As Canada’s largest city and the centre of the Greater Toronto Area, Toronto is home to over three million people, according to the city of Toronto’s website.
This city ranks high on most people’s lists of potential destination cities to move to, and for good reason.
Moving to this city is an experience of its own, and it will change your entire perspective of the world. It is a unique and multicultural city, brimming with opportunities for both work and play.
Before you move to Toronto, there are five things you must know, and these have been highlighted below:
- This City Celebrates Diversity
Toronto is one of the most multicultural cities, with many of its residents belonging to a minority group.
There are hundreds of languages spoken here, and regardless of where you are from, chances are someone from your home country already lives in this city.
Renowned for its exceptional diversity, Toronto is one of the most welcoming cities in the world.
Despite the understandably high rent costs and double-digit sales tax, people flock here for a reason. Toronto offers irresistible career opportunities and incredible experiences.
- Commuting
The idea of commuting in Toronto can be daunting.
The city offers various transportation methods, each with its own set of pros and cons.
You will soon discover, after moving here, that every resident and Torontonian has their own opinion on getting from Point A to Point B.
With a downtown hub filled with financial hotspots and investment companies, an abundance of popular restaurants and eateries, and more entertainment options than you can imagine, it is no surprise that millions of people commute around the city daily.
Your options for commuting include owning a car, the subways, streetcars, trains, and buses. Toronto is also home to two airports, Toronto Pearson International Airport and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.
- Rentals
Buying a house in Toronto is expensive; high housing costs are a fact of life in this city.
For most people, fully furnished rentals available in Downtown Toronto are the perfect answer to that problem.
While Toronto rents are high by Canadian standards, vacancy rates are low, so clearly that isn’t a problem for those looking to live here.
The rental journey in Toronto can be both exciting and overwhelming, so choosing a furnished short-term rental can help take the pressure off while you look for your own place. Before you start apartment hunting, figure out how much you can afford to spend and set a realistic budget from there to avoid financial stress.
- Day Care Costs
Toronto has a high demand for quality, licensed childcare, and waitlists for popular day care centers can be long, we’re talking pre-birth long at times!
Securing a spot requires early application, and there are often fees to join waitlists.
Be prepared to pay because fees in Toronto can be significant, particularly for babies and toddlers. Home-based child care is also available and you can find agencies that support home-based providers and options.
- Coffee Culture
Lastly, Toronto is home to some serious coffee lovers.
This city boasts a diverse culture, all centred on a good old cuppa Joe. With a strong focus on craftsmanship and quality, the independent coffee shop scene runs alongside larger chains.
Many coffee shops have a preference for locally roasted beans and hire highly-skilled baristas to offer a delectate coffee experience that you will never forget.
To End
Now that you know what to expect, you can focus on starting your moving timeline.
Toronto will welcome you with open arms, but now that you have learned a bit more about this massive metropolitan, you can enjoy your time there even more!
