
Careers in Demand
62
Careers rated Good or Very Good outlook
Unemployment
6.0%
Unemployment rate in Quebec.
Strong Outlook
12%
Of careers with positive job prospects
Top Industries
Various
Primary growth sectors
SOURCE: JOB BANK CANADA, 2025–2027 OUTLOOK
Immigration Pathways
Quebec offers provincial nomination programs designed to fast-track permanent residency for those with high-demand skills.
Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)
Quebec’s main skilled worker program for foreign workers who meet Quebec’s selection criteria (Arrima system). Applicants are selected by Quebec and can apply for permanent residence after receiving a Quebec Selection Certificate.
Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)
An accelerated immigration pathway for candidates with Quebec experience, such as international students who graduated in Quebec or skilled temporary workers in Quebec. Provides a fast-track to a Quebec Selection Certificate for permanent residence.
Cost of Living
Understanding the cost of living in Quebec helps you plan your budget and make informed decisions about where to settle.
homeHousing
$1,300 Quebec offers relatively affordable housing (especially outside Montreal). Montreal’s rents are significantly cheaper than Toronto/Vancouver – a 2-bedroom averages ~$1,930. Smaller cities (Quebec City, Sherbrooke) have even lower housing costs.
boltUtilities
$100 Utilities in Quebec are very affordable (high affordability). Hydro-Québec’s low electricity rates keep bills around $100–$120/month for many apartments, among the lowest power costs in Canada.
directions_busTransportation
$94 Transportation is affordable in Quebec. Montreal’s STM monthly pass is about $94 (with discounts for students). Gasoline and car insurance costs are among the lowest in Canada, making overall transport relatively inexpensive.
shopping_cartGroceries
$300 Groceries in Quebec are moderately priced. Supply management keeps items like dairy cheaper. A single person might spend ~$300/month on groceries. Overall food costs are close to the national average.
Life in Quebec

World-Class Education
Quebec offers excellent educational opportunities with research-focused universities and technical colleges. International students are welcome and can transition to permanent residency through graduate immigration programs.
- check_circleMcGill University— Montreal
One of Canada’s top universities (globally recognized), known for medicine, science, law and MBA programs; attracts students worldwide. (~12,000 international students)
- check_circleUniversité de Montréal— Montreal
Major francophone university with comprehensive programs (engineering, arts, life sciences), renowned for research and a large international francophone student body. (~10,000 international students)
- check_circleConcordia University— Montreal
English-language university known for engineering, computer science, and fine arts; popular with international students and strong co-op options. (~9,500 international students)
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