Is your home starting to feel too much like an office? Working (or studying) from home certainly has its benefits, but it can blur the lines between your home and office.
It’s not uncommon for remote workers to feel like they’re still at work even after they’ve clocked out.
Coworking spaces are the perfect solution and have become increasingly popular in our post-pandemic world, giving students, remote workers, and creatives the opportunity to work in a well-stocked communal office space.
Below, I’ll share some of the best coworking spaces in Montreal. Whether you’re looking for dedicated offices, a rooftop terrace, or a laid-back communal cafe, you’ll find something that fits your ideal work environment below!
What Is A Coworking Space?
Statistics Canada reported that 37% of Canadians worked from home. While the number is slightly lower today, many still work remotely full-time or have adopted a hybrid work model that allows them to work remotely and in-office.
Coworking spaces provide an environment that’s similar to an office space but far cheaper than renting an actual office. They usually provide essential tools for workers and students, such as:
- Printers
- Office supplies (pens, paper, highlighters, etc.)
- Private meeting/study rooms
Many coworking spaces also offer snacks, coffee, and tea or have a fully equipped kitchen so that you can utilize the space around the clock.
Some of the benefits of using a coworking space include:
- They’re cheaper than renting an office
- You can socialize with like-minded workers and students
- There are plenty of places to plug in your laptop and devices
- Comfortable seating and desks
- They allow you to separate your home and work environments
Coworking Spaces In MTL: Find The Ultimate Collaborative Space
From cheap coworking spaces in Montreal to top-notch professional offices, here are some of the best collaborative spaces I’ve visited in MTL.
1. Montreal CoWork
- Address: 4388 R. Saint-Denis #200, Montréal, QC
- Standout Features: 24/7 access, 252 workstations, elegant modern design
Catering to both individual professionals and teams of up to ten members, Montreal CoWork offers a vibrant mix of cultures, professions, and talents that mirror Montreal’s diverse spirit.
It’s not just a workspace but a collaborative community that’s fueled daily by local entrepreneurs and creatives. From high-speed internet to top-tier equipment, a comfortable lounge, a coffee corner, and a rooftop terrace, this coworking space goes above and beyond.
Additionally, Montreal CoWork hosts on-site networking events so you can meet other professionals and offers conference rooms for group meetings.
Whether you’re looking to accomplish some solo deep work or book a conference room for your start-up, this spot is definitely worth checking out.
The only downside is that it’s a bit expensive. Day passes cost $30, and monthly passes are $275.
2. NOMAD Life Coworking Space
- Address: 4284 De La Roche St, Montreal, Quebec
- Standout Features: Private studio rental for film, music, and more
NOMAD Life is geared towards creative types. The vibe here is hip, modern, and colourful.
In addition to a hot desk set up, visitors can book meeting rooms as well as private studio spaces for audio recording, film, podcasting, and photography.
If you’re a professional videographer or photographer, NOMAD Life could be a real game-changer. Imagine being able to have a reliable studio where you can create custom sets and film your clients without the expense of having to build out a major studio on your own dime.
Membership starts at $300 per month, which is a bit steep. However, it comes with 24/7 access.
3. ECTO Coworking Cooperative
- Address: 936 Mont-Royal Ave E, Montreal, Quebec
- Standout Features: Low-key, communal feel reminiscent of a university dorm
If you’re looking for a coworking space that has a more homely, communal feel, ECTO Coworking Cooperative could be a good fit. It offers open and private offices for members, as well as a central hot seat area where individuals and large groups can work and socialize.
ECTO also periodically hosts networking events, which could be a good opportunity to socialize with other students and remote workers.
4. 2727 Coworking
- Address: 2727 Saint-Patrick St. #109, Montreal, Quebec
- Standout Feature: Public desks and private offices available, minimalist design
Whether you’re looking for a shared office space or a private office, 2727 Coworking offers a mix of work environments for busy professionals. Compared to ECTO, which has a more laid-back feel, 2727 Coworking features a minimalist, modern design that’s not distracting or overly stimulating.
Floating hot desks start at $300 per month, but 2727 also offers private office rentals starting at $600 per month and dedicated desks starting at $450 per month.
5. At Workbase
- Address: 486 Saint-Catherine St W, Montreal, Quebec
- Standout Features: High ceilings, high-speed internet, big lounge area
At Workbase is a coworking space in Montreal that features an industrial loft-style feel, with high ceilings, open spaces, and rustic lighting. There’s a large lounge area where you can socialize or grab a quick bite to eat, as well as conference rooms, open seating, and dedicated desks.
The only downside of this space is that it’s only open from 8:30 am to 5 pm and is closed for the entire weekend. If you work a standard 9-to-5, At Workbase could be perfect. However, it may not be the best fit for freelancers or those looking to pull all-nighters.
6. Anticafe Loft
- Address: 294 Saint-Catherine St W, Montreal, Quebec
- Standout Features: Low hourly fee, complimentary snacks and coffee
Anticafe features an industrial loft-style setting with plenty of natural lighting and a great view of the city street. My favourite part about Anticafe is that it’s very affordable and only costs a few dollars per hour. While you’re there, you can take advantage of as much free coffee, tea, bagels, and other snacks.
The only downside of Anticafe is that it can get pretty crowded, especially later in the evenings. However, there’s a second floor reserved for quiet studying/working, or you can book a meeting room as well if you need some peace and quiet.
7. Crew Collective And Cafe
- Address: 360 Rue Saint-Jacques, Montréal, Quebec
- Standout Features: High ceilings, set in an old cathedral-style building
Crew Collective and Cafe offers one of the most unique coworking spaces that I’ve seen in my travels. It’s actually inside an old cathedral and features stone columns, vaulted ceilings, ornate accents and beautiful architecture.
There are communal areas as well as private offices, a fully-staffed cafe and restaurant, and quiet study areas.
What Are “Hot Desks?”
When it comes to coworking spaces, you’ll find varying themes and layouts. Some collaborative spaces feel like a large communal cafe, while others attempt to emulate the type of high-tech office space you’ll find in start-ups.
One of the most significant differences I’ve noticed between coworking spaces is a hot desk vs. a dedicated desk setup.
A hot desk setup is first-come, first-serve. It’s like going into a cafe. You’ll usually find a place to sit, but you could also be left waiting on particularly busy days.
If you’re looking for something more reliable, it can be helpful to find a coworking space that offers dedicated desks. While you’ll generally have to pay extra for a dedicated desk, you’re guaranteed a desk to sit at, so you’ll never have to worry about delays or crowded days.
Many spaces provide both and include hot desks in the communal areas while also offering private offices and dedicated desks to customers willing to pay more.
What To Look For In A Coworking Space
Now, let’s take a quick look at some of the key features you’ll want to look for when deciding on your go-to coworking space.
Membership Packages And Fees
Some coworking spaces, such as Anticafe, have a simple hourly or daily fee. Others charge a monthly membership, similar to a gym.
If you’re just looking for a quick study spot, need to hold a brief meeting, or are a digital nomad, I recommend visiting a space that offers day passes or allows you to pay by the hour.
On the other hand, if you’re a Montreal local and are a full-time remote worker, student, or working on the next great start-up, you may find it more affordable to purchase a monthly membership with an upscale coworking space.
- Related Reading: How To Start Freelancing In Canada
Unlimited Access
Cafe-style coworking spaces typically have hours similar to what you’ll find in a cafe, opening around 7 or 8 am and closing by 9 or 10 pm. If you like to burn the midnight oil, though, you’ll want to find a coworking space that offers unlimited 24/7 access.
These spaces typically offer members an access code or key card so they can take advantage of the office space as late (or early) as they need.
Conference Rooms Or Event Space
If you’re operating a small business or are a professional who frequently conducts in-person meetings, having access to dedicated meeting rooms can be a game-changer.
It will make you look far more professional in front of your clients and can give you and your team a space to do some serious brainstorming.
Private Offices
More often than not, I enjoy the communal feel of working at hot desks. Periodically, though, I need to get some deep work accomplished and really value having my own quiet space.
Office Space vs Coworking Space: What’s Better?
Whether you’re a remote worker, student, freelancer, or online entrepreneur, Montreal offers several great coworking spaces where you can focus on work, meet friends, and surround yourself with other motivated professionals.
Not sure where to start your remote work journey?
Keep on reading to see my list of the best websites to find remote work on!
