It’s hard to forget Quebe’s beauty and charm. The city offers a European, old-world mystique blended with modern amenities and convenience. French culture is even stronger here. The gorgeous historic architecture and cobblestone streets feel like a little part of Europe exists in North America.
The quality of life, education and health care is high. Crime is low in Quebec City and residents have a strong sense of community. Scenic surroundings include the St. Lawrence River and other nature hotspots. The province of Quebec is the arts funding capital of Canada. Most cities in Quebec have a thriving arts scene, and Quebec City is no exception. This is an ideal city for history buffs, foodies, artists families, students and professionals, as long as you can handle the deep cold for half the year (more on that later).
If you're considering a move to Quebec City, a little planning can go a long way in reducing stress, saving time, and keeping costs down. This guide is designed to walk you through every step of the moving process while giving you glimpses of what life is like in Quebec City. From setting a budget and organising your packing to final cleaning and last-minute tasks on a moving day, you'll find practical tips and helpful tools to keep everything on track and make your move as smooth as possible.
While a move to Quebec is exciting, newcomers should be aware of some common challenges. Perhaps the most significant is the language barrier. French is the main language spoken, and employment, and everyday adjustments (including moving) will be difficult if you don’t speak any French. For context, there is much less English spoken here than in Montreal.
Winters in Quebec City are long and harsh. If you are coming from a country outside of Northern Europe, the short winter days and long dark nights could come as a shock between the months of November and February. Depending on the season, be prepared for unpredictable weather, icy roads, heat, or other climate-related hindrances on your moving day.
Like almost every other Canadian city, the housing and rental markets are competitive, especially in certain more desirable areas like Old Quebec (VieuxQuébec), Montcalm, and SainteFoy–Sillery–CapRouge.
If you're moving on July 1st, which is known provincewide as “Moving Day”, be prepared for thousands of residents relocating on the same day, making it harder to find moving trucks, storage units, and parking spots. Streets can be congested with vehicles and discarded furniture, so timing and preparation are everything. Narrow, historic roads and multi-storey walkup buildings in older neighbourhoods can add complications. Proper planning and booking services well in advance can help ease the stress and make things go more smoothly.
Despite these challenges, residents of Quebec City love their city and find any hurdles manageable and well worth the benefits of living in such a historic and cultural city.
A stress-free move starts with smart planning and good organisation. With so much happening at once, the last thing you want is to be caught off guard. By focusing on efficiency, safety, and clear communication, you can avoid common moving day headaches.
Book your moving company well in advance. Plan your route ahead of time, keeping an eye on traffic patterns, construction zones, and parking rules. Navigation apps like Google Maps can be helpful for real-time updates.
Before the big day, walk through both your old and new spaces to look for potential problem areas, like narrow staircases, low ceilings, or tight entryways. Sharing this info with your movers will help prevent delays and allow them to plan their mission.
Take care of necessary admin and paperwork early. Notify your utility providers, update your address, and transfer your essential services to avoid last-minute stress.
Create a detailed inventory of your belongings. This will help you better estimate the truck size you’ll need and make packing, tracking, and unpacking much easier.
House hunting in Quebec City can be competitive, especially in sought-after areas like Old Quebec, Montcalm, and Sainte-Foy. While the cost of living in Quebec City is generally more affordable than in other cities like Toronto, Vancouver, or Victoria, the city's growing popularity—especially among newcomers and students—means great rentals and properties don’t stay on the market for long.
Starting your search early, knowing your budget, and being ready to act quickly when you find the right place can improve your chances of landing a home that fits your needs.
If you're looking for more affordable neighborhoods in Quebec City (whether to rent or buy) here are some areas that offer good value without sacrificing quality of life:
Limoilou
Charlesbourg
Beauport
Vanier
Neufchâtel
Les Rivières
Quebec City has a well-developed public transportation system operated by the Réseau de Transport de la Capitale (RTC). The city’s bus network covers most urban areas, with high-frequency Metrobus routes connecting busier neighbourhoods and downtown.
An upcoming tramway project is currently under development that, once completed, will drastically improve public transportation in Quebec City.
