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Deciding to move to Canada is life-changing. A new country brings about new opportunities and a new way of life. Richmond Hill, Ontario is one of the many cities in the Greater Toronto Area to consider.
But before you choose a new city to call home, it’s important to carefully research your options. There are many cities in Canada and they are all unique. So smart things to consider include career options, the regional location, the housing market, and the overall lifestyle a city can offer. Where you live will affect both your financial success and overall quality of life in Canada.
Is Richmond Hill near the top of your list of cities you are considering? Prepare for Canada can guide you with helpful information.
Richmond Hill is a diverse city that is located in York Region. The region includes nine municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Markham, Newmarket, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville, and the City of Richmond Hill. York Region is also part of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and is about 36 km from Toronto. The village of Richmond Hill was incorporated in 1872. It received town status in 1957 and city status in 2019.
Richmond Hill has seen significant growth since the 1990s. Thanks to its strong economy, job opportunities, and the quality of life it provides, it attracts thousands of young and skilled immigrants each year.
202,000 people live in Richmond Hill, according to the 2021 Census. This is an increase of 3.6% since 2016. The city is the third-largest in York Region and the 27th largest in Canada. Over 60% of the population are visible minorities. This is well over 100,000 residents.
The city has a diverse economy that is made up of small businesses and corporate headquarters. It is becoming known for IT and high technology with over one thousand businesses in this industry.
Other leading industries you’ll find here are:
The city has a wide range of employers in many industries. Some of its top employers include:
You can search for jobs on the City of Richmond Hill website. Working with a recruitment agency is also a common way to search for employment. Top recruitment agencies include Randstad Canada, AppleOne Employment Services, and Robert Half.
Richmond Hill continues to grow, much like other parts of the York Region. It offers newcomers a variety of housing options. You can choose to rent or buy when you move to the city. Main neighbourhoods include:
Housing in the city is expensive. It is one of the most expensive cities in Ontario to rent or buy. It is a highly desirable place to live, which can make finding affordable options more challenging.
Compared to other cities in the GTA, Richmond Hill is an affordable place to rent. But it is still expensive overall. According to Zumper, the median cost to rent a one-bedroom is $2,173 for a one-bedroom. It is $2,700 for a two-bedroom and $3,190 for a three-bedroom unit. Housing availability can be an issue, and with low vacancy rates, come rising rental costs.
Use Rentals for Newcomers to search for available rental units in Richmond Hill. Here, you can also find current rental prices in Richmond Hill.
When renting a home or apartment, it’s also important to consider buying renter’s insurance to protect your family, belongings, and finances.
Get more information about renting a home:
Renting in Canada: What Newcomers Need to Know
It is expensive to purchase a home in Richmond Hill. Prices have increased by once 12% in the past year and they continue to climb. The average price to buy a home is $1.5 million as of April 2022 according to real estate website Zolo.
The average price for a 3-bedroom townhouse is $1.3 million and the average price for a condo is $734,000. Find out more about buying your first home in Canada: First Time Home Buyer: Newcomer Tips
Highway driving is part of daily life in Richmond Hill. It’s common for residents to commute to work in other parts of the GTA. There are several major highways in the area. They are Highway 404/ Don Valley Parkway, Highway 7, Highway 407 toll expressway, and Highway 401. Heavy traffic is common in these areas.
All residents are required to have a valid Ontario driver’s licence. The province uses a graduated licencing system. Learn more about licencing requirements on the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) website.
Get more information about driving in Canada:
Driving in Canada: 10 Essential Facts to Know
Getting Your Ontario Drivers License
Driving Test in Canada: A Full Guide
Tips for Winter Driving to Ensure Your Safety
York Region Transit (YRT)/Viva has 120 routes across the nine municipalities of the York Region and offers easy access to the transit systems in the neighbouring City of Toronto, Peel Region, and Durham Region. To plan your trip with YRT/Viva, visit their website.
Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) has routes that operate in the York Region and bring passengers to some of the Toronto subway stations. GO Transit offers trains and bus services from Union Station in Toronto to York Region. For fare information when using the TTC and GO Transit connecting services click here.
As a city with a diverse population, it offers a wide selection of support for newcomers. All new immigrants have access to programs that help to settle in the city. Among many of the services, you can get help to look for work, find housing, and improve your language skills.
York Region’s Local Immigration Partnership (LIP) offers support to newcomers. Welcome Centre Immigration Services has seven locations in York Region, including in Richmond Hill. You can get general information in fifteen languages.
You can take language classes through Settlement.org, Welcome Centre Immigrant Services, Immigration Settlement Services, and many other community groups.
Setting up a bank account and getting your finances in order upon moving to Richmond Hill is an important step in getting settled. All local banks and credit unions offer services specifically for new immigrants. They can help you open a bank account, get a credit card, apply for loans, and get a mortgage.
Get more banking tips for newcomers:
Top 10 Financial Steps to Take Before You Leave for Canada
Move to Canada | Transferring Cash & Valuables
Open a Bank Account Before Arriving in Canada
Richmond Hill has many education options for children and adults. There are two main school boards – York Regional District School Board and York Catholic District School Board.
While the city does not have a post-secondary institution, you can get access to top colleges and universities throughout the GTA. Parents have access to many preschool and daycare options. There are before and after school programs, and private, public, and community childcare programs across the city.
Residents have access to public, Catholic, and private school education. The York Regional District School Board has twenty-seven elementary and five high schools. The York Catholic District School Board has thirteen catholic elementary and two high schools. There are also four private primary schools and five private high schools.
There are no colleges or universities in Richmond Hill. But there are satellite campuses of York University, University of Toronto, and Seneca College located in York Region.
Read more about education in Canada:
Schooling in Canada | A Look at the Education System
Higher Education Offers Benefits to Newcomers
Most basic health care services in Ontario are publicly funded. Richmond Hill residents are covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Prescription drugs and some other medical services are not covered by OHIP, but you can pay for additional health insurance plans.
Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital offers a full-service emergency department, and core and specialized services to provide the health care you need. In case of a medical emergency (when there is a life-threatening condition) call 9-1-1.
York Region Emergency Medical Services works 24 hours per day and uses up to thirty-three ambulances, nine rapid response vehicles and four special response vehicles.
When you arrive, finding a family doctor will be important so that you can receive primary medical care. Family doctors can prescribe medication and refer their patients to specialists and hospitals. Not all family doctors accept new patients, so if you have difficulty finding a health care provider, you can enroll in the Ministry of Health Health Care Connect Program.
If you need medical care, but still don’t have a doctor, you can go to a walk-in clinic. Get more information about health care in Canada: Steps to Access Free Health Care in Canada
Richmond Hill’s location within the GTA offers newcomers many different things to do. Whether you enjoy the outdoors, culture, the arts, or sports, there is something for everyone.
The city offers residents a variety of attractions to explore. Some of the most popular are the David Dunlop Observatory, Hillcrest Mall, Richmond Hill Heritage Centre, and the Hillcrest Farmer’s Market.
Richmond Hill has a variety of neighbourhoods that offer cuisine from many cultures. Yonge Street is the best spot to discover many unique restaurants, pubs, and bars.
There are many outdoor spaces for nature lovers. You can go for a hike at Oak Ridges Trail or Rouge River Headwaters Walk, check out Wilcox Lake, Saigeon Trail walkways above wetlands and Oak Ridges Corridor Conservation Reserve.
Even though the city doesn’t have any professional sports teams, it’s only a short drive away to Toronto to see the Maple Leafs, Raptors, Toronto FC, and Argos. You can check out live performances at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts. Again, there are countless world-class concert venues only a short drive away.
Richmond Hill is a culturally diverse city. Over 60% of the population identifies as a visible minority. This is about 120,000 residents. Residents speak 126 languages.
The largest minority population is Chinese, which make up 30% of residents. Other large immigrant communities include Iranian (11%), Italian (10%), East Indian (5.8%), and Russian (5.4%).
Each year, the city celebrates its cultural diversity through the annual Culture Days events. The event raises cultural awareness through visual arts, music, dance, film, food, and media.
As a diverse city, residents practice different religions. About 50% of the population identifies as Christian. This is followed by Islam (11.5%), Judaism (5.5%), Buddhism (2.8%), and Hinduism (2.4%). About one-quarter of the population has no religious affiliation.
Place of Worship in York Region:
Richmond Hill has a humid continental climate with four seasons. Winters are cold with the daily average temperature in January of -7°C. Temperatures often feel colder than they are because of the wind chill. Snow can fall anytime between November and April. Snowstorms are not unusual.
Summers are hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 31°C. However, the high humidity makes temperatures feel warmer than they are. Spring and autumn are cool and pleasant, sometimes with large differences between day and night temperatures.
Yes. It’s regarded as one of the best places to live and work in Canada. Its truly diverse population makes it an attractive destination for new immigrants.
While it is a great place to live, Richmond Hill is one of the most expensive cities in Ontario. If you don’t enjoy commuting, you won’t like the traffic. Your location could limit your job opportunities.
Richmond Hill gives you the calm and quietness of a small town while still located close to Toronto, a major city. There are many outdoor activities and it is a great location for commuters. Most of the residents are families with children.
The west coast of Canada is a popular landing place for new immigrants. Are you thinking about moving to Surrey, British Columbia? Or perhaps another part of Metro Vancouver or B.C.? Moving is a huge life decision. The city you choose will have a significant effect on your future.
Spending time researching cities you could potentially move to is an important step. The city you choose will affect your housing options, job selection, and overall financial well-being.
Surrey is a great destination for newcomers. It is popular with immigrants from Asia-Pacific Region. While mostly suburban, it is a beautiful part of the country with a mild climate and is close to Vancouver. Plus, you are never too far from the water and mountains in B.C. But it is an expensive city compared to other parts of Canada.
If Surrey is at the top of your list, Prepare for Canada can guide you with helpful information.
Living in Surrey, British Columbia allows residents to enjoy beautiful urban forests, clean beaches, golf courses, and great eco-tourism opportunities.
Surrey is the second-largest city by population in British Columbia and is only 23 km from Vancouver Centre. And, housing is more affordable than in Vancouver. So, many people choose to live in Surrey and commute to Vancouver for work if necessary.
Seven main neighbourhoods in Surrey include Cloverdale, Fleetwood, Guildford, Newton, South Surrey, and City Centre encompassed by Whalley.
This city was incorporated in 1879. It was named after Surrey, England because it had land that looked like the region. The Pattullo Bridge was completed in 1937. This allowed the city to expand. Surrey was granted city status in 1993 after significant population growth in the 1980s and 1990s.
The population as of the 2021 Census is 568,322. This is an increase of 9.7% and over 50,000 residents in five years. And it continues to grow!
The economy is rooted in agriculture. Today, about one-third of the land is dedicated to farming. Great business opportunities exist for international trade with Asia and the United States. Because of Surrey’s Pacific Rim location, combined with its growing and multicultural population, it’s a strong city for business.
Due to population growth, Surrey became one of the best places in B.C. to invest in real estate. Over the past five years, more than $6 billion of building permits were issued and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation reported a significant increase in the number of housing starts.
