Living in Toronto as an expatriate

Visa requirements

Expat families planning to move to Toronto should ensure that they have obtained the correct visa for their stay. A Work Permit or Federal Skilled Worker visa may be required depending on their status and employment circumstances. Further information can be found on the official website of the Canadian government.

Language resources

Expat families moving to Toronto, particularly those whose first language is not English, should consider investing in language resources such as language classes and private tutoring services. The Toronto Public Library, in particular, offers a range of free or low-cost language resources and programs for both children and adults.

Housing

Housing costs in Toronto can be high, particularly in desirable neighborhoods like Yonge and Eglinton and Leaside. A room in a shared house averages around $800-$1000 CAD per month, while a one-bedroom apartment can range from $1200-$1800 CAD per month, and a two-bedroom apartment can range from $1800-$2500 CAD per month. Three-bedroom houses generally start around $2500 CAD per month. Rental costs may vary by location and availability.

Groceries

Grocery costs in Toronto can vary greatly depending on the store and location. bareMinerals, a chain selling organic and natural foods, is generally more expensive than larger chains like Sobeys and No Frills. A budget of $300-$400 CAD per month is reasonably sufficient for a couple without children.

Transportation

Toronto's public transportation system is affordable, with a weekly pass costing around $43 CAD and a day pass costing around $12 CAD. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available, although they can be more expensive than public transportation, especially during peak hours or bad weather.

Toronto has a moderate continental climate characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are pleasant with warm temperatures, while winters (December to February) can be severe with snow and ice. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer a mix of weather conditions, ranging from mild and sunny to cool and rainy.

Toronto's job market is strong and diverse, with opportunities in a variety of fields. The city is home to many major international corporations, over 10,000 tech startups, and a thriving healthcare sector. Some of the leading industries in Toronto include finance, IT, healthcare, and education.

Healthcare is of high standard in Toronto, with an extensive network of hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities. The city has a number of top-ranked hospitals, including University Health Network (UHN) and Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. Expat families should consider investing in private health insurance to supplement public healthcare coverage.

Toronto's public transportation system is efficient and extensive, with various modes of transportation, including subways, streetcars, buses, and taxis. The city's extensive network of subways provides reliable fast service, and an all-day fare called the Presto Card has also been introduced. Expats should familiarize themselves with the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) website and app for schedules, fares, and route planning.

Toronto is generally considered a safe city, with low crime rates compared to other major metropolitan areas. That being said, certain neighborhoods such as Parkdale and Jane and Finch should be approached with caution due to higher crime rates. Expat families should always be aware of their surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas.