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Moving to Canada is a big decision. And choosing the right city to settle in is another crucial decision. The city you select will affect your career, earning potential, living expenses, and quality of life. And, it can greatly determine your future success in Canada. Kitchener-Waterloo region is one of many cities to consider living in Ontario.
Choosing the right city to call home is a decision you cannot take lightly. Researching your destination city in Canada is vital. Importantly, you need to understand the local job market and the housing market because these two factors will impact your financial success. For example, you need to understand if your skills match the local labour market to secure a job. And, you need to understand how affordable the local housing market is. Housing costs in Canada vary. For example, you could rent a larger house in a small city for the same cost as renting a small apartment in Toronto or Vancouver.
Prepare for Canada can guide you with helpful information about living and working in the Kitchener-Waterloo region.
The Kitchener-Waterloo region is an active, thriving place to live, work, study and invest. Immigrants come from all over the world to make the region their home in Canada. It has a thriving technology sector, is along a major highway and is the 4th largest Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) in Ontario. Commonly referred to as KW or the Tri-cities, the CMA includes the three urban centres of Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge plus, four scenic rural townships: North Dumfries, Wellesley, Wilmot, and Woolwich.
KW is a popular and affordable alternative to living in Toronto and offers a mix of big-city benefits and small-town charm. From KW, you can drive to the nearby cities of Toronto, London, Brampton, and Hamilton in about one hour. The area is close to nearby airports including the Region of Waterloo International Airport, London International Airport, and Toronto Pearson International Airport.
Over 623,000 people live in Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge (as of 2020). More than half live in Kitchener. The population has been steadily increasing by about 1.5% – 2% per year. However, over the past few years, it has been one of the fastest-growing regions in Ontario. It is expected to reach 729,000 people by 2031.
The KW region has a diverse economy that covers a range of sectors from manufacturing to high-tech industries. The area historically also has one of the lowest unemployment rates in Ontario.
The city of Waterloo has significant insurance and high-tech sectors. Kitchener is known for its manufacturing industry.
The region is home to world-class employment and the employment rate is one of the highest in Ontario. With a strong manufacturing base and other industries to provide meaningful employment, it is also a fast-growing hub for:
The KW region has many large employers such as Sun Life Financial, the University of Waterloo, Manulife Financial, Sandvine, and Wilfrid Laurier University.
The city is also home to three well-known think tanks: the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, the Institute for Quantum Computing, and the Centre for International Governance Innovation. Together with Kitchener and Cambridge, Waterloo is part of Canada’s Technology Triangle (CTT), a joint economic development initiative that markets the region internationally.
Some of the area’s top employers include:
The job growth rate is on the rise. Total employment is close to 290,000 (2017). The region has the 10th largest workforce and the 4th largest manufacturing workforce in Canada. The top industries that are hiring are technology, manufacturing, insurance, and health care.
You can search for jobs through local recruiters such as Randstad Canada, RobertHalf, Biznets Professional Recruitment, Adecco Staffing, and MaxSys.
A key priority when moving to KW includes finding the perfect place to call home. And, it’s common for new immigrants to rent or live in a short-term rental before buying a house in KW.
Waterloo has a range of housing types with various sizes, characteristics, and prices. Relatively, you’ll find that housing prices are affordable, lower than in Toronto and the surrounding area, but higher than in some other southern Ontario communities located away from Toronto.
It’s best to research the rental housing market before you arrive so that you have an understanding of costs. You can use online rental sites such as Rentals for Newcomers to search for available rental units in the KW area. Here, you can also find current rental prices. This is helpful since prices can change often. However, it’s best to conduct your search for rental housing when you arrive in Canada so you can physically view the apartment and meet with the landlord. This is also the best way to avoid rental scams.
| CITY | AVERAGE RENT 1-BEDROOM APARTMENT | AVERAGE RENT 2-BEDROOM APARTMENT |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchener | $1,867 | $2,324 |
| Waterloo | $1,629 | $2,450 |
| Cambridge | $1,906 | $2,333 |
When renting a home or apartment, it’s also important to buy renter’s insurance. This will protect your family, belongings, and finances from unforeseen events and liability. While renters’ insurance is optional, many landlords require it as part of your lease agreement. Get more information about renting a home: Renting in Canada: What Newcomers Need to Know
In comparison to Canada’s largest cities, Vancouver and Toronto, the KW region offers more affordable housing.
| CITY | SINGLE-FAMILY DETACHED HOME MEDIAN PRICE | CONDOMINIUM MEDIAN PRICE |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge | $855,300 | $467,300 |
| Vancouver | $1,747,600 | $766,700 |
| Toronto | $1,399,000 | $725,400 |
To buy a home, contact a local realtor 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
Kitchener-Waterloo is conveniently located close to Highway 401, providing quick access to other major cities in the region. Highways 7 and 8 also pass through the area. It is common for residents to commute in and out of the city for work.
Drivers must have a valid Ontario driver’s licence. You must be at least 16 to drive and pass the graduated licensing system to get a full G licence. You require a Class A or D licence to operate commercial vehicles.
Getting Your Drivers License in Ontario
Driving Test in Canada: A Full Guide
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Getting Your Driving License in Canada
The Grand River Transit system operates a bus and light rail system within the KW region. For maps, routes, and schedules, click here.
The cost to ride public transit varies depending on the route, method, and distance. Click here for fares and routes. And with GO Bus and Train services, you can live in the region and still have quick and convenient access to Toronto.
The KW area is diverse and welcomes immigrants from around the globe. You can find settlement agencies across the region to help you adapt to your new community and access other services. Refugees and new immigrants can use services such as:
Kitchener-Waterloo Multicultural Centre.
If you want to have your English language skills assessed or get language support, you can access many local programs. For example, Conestoga College, St. Louis Adult Learning Centres, English at First, and Renison University College offer Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) classes. Work-specific programs are also available.
All local banks in Waterloo have programs to help newcomers open a bank account and get a credit card. You can learn about getting a mortgage, personal loans, and investments. 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
There are many learning opportunities for your children in the Kitchener Waterloo Region. There are separate boards for catholic and public education.
Waterloo region has 121 schools – 103 elementary schools and 16 high schools. There are 46 Catholic elementary schools and five Catholic high schools. In addition, Kitchener-Waterloo has several private, adult, and continuing education institutions.
The region is home to two universities and one technical college:
University of Waterloo is well known for its computer science, and mathematics, and is the top Canadian university for engineering.
Wilfrid Laurier University is known for its business and economic programs.
Conestoga College is consistently rated as one of the best colleges in Ontario.
Read more about education in Canada:
Schooling in Canada | A Look at the Education System
Higher Education Offers Benefits to Newcomers
Four hospitals serve the KW region including Grand River Hospital, Freeport Campus, St. Mary’s General Hospital, and Cambridge Memorial Hospital. In case of an emergency call 9-1-1. This number is the same no matter where you live in Canada.
For prescription medications and services that the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) does not cover, you can buy private insurance.
Some employers offer third-party health insurance as part of their benefits package. Otherwise, you can take out an individual policy. For more information about health care in the Kitchener-Waterloo region, click here.
The KW region, like many other areas in Ontario, has a shortage of doctors, so finding one can be difficult. Start looking for a physician who is taking new patients as soon as you arrive in the region. Register with Health Care Connect to find a doctor. Learn more about health care in Canada: Steps to Access Free Health Care in Canada
Waterloo is a great place to work, attend school, and raise a family. There are many things for new immigrants to do for fun and leisure. The region has historic landmarks, a broad selection of excellent restaurants, thriving farmers’ markets, art galleries, museums, antique shops, and factory outlets.
The top attraction in the region is Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest. Each year people since 1969, people love to celebrate the second-largest Oktoberfest in the world. It is also home to many other events such as the Kitchener-Waterloo Multicultural Festival, Kitchener Blues Fest, and Kultrun World Music Festival.
The KW area is filled with diverse restaurants, pubs, and bars. There are many locations featuring European and German cuisine. The downtown areas in Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge are great places to get a bite to eat.
Waterloo Region has many parks and trails along the Grand River for residents and visitors to explore. Larger parks, like Waterloo Park and RIM Park, have ball diamonds, sports fields, picnic areas, public washrooms and access to transit and parking.
The region is home to the Kitchener Rangers of the Ontario Hockey League and the KW Titans of the National Basketball League of Canada. The entertainment scene offers a wealth of live theatre, concerts by local and visiting artists, and performances by the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony.
According to the 2021 Statistics Canada census, 146,575 immigrants live in the Waterloo Region. The region has the 8th highest proportion of immigrants in the province. Between 3,000 and 4,000 new immigrants move to the area annually.
