Montreal, Canada Housing One of the unique characteristics which distinguishes Montreal is the quality and availability of housing to rent or buy in or near the downtown core. 66% of Montreal residents rent rather than own their own homes. A 2-bedroom apartment downtown rents for about $750 a month, a 3-bedroom unit house on the West Island rents fro about $850 a month. Shopping Most Canadians buy their food in supermarkets. Speciality food stores are also available. All food is labelled in English and French. Introduction Government & Language Health Services Cost of Living Housing Education & Public Services To see a map of the city