How to organize a quick move from Montreal to Saint-John?

Moving from Montreal to Saint John is an exciting yet complex process. Whether you are relocating for work, family, or a fresh start, planning ahead will ensure a smooth transition. Saint John, the largest city in New Brunswick, sits at the mouth of the Saint John River and offers a mix of history, culture, and economic opportunities. With a population of approximately 72,000, it is a vibrant bilingual city where both English and French are commonly spoken. If you are considering a move from Montreal to Saint John, here is everything you need to know to make the process as efficient as possible.

Key Considerations Before Moving to Saint John

Relocating to a new province requires careful planning. The distance from Montreal to Saint John is roughly 914 kilometers, and the drive takes approximately 9 to 10 hours, depending on the route. However, an alternative route through the United States can reduce travel time by about two hours and 200 kilometers. Choosing the best route will depend on factors such as road conditions, border crossing requirements, and moving company policies.

If you are driving within Canada, you will take:

Highway 20 East from Montreal
Merge onto the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 85) at Exit 499
Continue on NB-2 East after crossing into New Brunswick
Take NB-7 South, then NB-1 East, leading directly into Saint John

Carrying a GPS device and a physical map is crucial to avoid navigation issues, especially when traveling through rural areas.

Why Move to Saint John?

Saint John is the largest city in New Brunswick, with a population of approximately 72,000 people. Nestled along the Bay of Fundy, the city is known for its natural beauty, rich history, and a welcoming community. It is one of the few cities in Canada that boasts a bilingual environment, with many residents speaking both English and French.

With its affordable housing, growing job market, and a strong sense of community, Saint John is an attractive destination for families, professionals, and retirees alike. Whether you are seeking a slower pace of life, proximity to the ocean, or a more budget-friendly cost of living compared to Montreal, moving to Saint John could be the right choice.

Education and Schools in Saint John

If you are moving with children, researching schools in advance is essential. Saint John has two public school boards, offering education primarily in English, with one Francophone school available.

For higher education, Saint John hosts:

University of New Brunswick – Saint John Campus
New Brunswick Community College (NBCC)

If you prefer bilingual or private school options, planning your child’s education before moving is highly recommended.

Housing in Saint John: Where Should You Live?

Saint John is made up of distinct neighborhoods, each offering unique living experiences. Before moving, researching and visiting these areas will help you decide which location suits your lifestyle best:

South Central Peninsula: Known for its historic charm, this area sits on the east side of the harbor. Many long-time residents refer to this neighborhood as the heart of Saint John.
North End: A mix of older Victorian homes and modern housing developments, the North End is ideal for families and individuals seeking a quiet residential environment.
East Side: If you prefer suburban living, the East Side is the largest suburban neighborhood in Saint John, offering shopping centers, schools, and parks.
West Side: This area features a mix of small communities that have been amalgamated over the years, providing a blend of urban and suburban living.

Recreational Activities and Entertainment

Saint John is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions, cultural events, and outdoor activities. Some must-visit locations include:

Reversing Falls Rapids: A unique natural phenomenon where the Saint John River flows backward due to the Bay of Fundy’s extreme tides.
Irving Nature Park: A beautiful 600-acre park offering hiking trails and breathtaking coastal views.
Saint John City Market: The oldest continuously operating farmers’ market in Canada.
Rockwood Park: A massive urban park featuring lakes, hiking trails, and camping sites.

For entertainment, Saint John hosts numerous festivals, concerts, and cultural events throughout the year, making it an exciting place to live.

Final Moving Tips for Montreal-Saint John Relocation

Book movers early – Long-distance moves require advance planning.
Declutter your belongings – Sell or donate items you don’t need.
Update your address – Notify government agencies, banks, and service providers.
Pack an essentials box – Have important items easily accessible.
Check the weather forecast – New Brunswick can have unpredictable weather, so plan accordingly.

Cost of Living Comparison: Montreal vs. Saint John

One of the key reasons people move from Montreal to Saint John is the lower cost of living. Here is a quick breakdown:

Housing Costs: On average, housing prices in Saint John are 40-50% cheaper than in Montreal.
Groceries & Dining: Food prices are comparable, but local seafood is more affordable in Saint John.
Transportation: Public transit fares are lower, and gas prices tend to be slightly less than in Montreal.
Taxes: New Brunswick has higher provincial taxes compared to Quebec, so it’s essential to plan accordingly.

Choosing the Right Moving Company

When selecting a company for your Montreal-Saint John move, it is essential to verify their long-distance moving experience. Hiring professionals who have previously operated in New Brunswick will ensure that they understand the best routes, possible challenges, and required permits.

Factors to Consider When Hiring Movers:

Experience in long-distance moving
Customer reviews and references
Insurance coverage for your belongings
Pricing transparency (no hidden fees)
Truck size and moving equipment availability

Choosing a reliable moving company will make your relocation stress-free and prevent damage to your belongings during transport.

Why Choose Us for Your Montreal to Saint John Move?

We understand that moving can be stressful and overwhelming, which is why we are committed to providing professional, efficient, and affordable moving services from Montreal to Saint John. Here’s why customers choose us:

✔ Experienced in long-distance moves across Canada
✔ Competitive pricing with no hidden fees
✔ Professional movers who handle your belongings with care
✔ Well-equipped trucks for a smooth transportation process
✔ Flexible scheduling to accommodate your moving timeline

A Smooth Transition to Saint John

Moving to Saint John from Montreal is an exciting opportunity for those seeking a more relaxed lifestyle, affordable living, and career opportunities.

By choosing a trusted moving company like Déménagement ALEX, you guarantee a smooth, affordable, and secure relocation experience. By working with a trusted moving service like our, you can experience a stress-free relocation while focusing on your new adventure in New Brunswick’s largest city.

If you are looking for a professional and reliable moving service from Montreal to Saint John, we are here to help! Contact us today for a personalized moving plan tailored to your needs.

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