What to do before moving from Montreal to Kitchener?
Are you planning a moving Montreal to Kitchener journey? Whether it’s for work, education, or a fresh start, relocating to Kitchener offers numerous opportunities. However, a long-distance move requires careful planning, budgeting, and organization. This guide will provide essential information about Kitchener, details on the moving process, cost comparisons, and money-saving tips to ensure your moving to Kitchener from Montreal experience is smooth and hassle-free.
Kitchener is a vibrant city in the Waterloo Region, Ontario. Once known as Berlin, it was renamed Kitchener in 1916. With a population of around 257,000, it’s a dynamic urban center with a strong economy, thriving technology sector, and renowned educational institutions. Unlike Montreal, Kitchener is predominantly English-speaking, with less than 10% of the population identifying as French Canadian.
Distance Between Montreal and Kitchener

The distance between Montreal-Kitchener is approximately 633 km. The drive takes about 7 hours and 10 minutes under normal conditions. The most direct route involves taking:
- Highway 720 West in Montreal
- Merging onto Highway 20 West
- Entering Ontario via Highway 401 West
- Continuing on Highway 401 until Exit 278 (Highway 8 West)
- Following Highway 8 West into Kitchener
This route passes through cities such as Cornwall, Kingston, Trenton, Oshawa, Pickering, Toronto, and Cambridge before reaching Kitchener.
Why Choose to Move to Kitchener?
There are several reasons why people consider moving Montreal to Kitchener:
Affordable Housing: Compared to Toronto, Kitchener has lower property prices and rental costs.
Job Market: Kitchener is part of Canada’s Tech Triangle, housing top companies like Google and Communitech.
Education: Home to Conestoga College, University of Waterloo’s Pharmacy School, and McMaster University’s Medical Campus.
Public Transportation: Grand River Transit (GRT) operates efficient bus and train services connecting the Waterloo Region.
Green Spaces & Events: Kitchener boasts parks, trails, and festivals like the Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest.
Cost of Living: Kitchener vs. Montreal
When considering moving to Kitchener from Montreal, it’s important to compare the cost of living.
🔹 Housing Costs: Rent in Kitchener is about 20-30% cheaper than in Montreal. The average home price in Kitchener is around $700,000, whereas in Montreal, it’s around $600,000.
🔹 Groceries & Utilities: Grocery prices in Kitchener are slightly higher than in Montreal due to provincial differences. Utilities (electricity, heating, water, etc.) are marginally more expensive in Kitchener.
🔹 Transportation: Gas prices in Ontario tend to be higher than in Quebec due to different tax regulations. Public transit is affordable, with a monthly GRT pass costing around $90.
What to Do Before Moving from Montreal to Kitchener
Before your long-distance move, ensure you are fully prepared by following these essential steps:
✔ Plan Your Budget: Consider the moving costs, rental deposits, and any unexpected expenses.
✔ Find a Moving Company: Déménagement ALEX provides reliable long-distance moving services from Montreal to Kitchener.
✔ Declutter & Pack Efficiently: Get rid of unnecessary items to reduce moving costs.
✔ Notify Utility Companies: Transfer hydro, internet, and phone services before moving.
✔ Update Your Address: Inform your bank, employer, and government agencies about your new address.
Important Information to Know Before Your Move
Healthcare: Apply for an Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) after your move.
School Registration: If you have children, check the school catchment area and registration deadlines.
Employment Resources: Visit local job centers or networking events.
Driving Regulations: If you plan to drive, exchange your Quebec driver’s license for an Ontario one.
Emergency Services: Familiarize yourself with Kitchener’s hospitals, police stations, and public services.
What is the Cheapest Way to Move Montreal to Kitchener?
Moving long-distance can be expensive, but here are 5 ways to reduce moving costs:
Book Movers in Advance: Last-minute bookings cost more. Déménagement ALEX offers competitive pricing for advance bookings.
Move During Off-Peak Seasons: Avoid moving during summer or the end of the month.
Rent a Truck & DIY Move: If you have fewer items, renting a U-Haul truck may be cheaper than hiring movers.
Use Group Moving Services: Some companies offer shared moving truck services for lower costs.
Pack Smart: Avoid unnecessary moving supplies and pack your own boxes to cut costs.
Make Your Move Stress-Free!
Moving to Kitchener from Montreal is a big step, but with the right planning and preparation, it can be a smooth and exciting transition. By considering the cost of living, best neighborhoods, job opportunities, and lifestyle factors, you can make an informed decision about relocating to this vibrant Ontario city.
For a hassle-free move, déménagement ALEX is your trusted Montreal-Kitchener moving company, ensuring a professional, efficient, and cost-effective experience. Contact us today to get a free quote and make your move easy!
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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