City Profile
Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec
Canada · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu is a vibrant and historically rich city located on the banks of the Richelieu River in the Monteregie region of Quebec, Canada. Originally founded as a strategic military post centered around Fort Saint-Jean, the city has evolved into a thriving urban hub that beautifully blends its military heritage with modern industrial and commercial development. Residents are drawn to the area for its scenic waterfront views, strong sense of community, and a relaxed lifestyle that remains within easy commuting distance of Montreal.
The city is famously known for hosting the International Balloon Festival of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, one of the largest hot air balloon events in North America, which attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every summer. Neighborhoods here offer a mix of historic stone architecture, mature leafy suburbs, and contemporary residential developments designed to accommodate families and professionals alike. Its strategic positioning along a major waterway and transportation corridor makes it an ideal location for those seeking a balance of nature, culture, and economic opportunity.
Quebec is Canada's largest province by area and the second-most populous, known for its distinct French heritage and vibrant culture. Its diversified, post-industrial economy is driven by major industries such as aerospace, information technology, healthcare, manufacturing, and natural resources like hydroelectricity and forestry. Living in Quebec generally offers a more affordable cost of living compared to other Canadian provinces, particularly for housing, though provincial income taxes are higher. The climate features cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers, and the lifestyle emphasizes its rich Francophone culture, arts, and outdoor activities.
How this 66/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 80 / 100 | 80.0 | 30% | 24.0 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 92.0 | 53.8 | 25% | 13.4 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $68,000 Income needed to live here: $50,000 Unemployment rate: 5.2% | 65.0 | 20% | 13.0 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 1.1% Job growth rate: 1.8% | 54.3 | 15% | 8.1 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 70 / 100 | 70.0 | 10% | 7.0 |
| Overall score | 65.6 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 1 (fast) (q=52, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
16 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu is generally considered reasonable and slightly below the average for major Canadian metropolitan centers, making it an attractive alternative to downtown Montreal. Housing costs, while having risen in recent years alongside broader national trends, still offer more square footage and affordability for homebuyers and renters compared to the island of Montreal. Everyday expenses such as groceries, local transportation, and dining out remain manageable for middle-income households.
Utility costs are bolstered by Quebec's abundant hydroelectric power, keeping electricity expenses relatively stable and lower than in many other North American jurisdictions. Property taxes managed by the municipality fund local infrastructure, parks, and community services, contributing to well-maintained public spaces. Overall, residents enjoy a favorable cost-to-quality-of-life ratio that appeals to young families and retirees seeking financial breathing room without sacrificing urban conveniences.
Income
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Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu boasts a diversified and resilient local economy anchored by manufacturing, public administration, healthcare, and retail trade. The city serves as an important industrial center in the Monteregie region, hosting numerous manufacturing plants, logistics firms, and technological enterprises that provide stable local employment. Additionally, the presence of the Royal Military College Saint-Jean contributes significantly to the local economy and educational profile.
While a notable portion of the resident workforce commutes to Montreal for specialized professional and corporate roles, the local job market continues to expand with initiatives supporting entrepreneurship and small businesses. The rise of remote and hybrid work models has also allowed more professionals to live locally while maintaining employment with companies based in larger metropolitan centers. Workforce development programs and local economic boards actively promote sustainable growth across key sectors.
The average salary in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu is $58,000 per year. You would need approximately $50,000 to live comfortably.
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Transport
Transportation in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu relies heavily on personal vehicles, though the city is served by local public transit bus networks connecting key neighborhoods and regional transit links toward Montreal. Major highways, including Autoroute 35, provide efficient driving access to Montreal, the Eastern Townships, and the United States border. Cycling infrastructure has seen steady improvement, with dedicated bike paths linking residential zones to commercial hubs and recreational areas.
While walkability is high within the historic downtown core and immediate neighborhood centers, outlying suburban developments require a car for daily errands. Commuters traveling to Montreal utilize a combination of express buses, park-and-ride facilities, and highway driving to manage their daily journeys.
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