In the last decade, the greatest number of immigrants were Asian, of which 18,265 were from India. European-born immigrants made up 47,630 with the highest number of immigrants coming from the United Kingdom with 10,130 people.
Since the Waterloo Region has German settlement roots dating back to 1916, there is also a large German community. And, there are more than 50,000 people in the region with German ethnic origins.
Waterloo Region is home to many places of worship, providing faith communities across the city with reflective spaces. For a list of churches and other places of worship in the Waterloo Region, click here.
The region has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons and large temperature differences. It has warm summer months and moderate winters.
Winter usually lasts from mid-December to mid-April and this is when you can expect snowfall. The average high in January is -3.1°C and in July rises to 25.9°C.
Housing in the KW area is less expensive compared to other Ontario cities. A major benefit is the average salary is comparable to what you get in big cities, so the overall cost of living is lower. There is ample opportunity to find affordable housing in KW and surrounding communities.
Kitchener-Waterloo offers new immigrants many benefits. It is a safe and affordable community and offers many great festivals and cultural events. It’s also close to other cities. You can also live in surrounding communities, with many housing options. One drawback people often express is it is a student city because of the two universities. Traffic can also be heavy during rush hour.
Many people compare cities in Ontario to Toronto when thinking about where to move. The KW region offers many of the same career opportunities as Toronto, especially in technology, but the cost of living is about 20% cheaper. You are only an hour drive from Toronto, so you can still enjoy the big city amenities without the higher cost.
Many newcomers are drawn to Toronto, Canada’s largest city and the most diverse in the world, for its exciting atmosphere. However, the cost of living in Toronto is high. Making the right choice about where to live is crucial for your career and finances. You’ll need to compare Toronto’s job market, career prospects, housing options and costs, and quality of life with other locations in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and across Canada. Discover what to know about living in Toronto to help you make an informed decision.
Toronto is the financial capital of Canada and the second-largest financial services center in North America. About 40 percent of Canada’s business headquarters are here, including the country’s largest banks. Toronto is the capital of the Province of Ontario and is located on the north shore of Lake Ontario.
It was settled in 1750 as Fort Rouille, established as York in 1793, and incorporated as Toronto in 1834. The city amalgamated with neighbouring towns in 1953 as Metro Toronto. In 1998 it amalgamated as the City of Toronto with much great development since then.
Known as the ‘city of neighbourhoods’ Toronto has more than 240 neighbourhoods across six local boroughs: : East York, Etobicoke, North York, Old Toronto, Scarborough, and York.
The population of the City of Toronto topped 3 million in 2024. The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) population is approximately 7.1 million.
The GTA includes the City of Toronto and four regional municipalities:
Halton Region includes: Burlington, Oakville, Milton, and Halton Hills.
Peel Region includes: Brampton, Mississauga, and Caledon.
York Region includes: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughn, and Whitchurch-Stouffville
Durham Region includes: Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa, Clarington, Uxbridge, Scogog, and Brock.
Toronto, a multicultural city with world-class amenities including education and healthcare, provides ample opportunities for career advancement. However, the high cost of living and traffic congestion might deter those who prefer a slower pace or smaller community.
Toronto is the most diverse city in Canada with a strong support system for newcomers, including settlement services. You will have access to resources, local ethnic communities, and services to ease your transition to Canada. This makes it an ideal city for newcomers.
It’s expensive to live in Toronto. But, it offers more job opportunities than other cities in Canada. It is an ideal location for career-focused individuals. There are many business opportunities, and the city is economically stable. However, you have to earn a high salary to live comfortably.
Toronto’s diverse economy offers business and professional opportunities in everything from technology to green energy, film, retail, and financial services. It is Canada’s business and financial capital and the second-largest financial services centre in North America.
Toronto-based businesses export over $70 billion in goods and services to every corner of the globe with retail sales of $62 billion annually. The city’s economy relies on innovation and new ideas to create economic wealth.
Key industries are:
This city is home to major employers in many industries. Some of the top employers in the region are:
The city is also home to 9 of Canada’s 10 largest law practices, 9 of the top 10 accounting firms, and all 10 top human resources and benefits firms.
Approximately 35% of jobs are in downtown Toronto across all sectors including finance, technology, retail, and service. Toronto is North America’s fastest-growing tech market, offering unique career opportunities.
Toronto’s thriving tourism industry accounted for $9 billion in 2024. With hundreds of conferences, concerts, and events, there are many hospitality and customer service jobs.
While wages are higher than anywhere else in Canada, so is the cost of living in Toronto. Research the cost of living, salary estimates for your occupation, and housing prices to ensure you can live comfortably.
Local recruitment agencies such as Randstad Canada, IQ Partners, and Motion Recruitment, can help you when you arrive in Canada.
Where you live is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when you move to a new city. It’s important to consider cost and availability. Because it’s expensive to live in Toronto, given the high cost of housing, many people choose to live in surrounding cities in the GTA.
While many newcomers want to live in Toronto for convenience and lifestyle, it comes with higher rental and home-buying prices. Living further from the downtown core means you’ll likely be able to afford a larger home in a quieter setting. But, if you work downtown, your daily commute will be longer.
Searching for your first home in Canada? Join this exclusive session for key insights on housing market conditions, affordable options, and renting without credit history. Tailored for newcomers settling in the next six month, register now for valuable tips and a free guide!
REGISTER FOR THE WEBINARRentals for Newcomers and other websites can help you search for rentals and research current prices in Toronto. As of February 2025, the average cost to rent an apartment or condo in Toronto is $2,364 for a 1-bedroom, $3,084 for a 2-bedroom, and $3,642 for a 3-bedroom.
Buying a home in this city is expensive and prices continue to rise. Toronto has always had some of the highest real estate costs, and low housing supply is increasing prices.
| Type of Home | Average Price | % Change from Jan 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Single-Family Detached Home | $1,377,430 | + 2% |
| Semi-Detached Home | $1,047,728 | +0.9% |
| Townhouse | $983,856 | + 2.1% |
| Condos | $970,675 | -1.7% |
Source: WOWA, January 2025
When buying a home, consider these first-time home buyer tips for newcomers.
Toronto has the busiest roadways in North America. It is the main hub for road, rail, and air transportation. It has an extensive highway system with over 400,000 vehicles using Highway 401 and roughly 2.5 million daily commuters.
There are six major highways:
Drivers must know how to drive safely in winter and on highways with high traffic volumes.
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Toronto residents can travel within Toronto and to other GTA cities using public transit including subways, Rapid Transit (RT), buses, streetcars, and GO trains.
The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) operates the transit system. The Toronto Streetcar system is North America’s largest and busiest light-rail system.
GO Transit operates a regional transit service within the GTA. Public transit offers a great alternative to buying and operating a car in Toronto. Many people in Toronto prefer public transit to reduce travel time and avoid road congestion.
Public transit costs vary based on the mode of travel and distance. Learn more about Public Transit in Toronto.
Pearson International Airport (YYZ) located in Mississauga along Highway 401 is one of the busiest in the world. Toronto is also home to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ). All airports are accessible using public transit.
Many settlement agencies can help newcomers adapt to life in Canada and Toronto. Settlement agencies can help you find a house, job, childcare, and get information about healthcare and social services.
There are hundreds of settlement agencies in the Greater Toronto Area. To find one close to your home, click here. Learn more about services in Canada to help newcomers settle.
The city is a mosaic of more than 150 languages spoken daily. Over 30% of Toronto residents speak a language other than English or French at home. There are hundreds of ethnocultural organizations, including professional associations and community centres in the city.
3-1-1 is a special telephone number for non-emergency municipal services and offers information in more than 180 languages. The City of Toronto website provides information in more than 50 languages.
All banks in Toronto have programs to help new immigrants open a bank account get a credit card, or mortgage, and learn about financial services and products. You can open a bank account before arriving in Canada.
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The City of Toronto offers many education options including licensed child care centers, public, Catholic, francophone, bilingual, language immersion, private, and religious schools.
Toronto also has threee universities and five colleges that offer training for almost every profession and skill. If you are looking for child care services, click here to find licensed child care centres.
Education in Canada is mandatory for children between five and 16 and they can attend public or private schools.
There are 583 public schools within the Toronto District School Board and 195 schools in the Catholic District School Board. French-language public education and private schools are also an option. Discover more about schooling in Canada and how to register your children.
Toronto is a Canadian leader in the number of post-secondary schools and graduates with more than 15,000 medical/ biotech researchers, two top-ranked MBA schools, and excellent engineering, computer sciences, and multi-media programs.
