Moving to Sherbrooke with Family: The 2026 Relocation Guide

Moving to Sherbrooke with Family

Discover the “Queen of the Eastern Townships”—where nature is your backyard and housing is still within reach.

If you are priced out of Montreal or looking for a lifestyle shift, Sherbrooke is the answer. As the primary urban hub of the Estrie region, it offers a rare balance: it is big enough to have universities, hospitals, and a thriving culture, but small enough that you can drive across town in 20 minutes.

In 2026, Sherbrooke remains one of the most affordable cities in Canada, making it a magnet for young families willing to embrace the French language and the mountain lifestyle.

Here is your guide to planting roots in Sherbrooke this year.

1. The Financial Win: Housing & Affordability

Sherbrooke’s affordability is startling compared to major Canadian metros.

  • Housing Market: As of early 2026, the average home price in the Sherbrooke region hovers between $400,000 and $485,000. While prices have risen significantly in recent years, you can still find a detached family home with a yard for a fraction of the cost of a Montreal condo.
  • Rent: If you are renting first, a two-bedroom apartment typically costs between $910 and $1,200 per month, while renting a full detached house averages closer to $2,078.
  • Cost of Living: Overall, living in Sherbrooke is approximately 12-30% cheaper than in Montreal, with rent prices specifically being over 35% lower.

2. Best Neighbourhoods for Families (2026 Top Picks)

Sherbrooke is a fusion of former smaller towns, giving each borough a distinct personality.

For the “English Village” Vibe: Lennoxville

Known locally as “Lennox,” this is the heart of the Anglophone community.

  • The Draw: Home to Bishop’s University and Champlain College, it has a bilingual, campus-town atmosphere.
  • Why Families Love It: It feels like a tight-knit village with historic red-brick homes, walkable streets, and easy access to English services.

For Suburban Comfort: Rock Forest

Located in the west end, this is arguably the most popular spot for young francophone families.

  • The Vibe: Modern subdivisions, large lots, and big-box shopping convenience. It is safe, quiet, and packed with playgrounds.

For Upscale Urban Living: Jacques-Cartier (North)

If you want to be close to the action but live in style.

  • The Draw: Located near the Lac des Nations and Jacques-Cartier Park, this area features prestigious homes, mature trees, and excellent restaurants.
  • Lifestyle: You can walk to festivals in the park or bike around the lake loop on weekends.

3. Navigating Schools & Language Laws

This is the most critical part of moving to Quebec. Education is divided by language, and strict laws apply.

  • French Schools (CSSRS): The vast majority of students attend the Centre de services scolaire de la Région-de-Sherbrooke.
    • Registration: The official registration period for the 2026-2027 school year runs from February 2 to February 13, 2026.
  • English Schools (ETSB): The Eastern Townships School Board serves the English community (e.g., Lennoxville Elementary).
    • Eligibility: To attend a public English school in Quebec, your child must have a Certificate of Eligibility. Generally, this is only granted if a parent attended English elementary school in Canada. If you are moving from the USA, UK, or a non-English speaking country, your children will likely be required to attend French school—which is an incredible gift of bilingualism for their future.

4. Lifestyle: The “Townships” Way

  • Nature: Sherbrooke is built into the hills. Mont-Bellevue Park, located right in the city center, offers downhill skiing, mountain biking, and hiking trails.
  • Culture: The city is famous for its Murals Tour—massive trompe-l’oeil frescoes scattered downtown that tell the city’s history.
  • Summer Life: You are the gateway to the Eastern Townships. Weekends are spent at nearby lakes (Memphremagog, Massawippi) or exploring the vineyards of the Dunham route.

Sherbrooke Relocation FAQs

Contact us to receive a “Sherbrooke School Zone Map” to help you understand English vs. French catchment areas.

Do I need to speak French?

Practically, yes. While you can survive in Lennoxville with just English, Sherbrooke is a Francophone city (over 90% French-speaking). To work, access most services, and make friends, learning French is essential. The city offers numerous “Francisation” (French learning) courses for newcomers.

Is healthcare accessible?

Sherbrooke is a major medical hub, home to the CHUS (Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke). While it offers world-class specialized care, finding a family doctor is difficult, similar to the rest of Quebec. You should register on the GAMF (waiting list for a family doctor) as soon as you arrive.

How is the job market?

The economy is robust, with low unemployment. Key sectors include education (two universities), healthcare, manufacturing, and life sciences. If you are bilingual, your job prospects are excellent.

Is it safe?

Yes, Sherbrooke consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Canada for families. The crime rate is low, and neighbourhoods like Rock Forest and Saint-Élie are known for being quiet and secure.

What is the winter like?

Sherbrooke gets more snow than Montreal. Because of the slightly higher elevation and location in the snow belt, you can expect significant snowfall. Winter tires are mandatory in Quebec from December 1st to March 15th, but you’ll want them on by November.

Ready to embrace the joie de vivre?

Whether you want a historic home in Lennoxville or a modern build in Rock Forest, we can help you navigate the market and the language requirements.

Start your Sherbrooke search with us today.