The strongest growth industry is health. This is due to the increasing need for medical aid for Surrey’s aging population.
The top industries in this city include:
The health and education sectors are the main sources of employment. Some of the top employers include:
You can contact a recruitment agency when you arrive in Canada to help you with your job search. The top recruiters in Vancouver are Recruiting in Motion, iLink Global, Robert Half, and Randstad Canada.
Living in Surrey allows you to rent or buy a home near the beach, in urban centres, close to parks, or on quiet farms. The city is made up of these town centres:
Whalley/City Centre is in North Surrey and is the most densely populated of all the town centers. It is the city and commercial centre of this city, and it is the only town centre serviced by SkyTrain. It links Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster, and Surrey. Whalley/City Centre is home to the campus of Simon Fraser University Surrey.
Cloverdale is the historic centre of Surrey and is known for its heritage sites. Many families with children prefer this location for its parks, playing fields, schools, pools, and recreation centres.
Fleetwood is one of North Surrey’s quickest developing neighbourhoods. The Fraser Highway, which runs through this town centre, makes Fleetwood ideal for commuters. Also, Fleetwood has beautiful parks, natural areas, trails, and many playgrounds.
Guildford is on the northern corner of Surrey. It is famous for the 200-store Guildford Town Centre Mall, one of the largest malls in Canada.
Newton is the town centre with the largest and most ethnically diverse population. More than half of the population is considered a visible minority, predominantly Sikh. Newton is home to the Kwantlen Polytechnic University campus.
South Surrey is known for its parks, beaches, forests, and recreation facilities. retirees prefer this location. And it has the largest concentration of people over the age of 60.
Surrey is much more affordable than Vancouver which is why many people move to Surrey and commute to Vancouver to work.
Renting is a common first step for newcomers to Surrey. The average rent for an apartment is $1,400 for a Bachelor, $1,463 for a 1 Bedroom, $1,770 for a 2 Bedroom, and $2.065 for a 3 Bedroom.
Use Rentals for Newcomers to search for available rental units in Surrey. Here, you can also find current rental prices in Surrey.
When renting a home or apartment, it’s also important to consider buying renter’s insurance to protect your family, belongings, and finances. While renters’ insurance is optional, many property owners may require that you have it as part of your lease agreement.
Buying a home in this city can be expensive. Prices have increased substantially over the past few years. According to data by Zolo, Surrey ranks as the 7th most expensive city in B.C. with an average home price of 1.2 million (as of April 2022). The average cost of a detached house is $2 million. A townhouse is $962, 000 and a condo is $577,000.
It’s common for residents to commute to work in other parts of Metro Vancouver. The city has a grid road system and several highways. Highway 1 is the main route to Vancouver and other cities in the east. Residents can also use Highway 15, Highway 17, Highway 99, and Fraser Highway to get around town.
Driving and parking in all City of Surrey streets are regulated by the Province of British Columbia Motor Vehicle Act. For maps and directions in Surrey, click here. As part of its efforts to increase awareness of high collision areas, the Surrey RCMP supplies traffic safety maps, to show the top collision locations in Surrey.
SkyTrain Expo Line connects Surrey to Vancouver. Buses are the main way of public transport for people living in this city. Currently, there are more than 1,300 bus stops. The fare system is divided into three zones. Passengers pay according to the number of zones they travel in. However, passengers pay one fare no matter how many zones they cross after 6:30 pm on Monday to Friday, and weekends and holidays.
You must have exact change when getting on a bus because the driver does not accept bills or give change. Make sure you receive Proof of Payment/Transfers. Transfers are valid for 90 minutes. If you travel often, you can buy a monthly fare Compass Card.
Get more information about driving in Canada:
Driving Test in Canada: A Full Guide
Tips for Winter Driving to Ensure Your Safety
Surrey supports newcomers through several immigrant support agencies:
Newcomers to British Columbia may also be eligible for the Introduction to British Columbia program through the Immigrant Services Association of British Columbia.
Newcomers can receive language support and take classes through community settlement agencies such as the Fraser Health Authority, DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society, and Options Community Services Society.
Getting your finances in order once you arrive in Canada is an important step you cannot overlook. You can open a bank account at any local bank or credit union. Most banks offer special programs for immigrants to open a bank account, get a credit card, or line of credit, and even qualify for a mortgage.
Get more banking tips for newcomers:
How Much Money Will I Need to Move to Canada?
Top 10 Financial Steps to Take Before You Leave for Canada
Move to Canada | Transferring Cash & Valuables
Open a Bank Account Before Arriving in Canada
In British Columbia, parents can choose to send their children to public schools, independent schools, or homeschooling. And because public schools are government-funded, many people choose to send their children to public schools.
Surrey School District has the largest student enrollment in British Columbia with:
For a list of public schools click here. Independent schools offer specific religious, cultural, educational, or philosophical approaches. For information about independent schools click here.
If you choose to teach your children at home, you must register them with the Ministry of Education. You will also have to follow the curriculum guidelines that the ministry sets.
Surrey is home to a third campus for Simon Fraser University (SFU). On this SFU campus, students can enroll in the following programs:
Kwantlen Polytechnic University has a Surrey campus that offers science, business, art, and health programs.
There are also several private post-secondary colleges such as Brighton College, Sprott Shaw College, CDI College, Western Community College, Sterling College, Stenberg College, Academy of Learning, Surrey Community College, Discovery Community College, and Vancouver Career College.
Read more about education in Canada:
Schooling in Canada | A Look at the Education System
Higher Education Offers Benefits to Newcomers
In British Columbia, there are two main health insurance plans: the Medical Service Plan (MSP) and PharmaCare. For those, who can not afford to pay the monthly MSP premium, there is Premium Assistance.
Three main hospitals serve Surrey residents: Surrey Memorial Hospital, Jim Pattison Outpatient Care and Surgery Centre, and Peace Arch Hospital. In case of an emergency call 9-1-1. This number is the same no matter where you live in Canada. For prescription drugs and some services that British Columbia Health does not cover, you can pay for additional health insurance plans.
Once you get medical insurance coverage, you should find a family doctor. You can refer to the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia for a list of physicians accepting new patients. If you require specialized care, your family doctor will refer you to specialists.
But, if you are unable to find a family doctor, you can go to walk-in clinics until you secure your doctor. Get more information about health care in Canada: Steps to Access Free Health Care in Canada
Surrey is an outdoor lover’s paradise. It is often called the City of Parks because of its 600 parks and 277 trails and walkways. Living in this city provides opportunities for hiking, biking, bird watching, and outdoor sports. For more information on Surrey Parks click here. Surrey also boasts some of Metro Vancouver’s best golf courses for all skill levels.
Surrey hosts five annual city events. They are Tree Lighting Festival, Party for the Planet, Surrey Children’s Festival, Surrey Fusion Festival, and Surrey Canada Day, Western Canada’s biggest Canada Day celebration. Every year tens of thousands of people attend the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair. And, this makes it the second-largest rodeo in Canada after the Calgary Stampede.
Every year on April 13, the Sikh community celebrates Vaisakhi, the largest parade outside of India.
This city is known as a great place to wine and dine. There are numerous local wineries in the area and many great restaurants with an international flavour. Be sure to try the iconic Old Surrey Restaurant. Other places to check out include Tap Restaurant, Afghan Kitchen, Vault Restaurant, and New York New York Greek Restaurant.
With over 600 parks and endless green space, it’s easy to get lost in all the surrounding nature. Some points of interest to check out include Crescent Beach, Surrey Bend Regional Park, Darts Hill Garden, and Historic Stewart Farm.
This city is not home to any professional sports teams. But it is host to the Canada Cup International Women’s Fastpitch Tournament. Cricket is a popular sport in the city. If you want to take in a concert, check out The Roxy, River Rock Casino Resort, Centennial Theatre, and The Cobalt.
It is a truly diverse community. 57.8% of the population identifies as a visible minority. This is about 300,000 residents. The biggest minority community is South Asian with 32.4% of the population. This is followed by Chinese (7.7%), Filipino (6.2%), and Southeast Asian (2.5%). 2.6% of residents are Aboriginal. With a large South Asian population, Surrey hosts the Diwali festival in British Columbia.
Christianity is the predominant religion in Surrey. 38.2% of the population identifies as Christian – Protestant, Catholic, Orthodox, or other Christians.
The second-largest religious group, 22.6%, is the Sikh. Every year on April 13, the Sikh community organizes a big celebration of Vaisakhi. And this celebration often includes a Nagar Kirtan (parade). Surrey’s Guru Nana Sikh Gurdwara is one of the leading Sikh Temples in Canada.
There is a moderate, inter-coastal Pacific-Northwest climate that is appealing and comfortable. Winter in Surrey is mild with an average temperature of 5 degrees C. It rarely snows. However, getting many rainy and gloomy days or even rainy weeks in a row is not uncommon.
Spring is also wet. Summer is sunny with an average temperature of 22 degrees C, and autumn is cool. Surrey enjoys about 1848.3 hours of sunshine per year (an average of 5 hours per day).
Living in Surrey provides many great services and activities for families making it a great choice for newcomers. It’s close to Vancouver with affordable housing, many schools, and a diverse community.
Surrey is a popular destination for Asian immigrants. The city has more affordable housing compared to Metro Vancouver. It has a great hospital system and access to nature. It’s a growing city that offers a great community for families.
Surrey is expensive compared to other large cities in Canada. Most people commute, so you’ll likely have to drive out of the community to work each day. Traffic can be an issue.
Salary negotiation is a touchy subject. Most job seekers are still unclear about the best practices for negotiating their salary. As a newcomer to Canada, the subject can be even more intimidating. You’re new to the country and you may be unfamiliar with common job search practices. Many people fear that asking for more money means they will miss out on the job offer. Others may immediately accept a job without knowing you have the option to negotiate salary and other benefits.
Negotiating your salary in Canada is common. It’s part of the hiring process. So, you shouldn’t shy away from the topic. As with other aspects of the job search process, there is a time and place for everything. There will be some jobs where there is no room for negotiation. There are also certain times when it is better to discuss money with your potential employer.
Here are specific actions, tips, and advice for when and how to negotiate your salary in Canada.
Yes, you can negotiate your salary when applying for jobs in Canada. A job offer is just that – an offer. You can negotiate all aspects of it, including your salary.
Remember that as a job candidate, you are interviewing the company as much as they are interviewing you. You need to be sure the company is somewhere you want to work. And you need to make sure you will be compensated fairly for the work you will do.
This applies to entry-level positions as well. Most people incorrectly assume entry-level salaries are non-negotiable. But this is not always true. Companies will make exceptions for candidates they feel are the right person for the job. However, you usually have less wiggle room for these entry-level positions because they are easier to fill.
There are a few common situations where you will find yourself in a position to negotiate your salary.