Universities include Ryerson University, York University, University of Toronto, and OCAD University. Colleges include Centennial College, George Brown College, Humber College, and Seneca College.
There are over 30 hospitals located across the city. Toronto General Hospital is ranked as one of the top hospitals in the world. Toronto has one of the highest standards in the world for healthcare and medical services. The city has world-class hospitals, medical communities, and research facilities.
In case of an emergency call 9-1-1. This number is the same no matter where you live in Canada.
Toronto residents are eligible for Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). This provincially-funded medical plan supplies free, essential hospital and medical care to permanent residents in Ontario.
Applying for the OHIP card is one of the first things you do when you arrive to ensure you and your family receive vital health care. You can buy private health insurance to cover the waiting period for the provincial healthcare program, or for medication and services that Ontario Health does not cover. Some people have third-party health insurance through their employer benefits packages.
Finding a family doctor is a crucial step to ensuring your health and well-being. Register with Health Care Connect to search for a family doctor. You may be put on a waiting list.
If you are unable to find a family doctor, you can go to one of many non-emergency walk-in clinics in the city. Get more information about health care in Canada: Steps to Access Free Health Care in Canada
As the biggest city in Canada, Toronto has something to offer everyone. Whether you are a foodie, or sports fanatic, love art, music, theatre, or the outdoors, you’ll find many things to do in the city. There is always something going on. And, you can often find many free events or low-cost activities.
There are many world-class attractions in the city. Some top places to visit include Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto Zoo, and Eaton Centre.
The city is also home to events such as the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), Canadian National Exhibition, Luminato, Nuit Blanche, Caribbean Festival, Toronto Pride, and many more.
Toronto has restaurants galore. Some of the best places to eat are in the Distillery District, Dundas Square, and Queen Street West. You can wander through Kensington Market and St. Lawrence Market to sample food, shop, and more. The Entertainment District, King West, and many other locations throughout the city offer you all types of bars, pubs, and clubs.
Even though it’s an urban city, there are still a lot of outdoor activities. You can walk along the Harbourfront, visit Toronto Island, High Park, Scarborough Bluffs, and many other parks throughout the city. It offers ample green space, over 1,600 parks to explore, and beautiful beaches on Lake Ontario.
Toronto is a sports city. It is home to the Maple Leafs of the National Hockey League, the Raptors of the National Basketball Association, the Blue Jays of Major League Baseball, Toronto FC of Major League Soccer, and the Argos of the Canadian Football League. And, it’s home to the Hockey Hall of Fame.
The city is also a music hub. From small gigs in bars to concerts for 50,000 people, it has it all. Roy Thompson Concert Hall is home to the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. You can also enjoy outdoor concerts by the lake at the Budweiser stage, see top artists in Scotiabank Area, and local acts at music clubs throughout the city.
Toronto is the most culturally diverse city in Canada. Each year tens of thousands of newcomers move here from around the world. In 2021, there were 1,286,140 immigrants, or 47% of the population.
The top represented ethnicities are: China (10%), Philippines (9%), India (6%), Sir Lanka (4%), Italy (4%), and Jamaica (4%). United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Portugal, and Guyana are 3% each. The top three countries for recent immigrants are the Philippines, China, and India. More than 23,000 residents identify as Aboriginal, 86% are First Nations, and 14% are Metis.
As a diverse city, there are many places of worship in Toronto to practise your religious beliefs. Though all Toronto neighbourhoods have sacred spaces for believers to gather, certain city regions have a larger number of religious communities than others. The main religions that people follow in the city include Christianity, Muslim, Hinduism, Judaism, and Buddhism.
Toronto has a moderate climate because of its location on the shores of Lake Ontario. The area has four distinct seasons:
Spring is a rainy season. The average temperature is about 12°C in March, April, and early May.
Summer begins on June 21, but July and August are the warmest and most humid months with daytime temperatures usually above 20°C and often rising above 30°C.
Fall has cooler weather and it rains often. Average temperatues are about 10°C to 12°C.
Winter is cold and it snows often. The snow stays on the ground for weeks or months. The t From December to February, the temperature is usually below 0°C, day and night. Temperatures can drop below -25°C.
Those who live in Ottawa love it. If you are moving to Canada, it is a top city to consider. As the Nation’s capital city, Ottawa, Ontario offers many career options to help you succeed financially once you arrive.
Where you decide to live in Canada will have a significant impact on your future. So you need to research what the city has to offer. It’s important to think about the housing market and your career options, and how they will affect your family and lifestyle. Ottawa is a large and diverse city in Canada, which is one reason why new immigrants select it as a preferred destination. This overview of living in Ottawa can help you decide if it will meet your personal and professional needs.
Ottawa is the capital of Canada and the city plays a vital role in Canadian history. Canada’s Parliament building towers over the city, which, along with the famed Rideau Canal, makes it a picturesque place to live.
The city is located in Eastern Ontario, and it borders Gatineau, Quebec. Gatineau is on the north bank of the Ottawa River and together they form the National Capital Region (NCR). It is also between Toronto and Montreal, and north of the eastern United States. The city was founded in 1826 as Bytown and incorporated as Ottawa in 1855. It was named the capital of Canada with Confederation in 1867.
Ottawa’s multicultural and bilingual populations make it appealing to new immigrants. About 50 percent of its residents speak English and 30 percent speak French. The remaining 20 percent speak other languages.
Ottawa is also appealing to newcomers because of its economic strength. As home to the Federal Government, it offers many career options in government and the tech sector. It is truly an international and a great city to raise a family.
Ottawa is the second-largest city in Ontario and the sixth-largest city in Canada. It has a population of 1,017,449 (2021 census). The Ottawa-Gatineau metropolitan area has over 1.4 million residents.
Ottawa has a young and diverse population. Over 65 percent of residents are between 18 and 49. There are over 200,000 people (23% of the total population) who were born outside Canada that call Ottawa home.
With the highest-educated workforce in Canada, Ottawa has more engineers, scientists, and PhDs per capita than any other city in the country. It also has Canada’s highest due to a booming public sector and high-tech industry. The unemployment rate is stable and is usually below the national average.
Ottawa has a strong economy and offers a variety of job opportunities for people with diverse backgrounds and interests.
Key industries in Ottawa include:
Ottawa is home to major technology and healthcare companies. The Federal Government is the leading employer in the region. The following are some of Ottawa’s top employers in 2024:
Adobe Systems Canada Inc.
Bank of Canada
Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
CBC / Radio-Canada
Health Canada
Hydro Ottawa
The City of Ottawa
The Royal Canadian Mint
Statistics Canada
Trend Micro Canada Technologies Inc.
Ottawa has consistently seen higher job growth than other Ontario cities. It has an unemployment rate of 4.9% (as of March 2024). This is lower than the national average of 6.1%.
The city’s top industries continue to experience the most growth. Industries that are hiring in the region include:
Some local recruitment agencies to help with your job search include Randstad Canada, LRO Staffing, Advantage Group, Keynote Search, Aerotek, and TH Employment Solutions.
While finding a job in Ottawa is an important first step, so is finding a place to live. For new immigrants, it’s common to take up short-term housing or rent an apartment before buying a home.
There are plenty of housing options in the Ottawa region. Housing costs across Ontario are on the rise. Similar to other Ontario cities that you may be considering, Ottawa housing costs are increasing. Fortunately, the cost to buy a home in Ottawa is more affordable than in other larger cities such as Toronto. As always, the neighbourhood you choose to rent or buy will dictate the cost.
New immigrants have many rental options. You can find places to rent across the city. Ideally, you want to find a place that is close to your job, place of worship, schools, shopping, transit, and other important locations.
These are considered the best locations to live for renters:
Find out more about the most popular and Best Ottawa Neighbourhoods for Renting.
To search for available rental units and current prices in Ottawa, check out Rentals for Newcomers!
As of March 2024, the average cost is $2,043 for a 1-bedroom apartment, $2,508 for a 2-bedroom, and $2,731 for a 3-bedroom apartment. Location, size, and amenities all affect the cost of a rental unit.
Most property owners request tenants to buy renter’s insurance as part of their lease agreement. Even if they don’t require it, insurance is beneficial to protect your family, personal belongings, and finances.
Ottawa’s housing market offers newcomers different housing options. For example, about 40% of properties are detached homes. The remaining are townhomes, semi-detached houses, condos, and apartments.
The cost to buy a home is on the rise in Ottawa. According to Royal LePage, the average home price in Ottawa is $757,700 in the first quarter of 2024. This is a year-over-year increase of 4.4 percent.