Quebec City is steadily improving its bike infrastructure. There are a bunch of bike lanes and multi-use paths, including scenic routes along the St. Lawrence River and the Corridor des Cheminots. The city has plenty of hills so depending on your route, be prepared for a vigorous workout. Extreme winters prevent year-round cycling in Quebec City.
Driving in Quebec City is generally manageable, though rush hour results in occasional traffic congestion, especially on main routes like Boulevard Laurier or Autoroute 440. In Old Quebec, narrow streets and limited parking can be challenging. Winter conditions often require careful driving and snow tires are mandatory from December to March.
Choosing a moving company is an important decision. Take your time to figure out your priorities. Here are a few guidelines to help you make a decision:
Researching online reviews can tell you a lot about the experiences of previous customers giving you insights into the moving companies' service quality.
Be sure to compare insurance options between companies to get the right coverage at a reasonable price.
After finishing your inventory, you'll have a better idea of the truck size to go for and the services you’ll need.
While it’s tempting to choose the lowest quote, it’s often worth opting for a company with a reputation for reliability, professionalism, and positive feedback.
If you’re still feeling unsure about choosing the right movers, Top Move helps you book the best company for your specific needs.
Whether you're new to Quebec City or already living there, take the time to explore the neighbourhoods on your radar. Consider your lifestyle, commute and daily routines. Note access to parks, shops, and other amenities.
Start creating a moving budget, including costs like movers, packing materials, utility connections, and fuel. Allow a little extra room for unexpected expenses.
Book your movers early to secure your ideal date. If you are moving anytime close to Quebec’s “Moving Day” on July 1st, book your movers as far ahead as possible. If you’ll need storage space, look into local storage options.
Begin decluttering. Sell, donate, or recycle anything you won’t need to take with you. Be ruthless with your possessions—it will make the move easier.
Create a packing plan to prioritise what to pack first and gather the necessary packing supplies. Prioritise repurposing materials like old blankets, towels and sturdy cardboard boxes. If you do need to purchase anything, buy high-quality supplies that will survive the move and beyond.
If you're renting, give proper notice to your landlord, which depending on your lease is usually 3-6 months for a 12-month lease in Quebec.
Start gathering packing materials. Invest in good quality boxes, or go the eco-friendly route by reusing boxes, old plastic bubble wrap and newspapers. Produce boxes from grocery stores are sturdy and ideal for heavier items, and blankets make great padding for furniture artwork and fragile items.
Begin packing nonessential items like books, seasonal clothes, decor, or items rarely used in the kitchen.
Update your address with Canada Post, utility companies, banks, and any subscriptions you use.
Be extra careful when packing fragile items such as electronics, artwork, or family heirlooms.
If your new home requires parking permits for the moving truck, arrange them now.
Confirm your moving dates with the company for peace of mind, especially if you are moving close to July 1st.
If necessary, book a cleaning service. A spotless home will mean you can get your damage deposit back.
Arrange care for pets and young children on moving day, so they stay safe and out of the way.
Visit your new home to check if any repairs or cleaning should be done before you move in.
Keep packing and organising. You don’t want to wait until the last minute.
Update your new address on your driver’s license, car and voter registration.
Share a detailed moving day plan with your movers. They’ll appreciate the clarity and they will be able to plan accordingly.
Give your old home a thorough cleaning. Aim for perfect–it's better to overdo it and avoid losing your damage deposit.
Finish packing everything except essentials.
Stop watering large plants to make them lighter when it's time to move them.
Prepare a few freezer-friendly meals to make your first week in the new home easier. Big pots of soup or stew are always a hit, and you can use up any perishables in your fridge.
Pack a "moving day essentials" bag with toiletries, chargers, snacks, water, medications, and important documents.
Reserve a parking spot for the moving truck if needed.
Let the movers do their job and stay out of their way. Trust their process.
Do a final walkthrough of your old home to check you haven’t left anything behind.
Once you’re moved in, start unpacking.
Unpack your essentials first in the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom so you can function normally right off the bat.
Check that boxes and furniture are in the right rooms to make it easier to find things when you need them.