Salary negotiation is a normal part of the job search process. While it can be an intimidating process, it’s completely normal. Here are some reasons you should negotiate your salary before accepting a job offer:
Ready to take control of your financial journey in Canada? Join our expert-led online webinar! Learn essential banking tips to build a strong financial foundation. Hear from David Frattini, Managing Partner at Prepare for Canada, and Neil Dhanani, Financial Advisor at Scotiabank, as they guide you through everything you need to know.
REGISTER FOR THE WEBINARIf you are going to negotiate your salary, you need to approach it the right way with the following actions:
You need to understand the salary trends for your industry and your specific position. Consider your skills, education, and level of experience. All these factors play a role in determining how high of a salary you can command. This will take some research.
The more information you have, the stronger case you will be able to make to justify your salary request. You can’t ask for more money “because you think you should make more.”
Learn how much other companies pay for a similar position. Research the employer’s compensation structure. Find out how much people are paid for similar job titles.
Use websites such as LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and job boards such as Indeed to get this information.
You can ask others about the employer’s hiring practices to determine if they are receptive to negotiating salary.
If you plan to ask for a higher salary, expect the employer to ask you to justify why you should get more money. You can expect employers to push back and need to understand your positions.
Have several well-thought-out reasons why you should have a higher salary. For example, fluency in another language is a great asset for a global company. Or, you may have specialized training the employer requires.
If the employer is willing to negotiate, have a clear salary in mind. You should also expect them to counter your offer.
They may offer you more but not as much as you are asking. So, choose a number you know is higher than you expect. For example, a job has a salary of $40,000 per year. You believe you should make a little more. You ask for $50,000. The employer counters with an offer of $45,000. You meet in the middle, and everyone is happy.
Remember you can also negotiate more than money. If an employer won’t budge on the salary you can ask for other benefits such as more vacation time.
This is important and often overlooked by employees. Get all agreed-upon salary terms and conditions in writing. This will ensure everything you have spoken about is documented.
Here are some important pointers to keep in mind. Avoid doing the following as part of the negotiation process:
The timing of your negotiations is important. Ideally, you should wait until you have received a formal offer in writing. Feel free to ask for time to consider the offer and formulate your salary request.
It can be very easy to get yourself into a mindset where you are only thinking about salary. Salary is important but it is not the only thing. Consider the possibility of a signing bonus, commission, and other forms of compensation as part of your job offer package. Other things to negotiate on top of or in addition to base salary include:
Don’t reveal your bottom-line number or you will lose your leverage in the negotiation. Know your worth and do not be afraid to ask for it. Employers will respect this. Your offer will not disappear because you want to negotiate. In most cases, the worst thing that will happen is they will say no to your request for a higher salary.
Salary negotiations can be intimidating, but they are necessary if you want to be paid what you are worth. It’s also a common practice in the hiring process in Canada. So if you don’t negotiate salary, you could leave money on the table.
There’s no magic wand available to achieve your goals and create the life you know you want to live. However, there is a powerful process you can follow to turn your vision into reality.
Linda Ryan is the National Program Manager with BCCA-Integrating Newcomers, a government funded, Canada-wide, pre-arrival career coaching service for high skilled construction professionals immigrating to Canada (*BCCA-IN). A career and certified performance coach, she and the BCCA-IN team specialise in helping newcomers plan for, and achieve, employment success, no matter what city or province they are moving to.
Linda Ryan works closely with newcomers who are eager to continue their careers in Canada. In conversation with her, she discusses common obstacles people face when creating a vision for their business, career, or life. So whether you’re moving to Canada and starting a new career, or navigating any change, here are Ryan’s three tips to help you achieve your goals in life, create your reality, and act on your dreams.
The brain is a funny thing. It’s a data processor and as such, likes nothing more than having something to focus on. As the old saying goes; “garbage in = garbage out”! So be honest with yourself about how you’re feeling right now. If the answer is ‘negative’, why not make a conscious choice to think positively about your future?
Although you may not know exactly what the future looks like, choose to create a positive mindset around it and choose to put positive action towards it. Like all habit-forming, your new behaviour will take multiple tries (and fails) to become your new norm. But you know what? I think you’re worth it. Do you?
I work with many clients who know they’re not living their dream and I find that nine times out of ten their biggest obstacle is they are afraid to admit it. Unfortunately, in choosing to deny the existence of your fear (which by the way is a natural survival reaction designed to keep you safe), you are actively choosing to remain stuck. And if you choose to hold yourself back-guess what? You ain’t ever gonna get there! So whatever your goal in life, dream big, and take the necessary steps to get there.
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This is often the question that evokes the strongest reactions in my clients. I’ve seen everything from disbelief, disdain and even disengagement. Great! That’s the reaction I want to see in a client because if that’s what they feel about being asked the question, imagine what they feel about the focus of the question-their vision, their ideal life, and their ability to create it! So we get to working on their ‘best life’ by posing the question again, not as a judgement but as a challenge.
I challenge you to think, act and be like a child when pondering your best life. Visualize your perfect life by allowing yourself the luxury of describing your perfect day. Write it, sketch it, better still, collect pictures from magazines and stick ’em to a sheet.
Having fun creating your story, fuels your desire to make it a reality. Clients who truly allow themselves to go there, elevate their thinking and energy to a child-like level where anything is possible. And guess what? When you allow yourself to even remotely believe anything is possible, you create a new set of emotions, actions and norms that will actually get you there.
So what are you waiting for?
Go have fun with your dreams and goals in life. If you don’t, no one else will!
*The BCCA-Integrating Newcomers program is a free, pre-arrival, Canada-wide service, focused on helping high-skilled newcomers explore and build successful construction careers. Services include one-on-one career guidance, tailored resume, cover letter, LinkedIn advice, and an in-depth skills and education assessment to help newcomers focus on the best career, credentials and connections activities. The Integrating Newcomers team not only has multi-industry experience but are also immigrants who have built successful careers in Canada.
Winnipeg, Manitoba is one of many destination cities to consider if you are moving to Canada. Choosing the right city is a major decision and will affect your quality of life and economic success. So, it’s vital to research if Winnipeg is the right city for you. Canada is a large country with regional, cultural, and economic differences. Depending on where you choose to live, you could see vast differences in the cost of living, housing prices, and job opportunities. That’s why choosing the right city plays a large role in your financial success once you arrive. This helpful guide will give you a clear picture of life in Winnipeg covering everything from housing costs to job opportunities.
Winnipeg is the capital city of Manitoba and the largest city in the province. It lies in the eastern part of the Canadian Prairies in Western Canada.
The city is known as the “Gateway to the West” connecting Ontario to the Prairie provinces. It is a railway and transportation hub with a diversified economy. The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program brought immigrants to Canada in record numbers and Winnipeg became home to thousands of newcomers. So it’s also known for being a multicultural city.
The city is named after Lake Winnipeg and has four lakes running through it. It is also close to many Canadian Shield lakes and parks.
It was originally a trading post for Indigenous people before the arrival of European settlers. Winnipeg was officially incorporated as a city in 1873 and rapidly grew after the expansion of the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1881. It was Canada’s third-largest city in 1911. Today, it is the sixth-largest city in the country.
The City of Winnipeg has a population of 749,607 as of the 2021 Census. The Winnipeg Metropolitan Region includes 18 surrounding municipalities with 834,678 residents. The city has a diverse population with a high number of people of European descent and the highest concentration of Aboriginal people in Canada.
Winnipeg’s economy is rated as one of the fastest-growing among Canada’s major cities. It is also one of the country’s most diversified economies including manufacturing, financial services, IT, and more.
The manufacturing sector ranges from food and beverage to farm equipment, buses, steel products, electrical components, aerospace components, chemicals, plastic, and more.
Winnipeg is also home to the Royal Canadian Mint, which produces all of Canada’s circulating coinage. The Mint also manufactures coins for other countries, medals, gold, silver, palladium, and platinum bullion coins.
The financial service sector is one of the largest in the country and the headquarters for some of Canada’s biggest insurance companies and investment firms are in Winnipeg.
The key sectors in Winnipeg include:
This city is home to large companies across many industries. Some of the top employers in Winnipeg are:
Newcomers have access to several resources to search for career opportunities in the Winnipeg area. You can get help with your job search by working with Immigrant Centre Manitoba Inc., Manitoba Start, Neighborhood Empowerment and Resource Centre, and SEED Winnipeg Inc. You can also work with local employment recruiters such as Pinnacle, Robert Half, and David Aplin Group.
Choosing a place to call home in Winnipeg is another important decision to help you settle in Winnipeg. The city offers many diverse neighbourhoods to choose from. Your physical location and the street you live on will affect you daily. When choosing a location, consider factors such as access to transit, stores, schools, hospitals, childcare, and your workplace.
Over the past few years, Winnipeg experienced a significant rise in house prices. For example, there was a 115% increase in the average price of a new house and a 170% increase in the average price of a resale house over the past decade. Because of the population growth and demand for more homes, house prices are expected to continue increasing.
Nevertheless, house prices in Winnipeg are still low compared to other cities in Canada. For the last several years the strongest demand and most new homes built have been in the South area of the City such as south St. Boniface, south St. Vital and Fort Garry. Single-family dwellings outnumber the amount of multi-family dwellings built.
Searching online is an easy way to find places to rent. Use Rentals for Newcomers to search for available rental units in Winnipeg. Here, you can also find current rental prices in Winnipeg.
Rental costs can start as low as $800 per month. The average rent amount for an apartment in Winnipeg is $943 for a Bachelor, $1,204 for a 1-bedroom, $1,515 for a 2-bedroom, and $2,192 for a 3-bedroom.
Housing prices in Winnipeg are more affordable than other large cities in Canada.
According to a Royal Lepage House Price Survey, the average price of a home in Winnipeg is $357,200 as of the last quarter of 2021. The is a 9.6% increase year over year. The median cost of a single-family detached home is $390,800 and the median price of a condo is $233,600. Find out more about buying your first home in Canada: First Time Home Buyer: Newcomer Tips.
Winnipeg has a well-connected road system. The city has highways in all directions from the city, making it easy to get around. The Trans-Canada Highway runs through the city (east to west), and circles around on the Perimeter Highway, referred to as the beltway. Provincial Trunk Highway 75 connects to the United States and is the busiest border crossing on the Prairies.
All drivers must have a Manitoba driver’s licence. It’s important to understand the rules of the road and have strong winter driving skills.
Get more information about driving in Canada:
Driving in Canada: 10 Essential Facts to Know
Driving Test in Canada: A Full Guide
Tips for Winter Driving to Ensure Your Safety
Winnipeg Transit supplies public bus service in the city. It runs 84 fixed routes. The buses run usually from 6 a.m. until past midnight. The transit website offers a trip planner where you can type your location and find out how to get to your destination. For transit fares click here.
You can travel by air using the Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport. The city is also a railway hub. You can take the Via Rail train at Union Station.
Winnipeg is a popular landing place for new immigrants. And there are many community organizations to support and help you when you move to the city. Some organizations include Immigration Partnership Winnipeg, Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization of Manitoba, Neighbourhood Immigrant Settlement Workers Program, and YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg. Get a full list through the Immigrant Centre website.