The median price of a single-family detached home increased by 4.5 percent over last year to $869,300. The median price to buy a condo increased by 4.6 percent to $401,500.
These numbers are still below the national average and remain more affordable than the housing market in the Greater Toronto Area and Vancouver. 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 a vital skill for Ottawa residents. Commuting from neighbouring communities into the city is common. The region has several highways including Highway 417 (part of the Trans-Canada Highway), Highway 416, and Highway 401. The city also has parkways, including Queen Elizabeth Driveway, Rockcliffe Parkway, and Aviation Parkway
Winter weather can create difficult road conditions. So if you haven’t driven in winter weather before, it’s helpful to learn how to drive in snowy conditions. The minimum age to get a driver’s licence is 16. All drivers must complete the graduated driver’s licence process. To get a commercial driver’s licence in Ontario you will need a Class A or Class D licence. Read more about Driving in Canada: 10 Essential Facts to Know.
OC Transpo operates public transit in Ottawa. The rapid transit system consists of buses and light and medium rail lines. Bus services run seven days per week and connect to all major neighbourhoods in the city as well as Gatineau.
Find out more about driving in Canada:
Getting Your Ontario Drivers License
Driving Test in Canada: A Full Guide
Tips for Winter Driving to Ensure Your Safety
Ottawa is commonly regarded as the best place to live in Canada. Part of this has to do with its diverse and multicultural population and how the city supports newcomers. The city offers many settlement services for newcomers.
In addition to the Newcomer Information Centre, other agencies include Ottawa Community Immigrant Services, Immigrant Women Services Ottawa, Catholic Immigration Center, and Hire Immigrants Ottawa. For information about settlement services in the Ottawa area, click here. Read more about Services in Canada to Help Newcomers Settle.
Several organizations in the city offer language support services to newcomers and anyone looking to improve their English or French speaking skills. They include the IWSO Language Services Ottawa, Language Interpretation Services (ONHC), and YMCA Language Assessment and Referral Centre. Language classes are also funded by the Government of Canada.
All local banks in Ottawa have programs to help new immigrants. They can help you open a Canadian bank account. Banks can also help you get a credit card, line of credit, and a mortgage, Visit a local bank branch to start the process.
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
Ottawa offers high-quality English and French education in public, Catholic, and private school systems. The government pays for public elementary and secondary school education. However, if you enroll your children in private schools, you will have to pay tuition fees. Ottawa’s colleges and universities offer specialized learning for adults and high school graduates.
Ottawa is unique because they have four school boards: English, English-Catholic, French, and French-Catholic The largest is the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) with 147 schools. In total, there are 318 schools, including 65 high schools in the city. There are also several private schools.
Ottawa has two universities and two colleges:
University of Ottawa offers more than 300 programs in 10 faculties and is North America’s premier bilingual university.
Carleton University offers over 200 programs in 47 departments, including public affairs, journalism, film studies, engineering, IT, and international studies.
Algonquin College offers more than 100 full-time programs.
La Cite collégiale offers 70 full-time college programs in areas such as administration, media and communications, health, technology, hospitality and tourism, community services and trades.
The city also has two Catholic universities – Dominican University College and Saint Paul University.
Read more about education in Canada:
Schooling in Canada | A Look at the Education System
Higher Education Offers Benefits to Newcomers
In case of an emergency call 9-1-1. This number is the same no matter where you live in Canada. There are four hospitals in the region: Queensway Carleton Hospital, The Ottawa Hospital, Montfort Hospital, and Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario. As well, there are several specialized hospitals and clinics in the region.
Ottawa residents are eligible for the provincial public health program, Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). It covers a range of medical services, including check-ups with your family doctor or at walk-in clinics, hospital visits, eye exams, and vaccines. However, OHIP does not cover the cost of prescription drugs.
As a newcomer to Ontario, you can apply for OHIP as soon as you arrive.
For prescription medications and services that OHIP does not cover, you can buy private health insurance. When you secure a job, your employer may offer insurance for you and your family.
Newcomers need to find a family doctor. They can supply medical advice, write prescriptions, and refer you to specialists. To find hospitals, doctors, and dentists in Ottawa, visit Health and Support Services. Get more information about health care in Canada: Steps to Access Free Health Care in Canada
Ottawa has many cultural attractions, including galleries, museums, and festivals. As well, Ottawa has many recreation facilities throughout the city including multi-purpose facilities, seniors’ centres, parks, tennis courts, basketball courts, arenas, and outdoor rinks. One of the greatest winter activities is skating on the Rideau Canal. You can rent skates, and skate the longest outdoor rink in the world! Winterlude is an epic Canadian winter festival that occurs each year during the first three weeks of February.
As a top tourist destination in Canada, there is much to see and do. Some of the most popular attractions include Parliament Hill, The Canadian War Museum, National Gallery of Canada, Peace Tower, Canadian Museum of Nature, and the Canada Aviation and Space Museum.
The city also hosts many festivals and events throughout the year. The most popular include the Canada Day celebration, Canadian Tulip Festival, Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival, Winterlude, and other events at the ByWard Market.
Ottawa has a bit of everything. With a diverse population, you can experience food from virtually every culture you can imagine. This city has countless great restaurants, pubs, and nightclubs. ByWard Market, Elgin Street, Little Italy, and Chinatown are popular destinations. You also have the choice to cross over to Quebec and visit Hull and Gatineau.
Ottawa lies on the Southbank of the Ottawa River. In terms of nature, it is perhaps best known for the Rideau Canal. Other top nature destinations in the region include Gatineau Park, Rideau Falls, and Hog’s Back Falls.
Ottawa is home to the Senators of the National Hockey League (NHL). The Ottawa Redblacks of the Canadian Football League (CFL), also call the city home. There are also other minor pro leagues, minor league, and collegiate sporting teams in the area.
If you love music, Ottawa is a great place to live. In addition to hosting top international artists throughout the year, it also has world-class music festivals such as Bluesfest and the Ottawa International Jazz Festival.
Ottawa is a proud multicultural city and reflects the rich cultures and traditions of both English and French Canada. About 50 percent of residents speak English and 30 percent speak French. The remaining 20 percent speak other languages.
More than 200,000 immigrants call the city home. Of these residents, 45% are from Asia and the Middle East, 26% are from Europe, 14% are from Africa, 11% are from Central and South America, and 4% are from the United States.
14% of residents state their mother tongue is French. 22% have a primary language other than French or English.
As a diverse city with a large immigrant population, people practice different faiths in Ottawa. About 65% are Christian. 6.7% are Islam, and 1.4% are Buddhist.
The city has a humid continental climate. Being in the northeastern part of Ontario, Ottawa is known for its very cold winters. It averages about 88 inches of annual snowfall. Temperatures can reach -20 degrees Celsius or below. The wind chill can make it feel even colder. The coldest month of the year is January. The average temperatures range from -5 C to -14 C.
The good news is the spring and summer months warm up considerably. You can expect daytime highs averaging about 25 C from June to August.
Ottawa is consistently ranked as the best place to live in Canada as well as one of the best 100 cities in the world. Its diversity, strong economy, schools, and Canadian history make it a great place for newcomers. It also ranks as the best place to live for new immigrants to Canada.
Absolutely. Ottawa is an excellent location for immigrants to live. The city is clean, friendly, and culturally diverse. It has a good transit system, is great for pedestrians, and offers many housing options. The city has a world-class education system and is home to the Federal Government. Perhaps most important for newcomers, it offers a range of career opportunities.
Ottawa can be an expensive place to live. While it does have slightly lower than average housing prices, rent is higher than in most cities. Food, entertainment, and transit can be more expensive than in a smaller city. But, considering the career opportunities and job prospects, it balances out.
Self-awareness is the key to unlocking a world of job opportunities and leading you to personal and professional excellence. With an increased understanding of your strengths, areas to improve, and values, you can make well-informed career decisions, navigate challenges, and enhance your self-confidence. Self-awareness can also boost your job search and career success. With self-awareness, you’ll have the confidence you need to influence and persuade employers that you’re the right fit for the job. Also, when you have a clear understanding of your personality, it can help you to define what type of work you find most satisfying.
Self-awareness can also provide you with a clear sense of:
This information is essential to showcase your capabilities and strengths on your resume and in job interviews. As well, when you know your strengths, you can use this information to your advantage to prepare for your job search.
The best way to approach a job interview in Canada is to know as much about yourself and your work style.
When you complete the free Drake P3 personality assessment, you’ll receive a profile report that measures five fundamental behavioral dimensions:
With an understanding of these building blocks of your personality, you’ll identify what contributes to your job fit and career success.