Take time to explore your new neighbourhood. Grab a coffee, stroll through the nearest park, and find the local recreation centre, post office, and library.
The cost of moving to or within Quebec City depends on how big your home is and how far you're going.
Moving a one-bedroom apartment will cost approximately between CA$300 and CA$800.
Moving a four-bedroom house could cost anywhere from CA$1,700 and CA$2,800.
If you have bulky or fragile items like pianos, large paintings or antiques, a moving company will usually add extra charges
It's smart to get quotes from multiple moving companies to compare and find the best price for what you need. Top Move makes the process easy—with all your quotes in one place, you can book the most affordable and reliable movers without the extra hassle.
If you're buying a home, budget for additional expenses, such as legal fees, inspections, land transfer and taxes, and insurance.
Renters should put money aside to pay your damage deposit (usually equal to one month’s rent).
You’ll also need to factor in utility setup charges, purchasing packing supplies, and cleaning services (if needed).
Sometimes parking permits are needed, especially in busy areas of the city.
One big moving day decision you'll face is whether you should hire professional movers or go the DIY route. Your choice will depend on your budget, schedule, and physical ability.
Quick and efficient: Experienced movers know how to pack, load, and unload in record time.
Less stress: Professionals handle the heavy lifting and fragile items (and make it look easy), so you can focus on organising and settling in.
Insurance coverage: Professional moving companies offer cover for your belongings, protecting them in case something gets damaged en route.
Expert handling: Movers are trained and equipped to handle even the most awkward or fragile items, from delicate glassware to awkward furniture.
Injury prevention: Hiring pros means you don’t have to risk straining your back or dropping something heavy.
Need help finding trustworthy movers at a fair price? Top Move can easily book vetted professional movers, so you don’t have to spend time searching for and potentially second-guessing your movers.
Increased costs: Hiring movers can cost significantly more than doing it yourself.
Possible add-ons: Fees can increase depending on the distance, number of stairs, tight spaces, or last-minute bookings.
Lower cost: Doing it yourself is the most budget-friendly option, especially if you don’t have much to move.
Full control: You set the pace, handle your own belongings, and make 100% of the decisions.
Flexible schedule: Move when it suits you. It could be early in the morning, late at night or you can take it leisurely over several days.
Make it fun: Invite friends to help and make moving day a social affair. Offer pizza and snacks and you’ll have a crew in no time.
Time-consuming: You might underestimate how much time packing and hauling everything will actually take.
Physical exertion: Moving heavy furniture and boxes can be exhausting and potentially dangerous if done incorrectly. On the other hand, if you love exercise and physical challenges, moving day exertion could be a benefit.
Risk of breakage: Without the right equipment or technique, your stuff (or your walls) could get damaged.
Weather susceptibility: Quebec City’s icy winters and hot, humid summers can make moving more difficult, especially without a professional crew.
If you're short on time, don’t like lifting, or are worried about dealing with fragile or valuable belongings, Top Move can simplify the process by connecting you with reliable movers who’ll handle moving day for you.
Take a systematic approach to your packing and avoid a lot of chaos. A little preparation and a clear plan can save you lots of time (and stress). Start early, label everything, and go one room at a time. Declutter and downsize as you go–most of us own a bunch of stuff we don’t even use.
Tip: If you're moving before winter, get this done early. It’s much easier during the warmer months.
Tools: Go through your tools and donate duplicates. Many recycling depots have a designated “free pile” for old items. Pack smaller ones in strong boxes; wrap big ones like trimmers or chainsaws in old blankets.
Furniture: Take apart anything bulky and wrap pieces in blankets or moving pads. Keep screws and bolts in clearly labelled bags.
Plants and pots: Move big planters separately. Pack smaller plants in boxes with fabric cushioning. Avoid watering big plants the week before moving, they’ll be lighter and easier to handle.
Bedding: Pack sheets, blankets, and pillows in labelled bins or bags so you can remake the bed immediately.
Furniture: Disassemble what you can, and keep all small parts in labelled bags taped to the piece or stored together.
Eco tip: Use the shredded paper as padding for moving smaller fragile items.