Several local organizations offer language services and support to permanent residents. Community groups that offer language assistance include Enhanced English Skills for Employment (EESE), EDGE Skills Centre, Heartland International English School, and The University of Winnipeg-English for Specific Purposes Program.
Setting up a bank account and getting your finances in order when arriving in Canada is important. It is also an easy process to complete for permanent residents. You can visit a local bank or credit union to open an account. They can also help you apply for a credit card, line of credit, mortgage, and other financial products.
Get more banking tips for newcomers:
Top 10 Financial Steps to Take Before You Leave for Canada
Move to Canada | Transferring Cash & Valuables
Open a Bank Account Before Arriving in Canada
The Government of Manitoba oversees the school system including elementary, high school, and post-secondary institutions.
There are seven school divisions in Winnipeg. The largest is the Winnipeg School Division which includes 77 schools and over 5,300 staff members. It teaches more than 33,000 students.
The other divisions are St. James-Assiniboia School Division with 15 elementary schools, six middle schools, and four high schools, Pembina Trails School Division, Seven Oaks School Division, The Franco-Manitoban School Division, River East Transcona School Division, and The Louis Riel School Division. Parents can also choose to send their children to private or religious schools.
Each year, thousands of international students study at post-secondary schools in Winnipeg such as:
Read more about education in Canada:
Schooling in Canada | A Look at the Education System
Higher Education Offers Benefits to Newcomers
Winnipeg provides medical care options through its hospital network.
Winnipeg’s major hospitals include Health Sciences Centre, Concordia Hospital, Deer Lodge Centre, Grace Hospital, Saint Boniface General Hospital, Seven Oaks General Hospital, Victoria General Hospital, and The Children’s Hospital of Winnipeg
Residents of Manitoba are eligible for government health coverage. Newcomers should apply for Manitoba Health Card which they show every time they need medical services. The Government of Manitoba does not cover some health care services, but most employers provide additional health insurance.
For prescription drugs and some services that Manitoba Health does not cover, you can buy additional 
.
After obtaining health coverage, a new resident of Manitoba must find a family physician. Family doctors can prescribe drugs and refer patients to specialists or hospitals if necessary. The Family Doctor Finder provides an up-to-date list of Winnipeg family physicians accepting new patients.
If you do not have a family doctor, you can go to a walk-in clinic. Doctors at walk-in clinics can also give prescriptions and refer patients to specialists and hospitals.
Get more information about health care in Canada: Steps to Access Free Health Care in Canada
The city of Winnipeg offers many attractions, sports, nightlife, and natural landscapes. There is something to do for everyone in the family.
Manitoba’s capital enjoys an exciting cultural life. There are many art galleries and performing arts venues in Winnipeg. The largest gallery in Manitoba, the Winnipeg Art Gallery has the biggest collection of contemporary Inuit art in the world.
Centennial Concert Hall is the primary concert venue of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, the Manitoba Opera, and the Royal Winnipeg Ballet. Over 250 theatre performances are given yearly at the Manitoba Theatre Centre.
The city hosts Folklorama, the largest and longest-running multicultural festival. Each year in August different countries are presented at 40 to 45 pavilions, and approximately 3,000 entertainers perform at more than 1,500 shows.
Winnipeg is known for its local restaurants. Throughout the city, you can find cuisine from around the world. You can dine at nationally recognized fine dining hot spots. The city hosts festivals throughout the year including Festival du Voyageur, Jazz Winnipeg Festival, Winnipeg Folk Festival, Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival, Pride Winnipeg, and Canad Inns Winter Wonderland.
Even though it’s known for its cold winter weather, Winnipeg features stunning natural landscapes. Some of the most popular are Clearwater Lake, Clearwater Lake Caves, Riding Mountain National Park, Wekusko Falls, Pisew Falls, Steep Rock and Tramping Lake Pictographs.
The city is home to the Winnipeg Jets of the National Hockey League, Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the Canadian Football League, and Manitoba Moose of the American Hockey League. It is also home to other minor sports teams. You can see live music at several popular venues such as Centennial Concert Hall, West End Cultural Centre, Burton Cummings Theatre, and many others.
Winnipeg has a diverse population. There are over 180,000 immigrants in the city, which is close to 25% of the population. And this number continues to rise each year. Close to 15,000 new immigrants move to the city annually.
Winnipeg has a large Filipino community. It is estimated there are over 60,000 residents who came from the Philippines. The city is also known for its large Aboriginal community. There are over 75,000 people of Aboriginal descent in the city. There is a large number of immigrants from India and China.
Some of the cultural festivals that take place each year include the Asian Canadian Festival, Canada’s National Ukrainian Festival, and the Winnipeg Chinatown Street Festival.
Winnipeg is a predominantly Christian community. About two-thirds identify as Christian. Close to 30% of residents have no religious affiliation. Other religions common to the city include Muslim, Jewish, Sikh, and Hindu.
Winnipeg is one of the sunniest cities in Canada. However, clear skies don’t necessarily mean warm weather. Manitoba’s capital experiences very cold and windy winters, which last from November to March. The average snow depth in January is 20 cm and the temperatures are between -22.8°C and -12.7°C. Extremes are not unusual. The lowest recorded temperature was at -45°C in February 1966.
Strong winds can make winter temperatures feel even colder than the actual temperatures. The windchill is the index to show how cold the weather feels to the average person. In Winnipeg, there are about 49 days a year with a windchill of -30°C or less. The coldest wind chill was -57.1°C in January 1996.
Summers are from May to August. Temperatures in July are usually between 19.5°C and 25.5°C. The highest temperature recorded in summer was 40.6°C in 1949. The city is hit by thunderstorms and sometimes tornadoes in spring and summer. Winnipeg can experience severe flooding because of its flat topography and melting snow.
Thousands of immigrants move to the city each year. Winnipeg is a popular choice among immigrants. It offers big city living with a more affordable cost of living. It offers a better work-life balance than other major cities.
The major drawback of living in Winnipeg is the very cold winter weather. If you don’t like snow, it’s probably not the city for you. But, despite the chilly temperatures, Winnipeggers know how to embrace the cold, especially during Canad Inns Winter Wonderland.
Other issues that may concern you include the limited public transit system. The city also has a high crime rate compared to other Canadian cities.
Newcomers choose to move to Winnipeg for many reasons. The city offers affordable housing, a low cost of living, and diverse employment options. It also has a multicultural and diverse population. In addition to the city’s great culture, you have access to a strong healthcare system and world-class universities.
Are you thinking about moving to Halifax, Nova Scotia? It is one of the many great cities that are in Canada. Speaking of Canada, moving here is a big decision. And, the city you choose will have a direct effect on your financial success, career, and overall quality of life.
Before you make your final decision on where to live, it’s wise to carefully research your options. Explore the housing market, job market, schools, lifestyle, and more to assess if the city is right for you.
Halifax has a unique appeal. It is the largest city on the East coast of Canada. But it has a small-town feel. Life moves more slowly than in big cities like Toronto and Vancouver. It also has a lower cost of living. And, in 2021, Halifax ranked as number one of the top 10 cities in Canada. Ready to learn more about Halifax? Prepare for Canada can guide you with helpful information about living in Halifax.
Halifax, the capital city of Nova Scotia is located on Canada’s East Coast. It is the major economic centre in Atlantic Canada and the Maritime provinces. It is home to a large number of government services and private companies, and the local economy is growing. With a diverse population, Halifax is an ideal location to call home.
The city’s roots date back to 1749 when it was established as the Town of Halifax by European settlers. It officially became a city in 1842 and a regional municipality in 1996.
The Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) includes four former towns, Halifax, Dartmouth, Bedford, and Halifax County that amalgamated in 1996. The city of Halifax has a population of 348,634 as of the 2021 census. Currently, there are about 440,000 residents within the HRM. This is a 9.1% growth rate since 2016.
As an economic hub for Atlantic Canada, Halifax has one of the most diverse economies in Canada. It is the main hub for government, financial services, business, and culture. You can find exciting careers in unique industries such as:
This city is home to employers across many industries. Top employers in Halifax include:
The industries that are on a growth trend include professional services, financial services, public administration and utilities. You can search for jobs through the Nova Scotia website or the Government of Canada Job Bank.
You also have the choice to work with a local recruitment agency such as David Alpen Group, Venor, Randstad Canada, and Talentworks Inc.
While securing a job is a priority when you move to Halifax, so is finding housing. You can look for short-term housing, or a rental, or you can buy a home. However, renting a home before you buy a home is a common practice that allows you to assess neighbourhoods without making a long-term commitment.
When choosing a city, you want to consider the cost of housing. Compared to other large cities in Canada, Halifax is one of the more affordable places to live. The average cost to buy a house is lower than the national average.
There are many great neighbourhoods to consider if you plan to rent a house, apartment, or condo. Some popular neighbourhoods include Downtown, Fairview, Downtown Dartmouth, South End, and North End.
Rental costs vary based on the type of unit, location, and size. You can find rentals starting as low as $1,200 per month. The average cost to rent an apartment in Halifax is $1,420 for a Bachelor, $1,514 for a one-bedroom, and $2,019 for a two-bedroom apartment.
Check out Rentals for Newcomers to search for available rental units and cost in Halifax. For more helpful tips about renting your first home in Canada, be sure to read: Renting in Canada: What Newcomers Need to Know
According to The Royal LePage National House Price Composite, the median price to buy a single-family detached home in Canada is now $811,900 and $553,800 for a condo. Costs are significantly lower in Halifax, which is one reason why the city is an attractive choice for newcomers. Even with the average price to buy increasing by 12.6%, the average cost of a home is $484, 800. The median cost for a single-family detached home is $543,000. The median cost of a condo is $388,500.
Real estate agents in Nova Scotia can help you find a home (for a fee). They can also help you with a mortgage and legal requirements. Contact the Nova Scotia Realtors Association for a complete list of licensed real estate agents.
The urban core of the city is connected by the Angus L. Macdonald and A. Murray MacKay suspension bridges. The city also has a network of 100-series highways that function as expressways to help people get around the area.
All drivers in this city must have a valid Nova Scotia driver’s licence. You need a Class 5 licence to drive a car. Get more information about the licence requirements through Service Nova Scotia.
Halifax Transit supplies bus and ferry services to residents. There are 66 bus routes and 2 ferry routes. The ferry service connects residents from downtown Halifax to two locations in Dartmouth.
Newcomers to Halifax have access to community support through several organizations. You may be eligible for the Introduction to Nova Scotia program through the Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS). You can also get support through the YMCA of Greater Halifax, Nova Scotia Immigration, Halifax Local Immigration Partnership, and Halifax Public Libraries.
Many community organizations offer free language classes for permanent residents. You may also be able to attend free classes through community colleges and the school board. You can get language support though:
Immigration Services Association of Nova Scotia
YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth
For more information, tools, and free webinars about living in Canada visit our Settling in Canada resource page. We’ll help you to settle in Canada successfully!
Opening a bank account and getting your finances in order is a top priority for newcomers when moving to a new country. You have access to many banks and financial institutions in the Halifax area. Most banks have programs specifically for new immigrants to open a bank account, get a credit card and even apply for a mortgage. Visit your local banks or apply only to get started. You will need proof of residence to open an account.