Job fit is a measure of what your likes and dislikes in a job and work environment. For example, if you think about a past job where you were highly satisfied, you likely had a strong job fit. That means that there was a high match between your job likes and the degree to which those elements were present.
With self-awareness, you can identify your preferences and search for jobs that provide those elements. For example, you may prefer jobs with a high degree of flexibility and freedom versus jobs that are highly structured. And when there is a great fit, you’ll achieve greater career satisfaction and success!
Job fit is also important to employers. Employers know that when the job fit is high, you will stay with their company and contribute to its success. It’s a win-win situation for you and the employer!
You may have the right skills, knowledge, education, and experience that the job requires, but lack job fit. With the absence of a job fit, employers will be concerned that you will not enjoy the job and you will leave. This can be costly for employers, so that’s why they focus on evaluating job candidates in four key areas:
2. Competencies
3. Experience, and
4. Job fit (personal attributes and motivators).
When you truly understand your personality and key strengths, you set yourself up for personal and career success. You may have completed a personality assessment in the past. If you have, it’s helpful to review it. Again, this is helpful information to have when you are:
If you have not completed a personality assessment, you can complete the Drake P3 Assessment® right now!
Your results from the Drake P3 Assessment® will allow you to know and understand your personality and how you approach your work and colleagues. This is an important first step to achieving career success in Canada.
You can complete the assessment process online in less than 15 minutes and the process is simple.
There are many benefits to having a better understanding of your strengths, and here’s how it can help with your job search efforts:
Some jobs naturally appeal to each of us. And when you truly know yourself, you’ll understand what makes some jobs more attractive than other jobs to you. For example, if you are introverted, you may be more attracted to roles that require less personal interaction. On the other hand, if you identify as extroverted, you’ll likely excel in a job role that requires more interaction with customers, vendors, and other employees.
When you know yourself and your attributes, it can help you to identify roles that will allow you to achieve success. However, you’ll still need to evaluate the role and the company to determine if both are right for you. Each role and company will be unique.
When you know your strengths, you’ll show confidence when responding to questions that speak to job fit. Job fit refers to how well-suited someone is for the position. This is an important aspect that recruiters evaluate because it can reduce costly turnover if someone isn’t suitable for the job. To assess fit, an interviewer may ask: Describe a job you most enjoyed and what you liked about the job.
With self-awareness and a clear understanding of your strengths, you can share elements of the job that aligned with your strengths. For example, someone applying for a sales and marketing role can convey how their strong communication and leadership attributes allowed them to build trusting relationships with clients that led to achieving sales targets. And if these attributes are key components of the job, an interviewer will have greater confidence in their ability and fit for the role.
With self-awareness of your strengths and motivators, you can focus on your strengths to accelerate your career development. Self-awareness is less about fixing flaws, rather it’s about knowing and playing to your strengths. However, if you have a weakness in an area that is critical to the job role, this will likely lead to job dissatisfaction and lower performance. Again, understanding your strengths will allow you to do your best work with confidence and authenticity.
When you complete a personality assessment, you’ll understand your dominant personality strengths and be able to harness them to achieve job search and career success in Canada. It’s an essential first step to unleashing a world of opportunity in your professional and personal growth and development.
For many newcomers buying your first home is a source of pride, satisfaction, and accomplishment! And, buying a home is an investment that grows over time and provides a great financial benefit. But before jumping in, consider these vital first-time home buyer tips!
Buying your first home is expensive and likely the biggest purchase you make in your lifetime. Buying a house in Canada may be different than in your home country from the process to the types of homes, styles, layouts, materials, and costs. Understanding first-time home buyer basics will help you make the right decision.
Take advantage of free tools and resources to research the housing market before you buy a home. Learn about housing price trends, affordability, and mortgage rates. Researching before you buy a home will help you make a confident decision.
You can use online mortgage calculators that give you approximate costs, and monthly mortgage payments.
You can talk to your lender about getting a pre-approved mortgage certificate.
There are many different real estate companies in Canada and agents to choose from.
A real estate lawyer will review your purchase agreement contract. The wording in these contracts is important and your lawyer will ensure everything is done properly in terms of the law.
Plan for your home closing costs or the costs associated with the date you take possession of your home.
Many newcomers arrive in Canada with savings to buy their first home. A 2019 survey conducted by Royal LePage revealed that newcomers represent a growing segment of the Canadian real estate market. Some of the findings showed that newcomers:
Don’t miss this on-demand webinar designed for newcomers! Learn need-to-know insights on buying your first home in Canada with experts David Frattini & Rouska Bodourova. Understand home-buying costs, best mortgage rates, and how Scotiabank’s StartRight® Program can help. Register now and start your journey today!
REGISTER FOR THE WEBINARIt makes sense that newcomers are eager to enter the housing market in Canada. Indeed, owning your own home is exciting for many reasons. Homeownership can be a great investment and a way to build personal wealth. Young families may want more space with a backyard for children to play. Or, buying a home in Canada may be an important part of your immigration dream!
But rarely do people have enough money to buy a house outright. This is where lenders can help you by giving you a loan, also known as a mortgage. But, you will need enough savings to pay for a down payment before you can get approved for a mortgage.
Essentially, a down payment is a portion you put down towards the value of your home right up front. You subtract the down payment from the home purchase price and supplement the remaining cost with a mortgage. You may have to build your savings if you don’t have enough for a down payment.
In addition to saving money for a down payment, there are other costs to pay such as closing costs. It’s important to factor in the closing costs because they can be expensive and often take first-time homebuyers by surprise. So before you rush into buying a home, it’s important to understand all the costs involved for a first-time home buyer in Canada.
If you have recently arrived in Canada, you’ll discover many exciting things in the city you have landed in. You may love the city and want to make it your home. On the other hand, you may learn that it’s not quite what you had expected. Or, you may land a job in a different city and want to relocate to another region or city in Canada. When you first arrive in Canada, it’s best to continue renting until you’re certain where you want to live long-term. Resettling is expensive.
Renting a home versus buying a home makes sense if you:
A large advantage of buying a house is the sense of pride that comes from owning your home in Canada. In addition, you become a part of a community where you know your neighbours and gain a sense of belonging. And most importantly, you’ll gain financial benefits when you:
In general, it makes sense to buy a home if you plan to remain in the city for five years or more.
Before becoming a first-time homebuyer, you must prepare to meet new financial obligations. These are three important steps to take before you buy a home:
When buying a house as a newcomer, you must build your credit history in Canada. You can build credit by applying for a credit card or a small loan and making regular payments.
Most importantly, you need to save for your down payment. However, you can own your home in Canada with as little as just a five percent down payment and mortgage insurance.
Another important requirement for first-time home buyers is financial stability. You need financial discipline when you buy a home. For example, save money for an emergency fund for unexpected expenses such as a leaky roof, basement flooding, or a burst pipe. Any of these expenses could cost thousands of dollars.
The minimum down payment in Canada is the percentage of the home’s purchase price. And depending on the house price, the minimum down payment amounts vary.
For example, the minimum down payment is:
Until you have enough money for the down payment, continue to rent.
In addition to thinking about financial first steps, you’ll also need to consider other practical questions such as:
As a guideline, financial experts state that you should not pay more than 30% – 35% of your total household income for housing and home-ownership costs such as:
But, that’s a guideline. You may decide to budget more for housing or, cut back on other expenses such as entertainment or dining out.
A mortgage pre-approval means that a lender has stated that you qualify for a mortgage loan based on your current income and credit history. The pre-approval will indicate the:
The lender will assess your financial situation and determine how much they are willing to lend. This will give you confidence when choosing which homes to consider buying. It will also help when you make an offer on a property because the buyer knows you are serious and able to purchase.
When you’re ready to search for a home, you need to consider:
With answers to these questions, you can narrow your search to find the ideal home for your needs. You can also provide this information to your realtor who can help you find your ideal home in Canada. Realtors are trained and licensed to help you find and buy a resale property. You may choose an agent who has sold other properties in the areas that you are considering. Or, you may choose a realtor that a friend or family member recommends.
Talk to the realtor about the important things to you in a home, but keep a realistic approach. Many Canadians buy a starter home” and then work their way up the property ladder. Be ready to accept that your price range may not cover all the features you want in a house.
You do not pay for the services of a realtor. Realtors earn a commission on the home’s selling price. The home seller pays the commission, not the buyer.
Once you’ve found a property you want, you’ll want to make an offer. An offer represents your desire to purchase the property and the amount you’re willing to pay. Your real estate agent can advise on the price you should offer on a resale home based on your local market conditions and recent home sales in the neighbourhood.
