How to move without worries from Montreal to Barrie?

Are you considering a move from Montreal to Barrie? This transition can be an exciting new chapter in your life, but it also comes with many questions and challenges. How far is Barrie from Montreal? What are the best reasons to relocate there? How does the cost of living compare? What’s the most affordable way to move? This guide will answer all your questions and provide crucial information to help make your relocation to Barrie as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Where is Barrie and How Far is It from Montreal?

Barrie is a city in Simcoe County, Ontario, located along the shores of Lake Simcoe. It is often referred to as the gateway to “Cottage Country” due to its proximity to popular summer and winter retreats.

The distance between Montreal and Barrie is approximately 619 km, and the estimated driving time is about 6 hours and 59 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The most efficient route for your Montreal-Barrie move is:

Start on Highway 20 West in Montreal.
Merge onto Ontario Highway 401 West, which will take you through key cities such as Kingston, Cobourg, Oshawa, Pickering, and Toronto.
In Toronto, take exit 359 onto Highway 400 North, which leads directly to Barrie.
As you approach Barrie, take the Dunlop Street East exit to enter the city.
Be sure to have a GPS or road map to avoid any delays.

Why Choose to Move to Barrie?

Barrie is more than just a city—it’s a growing community offering an excellent quality of life. Here are some key reasons why many people choose to relocate from Montreal to Barrie:

Affordable Housing: Compared to the Montreal housing market, Barrie offers more affordable homes and apartments. The median house price in Barrie is significantly lower than in Toronto and Montreal, making it an attractive option for families and professionals.
Strong Job Market: Barrie has a thriving economy, with opportunities in manufacturing, technology, and retail sectors. The city’s unemployment rate is lower than the national average.
Education Opportunities: If you are moving for studies, Barrie is home to Georgian College, which has 10,000 full-time students and over 30,000 part-time students. The city also has several English and French school boards, ensuring access to quality education for children.
Public Transit: Barrie has an efficient transit system with 20 bus routes operated by Barrie Transit, providing convenient transportation within the city.
Outdoor and Recreational Activities: Known as part of Ontario’s cottage country, Barrie offers year-round outdoor activities, including boating, hiking, skiing, and ice fishing.
Annual Events and Festivals: The city hosts numerous events, including the Kempenfest Festival, one of the largest arts and crafts festivals in Canada.
Low Crime Rate: Barrie is one of the safest cities in Ontario, making it an excellent place to raise a family

Important Things to Consider Before Moving to Barrie

When planning a long-distance move, it’s essential to gather key information to ensure a successful transition. Before your relocation from Montreal to Barrie, consider:

Housing Market: Research rental prices and home values to find a neighborhood that fits your budget and lifestyle.
Cost of Living: Barrie is more affordable than Montreal, especially in housing and transportation.
Weather Conditions: Winters in Barrie can be colder and snowier than in Montreal due to its proximity to Lake Simcoe.
Employment Opportunities: Look into job prospects before moving, especially if you’re transitioning without a secured position.
Schooling Options: If you have children, research school availability and quality in your chosen neighborhood.

Cost of Living: Barrie vs. Montreal

One of the most important factors in deciding whether to move is cost of living. While Montreal is known for its affordability compared to other Canadian cities, Barrie offers even more savings in certain areas:

Housing Costs: The average home price in Barrie is lower than in Montreal, with rental rates also being more affordable.
Transportation Costs: Public transportation in Barrie is cheaper, with adult fares around $2.60 per ride, compared to Montreal’s $3.75 fare.
Groceries and Dining: Barrie has similar grocery prices to Montreal but offers more affordable dining options.
Utilities: Monthly utility bills in Barrie are slightly lower than in Montreal, particularly for heating during winter.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Move from Montreal to Barrie?

Moving long distances can be expensive, but there are ways to cut costs while ensuring a smooth relocation:

Hiring an Affordable Moving Company: Companies like Déménagement ALEX specialize in long-distance moving from Montreal to Barrie at competitive rates.
Renting a Moving Truck: If you have a small household, renting a U-Haul or Budget Truck could be more affordable, but it requires manual labor.
Using Moving Containers: Services like PODS or U-Pack allow you to load your belongings at your own pace while the company transports them.
Selling Unneeded Items: Reducing the number of items you move can save on moving costs.
Moving During Off-Peak Seasons: Avoid moving during the summer or end-of-month periods when rates are higher.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire Movers from Montreal to Barrie ?

Here’s a quick example for a shared move from Montreal to Barrie with a professional moving company:

1-Bedroom Apartment: $990 – $1,441
2-Bedroom Home/Apartment: $1,560 – $2,201
3+ Bedroom Home: $2,157 – $2,850

For a private move (exclusive truck and service), expect to pay approximately 30% more, which means:

1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,887 – $2,373
2-Bedroom Home/Apartment: $2,028 – $2,841
3+ Bedroom Home: $2,404 – $3,505

A shared move is an excellent way to save costs, especially for long-distance relocations. If you have a flexible schedule, you can reduce moving expenses significantly by sharing space with another move. However, if you need exclusive service with a guaranteed direct delivery, the private move is the best option.

Making Your Move Stress-Free

A long-distance move from Montreal to Barrie is a major transition, but with proper planning and the right moving company, you can make the process seamless and stress-free. Whether you’re moving for a job, family, or a fresh start, Barrie offers excellent opportunities and a high quality of life.

If you’re looking for a professional, reliable, and affordable moving company, Déménagement ALEX is here to help! With our experienced team and high-quality service, we ensure a smooth relocation to your new home in Barrie. Contact us today to get a free moving quote and start your journey to a new life in Barrie!

Why Choose Us?

More than 15 years of experience
Availability 7 days a week
Very competitive rates
Experienced Movers
SAAQ and CTQ certified trucks
100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

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