningful difference in how quickly you feel settled in the city.
Downtown (Ville-Marie)
Living downtown puts you at the centre of student life and within walking distance of McGill’s downtown campus
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Metro: Green and Orange lines
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Neighbourhoods: Old Port, Quartier des Spectacles, Griffintown, Shaughnessy Village, Chinatown, Milton Park
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Atmosphere: Multilingual, lively, urban
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Benefits: Close to campus, near arts and entertainment, walkable
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Things to Consider: Fewer grocery stores, smaller apartments
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Notable Spots: Art installation, museums, McGill downtown campus
Plateau-Mont-Royal and Mile End
This area is a favourite among students, artists, and young professionals
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Metro: Orange line
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Atmosphere: Trendy, pedestrian and bike-friendly
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Benefits: Green spaces, diverse nightlife, charming older buildings
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Notable Spots: Parc Lafontaine, La Banquise (famous for poutine)
Southwest: Westmount, Saint-Henri, Notre-Dame-de-Grâce (NDG), Verdun
These neighbourhoods are more residential and attract students who prefer a quieter, more scenic lifestyle
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Metro: Green and Orange line
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Atmosphere: Mostly anglophone, relaxed, family-friendly
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Benefits: Access to the Lachine Canal, Marché Atwater, large parks, and cozy cafes
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Notable Spots: Westmount Public Library, Verdun Beach
Northwest: Mile End, Little Italy, Outremont, Park Extension
These areas are rich in culture and known for amazing food
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Metro: Blue line
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Atmosphere: Diverse, community-oriented
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Benefits: International cuisines, specialty grocers, cultural diversity
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Notable spots: St-Viateur Bagel, South Asian and Greek eateries
Northeast: Villeray, Saint-Michel, Petite-Patrie, Little Italy
Located further north, these neighbourhoods are more residential and offer a calm living space
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Metro: Orange and Blue line
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Atmosphere: Quiet, friendly, affordable
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Benefits: Proximity to Jean Talon Market, great cafes, good value
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Notable Spots: Bar Le Ritz, community spaces
East: Rosemont, Hochelaga, Maisonneuve
These traditionally Francophone neighbourhoods are becoming increasingly popular among students
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Metro: Green line
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Atmosphere: Artistic, residential
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Benefits: Lower rent, access to green spaces and cultural sites
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Notable Spots: Botanical Gardens, Olympic Stadium, Biodome
The Village and Latin Quarter
This vibrant area is ideal for students who enjoy festivals, events, and a lively social scene
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Metro: Green and Orange line
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Atmosphere: Multilingual, inclusive, energetic
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Benefits: Summer street closures, Pride Parade, vibrant nightlife
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Notable Spots: BAnQ, Village Montréal
The everyday interactions you have in corner cafés to depanneurs to nearby parks and public libraries can help you feel connected and supported, especially in your first few months in Montréal. Take some time to explore some neighbourhoods and engage with the people who are there as they too can enrich your experience well beyond the classroom.
Your experience at the Max Bell School will be shaped not only by what you learn in the classroom but also by the community you build outside of it. Choosing the right place to live can make a big difference in your comfort and connection to Montréal. Whether you prefer the bustling heart of downtown or the charm of the Plateau, Montréal has something for everyone. Embrace the culture, explore new neighbourhoods, and make the most of everything this incredible city has to offer.