Get more banking tips for newcomers:
Top 10 Financial Steps to Take Before You Leave for Canada
Move to Canada | Transferring Cash & Valuables
Open a Bank Account Before Arriving in Canada
In Canada, the provincial government is responsible for the education system, including the curriculum and running the school boards. To explore Canada’s education system further, read more at Schooling in Canada | A Look at the Education System
Halifax offers public, Catholic, private, and French language schools from Kindergarten to grade 12. The Halifax Regional School Board oversees close to 140 schools. The Conseil Scolaire Acadien Provincial administers six schools. Private schools operate independently.
Halifax is a hub for post-secondary education in the Atlantic provinces. Dalhousie is the top university in Atlantic Canada and one of the best in Canada. There are seven universities with campuses in Halifax as well as the Nova Scotia Community College. Other post-secondary schools include:
Healthcare is available through the Nova Scotia Health Authority. Permanent residents can get access to health care services for free. The city is home to several hospitals and medical centres. The main hospitals are Dartmouth General Hospital, QEII Health Sciences Centre, and IWK Health Centre).
In case of an emergency call 9-1-1. This number is the same no matter where you live in Canada.
For prescription drugs and some services that Nova Scotia Health does not cover, you can pay for additional health insurance plans. Some people have third-party health insurance through their employer benefits packages.
You can search for a family doctor who is taking new patents through Nova Scotia Health. If no doctors are available, you will be placed on a waiting list. If you are unable to find a family doctor, you can go to one of many general non-emergency walk-in clinics in the city. Get more information about health care in Canada: Steps to Access Free Health Care in Canada.
Halifax is known for its quality of life and slower pace. You’ll feel the warm hospitality of residents as soon as you arrive. As a coastal city, there are countless activities and sites on land and water. The quality of life and culture attracts many to the region.
Halifax Harbour is one of the most popular areas of the city. Beyond this, there are lots to see and do. Some of the most popular attractions include the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, Pier 21, Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, Province House, and Halifax Public Gardens. Peggy’s Cove is also only a short drive away where you can see Nova Scotia’s most famous lighthouse.
Halifax has more than 200 restaurants, bars, and pubs. There are several local breweries, and the city is known for its world-class seafood establishments.
Fishing, boating, sailing, and watersports are popular among residents. But there are many other natural landscapes to check out. You can walk along the Harbourfront boardwalk, check out Point Pleasant Park, McNabs and Lawlor Island Provincial Park, or check out Crystal Crescent Beach.
The city is home to the Halifax Mooseheads hockey team Halifax Hurricanes of the National Basketball League of Canada, and Halifax Thunderbirds of the National Lacrosse League. If you want to check out a concert, the Scotiabank Centre is the largest arena in the city. You can also check out musical acts in smaller venues across the city.
Halifax is the most multicultural city in Nova Scotia with a mix of cultures, languages and histories.
Most people in Halifax speak English as their primary language. About 2.5% of people speak French and 1.5% speak Arabic. Of the total population, 11.4% identify as a visible minority, and 4% are Indigenous. The biggest visible minority are Black (3.8%), Arab (1.8%), Chinese (1.8%), and South Asian (1.6%).
About 70% of residents are of the Christian faith and close to 25% have no religious affiliation. 2% of the population is Muslim. You will find many churches, temples, synagogues, mosques, and other places of worship which might be an important source of support when you first settle in Halifax.
Nova Scotia weather can be summed up into one word – moderate. It rarely gets extremely hot or cold. The daily temperature does fluctuate both by the time of day and by your proximity to the ocean. If you spend the morning in Halifax, the afternoon in Wolfville and end up in Yarmouth for the evening – the weather and temperature can be quite different. Having a fleece or knit sweater on hand for easy layering will keep you comfortable wherever you are.
Halifax has a humid continental climate. You can expect precipitation throughout the year with heavy snowfall in the winter. The average high is 23.1 degrees in July and the average low is -0.1 degrees in January.
Halifax is an ideal location for newcomers looking for a slower pace of life. It has a lower cost of living, more affordable housing, and a smaller population. Even though the immigrant population is smaller than in other cities, people love the lifestyle.
Wages in Halifax are often lower when compared to the rest of Canada. However, housing costs are also lower. But, it’s important to research your profession in Halifax before you arrive. That will help you to understand the job trends and careers in demand and make it easier to restart your career in Canada.
People often cite the local culture as one of the best reasons to live in Halifax. It is a beautiful city right on the ocean. The city has a diverse economy and is more affordable than most other cities in the country.
Are you moving to Canada? Thousands of immigrants come to the country every year. There are newcomers dispersed from coast to coast. One of the biggest decisions all newcomers must make is where they choose to live. While Barrie is lesser-known than a large city like Toronto, it’s a popular alternative to living in the Greater Toronto Area.
Where you choose to live will have a direct impact on your career options, financial success, housing costs, and overall lifestyle.
To find a lower cost of living and more affordable housing, many people are moving out of the city to more rural areas within the province of Ontario. Spending the time researching your options will help you choose the best city for you and your family.
Are you interested in learning more about the city of Barrie, Ontario? Read our guide below with helpful information about living in Barrie.
Barrie, Ontario is a beautiful waterfront city located on the shores of Kempenfelt Bay, the western side of Lake Simcoe. It is a growing area that has become a popular destination for new immigrants and people moving out of Toronto as part of a recent interprovincial migration trend.
People are attracted to the region for several regions. It is a bedroom community of Toronto located about 90 km north of the city and about an hour’s commute. The lower housing prices and cost of living are appealing. There is large employment growth and it has a good transit system. The city is also ideal for people who love the outdoors because of the swimmable beaches and ski hills located nearby. There are many great hiking paths, great skiing, and many watersports.
Over the past few decades, it has evolved from a small town to an up-and-coming city. Barrie was first settled during the War of 1812 as a supply depot for British soldiers. The city was named after Sir Robert Barrie, an officer in the British Navy. Over the years it has evolved from a village (1854) to a town (1870), and became a city in 1959.
The population of Barrie has grown rapidly over the past few years. The city has recently made the list of the top 5 most moved-to cities in Canada. As of 2020, there were about 155,000 residents in the city. And the government of Ontario projects the city population could double to 300,000 residents by 2051. This is based on increased immigration and intra-provincial migration.
The economy in Barrie is in a growth phase. As more people move out of the big city, businesses are choosing to invest in Barrie. The projected 70% population growth by 2041 brings new jobs and opportunities. Estimates project more than 30,000 new jobs will be created over the next 20 years.
Some of the biggest growth sectors are arts, entertainment, and recreation, manufacturing, finance and insurance, healthcare, and construction.
The top sectors in Barrie are:
Barrie is home to several corporate headquarters. There is an opportunity to work for larger organizations. Some of the major employers in Barrie are:
There are several ways you can explore career opportunities. You can search the Government of Canada Job Bank or other online job boards. you can search for jobs online You can also use local recruitment agencies such as Randstad Canada, IS2 Workforce Solutions, TalentWorld, and AppleOne Employment Services.
For information, tools, free webinars, and more visit our Finding a Job in Canada resource page to get the help you need and achieve your career goals in Canada!
Ontario Canada | Population, Cities, Economy & Culture
It is important to assess where you want to live within the city. Ideally, you want to choose a neighbourhood that is close to work, schools, and other amenities. But this has become more challenging in recent years as the city is experiencing some growing pains.
The availability of housing is one of the issues. With more people moving to Barrie, there is a smaller supply of housing options. Fortunately, there are new housing developments underway, that will offer newcomers more options soon.
The housing market is more affordable than in other cities in the Greater Toronto Area, but with housing prices on the rise, the gap is shrinking. The lack of supply and not enough new builds are driving up the cost.
Renters in Barrie can choose from single-family homes, condos, apartments and townhouses in many unique neighbourhoods. To get a sense of the character of each neighbourhood, check out, Best Barrie Neighbourhoods for Renting.
There are a few ways you can look for rental units. You can search online, use realtor websites or you can use Rentals for Newcomers to search for available rental units in Barrie. Here, you can also find current rental prices in Barrie.
Rentals start at about $1,500 for a one-bedroom unit. The average rent for an apartment in Barrie is $1,842 for a 1 Bedroom and $2,199 for a 2 Bedroom. When renting, it’s a good idea to get 
to protect your family, belongings, and finances.
Get more information about renting a home: Renting in Canada: What Newcomers Need to Know.
[cjtoolbox name=’Renting Webinar’]
Buying a home in Barrie has become more expensive. For example, prices have increased by over 30% in the past year, and are predicted to increase by as much as 15% in 2022. The average price for a detached house in Barrie is $980,000. The average price for a townhome is $853,000 and the average cost for a condo is $626,000.
Find out more about buying your first home in Canada: First Time Home Buyer: Newcomer Tips
Barrie is a commuter city. Many people drive to work within the city or to other locations across the Greater Toronto Area. Barrie is served by a strong road system. There are several highways in the area. Highway 400 is the major highway that goes between the city and Toronto. Highway 26 is the main highway that goes through the city and heads toward Collingwood. Other highways in the area include Highway 27, Highway 90, and Highway 93.
All drivers must have an Ontario driver’s licence. To get a licence you will need to complete the graduated licencing process. For information on driving in Canada and how to get a licence, see:
Driving in Canada: 10 Essential Facts to Know.
Getting Your Drivers License in Ontario
Driving Test in Canada: A Full Guide
Tips for Winter Driving to Ensure Your Safety
Barrie Transit provides public transit and bus routes throughout the city. As well, you can take advantage of daily GO Train and Bus service to downtown Toronto and other cities in the region. And, using public transit is a convenient, affordable, and simple way to travel within Barrie and across the region. Get more information about Barrie Transit fares.
There are no major airports in the city. The closest is Lake Simcoe Regional Airport.
Barrie and Simcoe County offer support services to new immigrants who move to the community. You can get information about living and working in the community.
Some of the settlement agencies include the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka Immigrant Services, The Learning Centre, Georgian College, and Bradford Immigration & Community Services (BICS).
For more information, tools, and free webinars about living in Canada visit our Settling in Canada resource page to help with your settlement needs.
Many community agencies offer free language classes. In Barrie, you can take courses at The Learning Centre, Georgian College, and through the YMCA Immigrant Services. Or, you can also take courses with the Simcoe County District School Board in the Adult English as a Second Language program.
Having a strong financial management plan is important for new immigrants. Newcomers have access to banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions where you can open a bank account, get a credit card, or line of credit, and apply for a mortgage. Most banks and financial institutions offer specific products and programs for new immigrants. Visit a local branch to open an account. You will need proof of residence and proper identification.
For more information about your financial first steps in Canada, visit our Banking in Canada resource page.
Top 10 Financial Steps to Take Before You Leave for Canada
Move to Canada | Transferring Cash & Valuables
Open a Bank Account Before Arriving in Canada
The Government of Ontario manages the school system, including elementary, high school, and post-secondary education.