After agreeing on a price, the seller will stop showing the property to other prospective buyers because the home is now ‘conditionally sold’ to you, and will begin to take the necessary steps to complete the transaction.
Similarly, you will also need to begin taking steps to fulfill your part of the purchase process, including any conditions you may have listed in your offer such as a home inspection or finalizing financing. These vary by location, and your realtor is a good person to ask about the next steps.
Typically, the offer-to-purchase agreement will include:
This is a detailed description of the residence’s address, including street name, house, lot, and block number. It will also often include a list of additional items included in the sale (appliances, garage door openers window coverings, etc).
Here a clearly-stated purchase price that both parties have deemed acceptable will appear. There will also be a description of the deposit amount here. A deposit demonstrates that you are serious about your offer, and will persuade the seller to not entertain any further offers. The Offer will also often contain the payment method (cheque, credit card, etc.), as well as mention who will hold the deposit.
This is when the property becomes yours and you can move in. By this time, any previous owner is expected to have removed all of their belongings and cleared any of the conditions you may have imposed.
Typically, the seller is responsible for the property until the closing date and guarantees that they have the legal right to sell the property. They also guarantee that all buildings and improvements do not encroach upon neighbouring lands.
This is where you place any changes or improvements to the property that the seller and buyer agree to.
This is where you’ll typically find a list of agreed-upon conditions of sale, the breach of which could result in a nullification of the purchase agreement. This could include a description of financing conditions, property inspection conditions, condominium documents conditions, and the sale of buyer’s home conditions.
In addition to your mortgage, there are several closing costs that you must pay before you can take possession of your house. To “take possession” means the home is now legally yours. First-time home buyers are very often surprised when they learn of these additional costs. Examples of closing costs that you can expect to pay include:
This is the cost for an appraiser to assess the property value. Your mortgage lender may require an appraisal to determine whether the selling price is reasonable for the market.
You must pay the Goods and Service Tax (or Harmonized Sales Tax) on a newly constructed or substantially renovated home. Resale homes do not require a GST payment.
This tax is charged to buyers in most provinces, usually based on the purchase price.
This includes fees charged by your lawyer for services such as conducting a title search, drafting a title deed, and preparing the mortgage, and registration fees. A guideline for costs is typically between 1.5% to 4% of the purchase price of the home.
High-ratio mortgages (those with less than 20% down payment) require mortgage default insurance. The cost is usually added to the mortgage it varies depending on the amount of your down payment.
Special insurance coverage to cover the cost of your mortgage in the event of death or severe illness is available from most lenders.
Hiring a home inspector is voluntary but recommended for resale homes, and usually, the cost ranges from $400-$600. With a home inspection, you may discover issues with the house that will cause you to back out of your offer. Or, the home issues may be manageable and you could ask for a lower purchase price to offset any repair expenses.
You may want to bring in an electrician, plumber, and perhaps a structural specialist to ensure you understand all the home systems. They can also provide cost estimates for repairs if needed. First-time home buyers may not factor in these additional costs.
When you buy a house, a home inspection is critical. Usually, an offer to buy a home is conditional upon an inspection. An inspection will assess the following areas:
Foundation: an inspector will check if there is a leak in a foundation wall and whether insulation is in place. If there’s an active leak, they will determine the condition behind the wall.
Plumbing: the inspector will determine if the drains are installed properly and not leaking.
Windows: the inspector will ensure window seals are not damaged. For example, if one of the windows gets fogged, that tells that the window has to be replaced. Next, the home inspector will look at the frame to see if any openings must be resealed; otherwise, you may get an air leakage.
Furnace: the home inspector will check the quality of the filter and whether it is installed properly. They will check the quality and age of the furnace and whether it’s leaking any water inside or gas, which could be critical.
Mold: an inspector will also look for mold (or termites) in the house because it can result in significant costs to repair later.
When buying a house in Canada consider these vital first-time home buyer tips. Learn the essentials and become informed about everything that’s involved. Homeownership provides great pride, security, and achievement. The more informed you are, the more confident you’ll be about your home purchase decisions!
With Valentine’s Day on February 14th, we turn our heads to the usual gifts like flowers, chocolate, jewellry, and pricey restaurant dinners. But, have you thought about the gift of financial well-being and the freedom that comes with it? As a newcomer couple to Canada, wisely managing your finances together can be the greatest Valentine’s Day gift! Discover how these Valentine’s Day ideas can grow your money.
Knowing each other’s views about money and spending is vital to building a bright financial future. As a newcomer couple, discussing your joint finances and views on money is important. An open discussion about saving and spending money will ensure you focus on joint financial goals and priorities. Investing in each other, beyond traditional Valentine’s Day gifts, can strengthen your bond.
Celebrating your love on Valentine’s Day is a great reason to spend your cash, but stick to your budget. Avoid the pressure to overspend.
Before you start shopping, set your Valentine’s Day budget and add the cost of travel, gifts, decorations, and other expenses. Avoiding the trap of overspending on impulse purchases.
If your partner is open, dine at a restaurant a few days before or after Valentine’s Day. Some restaurants and florists boost prices to take advantage of Valentine’s Day demand.
You can stay within your Valentine’s Day budget using credit card rewards or cash-back offers. This can save you money if you redeem your points for travel, merchandise, gift cards, or other offers. But, avoid the lure of spending beyond your Valentine’s Day budget to earn rewards or points.
Some cards offer higher earnings for groceries, dining, or travel. You may get valuable sign-up bonuses when you meet initial spending thresholds.
Reward credit cards are a great way to earn points or cash back on everyday purchases. However, many cards charge annual fees that can be expensive. Without careful planning, even Valentine’s Day gifts could lead to higher annual percentage rates (APRs) making them less attractive if you carry a balance.
When deciding which rewards card is for you, consider how much you spend, what rewards you prefer, and annual fees.
While discussing your joint finances may not sound romantic, it goes a long way in reducing conflict. Financial stress is a leading factor contributing to divorce and separation in Canada. However, you’ll build a strong foundation when you discuss money and how to merge it. Make money talk a regular part of your relationship.
Consider building a framework to discuss money monthly or quarterly to review your goals, saving strategies, and progress. Or, explore budget planners to create a custom budget.
Discussing your short-term financial goals may include tackling credit card debt before setting aside savings. Valentine’s Day is one of the biggest commercial holidays in Canada. And, if your loved one’s favourite gift is more expensive this year, it’s easy to overspend using your credit card. But, focusing on your short-term savings goals may be smarter.
You may want to open a joint savings account for special events like Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, birthdays, and trips. Small contributions add up over time.
A solid savings plan can help you achieve your financial goals faster, whether saving for a wedding, your first home, or your child’s education. A thoughtful Valentine’s Day gift idea may be a special homecooked meal and movie night without racking up your credit card bill.
Don’t miss this on-demand webinar designed for newcomers! Learn need-to-know insights on buying your first home in Canada with experts David Frattini & Rouska Bodourova. Understand home-buying costs, best mortgage rates, and how Scotiabank’s StartRight® Program can help. Register now and start your journey today!
REGISTER FOR THE WEBINARSaving money for an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses or situations, like an urgent car repair or job loss is smart. An emergency fund to cover three to six months of household expenses can provide the safety net and peace of mind you need.
As a couple, a joint emergency fund can give each one access to cash. Using a high-yield savings account offers higher interest rates than traditional savings accounts. Your joint fund should be easy to access, but it’s best to use it for real emergencies.
Before you use your fund, assess if it’s an emergency. Perhaps the expense is something you can put aside and save for in the future.
It can take months or years to reach your desired emergency fund goal. But, contributing a small amount regularly will make a big difference. Or, skip the expensive Valentine’s Day dinner and roses and deposit the money you save into your joint emergency fund!
Make each day Valentine’s Day by saying “I love you”. No amount of heart-shaped boxes of chocolates or roses will match that! Or, if you have crafting skills, you can make a gift for your loved one! Do-it-yourself (DIY) Valentine’s Day gifts are a great idea!
You can make just about anything when it comes to DIY gifts. Be creative with your Valentine’s Day ideas. Think about what your loved one will appreciate. A DIY gift is more personal and romantic than a store-bought gift. What’s even better? DIY Valentine’s gifts are easier on your wallet.
For the hopeless romantics, consider compiling a photo book from your favourite memories. You can write romantic captions or add quotes from poems or books.
However you celebrate the day, thinking of long-term financial goals and staying within your budget, can be the greatest Valentine’s Day gift idea!
Dreaming of continuing your career in Canada is exciting! But, searching for a job in a new country is challenging, especially for newcomers who can face hurdles. The best advice is to take advantage of free, government-funded programs pre-arrival employment services. You’ll avoid the stress of navigating your job search and get the guidance you need to work in Canada.
A successful job search takes hard work, patience, and perseverance. For newcomers looking to join Canada’s workforce, preparing to work in Canada and planning your job search approach is vital. Discover how pre-arrival employment services can help you gain a competitive advantage to continue your career in Canada!
If you are already in Canada, click here to find free newcomer services near you!
There is much to know and do to set yourself up for success when you move to Canada. Deciding where to live, how to join the job market, or how to adapt to life in Canada is overwhelming. But, the faster you do, the sooner you’ll be successful in Canada!
Pre-arrival employment services can reduce the time to research what you require to work in Canada. What could take months to research, can be a matter of hours when you use pre-arrival services. You’ll orient yourself faster with pre-arrival employment services to help you:
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) surveyed newcomers for this 2023 Settlement Outcomes Report. The report revealed that 68% of newcomer survey respondents were aware of settlement services. Of those, 95% said the services were useful. Using settlement services will help you achieve your employment goals.
Newcomers who use pre-arrival services report a greater understanding of how to conduct a successful job search. This includes identifying how to deal with job search challenges they may face.
Yes, many pre-arrival employment services are funded by IRCC. Providing free pre- and post-arrival support is the best and fastest way to welcome, embrace, and support newcomers who choose to build a new life in Canada. With faster integration, you’ll contribute to Canada’s economy and achieve your professional goals more quickly.
You’re eligible for free IRCC pre-arrival employment services if you:
Unfortunately, pre-arrival services are unavailable to temporary residents who plan to visit, study, or work in Canada on a visa or permit.
Are you moving to Canada soon or already here? Do you need to find a job? Would you like to find good resources for finding employment in Canada? If so, join us for a free webinar where you can ask an expert your questions. We’ll discuss what you can do to make yourself more marketable to potential employers.
REGISTER FOR THE WEBINARMany organizations in Canada provide free pre-arrival employment services to help newcomers prepare to work in Canada. You can get career guidance and direction no matter what province or city you settle in. With guidance, you’ll have the confidence you need for an effective job search. But, where do you start?
This is the best place to begin your search for employment services. With one simple registration, PreArrivalCanada.ca gives you access to a wide range of settlement and employment programs you may be eligible for if you have been approved to immigrate to Canada. Only three simple steps:
One: Find out if you are eligible for free pre-arrival services by answering a few questions.
Two: Explore a list of nationwide settlement, employment, and industry-specific employment programs.
Three: Complete the registration form and receive pre-arrival employment services from the programs that you select.
While PreArrivalCanada is your best starting place, here are other organizations and employment services to consider!
The construction industry is predicting an 80,000 shortfall in workforce numbers over the next decade due to retirements and industry growth. So, it’s fair to say Canada’s construction industry is actively hiring.
If you have construction experience, BCCA-IN can help you build your Canadian construction career faster. You’ll receive one-on-one coaching from a dedicated career coach if you are eligible for this free construction-focused employment services program.
BCCA-IN can help you if you’re a technical professional such as a tradesperson, engineer (in any discipline), architect, technician, technologist, project manager, estimator, or analyst. With a BCCA-IN career coach, they can:
Many professions and trades within the construction industry are regulated. When you work with a dedicated career coach, they can steer you in the right direction and help you understand how to obtain the required licenses.
While you’re still in your home country, you’ll learn to access the right tools, resources, job leads, and referrals to build your career faster. With connections to settlement services, construction associations, and employers across Canada, you’ll receive support no matter where you settle.
Here’s an overview of three of the employment programs:
This program provides virtual pre-arrival services to help internationally trained professionals prepare to join the Canadian job market. With a focus on in-demand jobs, you’ll discover the skills you need to land roles across six Canadian sectors including Engineering, Financial Services, Human Resources, Leadership, Sales and Marketing, and Supply Chain.
Do you want to settle in a smaller urban or rural community in Canada? This can be a great alternative to settling in large cities like Toronto and Vancouver. While most immigrants are familiar with these cities, they are expensive. With the Connecting Canada Program, pre-arrival immigrants can learn about different communities to settle in and engage with local employers eager to hire immigrant talent.
Are you an entrepreneur? Or do you want to explore how entrepreneurship can provide you with exciting opportunities?
Small businesses in Canada generate more than 100,000 jobs a year! If you want to pursue your entrepreneurial dream, ACCES Employment can equip you with the skills and knowledge to make your dream a reality. You’ll gain access to coaches and consultants who can share their experience and advice.
The ECP program provides entrepreneurship training, support, and resources to start your business. When you participate in the ECP program, you can make an informed decision about starting a business in Canada.
With Planning for Canada employment services, you’ll discover how to boost your employability. You’ll receive one-on-one support from a facilitator who can prepare you for professional success. This organization can help you update your resume to meet Canadian standards and learn new skills, including industry-specific language, or Canadian workplace etiquette.
While you can find a job in Canada with your existing foreign credentials and work experience, you may need your credentials assessed before you apply for jobs. This makes it easier and faster to get a job when you arrive. Planning for Canada employment services provides the information, resources, and contacts to guide you through the credential recognition process.
When you participate in the AEIP, you’ll benefit by getting a custom settlement plan that includes how to approach your job search in Canada. Employ counsellors will determine your unique needs, and you’ll learn about Canada’s labour market and effective job search strategies. You’ll discover local employers, services, and how to present yourself confidently to employers.
Using free pre-arrival employment services can help you join Canada’s workforce and continue your career. You’ll discover a positive and rewarding experience to achieve your important goals and dreams!
Whether you are moving to Canada by yourself or with family members, there is much to know and do to set yourself up for success. From deciding what province and city to settle in, to preparing for the job market, to getting familiar with a new city. It can take some time before you are comfortable with your new environment. Taking advantage of services can help you adapt faster. Here are some examples of pre-arrival employment services and the benefits you’ll gain!
A mentor can help you navigate the Canadian job market. A mentor will share their job-search experiences, point out common mistakes, and help you avoid making the same mistakes. This can save you valuable time, build confidence, and prepare you to succeed in job interviews.
When you take advantage of pre-arrival employment services, you can:
Get job search assistance (write your Canadian-style resume, research the job market,
Prepare to get your credentials recognized, and more.
Networking and building relationships with people in your field can help you find a job faster. Networking can help you discover Canada’s “hidden job market”. These jobs are not broadly advertised resulting in less competition. However, you have to access the professional network. Pre-arrival employment services can help you to build the right relationships and connections to find a job faster.
It’s smart to file an income tax return in Canada if you arrived in 2024. If you became a permanent resident and lived in Canada, even for a short period, filing your first income tax return with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) can provide financial benefits. If you didn’t earn income in Canada in 2024, filing a return allows you to apply for important benefits like the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Credit, and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) Credit, or Canada Child Benefit (CCB) you may be eligible for without you filing a tax return. In other words, you will have to file an income tax return if you:
While filing taxes in Canada for the first time may seem overwhelming, there are resources to help you (see the section below: Government of Canada Income Tax Resources). Many settlement agencies can help you complete your taxes for the first time. This is just one of many important services that settlement agencies provide.
As we approach the “tax season” in Canada and the deadline to file your income tax return, this information will help you get started.
Navigating the Canadian tax system will make your life here much easier. If you’re already employed, you know that a good portion of your earnings goes to taxes, maybe more than what you were used to in your native country.
The taxes you pay come back to you through helpful public services and many gratuities making Canada one of the most sought-after destinations for immigrants. In addition, you can recover part of your taxes and access tax credits when you file an income tax return each year.
Tax credits are sums that are deducted from the total taxes you owe. You may be eligible for one or more tax credits. When you claim deductions, you may receive a larger refund or reduce the taxes that you owe. Here are some tax credits and deductions that you may be eligible for:
When you claim certain tax credits, you must support your claim with receipts.
When you file your income tax return, you can apply for benefits. These benefits are payments for specific expenses that can help make living in Canada more affordable. Some examples of benefits include:
Here are some benefits you may be eligible for:
| BENEFIT | MARRIED OR COMMON-LAW WITH CHILDREN | MARRIED OR COMMON-LAW WITH NO CHILDREN | SINGLE WITH CHILDREN | SINGLE AND 19 OR OLDER WITH NO CHILDREN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada Child Benefit | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| GST/HST Benefit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Provincial & Territorial Benefits & Credits | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Buying a home in Canada is a common goal for many newcomers. However, saving money for a down payment is challenging given the rising housing costs. A First Home Savings Account is a registered plan that helps you save to buy your first home. The FHSA allows your contributions to grow tax-free and helps you prepare to buy your first home.
