A Newcomer's Guide to Living in Moncton, New Brunswick

Why Choose Moncton as a Newcomer?

Moncton is located in southeastern New Brunswick and serves as the economic and cultural hub of the greater Moncton region, which includes the neighbouring cities of Dieppe and Riverview. Together, the tri-community area has a population of approximately 160,000, making it the largest urban centre in New Brunswick. Moncton has experienced significant population growth in recent years, driven in part by immigration and interprovincial migration. The city is centrally located in the Maritime provinces, making it a transportation hub with easy access to Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and the rest of New Brunswick.

What sets Moncton apart from many Canadian cities is its genuinely bilingual character. Approximately one-third of the population speaks French as their first language, and bilingualism is woven into the fabric of daily life, from government services to retail interactions. For newcomers who speak French, this creates an immediately welcoming environment. For those learning either official language, Moncton offers daily opportunities to practise and improve.

Affordable Housing in Moncton

Housing affordability is one of Moncton's strongest advantages for newcomers. Rental prices remain considerably lower than in most Canadian cities of comparable size. As of early 2026, a one-bedroom apartment in Moncton typically rents for between $850 and $1,100 per month, while a two or three-bedroom unit ranges from $1,100 to $1,600. These prices are substantially lower than those in Halifax, Ottawa, or any major city in Ontario or British Columbia. Homeownership is also more attainable, with average house prices well below the national average.

Popular neighborhoods for newcomers include the downtown core, which offers walkability and proximity to services; Dieppe, which is predominantly Francophone and family-friendly; and the north end of Moncton, which provides more suburban living at lower price points. When searching for housing, check online platforms such as Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace, and CMHC rental listings. Local settlement agencies can also assist with the housing search and help you understand your rights as a tenant under the New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Act.

Transportation: Codiac Transpo and Getting Around

Moncton's public transit system is operated by Codiac Transpo, which provides bus service across Moncton, Dieppe, and Riverview. The system covers major residential areas, shopping centres, educational institutions, and employment hubs. Monthly bus passes are affordable, typically costing around $65 for adults. Route information and schedules are available on the Codiac Transpo website. While the transit system is adequate for many daily needs, service frequency may be limited on evenings and weekends, so planning your routes in advance is advisable.

Many Moncton residents also rely on personal vehicles. If you have a valid driver's licence from your home country, you may be eligible to exchange it for a New Brunswick licence. Requirements vary by country of origin, so check with Service New Brunswick for specific details. Moncton is a relatively easy city to drive in, with less traffic congestion than larger Canadian centres. Cycling is also an option during the warmer months, and the city has been expanding its network of bike lanes and multi-use trails.

Greater Moncton International Airport

Moncton is served by the Greater Moncton Romeo LeBlanc International Airport, which offers direct flights to several Canadian cities including Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Halifax. For newcomers with family abroad or those who travel frequently for work, having a well-connected regional airport is a significant convenience. The airport is located approximately 10 minutes from the city centre.

Education in Moncton

Moncton is home to the Universite de Moncton (UdeM), the largest French-language university outside of Quebec. UdeM offers a wide range of programs in arts, sciences, engineering, business, nursing, and education. For Francophone newcomers or those wishing to study in French, UdeM is an outstanding institution with a strong reputation in Atlantic Canada. The university also provides services for international students, including language support and integration programs.

For English-language post-secondary education, Crandall University is located in Moncton, and the New Brunswick Community College (NBCC) has a campus in the city offering diploma and certificate programs in trades, technology, health, and business. These institutions provide pathways to employment in high-demand fields. For families with school-age children, both the Anglophone East School District and the District scolaire francophone sud operate schools in the Moncton area, offering parents a choice between English and French education streams.

Language Training for Newcomers

Free language training is available through the Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program for permanent residents and refugees. Classes are offered at various levels and schedules to accommodate working adults and parents. In a bilingual city like Moncton, becoming proficient in both English and French can significantly enhance your career prospects. Local settlement organizations can help you find the right language program for your needs. For more information about education options for newcomers, visit our guide on the Canadian education system.

Healthcare Access in Moncton

New Brunswick provides publicly funded healthcare through its Medicare program. To access covered services, you must register for a New Brunswick Medicare card through the Department of Health. Permanent residents are eligible, though there may be a waiting period of up to three months before coverage begins. During this time, purchasing private health insurance is strongly recommended to avoid unexpected medical costs.