Barrie offers residents several elementary and high school education options. You have the choice to attend the public or Catholic school board. It also has two French school boards and several private schools. You can enrol your children at a school with one of the following:
Located in Barrie is Georgian College of Applied Arts and Technology. It offers over 130 full-time career-focused programs. There are over 13,000 full-time students including 4,500 international students from over 85 countries.
Schooling in Canada | A Look at the Education System
Higher Education Offers Benefits to Newcomers
Top-quality health care is something we value as Canadians. In Barrie, you can get urgent care through the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre. You can also go to walk-in clinics throughout the city to receive care for non-urgent needs.
In case of an emergency call 9-1-1. This number is the same no matter where you live in Canada.
The Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) provides residents with health care coverage. Learn how to apply for an OHIP card.
You can also pay for additional to help cover the costs of prescription drugs and services that are not covered by OHIP. Some employers offer third-party health insurance through their employer benefits packages.
Steps to Access Free Health Care in Canada
Finding a family doctor is an important step to ensure you are caring for your health. You can search for a family doctor who is taking on new patients through Health Care Connect. You can call 1-800-445-1822 or visit www.ontario.ca/findadoctor to search online.
As a waterfront community, Barrie offers many year-round activities for residents. You can enjoy the beaches in the summer and head over to nearby ski clubs in the winter. And it is only a short drive to many other outdoor adventures. Downtown Barrie is at the heart of it all.
The city offers many local attractions including the Simcoe County Museum, Fort Willow, Centennial Park, and Bear Creek Eco Park. If you are into the arts and theatre, check out Five Points Theatre or Maclaren Art Centre. Be sure to check out the iconic Spirit Catcher sculpture.
Downtown Barrie is the place to go to have dinner or enjoy entertainment and cultural activities. The city hosts many festivals such as Kempenfest, Barrie Waterfront Festival, Winterfest, and the Barrie Film Festival.
Located on Lake Simcoe, Barrie provides residents with the opportunity to walk along the waterfront, go boating and enjoy the beach life in the summer months. Be sure to check out the beaches at Minet’s Point, The Gables, Tyndale, Centennial, and Johnson’s Beach.
In the winter, Horseshoe Resort, Snow Valley and Blue Mountain are great for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. Or check out nature at Arboretum Sunnidale Park.
Barrie is home to the Barrie Colts of the Ontario Hockey League, and other minor sports teams. If you want to catch a concert, check out Sadlon Arena or Burl’s Creek Event Grounds, which is home to the popular country music festival Boots and Hearts.
Barrie is not traditionally known as a diverse city, but it is on the path to becoming more diverse. There are about 20,000 immigrants in the city. 7.6% of the population are minorities and 5% are Aboriginal. The city has a large francophone community with close to 10,000 residents being bilingual.
The largest minority groups are Black (2.7%), South Asian (2.2%), Chinese (1.2%) and Latin American (1.1%).
Barrie is mainly a Christian community. Around two-thirds of residents identify as Catholic, United, or Anglican. About 30% of the population has no religious affiliation. About 1-2% of the population identify with another religion.
Barrie has a climate like the rest of southern Ontario. They experience warm and humid summers and cold winters. It is a humid continental climate. The region experiences heavy thunderstorms in the spring and summer.
In the winter, the city gets significant snowfall, largely because it is close to Georgian Bay, Lake Ontario. The average temperature is -8.1 C in January and +21.0 C in July.
Barrie is a mid-sized city that offers a slower-paced lifestyle than living in a large city such as Toronto. Though Barrie is known for being more traditional, it is becoming a more diverse city. Barrie was named the safest city in Ontario to live in. If you are into the outdoors and cottage lifestyle, it’s a great place to consider.
It’s vital to consider the pros and cons of a city before you choose where you want to live. On the plus side, Barrie is a great location, with a growing job market, a safe community and offers many great seasonal activities. On the downside, it’s less diverse than a city such as Toronto and other potential issues such as road congestion, challenging winters, and rising housing costs.
Barrie is more affordable than many cities in the Greater Toronto Area, but housing prices are rising as the city has become a prime location for interprovincial migration. As well, many Toronto residents are moving to Barrie. As a result, the cost of housing is rising.
For more information, tools, and free webinars about living in Canada visit our Settling in Canada resource page. We’ll help you to settle successfully!
Thousands of immigrants move to Canada each year. It is a big decision and Canada is a larger place. So, one of the major decisions you will need to make is where to live. The country is diverse from coast to coast. And where you choose to call home will affect your career, finances, and standard of living. Fort McMurray is one to consider, especially if you have a background in the oil industry.
While most newcomers focus on the bigger cities, there are plenty of smaller cities with much to offer. People typically move to the Fort McMurray area to work in the oil sands industry. But the close by Wood Buffalo area offers newcomers many of the amenities of a larger city.
Researching the local job market, the housing options, the local community, and what it is like to live in a city is necessary before you make a final decision. Are you considering Fort McMurray? Discover what the city has to offer you and your family!
Fort McMurray, Alberta, is best known today for its association with the oil sands industry. The oil industry is the top employer in the region with many available jobs in oil sands and supporting industries. Although not officially a city anymore, “Fort Mac” is the heart of one of Canada’s major oil production hubs.
Fort McMurray became an urban service area when it was amalgamated with Improvement District No. 143 in April 1995. With this amalgamation, the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo was created. It has undergone a series of changes over the years.
The area was referred to as “McMurray” from 1947 to 1962. It was named a town in 1964, designated a city in 1980 and then became a service area in 1995.
It is located in northern Alberta and is 435 km northeast of Edmonton and about 60 km west of the Saskatchewan border in the middle of the Athabasca oil sands. Nestled in the boreal forest at the confluence of the Athabasca River and the Clearwater River, it is the largest community in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo.
The population of Fort McMurray is 68,000 as of the 2021 Census. This is a population growth of 1.3%. The region is unique because many people move in and out of the region. It’s common for Albertans and other Canadians to move to the area to work for several years and then move back to their home city. People also live in the area seasonally.
Fort McMurray is found near the Athabasca Oil Sands and is considered the heart of one of Alberta’s (and Canada’s) hubs of oil production. Canada has the second-largest oil reserve in the world. It is expected that the oil sands are going to be the economic engine for Canada for the next 25 to 30 years. Oil and supporting industries dominate the local economy.
The top industries in Fort McMurray are:
Most of the top employers in the region are in the oil and gas industry. They include:
You can look for jobs in the Fort McMurray area on the Government of Canada Job Bank website and albertajobcentre.ca.
Working with a local recruitment agency is another option. The top recruiters in the area are Roevin, Fort McMurray Labour Source, Randstad, and Robert Half.
Where you choose to live within a city can affect many things, such as your daily commute, and how close you are to amenities – the grocery store, bank, schools, and parks. Consider your location when choosing a neighbourhood. While your options are fewer in Fort McMurray compared to a larger city, the location you choose still matters.
Living in a smaller town generally comes with more affordable housing costs. However, Fort McMurray’s housing prices are as high or more expensive than some bigger cities. For example, it is estimated that Fort McMurray is about 15% more expensive than Calgary. This is the case because of the limited housing market and high demand for housing. The wildfires in 2016 put even more stress on the housing market and drove up prices even more.
Rental rates start at around $850 per month for a one-bedroom apartment and go up from there. The average rent for an apartment in Fort McMurray is $945 for a bachelor, $1,030 for a one-bedroom, $1,195 for a two-bedroom, and $1,642 for a three-bedroom.
Since rental availability is limited, many oil sand workers choose to live in camps. These are semi-permanent housing structures built by companies to allow workers to live close to the job site. The facilities are high quality and offer all the amenities of a motel. This is a choice for single workers moving to the region.
Use Rentals for Newcomers to search for rental units in Fort McMurray.
It’s also important to get to protect your family, belongings, and finances. Most property owners will require you to have a tenant insurance policy. Without insurance, if there is theft, fire, or water damage, you will have to pay out of pocket. Renter’s insurance covers your belongings and liability. Get more information about renting a home: Renting in Canada: What Newcomers Need to Know.
Buying a home or condo in Fort McMurray is more affordable compared to major cities in Canada such as Toronto or Vancouver. But, it is still one of the more expensive locations in Alberta. According to the Canadian Real Estate Association, the median price for a single-family detached home was $488,950 as of December 2021. This is down 1.4% from the previous year.
To compare housing prices, the average price to buy a home in Edmonton in 2021 was $431,500 and the average price to buy a condo is $194,700. Find out more about buying your first home in Canada: First Time Home Buyer: Newcomer Tips.
Most residents drive a car to get around. The area has several highways. Highway 63 is the only highway between Fort McMurray and Edmonton. Because of the demands of the oil sands industry, this highway boasts some of the highest tonnage per kilometre in Canada and the largest and heaviest loads that trucks have ever carried. It is also one of the most dangerous highways in Canada.
Fort McMurray can also be accessed from Lac La Biche through Highway 881. The city is also served by Highway 69, which is a short spur off Highway 63 that connects Fort McMurray with its airport and a few rural residential developments to the southeast.
If you plan to drive, you will need a valid Alberta driver’s licence. Get more information about driving in Canada here:
Driving in Canada: 10 Essential Facts to Know
Driving Test in Canada: A Full Guide
Tips for Winter Driving to Ensure Your Safety
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo uses a public transit service that includes Fort McMurray. It runs seven days a week. Services consist of local scheduled bus routes, specialized transportation for people with disabilities and school buses. 16 regular bus routes operate daily with two additional weekday rush hour routes to the main industrial areas and a special Saturday service for people in Saprae Creek. The system has reduced weekend service and does not run on most holidays.
The Fort McMurray and Wood Buffalo community continues to attract newcomers to the region. As a smaller community, it relies on fewer resources. The YMCA of Wood Buffalo Immigrant Settlement Services helps people settle through employment, counselling, translation, and community services.
Learn more about Services in Canada to Help Newcomers Settle.
There are several resources new immigrants can use to get language support. You can take language courses, receive translation services, and receive other education through Keyano College, Wood Buffalo Regional Library, and the YMCA of Northern Alberta.
All new immigrants will need a plan to manage their finances. Newcomers can get help at all local banks in Fort McMurray. They have programs to help newcomers open a bank account and get a credit card, or mortgage, and apply for other financial products. Visit a local bank branch to start the process.
Get more banking tips for newcomers:
Top 10 Financial Steps to Take Before You Leave for Canada
Move to Canada | Transferring Cash & Valuables
Open a Bank Account Before Arriving in Canada
Fort McMurray offers education at all levels, including elementary, high school, college, and adult learning. There are opportunities to get training or upgrade your professional skills in or near the city.
There are 24 elementary and secondary schools in the school districts in Fort McMurray. There are six in the rural areas of Wood Buffalo.
Fort McMurray Public School District: This is the public school district for students in Fort McMurray. This includes French Immersion and Islamic School.
Fort McMurray Catholic School District is a faith-based learning environment. It offers French Immersion and First Nations, Metis, and Inuit language programs.
