Toronto is Canada’s largest city, and there’s a reason it’s home to some 6 million people. With incredible food, culture, diversity, and sights to see, the capital of Ontario is a vivacious place to live; but, living in Toronto also comes with some challenges. Here are 7 pros and cons of moving to Toronto.
Pro: The Food!
Img: Yelp
Toronto is known for having some of the best international cuisine in Canada. Have a leisurely dim sum meal at Asian Legend in Chinatown, authentic pasta dishes at Carisma in Little Italy, or inventive comfort food at Pow Wow Cafe in Kensington Market. There’s not much you can’t grub on in Toronto, and you’ll quickly find there are so many options you’ll have a hard time trying them all!
Con: It Can Be Expensive
Toronto has the highest median rental prices in Canada, and that’s just one of the cost of living aspects that are on the steeper end in this city. Utilities can cost upwards of C$155 and transportation, food, and drinks are all a bit pricier than they would be in other Canadian cities. For example, an imported craft beer in Toronto will run you around C$8, a meal for one at a casual restaurant will cost around C$18, and a monthly transportation pass will be $145.
Pro: Booming Start Up Scene
On the bright side, Toronto is home to a thriving business and entrepreneurial scene. In fact, it recently passed up New York in CBRE Group Inc.’s annual survey to be named the #4 tech talent market in North America. Tech start-ups and big name companies are bringing thousands of jobs and talented employees to Toronto, so there’s plenty of job opportunity. With this thriving business scene, locals might be paying a pretty penny to live in the TO, but they certainly have the opportunity to earn enough to support their lifestyle.
Con: It’s a Bit Crowded…But That Might Change
Like any big city, Toronto has both a large resident and tourist population. Along with the booming tech scene, Toronto has always been a desirable place to live, which has consistently drawn new residents annually. You might be surprised though, to know that a study by the Fraser Institute found Toronto to be only the 19th most densely populated city in the world. In fact, it came in third for Canadian cities, following Vancouver and Montreal.
Pro: Incredible Neighbourhoods
From bohemian vibes to historic districts, there’s no shortage of lively neighbourhoods in Toronto. Check out the Yonge-Eglinton neighbourhood, where there’s always a coffee shop or new restaurant to try. If you’re looking for a place to live that’s close to work, this hood also offers one of the easiest commutes to downtown. Kensington Market area is as bohemian as it gets, and young residents and families alike come here to explore its eclectic mix of shops and restaurants. Its neighbour, Chinatown, is an energetic little neighbourhood that draws locals and visitors to its lively streets.
The Distillery District in Old Toronto is a national historic site and pedestrian-only walking area. It celebrates the culture and tradition of Toronto and offers art galleries, event venues, and eateries. The Annex is popular among students attending the University of Toronto, and its casual eateries and pubs add to its laid-back, youthful atmosphere.
Con: Very Hot Summers, Cold Winters
Summer temperatures reach, on average, around 35 degrees celsius, and the days are extremely humid. Hot and humid weather in a city can be a dealbreaker for many looking for the perfect place to move. On the plus side, though, Toronto has some great beaches you can head to on those hot, summer days. Woodbine Beach and Centre Island are great places to start. Toronto is also chilly in the winters and gets a fair amount of snow. However, its location on the shores of Lake Ontario keeps it mildly cooler in the summers and slightly warmer in the winter than other Canadian cities.
Pro: Multi-Cultural Diversity
The sheer number of languages spoken in Toronto–more than 140–is a testament to Toronto’s incredible diverse population. Residents flock from all over the globe to live in this business, cultural, and food mecca. In 2016, it was named by BBC Radio as the most diverse city in the world, citing that over 51 percent of its residents were born outside of Canada. It’s also home to more than 230 nationalities. This city is welcoming to anyone and everyone, and you’ll feel that way the moment you arrive.
Toronto, like many other cities, has its challenges, but it also has some major perks. Considering living in Toronto? Be sure to check out our apartments for rent and find one that works for you.
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