Paperwork: Shred documents you no longer need. Store important papers in a labelled file box and keep important documents with you on your moving day.
Electronics: Wrap computers, monitors, and printers in towels or fabric for a more eco-friendly (and just as effective) option. Use original boxes if you still have them.
Desk: If possible, disassemble your desk pieces and label all parts. Small items like pens, cords, and office supplies can be stored in small, labelled boxes. Lamps should be packed carefully in sturdy boxes with cushioning.
Electronics: If original boxes are available for TVs, game consoles, or speakers, use them. Otherwise, wrap gear in soft materials like blankets.
Furniture: Wrap couches and tables with moving blankets. Take apart dining tables or legs to save space.
Books and decor: Pack books in smaller boxes or suitcases. Wrap breakables in paper or cloth and place them in cushioned boxes.
Soft Furnishings: Load cushions, rugs, and throws into large bins or bags. Don’t overfill or they may get damaged.
Clothing: Use wardrobe boxes for hanging items and fold the rest into suitcases or storage bins. Label boxes and bins!
Bedding: Pack comforters, pillows, and linens in large labelled boxes for easy access.
Furniture: Disassemble bed frames and store small parts in labelled bags.
Personal Items: Store smaller items in well-marked boxes. Keep jewellery, watches, and valuables in a secure pouch in your essentials bag. Wrap framed photos in fabric for extra padding.
Declutter: Toss expired medicine and old toiletries. Donate unused toiletry items to local shelters if they’re still sealed.
Toiletries: Pack all liquids in sealed, leak-proof bags. Group everything into one box for easy unpacking. Travel bags work well for small containers and glass jars.
Fragile Items: Use towels to wrap mirrors, perfumes, and other breakables.
Declutter: Donate pantry goods that you know you won’t use anytime soon, compost expired items, and use sturdy containers to pack small or breakable pantry items.
Dishes and glassware: Wrap each item in fabric or packing paper. Stack dishes carefully, and use dividers for stemware and glasses. Sorting dishes is a great opportunity to practice your downsizing–it's easy to collect way too many and most of us own more than we need or use.
Food: Plan meals in advance to use up perishables. Save some prepped food for moving week when things get hectic. Pack canned and dry goods in small, manageable boxes.
Appliances and utensils: Wrap small appliances in towels before boxing. Group your utensils and cutlery in smaller boxes or containers. Donate any doubles (or triples).
Once your boxes are packed and the movers are on their way to your new place, there’s one last step—the deep clean. If you’re a renter, leaving your old place in pristine condition is needed to get your full damage deposit back (usually equal to a month’s rent).
Here’s how to make your place sparkle.
Start high and work your way down. Dust ceiling corners, light fixtures, and vents before tackling walls and windows. For streak-free windows, wash with warm soapy water, then follow up with a vinegar-and-water spray. Wipe down walls with warm water and a bit of gentle soap, such as Castile.
Cleaning the kitchen takes the most time and elbow grease. Wipe every surface including counters, sinks, cabinets, and all appliances. For the stubborn grease in the oven or extractor fan, making a paste of baking soda and vinegar will help cut through the grime.
Clean areas under the stove, behind the fridge, and inside cupboards. Check for mould underneath your sink. Scrub the mould with run-of-the-mill dish soap, then spray it with hydrogen peroxide and dry thoroughly. You can even use a space heater to speed up the drying process if needed.
Scrub everything from tile and grout to the toilet and tub. Use baking soda and vinegar with a toothbrush to clean grout lines. Wipe mirrors and counters, shine up the fixtures, and run the fan to clear out any moisture.
Make sure all trash and recycling are taken out before the final sweep. You don’t want to mop the floor spotless and then have to drag garbage through the clean space.
Vacuum thoroughly, especially in corners and along baseboards. Mop hard floors with hot soapy water, then rinse for a clean, streak-free finish.
If you have carpets, look for stains, odours, or wear. Renting a steam cleaner or hiring a pro for large areas can make a big difference and show your landlord you went the extra mile.