The Moncton Hospital and the Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont University Hospital Centre serve the greater Moncton area, providing emergency services, specialized care, and surgical facilities. The Dumont Hospital also serves as a teaching hospital for UdeM's medical programs and offers services in French. There are several walk-in clinics throughout Moncton for non-emergency medical needs. Finding a family doctor can be challenging due to physician shortages, so registering on the Patient Connect NB waitlist as soon as possible is important.

Employment and the Growing Tech Sector

Moncton's economy has diversified significantly over the past two decades. While traditional sectors such as transportation, logistics, and retail remain important, the city has emerged as a growing hub for technology and innovation. Companies in software development, cybersecurity, fintech, and digital services have established operations in Moncton, attracted by the lower cost of doing business, the bilingual workforce, and the quality of life the city offers. Major employers in the region include Assumption Life, Irving Group companies, Medavie Blue Cross, and a growing number of tech startups and mid-size firms.

The bilingual advantage in Moncton cannot be overstated. Many employers, particularly those in customer service, healthcare, government, and technology, actively seek bilingual employees. If you are fluent in both English and French, your employment prospects in Moncton are considerably stronger. For those with skills in only one language, the ability to serve a bilingual clientele is a marketable asset that employers value.

Begin your job search on Job Bank, the Government of Canada's employment portal, and connect with local settlement organizations such as the Multicultural Association of the Greater Moncton Area (MAGMA), which provides employment support services for newcomers. Networking through community events, industry meetups, and professional associations is also highly effective in a city of Moncton's size.

Credential Recognition and Professional Licensing

If you hold professional credentials from your home country, you will likely need to have them assessed for Canadian equivalency. World Education Services (WES) is a commonly used credential evaluation service. For regulated professions such as nursing, engineering, accounting, or teaching, you must contact the relevant New Brunswick regulatory body to understand the licensing requirements. Beginning this process before arriving in Canada can help you enter the workforce more quickly.

Immigration Pathways: Atlantic Immigration Program

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is one of the most accessible pathways to permanent residence for newcomers settling in Moncton and other Atlantic Canadian cities. The AIP is an employer-driven program that allows designated employers in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador to hire qualified candidates for positions they have been unable to fill locally. The program offers a streamlined path to permanent residency and includes settlement support through individualized settlement plans. For a comprehensive overview, read our Atlantic Immigration Program guide.

In addition to the AIP, newcomers in Moncton may also be eligible for the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP), which offers several immigration streams for skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs. The NBPNP Express Entry Labour Market stream is particularly attractive for candidates already in the federal Express Entry pool, as a provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points, virtually guaranteeing an invitation to apply for permanent residence.

Community, Culture, and Social Life

Moncton is known for its friendly and inclusive community. The city hosts numerous cultural events, festivals, and community gatherings throughout the year. The Frye Festival, one of Canada's largest literary festivals, takes place in Moncton each spring. The downtown Farmers Market operates year-round and is a popular gathering spot for residents. The HubCap Comedy Festival and various music events contribute to an active cultural calendar. For newcomers, participating in community events is an excellent way to meet people, practise language skills, and feel connected to your new city.

Settlement organizations play a vital role in helping newcomers integrate into Moncton's community. MAGMA, the YMCA of Greater Moncton, and other organizations offer orientation programs, conversation circles, mentorship opportunities, and social events specifically designed for newcomers. These services are free and available in multiple languages. Connecting with these organizations early in your settlement journey can make a significant difference in how quickly you feel at home.

Climate and Preparing for the Seasons

Moncton experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm, with temperatures typically ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures that can drop to minus 15 or minus 20 degrees Celsius. The city receives significant snowfall, and winter conditions require appropriate clothing and preparation. If you are coming from a warmer climate, investing in a quality winter coat, waterproof boots, thermal layers, gloves, and a warm hat is essential. Read our guide on preparing for your first Canadian winter for detailed advice.

Building Your New Life in Moncton

Moncton offers newcomers an exceptional combination of affordability, bilingual culture, growing economic opportunity, and a welcoming community spirit. Whether you are arriving through the Atlantic Immigration Program, the NBPNP, or another pathway, Moncton provides the resources and support needed to build a successful new life in Canada. The city's lower cost of living, access to education, and expanding technology sector make it an increasingly popular destination for newcomers from around the world.

WelcomeAide is here to support your settlement journey in Moncton. Our AI Newcomer Navigator can answer your questions about housing, healthcare, immigration, and daily life in your language. Explore our blog for more newcomer guides, learn about our mission, or discover how to get involved in supporting newcomer communities across Canada.