Northland School Division: This goes across Northern Alberta. It includes the rural area surrounding both the Town of Peace River and Wood Buffalo. Greater North Central Francophone Education Region is the Northern Alberta school district for French first language education.
Keyano College is a community college that offers programs at three campuses. It offers programs from General Science to Fine Arts, as well as programs for skilled workers to prepare people to work in the oil sands industry.
Read more about education in Canada:
Schooling in Canada | A Look at the Education System
Higher Education Offers Benefits to Newcomers
As in other parts of Alberta, comprehensive health care services are available. Alberta Health Services, Northern Region coordinates and delivers health care in the Wood Buffalo region. This is part of the province’s health care system.
Fort McMurray offers a variety of community health and specialist services, in addition to a hospital, Northern Lights Regional Health Centre, and two medical centres. For some specialty services, you may need to travel to Edmonton.
Many health services here are free for people who are covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). People who do not have an AHCIP card must pay for health services. As a newcomer to Alberta, you can apply for the AHCIP three months before leaving your country of origin. If you are moving to Alberta from another province or territory in Canada, you can use Alberta health services until you are eligible for health insurance.
If you do not have access to health benefits through your employer, you can get coverage through individual .
In case of an emergency call 9-1-1. This number is the same no matter where you live in Canada.
Finding a doctor once you move to Fort McMurray is important. You can access primary care quickly here, as some Fort McMurray family doctors are accepting new patients. Use this College of Physicians and Surgeons of Albert online search tool to find a doctor. For more information about health care in Canada read: Steps to Access Free Health Care in Canada.
Though more famous for its employment opportunities, Fort McMurray is a unique and vibrant community. People work hard and they play hard. While it lacks big-city entertainment and activities, there are plenty of natural points of interest to explore. The city is one of the best places in the world to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
As a community reliant on the oil sands, the Oil Sands Discovery Centre is a top attraction. You can learn about local history at the Heritage Village, get active at MacDonald Island Park, or check out local art at Points North Gallery. The area also hosts many festivals throughout the year.
The city has restaurants, pubs, and a variety of fun activities. There is a casino, cinema, bowling alley, and other things to do with the family or for adults only.
The natural attractions in the area are what make it unique. You can check out Borealis Park, visit Vista Ridge All Seasons Park, head up to Beacon Hill Lookout, look for Bison at Reclamation Site, or check out the Gateway Hill and Matcheetawin Discovery Trail.
MacDonald Island Park is the main sporting facility in the region. You can check out live music and concerts at the casino and other local establishments.
Fort McMurray is a multicultural community. There are people from over 70 countries and more than 80 languages are spoken by people living in the area. Over 10,000 people speak a language other than English at home.
About 8,000 Filipinos and 7,000 Muslims live in the area representing the largest immigrant population. Overall, more than 28,000 immigrants are working in the oil and gas industry, many of whom live in Fort McMurray.
Fort McMurray is home to different religious beliefs and places to worship groups including the Markaz Ul Islam Mosque and the new Islamic Centre. There are over 20 churches and places of worship throughout the region.
With a humid continental climate and no dry season, Fort McMurray has long, very cold winters and warm, short summers.
The town lies at a lower elevation than most other parts of Alberta. The warm season lasts from May 16 to September 14 with an average daily high temperature above 17°C. The cold season lasts from November 17 to March 5 with an average daily high temperature below -4°C.
The hottest day of the year is July 20, with an average high of 24°C and the coldest day of the year is February 7, with an average low of -21°C.
Fort McMurray has an average annual precipitation of 456 millimetres – falls mainly in the summer months – and an average annual snowfall of 156 centimetres – appears within a range of 5 to 7 months.
Even though it is a smaller town, the cost of housing is higher than the Canadian average. The cost to buy a home can be as expensive as large cities in Alberta such as Calgary and Edmonton. However, the higher cost of living is attributed to the higher than average household income.
As a mainly industrial city, most people move here to work in the oil industry. People are well paid and there is a good opportunity to earn a good living. It is a younger city, with the average age being only 33 years old. However, there is also a high cost of living. It is a specialized job market and you have limited access to big city amenities. It is more of a rural setting.
Yes. There are more than 80 languages spoken in the city. With just over 60,000 residents, this makes it one of the most diverse areas in Canada.
Newcomers to Canada often ask this burning question “how long will it take to get a job?” However, a better question might be “how can I reach my career goals?” By asking this question, it allows you to focus on what you truly love to do and help you to achieve your long-term career goals.
Linda Ryan is the Provincial Manager (Apprenticeship Services), BCCA. Prepare for Canada (PFC) spoke to Ryan to get her valuable insights about how you can commit to your long-term career goals by not applying for jobs. Sound odd? Find out about a smarter approach to achieving career success and the advice that Ryan provides to newcomers.
BCCA-Integrating Newcomers, is a government funded, Canada-wide, pre-arrival career coaching service for high skilled construction professionals immigrating to Canada (*BCCA-IN). The BCCA-IN team specialises in helping newcomers plan for, and achieve, employment success, no matter what city or province they are moving to.
Forget about applying for the job and instead commit to building your long term career!
Linda Ryan
I tell them to forget about applying for the job and instead commit to building their long-term career. And in that one sentence, I manage to dash hopes and yet plant a seed for success. My comment is perplexing until I follow it up with these questions, “what’s your dream job?” or “what’s the career you’d truly love?” Let’s face it, the last time you’ve been asked those questions was when you were a kid, everything was possible, and money didn’t matter.
Well, for immigrants preparing to arrive in a new country, it’s nice to bask in the warm glow of the “I’m in” feeling. This is common, especially after receiving a confirmation letter from the government. However, it can quickly dissipate when the cold reality of “oh crap, how can I afford this?” sets in. So, the best advice I give to clients is to prepare yourself (from both a time and money perspective) for it to take up to six months to find the work you truly love to do.
Hold true to your dream job but be realistic and take small steps to get there.
Linda Ryan
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The worst thing you can do as a newcomer is to accept ‘survival jobs’ too early to earn some cash. Yes, it’s tempting and practical but it can kill your career. This is because it’s so far from your profession that you’ll never be able to use it as a ‘Canadian experience’ reference. Or because it pays so little that you’ll have no spare time and energy to devote to:
Another common mistake is to assume that your out-of-country or in-country experience in a different discipline or industry equates to a role you’re fooling yourself into applying for. I always tell clients to aim for the moon and if you fall you’ll hit a few stars along the way! What I mean is, hold true to your dream job but be realistic and take small steps to get there.
Don’t kid yourself into thinking you can shoehorn your project management experience for financial services companies into project management for construction companies. Or fool yourself that 10 years of engineering in another country will be accepted at face value for 10 years of engineering in Canada. It won’t! While the fundamentals are the same; the industries, credentials, processes, codes, and laws can be very different. Until you have a few years of Canadian experience under your belt, your expertise or seniority will not be considered like-for-like.
Employment Services Help Newcomers Work in Canada
Education Evaluation | What Newcomers Must Know
Career Counselling Helps Newcomers Build Success
Achieve Your Goals in Life By Creating Your Reality
Working in Canada | A Guide to Land Your Dream Job!
I offer three smart and easy steps to take to ensure you land a career-building role faster:
Invest more time in researching roles, duties, companies and less time applying. Don’t adopt the ‘spray and pray’ approach by firing off your resume. Decide that you are a 100% fit for the role (i.e. you could do the job with your eyes closed). Also ensure that the company is a match for you and that you tick the practical boxes (i.e. realistic commute, salary, hours etc.). Do this before you edit your resume.
Take the time to read the job description and critically assess your entire education and career (not just your existing resume), so that you are confident you can demonstrate you are the obvious best match for the role.
Yes, it requires you to park your ego and take a few steps back to get in the door, be employed in a role aligned with your career goals, and earning while learning. So, before you spend time editing your resume or drafting a cover letter ask yourself: Is this role a solid stepping stone for my long-term career goals? Will the role give me opportunities to expand my network, credentials, job prospects in the field I’m interested in? How can I express these goals in my cover letter to test if a potential employer is open to supporting me on my career journey?
Then and only then are you ready to apply for the job.
*The BCCA-Integrating Newcomers program is a free, pre-arrival, Canada-wide service, focused on helping high-skilled newcomers explore and build successful construction careers. Services include one-on-one career guidance, tailored resume, cover letter, LinkedIn advice, and an in-depth skills and education assessment to help newcomers focus on the best career, credentials and connections activities. The Integrating Newcomers team not only has multi-industry experience but are also immigrants who have built successful careers in Canada.
Are you thinking about moving to Vancouver? What about other areas in British Columbia or across Canada? Moving to a new country is an exciting time. And it’s a time when you will need to make important decisions. For many new immigrants, Vancouver is the right city. It is Canada’s largest city on the west coast.
It’s wise for newcomers to research cities in Canada before choosing a new place to call home. Does the job market offer opportunities? Are there housing options that fit your budget? How expensive is the cost of living? These questions will help you make the best decision based on your lifestyle needs.
The City of Vancouver is one of the top destinations for newcomers to Canada, particularly from the Asia-Pacific Region. That’s not surprising as it’s one of the most beautiful, livable cities in Canada and the world. It offers a mild climate, cultural diversity, and impressive natural setting, all found in a growing metropolitan city.
Vancouver is one of the most expensive cities in the country, it is also the most liveable city. It has plans to become the greenest city in the world through its Vancouverism urban planning design philosophy. There are many reasons why it’s an attractive city for new immigrants. Prepare for Canada can guide you with helpful information about living in Vancouver.
Vancouver is a large urban city found in Western Canada. It is part of the Lower Mainland area of British Columbia. The city has the third-highest quality of living in the world. It is one of the most diverse cities in Canada. This helps it to attract new residents, tourists, and economic investors.
The city was founded on First Nations territory, and it was built by immigrants from countries around the world. The Fraser Gold Rush in 1858 first drew significant interest in the region. Thousands of people migrated to the area from the United States and New Westminster. The first European settlers made their way to Vancouver in 1862. The City of Vancouver was incorporated in 1886, the same year the transcontinental train made its way to the west. The city is named after Royal Navy Captain George Vancouver.
Vancouver is an international city surrounded by mountains, lush forests, Vancouver Island, and the fourth-largest port in the Americas. It is an outdoor lovers’ paradise and a gateway to adventure.
The City of Vancouver has a population of 631,486 (Canada Census: 2016). The larger region, known as Metro Vancouver, has 2,643,431 people. It is the 8th most populated city and the third-largest metropolitan area in Canada. The city has the highest population density in Canada. There are over 5,400 people per square kilometre.
Thirteen of the province’s 30 most populous municipalities are in Metro Vancouver. They include the City of Vancouver, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, and White Rock.
Vancouver has a dynamic, highly diversified urban economy with growing knowledge-based sectors and strong global linkages. The city is one of Canada’s largest industrial centres thanks to its location on the Pacific Rim and at the western terminus of Canada’s transcontinental highway and rail routes.
