Renting a Furnished Apartment: Bad Areas in Montreal to Avoid

Choosing a neighbourhood in Montreal is just as important as choosing the apartments themselves. This is especially true if you’re renting furnished apartments in Montreal. Many people who look for such units are new to the city. Others are staying short-term for work or study.

If you pick the bad areas in Montreal, you could end up dealing with noise, crime, or poor access to transit. That can make your time in Montreal stressful or even unsafe. A good location can make a big difference in your daily comfort. That’s why knowing which areas to avoid is key before signing any lease.

What Makes a Neighborhood Unfit for Short Stay Montreal?

Not every neighbourhood in Montreal is ideal for short stays. Some areas may seem cheap or central, but they come with issues that affect your comfort or safety.

• Crime is one of the biggest concerns. Some parts of the city have higher rates of theft, break-ins, or assaults. If you’re unfamiliar with the city, you may not notice the warning signs right away.

• Noise is another factor. Some areas are packed with bars and clubs. Others have lots of traffic or ongoing construction. If you need to work or study from home, constant noise can be a problem.

• Poor infrastructure can also impact your stay. You may find yourself far from grocery stores, pharmacies, or cafés. That’s frustrating, especially in winter when walking far isn’t easy.

• Transportation is important, too. If the area isn’t close to a metro or has limited bus service, getting around will take more time and effort.

• Unpleasant surroundings can also be a red flag. Some neighbourhoods have a lot of abandoned buildings, poorly maintained streets, or limited lighting at night. That may make you feel unsafe.

In short, it’s not just about rent prices. A lower-cost area might come with trade-offs that aren’t worth it.

Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Montreal for Rentals

Let’s be clear — “dangerous” is a relative term. The areas from our list aren’t all absolutely bad, and many people live there happily. Still, statistics and local feedback show that some places are more likely to have safety or comfort issues.

What are the bad areas of Montreal, in our opinion? We have some on the list:

Hochelaga-Maisonneuve

This neighbourhood has gone through some changes in recent years. Some parts are more welcoming now. But other sections still face issues with drug use, vandalism, and break-ins. It’s a large area, so safety can vary block by block. If you don’t know the streets well, it’s easy to end up in a rougher part.

Saint-Michel

This neighbourhood has a mixed reputation. It’s known for being affordable, but crime rates here are above average. Some streets may feel isolated or rundown. It also has limited metro access, making it less ideal if you rely on public transport.

Parc-Extension

It’s one of Montreal’s most densely populated neighbourhoods. That means crowded buildings and very little green space. While it’s culturally vibrant, the area can feel chaotic to newcomers. Some people also report issues with noise, lack of cleanliness, and low-quality housing.

Downtown nightlife zones (Crescent and Bishop Streets)

These streets are full of bars, nightclubs, and student parties. If you rent a furnished unit nearby, expect noise until 3 a.m., especially on weekends. There’s also more petty theft in the area due to high foot traffic and intoxicated crowds. For short-term stays, the location might seem exciting, but it’s not restful.

Parts of Côte-des-Neiges

This is a large and diverse neighbourhood. Some areas are very pleasant, especially near the university. But other streets are older, louder, or less well-maintained. In certain parts, residents complain about break-ins or late-night activity. If you rent here, check the exact location carefully.

In all these neighbourhoods, some streets are perfectly fine. But if you’re unfamiliar with Montreal, it’s safer to pick areas with a more consistent reputation.

How to Identify Bad Areas of Montreal Before Renting

Not sure how to judge a neighbourhood from a rental listing? Here are a few ways to do your research:

Use Google Maps and Street View

Look at the area around the address. Are the buildings in good shape? Are there parks, shops, and cafés nearby? Do the streets look clean and well-lit?

Check forums like Reddit and Quora

Locals often share honest opinions about where they live. You can even search for questions like “What is the most dangerous neighborhood in Montreal?”

Use crime maps

Montreal’s police (SPVM) offer public data on crime. You can check if the area has high rates of theft, assault, or vandalism.

Visit the neighbourhood

If you’re already in the city, walk around during the day and in the evening. Trust your instincts. If a street feels unsafe or deserted, it’s probably not the right place to rent.

Watch out for certain signs

A high number of bars, nightclubs, or abandoned buildings nearby can mean more noise and more safety risks. Also, if the listing doesn’t give a full address, that may be a red flag.

Doing this kind of homework only takes an hour or two. But it can save you from months of discomfort.

Safe and Comfortable Alternatives for Renting

Not sure where to start looking? Here are five neighbourhoods in Montreal that many people consider safe, comfortable, and well-connected — especially for furnished rentals.

Plateau-Mont-Royal

Trendy and lively, the Plateau is popular for a reason. It’s filled with cafés, shops, and beautiful old architecture. You’ll find plenty of furnished rentals here, especially in walk-up apartments. It’s ideal for people who want a mix of quiet and culture.

Outremont

This area is more residential and upscale. Streets are tree-lined, and buildings are well-kept. It’s a calm and peaceful place, great for families or professionals. Transit access is good, and there are many parks nearby.

Verdun

This neighbourhood has become a top choice in recent years. It’s close to the water, has great bike paths, and offers easy metro access. It feels both local and modern. Rent prices are more reasonable than in central areas, and the vibe is relaxed.

Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie

Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, this area has good schools, public spaces, and local markets. It’s also one of the more eco-conscious parts of the city. Furnished rentals here are ideal for longer stays or remote workers.

Griffintown

If you prefer something newer and more urban, Griffintown offers high-rise condos and modern amenities. It’s close to downtown but quieter than the core. Many units are fully furnished and move-in ready. It’s perfect for short-term business stays.

These areas offer a better quality of life and fewer surprises. You may pay a bit more, but the comfort is often worth it.

Neighbourhoods Matter More Than You Think

Renting a furnished apartment in Montreal can be a great experience — if you choose the right neighbourhood. Safety, noise levels, and access to transit all matter. While some areas may look good on paper, they could bring problems in day-to-day life.

By avoiding the most dangerous neighbourhoods in Montreal and doing your research in advance, you’ll feel more secure and comfortable. A little time spent checking the surroundings can save you from big headaches later.

Always choose a location that matches your needs and lifestyle. Montreal is a beautiful city, and the right neighbourhood will help you enjoy it to the fullest.