Once everything’s clean and dry, slip off your shoes and do one last walkthrough. Double-check every room. Landlords often notice small things, so take photos of the clean space, just in case you need proof of perfection later.
There are many reasons you might find yourself needing extra storage space in Quebec City
You're moving into a smaller home
You're waiting for renovations to be finished
You're holding onto special items that don’t quite fit in your current space
Whether it's short-term or long-term, storage units offer a practical solution. You can choose the size and rental duration that fits your needs. Many facilities also offer add-ons like climate control or 24/7 access.
The cost of storage varies depending on location, size, and features. Units in more central areas or with added amenities (like temperature regulation) will generally cost more.
Medium-sized unit: around CA$150–CA$170 per month.
Large unit: starting at CA$240 per month, and more costly for premium features.
Insurance: Rates vary by provider and coverage level.
If you’d rather not haul everything to a facility or need some flexibility with your moving, then mobile storage might just be your best bet.
While most Quebec City storage companies offer basic insurance, it's often minimal. If you’re storing high-value or sentimental items, consider increasing your coverage. For truly irreplaceable items like jewellery, documents, or collectables, a safety deposit box at a bank might be more suitable.
If you are moving a portion of your belongings to a storage unit, and moving day will require more than one trip for the movers, things could add up. Top Move can help you find the best deals for intricate or multi-trip moves so that you don’t spend more than you have to.
Every move has its own set of challenges, especially when you’re relocating with pets, kids, or elderly family members. With a bit of extra planning, you can make the experience less stressful for everyone involved.
Moving day can trigger anxiety for pets. Noticeable changes to their home can cause them to feel uncertain. They may worry they’re being left behind, so keeping their environment as familiar as possible is important.
Pack a pet kit with essentials like:
Food and water
Bedding or a familiar blanket
A secure carrier or crate
Their favorite toys
Any medications or vet paperwork
Treats for comfort and distraction
If you're moving long-distance or have several animals, a pet transport service can ensure they travel safely while you focus on the rest of the move.
A new home can be exciting and/or overwhelming for kids. They may be sad to leave behind the home and room they are accustomed to, so it’s important to keep them involved and reassured.
Here are some tips to make it easier:
Let them help decorate and label their own boxes.
Pack a special “comfort bag” with toys, books, and snacks.
Get creative and turn cleaning and organising into fun games with small rewards
Explore your new neighbourhood together before the move. Check out a local playground, bakery, or library to help them get familiar with the new world around them.
Seniors may need additional care and attention during a move, especially if they have mobility or health concerns.
Before moving day:
Prepare a personal bag with medications, ID, water, and snacks.
Make sure there’s a quiet, comfortable space for them to rest.
Double-check that the new home is accessible.
If accessibility is a concern, make sure the space includes necessary features such as:
Ramps or stair lifts
Wide doorways
Step-free entrances
Grab bars in bathrooms
Non-slip floors
Accessible counters and sinks
If modifications are needed, try to have them in place before the move. Also, map out nearby pharmacies, medical clinics, and emergency services. Peace of mind is priceless.
Whether you're moving across the street, or across town, finding the right movers in Quebec City can feel like a project in itself. That’s where Top Move comes in to help you compare trusted, experienced movers so you can find the best price and feel confident that you’ve booked a move that will go smoothly from start to finish.
Top Move is a platform, where people find moving companies and independent movers. Our platform is the first of its kind in Canada, cost-effective and user-reviewed service providers with just a few short steps. Founded back in 2017, our focus has always been on making moving as simple and as effortless as possible for both customers and the professionals they rely on.
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It's simple and easy to create a request on Top Move.
Describe, add photos and the dimensions of your shipment in your request — anything that you think will make a difference, will make a difference.
Our platform will reach out to moving companies relevant to your delivery specification in your area.
Movers may ask you a few more details about your delivery before giving you a quote.
Compare prices and get to know movers before accepting their quote by reading previous customer feedback on our platform.
Pick your preferred moving company and arrange collection and delivery.
Prepare your package for collection or if you are moving home, get ready for moving day.
Meet and greet your chosen moving company on your collection day.
Sit back and relax while your moving company takes care of your booking.