Forestry and mining companies have their headquarters in this city. As well, in recent years, the city has become an increasingly important centre for:
Vancouver is known as “Hollywood North” because of its growing film industry and filming locations.
Vancouver is home to many large corporations, a strong mining industry, technology, film, and healthcare industries. Small businesses are considered the engine of the provincial economy.
Some of the top companies in this city are:
To search for potential job opportunities you can use bcjobs.ca and WorkBC. Working with a recruitment agency is an effective way for newcomers to find work. The top recruiters in Vancouver are Recruiting in Motion, Impact Recruiting, Robert Half, and Randstad Canada.
Where you choose to live will have a big impact on your budget. When considering a neighbourhood, look at the amenities in the area, for example, how close are schools, child care, the grocery store, and medical care? How long will the commute take? Is public transit easily accessible? Consider the real estate cost and the value a neighbourhood offers your family.
Vancouver is one of the most expensive cities in North America. It is the second most expensive city to buy and rent in Canada. Only Toronto is more expensive. And costs keep going up.
While newcomers are attracted to the downtown lifestyle, it comes with high costs. With more affordable housing within the Vancouver metropolitan area, you may want to consider living outside of the city.
Vancouver has the most expensive rental rates in Canada. You will find it challenging to find a place to rent for less than $2,000 per month. The average rent for an apartment in Vancouver is $2048 for a Bachelor, $2211 for a 1 Bedroom, $3421 for a 2 Bedroom, and $4973 for a 3 Bedroom. These rates are significantly higher compared to other smaller cities in the country.
Use Rentals for Newcomers to search for available rental units in Vancouver. Here, you can also find current rental prices in Vancouver, which is helpful since rental prices can change often.
You’ll need renter’s insurance to protect your belongings. Most property owners will require you to have this insurance.
Finding a home in the Vancouver area can be challenging, especially the closer you get to Vancouver proper. Housing affordability is a huge concern in the region, with many people choosing to live in homes in suburban cities like Coquitlam, Surrey, and Richmond, and commuting to Vancouver for work if necessary.
But, over the last decade, people have been moving even further east as housing prices continue to rise. Or, they are choosing smaller, multi-family dwellings instead of single-detached homes. While newcomers commonly want to live downtown for convenience and lifestyle, home purchase prices are higher. The further east you go, the lower the prices.
According to Royal LePage, the average cost to buy a home in Vancouver is $1,253,300. This is a year-over-year increase of 17.1%. The median price for a single-family detached home is $1,707,900. The median price to buy a condo is $717,200. To buy a home, contact a realtor in the area, who will guide you through the home-buying process. Find out more about buying your first home in Canada: First Time Home Buyer: Newcomer Tips
Highway driving is common, but the city has some of the worst traffic congestion in the country. Metro Vancouver’s network of highways is key to connecting communities. Here are the major highways:
If you plan to drive, learn about Getting Your Driving License in Vancouver, BC.
Get more information about driving in Canada:
Driving in Canada: 10 Essential Facts to Know
Driving Test in Canada: A Full Guide
Tips for Winter Driving to Ensure Your Safety
TransLink runs Vancouver’s public transit system. The extensive transit system connects the City of Vancouver and the surrounding cities and towns in the metropolitan area. The various forms of transit include:
For more details, check out Public Transit in Vancouver | How to Get Around with Ease.
The second busiest airport in Canada is the Vancouver International Airport (YVR) located just 12 km from downtown and accessible by public transit.
There are settlement agencies in Vancouver to help new immigrants settle into their new city and country. The main organizations to consider include SUCCESS BC Settlement & Integration, Immigration Services Society of BC, Settlement Orientation Service, and MOSAIC.
There are over 190 languages spoken throughout the city, with Chinese being the most widely spoken language outside of English. Residents can get language support through settlement organizations, the Vancouver Public Library, and other community organizations. If you require, you can also get help using language service providers such as CanTalk and LingoStar.
An important first step is to set up a personal bank account as soon as you arrive. All local banks have programs to help newcomers open a bank account and get a credit card. You can visit a local bank branch to open a bank account and learn about financial products such as a line of credit or mortgage.
Top 10 Financial Steps to Take Before You Leave for Canada
Move to Canada | Transferring Cash & Valuables
Open a Bank Account Before Arriving in Canada
Vancouver has a strong education system from elementary to college and university. It has many learning options for kids, including public, Catholic, and private schools in addition to many childcare and daycare options. It has world-class post-secondary institutions for those enrolling in higher education.
Vancouver has many elementary and high schools for your child’s education. The Vancouver School Board administers about 76 elementary schools, 17 elementary annexes, 18 secondary schools, 7 adult education centres, and 2 Vancouver Learn Network schools. This includes 18 French Immersion schools and a Mandarin bilingual school.
Home to the world-class University of British Columbia (UBC), nationally-renowned Simon Fraser University (SFU), and a wide range of top-notch professional colleges, Metro Vancouver is one of the best places in Canada to pursue higher education.
UBC consistently ranks among the 40 best universities in the world and is among the 20 best public universities. The other public universities are Capilano University, Emily Carr University of Art and Design, and Kwantlen Polytechnic University.
There are five private institutions in the region: Trinity Western University in Langley, University Canada West, NYIT Canada, Fairleigh Dickinson University, and Columbia College.
Vancouver Community College and Langara College are publicly funded college-level schools. They are augmented by private institutions and other colleges in the surrounding areas and offer career, trade, and university-transfer programs.
Read more about education in Canada:
Schooling in Canada | A Look at the Education System
Higher Education Offers Benefits to Newcomers
Vancouver Coastal Health offers medical care across its 13 hospitals. The biggest hospitals in the network include Vancouver General Hospital, Mount Saint Joseph Hospital, and St. Paul’s Hospital.
In case of an emergency call 9-1-1. This number is the same no matter where you live in Canada.
British Columbia has a government-funded health insurance plan called the Medical Services Plan (MSP). It is only for British Columbia residents who are Canadian citizens, landed immigrants, or government-assisted refugees. You can get MSP if you’re an international student with a study permit, or if you have a work permit for six months or longer.
MSP pays for health costs such as visits to the doctor, most medical tests, and treatments. But, there are some health costs that are not covered including dentists and physiotherapists. For prescription drugs and services that MSP does not cover, you can pay for added health insurance plans. Third-party health insurance is offered through some employer benefit plans.
Finding a family doctor when you move to a new city is important. Contact HealthLink BC by calling 8-1-1 to speak with a health service navigator. They will provide you with information about finding a family doctor in your community. You may be put on a waiting list. Visit a local walk-in clinic for non-emergency care if you do not have a doctor.
Learn more about health care in Canada: Steps to Access Free Health Care in Canada
Metro Vancouver is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, thanks to its mild climate and proximity to the ocean, mountains, rivers and lakes. So you’ll find world-class parks, including the 404 hectares of prime downtown land that forms Stanley Park, and smaller parks that host recreational facilities, community centres, and special amenities such as off-leash dog areas and skate parks. Vancouver has close to 300 city-run parks, beaches, and gardens.
Within a 20-to-30-minute drive from downtown Vancouver are the North Shore Mountains, with three ski areas: Cypress Mountain, Grouse Mountain, and Mount Seymour. Mountain bikers have created world-renowned trails across the North Shore. And, the Capilano River, Lynn Creek, and Seymour River, also on the North Shore, provide opportunities to white water enthusiasts. For more information on recreational activities in Vancouver, click here.
Vancouver is the perfect combination of big-city living with countless outdoor adventures. There is always something to do and events going on. Some of the most popular attractions with residents and tourists include Canada Place, Granville Island, the Brockton Point Totem Poles, Chinatown, Science World, and the Museum of Anthropology. If you enjoy film and music, you can attend the Vancouver International Film Festival, Vancouver Folk Music Festival, or the Vancouver International Jazz Festival.
Vancouver has no shortage of world-class restaurants and nightlife. If you are into the theatre, check out what is playing at Arts Club Theatre Company on Granville Island, and Bard on the Beach. If you like to dance or have a drink with friends, Granville Entertainment District has the city’s highest concentration of bars and nightclubs. Gastown and Davie Village are great locations for upscale restaurants and international cuisine.
Vancouver is known for its mountain ranges and unique natural landscapes that offer many activities. While there are too many to mention some activities include whale watching, skiing at Whistle Mountain, walking across the Capilano Suspension Bridge, or the Stanley Park seawall, the world’s longest waterfront path.
Vancouver is a sports town. It was host to the 2010 Winter Olympics and Paralympics. The city is home to the Vancouver Canucks hockey team, BC Lions football team, the Vancouver Whitecaps soccer team, and the Vancouver Giants of the Western Hockey League.
There are plenty of concert venues across the city and it’s common to find live music and concerts at Rogers Arena, Queen Elizabeth Theatre, BC Place Stadium, and Pacific Coliseum. If you are looking for something more intimate, check out Commodore Ballroom, Orpheum Theatre, or the Vogue Theatre.
Vancouver is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in Canada. About 42% of the city’s population are immigrants. This is over 260,000 people. In recent years, about 40,000 new immigrants move to the city each year.
52% of the population are not native English speakers. 16% speak Chinese as their primary language at home. Just over 50% of residents are a visible minority. 27% of the population is Chinese. This is the largest minority group, followed by South Asian (6%), Filipino (5.9%), and Southeast Asian (2.8%). 2.2% of the population is Aboriginal.
As a diverse city, Vancouver hosts many annual cultural celebrations including Lunar New Year, Black History Month, Eid, Diwali Festival of Lights, and other events and festivals.
Just over 40% of residents are Christian. Close to 7% are Sikh and 3.5% are Buddhist. Another 40% of the residents in Vancouver have no religious affiliation. Check here to find churches and other places of worship.
Vancouver’s oceanic climate is the most moderate in Canada, with little snow. While Vancouver is one of the warmest cities in Canada, it’s known for rainy weather. The wettest months are November and December. In the summer, the temperature can reach the high 20s and July and August are the driest months.
Occasional cold arctic outflows can arrive in the winter which can last a week or more and lead to snowfall.
The annual average temperature in the region is 11°C and is like other coastal cities like Seattle, Amsterdam, and London (UK).
Yes, it’s one of the most expensive cities in Canada. It has exceptionally high real estate prices, rental prices, and cost of living. So, while it’s more affordable to live in the surrounding suburbs, even then, housing costs are still much higher than in other areas in Canada.
Vancouver is a top destination for new immigrants to Canada. It is the most popular location for immigrants from China and other Asian countries. Its natural beauty, mild climate, and strong economy make it attractive to newcomers.
There is no other city like Vancouver. You can look out your window and see the mountains in the distance from your urban home. It offers everything you want out of a modern international city. The economy is strong. It has world-class post-secondary institutions, and its natural wonder speaks for itself.
There are some drawbacks. The city is expensive, it has considerable traffic and its homelessness issues are well documented. Weigh the pros and cons to decide if Vancouver is the right city for you.
For more information, tools, and free webinars about living in Canada visit our Settling in Canada resource page. We’ll help you to settle successfully!