Montreal's North Shore stretches from the Deux-Montagnes region in the west to Lanaudière in the east, encompassing dozens of municipalities north of the island of Montreal. This region has been one of Quebec's fastest-growing areas, driven by infrastructure investments, urban sprawl, and buyers seeking more space at lower prices than Montreal can offer. This guide covers the key North Shore markets for 2025 buyers.
The North Shore is administratively divided among several regions: Laurentides (Blainville, Mirabel, Sainte-Thérèse), Laval (technically its own region), and Lanaudière (Terrebonne, Repentigny, Joliette). Each has distinct characteristics, but all share the common thread of being north of Montreal's island.
Quebec's third-largest city and the most urban of the North Shore municipalities. Three Orange Line metro stations, excellent highway network, wide variety of housing. Prices higher than most North Shore cities due to metro access.
Premium family-oriented municipality, consistently rated among Quebec's best cities. Excellent schools, infrastructure, and community services. Commuter train service to Montreal.
Established municipalities with good highway access (A-15) and commuter train service. More affordable than Blainville. Sainte-Thérèse is known for its music conservatory and cultural institutions.
One of the North Shore's largest cities, straddling the Rivière des Mille Îles. Historic Vieux-Terrebonne is charming; the newer northern sectors offer affordable family housing. Highway 25 and 40 access.
Historic city on the Ottawa River. More affordable than Laval or Blainville. Good community infrastructure and some commuter train access. Popular with families seeking space at lower prices.
Large territory with rural and suburban options. Major aerospace and automotive employment base. More affordable than inner North Shore. Longer commute to Montreal.
Eastern anchor of the North Shore in Lanaudière. More affordable than western municipalities. Waterfront properties on the St. Lawrence. Growing local employment base.
All North Shore municipalities (excluding Laval which is its own city) apply Quebec's standard droits de mutation with no additional municipal surtax:
Laval has metro access (3 Orange Line stations). The EXOMTL commuter train network serves numerous North Shore municipalities on the Saint-Jérôme, Deux-Montagnes, and Mascouche lines. Most North Shore communities remain primarily car-dependent, with car ownership essentially required for daily life outside of Laval.
KOHO offers free banking with no monthly fees. Use code 45ET55JSYA for a bonus.
Open KOHO Free — No Fees — Code 45ET55JSYA