Your FHSA contributions are tax deductible. And the contributions are non-taxable as long as you withdraw the money to buy your first home.
The TFSA allows first-time homebuyers to save up to $8,000 per year with a lifetime limit of $40,000.
If you opened a TFSA in 2024, you can claim up to $8,000 in contributions made by December 31, as a deduction on your 2024 income tax and benefit return.
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.
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The deadline to file your 2024 income tax return in Canada is on or before Wednesday, April 30, 2025. If you owe taxes, you must pay the full amount on or before April 30, 2025. If you are self-employed, the deadline to file your income tax return is June 15, 2025. But if you owe taxes, you still have to pay by April 30, 2025.
If you owe money and do not pay by April 30, you will have to pay daily interest on the amount you owe. Penalties and interest can add up so it’s best to pay the full amount to avoid paying late fees.
Income tax and benefit amounts will change to offset some of the rising living costs. These changes put additional money in your pocket. Some of the important tax changes for 2025 include:
| FEDERAL TAX RATE FOR 2025 | TAXABLE INCOME THRESHOLD |
|---|---|
| 15% on the portion of taxable income that is: | Less than $57,375 or less, plus |
| 20.5% on the portion of taxable income that is: | Over $55,375 up to $114,750 plus |
| 26% on the portion of taxable income that is: | Over $114,750 up to $177,882 plus |
| 29% on the portion of taxable income that is: | Over $177,882 up to $253,414 plus |
| 33% on the portion taxable income that is: | Over $253,414 |
You can file your income tax return for 2024 online in two ways:
| EFILE | NETFILE |
|---|---|
| – EFILE is a secure CRA service that lets authorized service providers complete and file your return electronically. | – This electronic tax-filing service lets you do your personal income tax and benefit return online using certified tax preparation software and submit it directly to the CRA. |
You can also complete your income tax and benefit return by paper. Click here to get a 2024 T1 (personal) income tax package. Be sure to order the package for the province that you reside because the tax system can vary by province.
Here are some free tax software products that you can use. These are great if you have a simple tax return to file:
| Wealthsimple Tax | TurboTax | CloudTax |
|---|---|---|
| – Free autofill tax software allows you to complete a simple tax return – Provides a helpful guide to claiming deductions – Offers paid plans for different tax needs. | – Offers free & paid tax returns – Free tax return service applies to simple tax returns but does not include income, credits, and deductions such as: – Employment expenses (meals, lodging, etc) – Donations -Medical expenses – Investment income and expenses – Rental property income and expenses – Self-employed income and expenses. | – Free and paid services – Offers free ‘how-to’ videos and a step-by-step guided application. |
You may be eligible to use the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program if you have a modest income and a simple tax situation.
Unfortunately, scammers try to get Canadians to pay debts they do not owe. And tax season is a prime time for scammers. Newcomers can be vulnerable to these scams, especially when it comes to receiving a call or letter from a government agency demanding money for payment. However, you can protect yourself if you know when and how the CRA may contact you.
Click here to learn about scam protection and the CRA to protect yourself from fraud. This information will help you to respond if you get an email, phone call, letter, or text from the CRA that seems suspicious.
| RESOURCES | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Newcomer Factsheet | Did you leave another country to settle in Canada in 2024? This information will help you understand the Canadian tax system and what you require to complete your first income tax and benefit return as a resident of Canada. |
| Benefits and Credits for Newcomers | Discover what benefits and credits you may be eligible for even if you just arrived and have no income. |
| Get Ready to Do Your Taxes | Get a quick overview of the documents you need to file your income tax return. |
| Common Tax Terms | Glossary of terms to learn about your taxes. |
Canada Revenue Agency provides online learning resources to help you learn about personal income taxes in Canada. The Learn about your taxes course consists of seven online learning modules:
In summary, if you arrived in 2024 and lived in Canada even for a short period, it’s smart to file your first income tax return. And with the deadline approaching on April 30, 2025, there is still time to file your income tax return. This will allow you to claim deductions and apply for future tax benefits that will put money in your pocket!
Statutory holidays in Canada give people an extra paid day off from work. These public holidays also known as “stat holidays” give people time to rest, spend time with family, and provide an extra long weekend in Canada! Knowing the holiday calendar allows newcomers to plan for exciting activities and events! Discover national and provincial holidays to celebrate in 2025!
Canadians observe many national, religious, and cultural holidays. Some are national holidays, and some are specific to certain provinces. Most employees receive a day off from work on a ‘stat holiday’ and still receive their regular pay. During stat holidays government institutions, banks, and stores close. There is also no mail service.
In most provinces, when a statutory holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the vacation day will fall on the following workday. This allows people to plan for a long weekend!
| STATUTORY HOLIDAY | DATE |
|---|---|
| New Year’s Day: Celebrates the first day of the calendar year | January 1 |
| Good Friday: Commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus | April 18 (Occurs on the Friday before Easter and usually falls between March 23 and April 26) |
| Canada Day: Celebrates the day Canada formed as a country in 1867 and its birthday | July 1 |
| Labour Day: Recognizes the economic and social gains of workers | September 1 (Occurs on the first Monday in September) |
| Christmas Day: Celebrates the birth of Jesus | December 25 |
In addition to the national holidays, there are other provincial statutory holidays. Most provinces recognize these holidays, but not all.
| PROVINCIAL STATUTORY HOLIDAYS | DATE |
|---|---|
| Family Day: Promotes spending time with family Observed in: Alberta, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Ontario, Saskatchewan This holiday is called: Louis Riel Day in Manitoba Islander Day in Prince Edward Island Heritage Day in Nova Scotia | February 17 (Occurs on the third Monday in February) |
| Easter Monday: Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Provinces that observe this holiday: Alberta, New Brunswick, Quebec, Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut | April 21 (Occurs on the Monday after Easter and Usually falls between March 23 and April 26) |
| Victoria Day: Celebrates the birthday of Queen Victoria Nova Scotia is the only province that does not observe this holiday | May 19 |
| Civic Monday: Celebrates local culture, history and achievement | August 4 (Occurs on the first Monday in August) |
| National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: Honours the survivors of Canada’s residential school system (holiday is observed in British Columbia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, the Northwest Territories, the Yukon, and Nunavut). | September 30 |
| Thanksgiving | October 13 (Occurs on the second Monday in October) |
| Remembrance Day: Honours veterans who served during World War I and II | November 11 |
| Boxing Day: This is a holiday unique to Canada. Some refer to it as the second day of Christmas or St. Stephen’s Day | December 26 |
Statutory holidays such as Family Day, Victoria Day, Canada Day, and Thanksgiving mean long weekends when people plan special activities. For Family Day in February, many people plan weekend getaways to ski resorts or enjoy other outdoor activities such as skating or tobogganing. Family Day is a great time to attend a winter festival in Canada.
Victoria Day, honours Queen Victoria, and Canadians celebrate this holiday in May. This statutory holiday hints at the unofficial arrival of summer in Canada. The official start of summer is June 21. People look forward to barbeques, watching fireworks displays, or heading to a cottage or campground during this long weekend in Canada.
Canadians celebrate Canada Day on July 1. So this statutory holiday can fall on any day of the week. For example, if July 1 falls on a Saturday or Sunday, people will take the proceeding Friday or the following Monday as the holiday. Or, if July 1 falls on a Thursday, many people will take another vacation day on Friday to enjoy a four-day long weekend! Canadians look forward to big parties, parades, concerts, fireworks, and more across Canada!
Labour Day is another long weekend in Canada. This holiday is bittersweet for Canadians. It marks the unofficial end of summer and the return to school for kids. During this “stat” holiday in Canada, people will take in fall festivals, cycle or hike along nature trails, or sneak in one last visit to the beach!
Related Posts:
Saint Patrick’s Day: When Canada Goes Green
March Break in Canada: Planning Your Perfect Holiday
Statutory holidays in Canada are a great time to plan for exciting activities and events in Canada. With many national and provincial holidays throughout the year, you can take advantage of long weekends and paid days off work!
Finding the perfect student accommodation is a vital part of the university experience. But, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. This overview will help you understand student housing options and what to consider before you arrive in Canada. From setting your budget to choosing the right location these smart tips will help you discover the right housing.
Whether you’re looking for a dorm room, shared apartment, or private rental, our guide gives you information and resources to help you choose. We also highlight factors such as safety, amenities, and proximity to campus.
Finding affordable student accommodation can be a challenge but these smart tips can help:
Searching for student housing takes time, especially if you want to find the perfect spot. It’s best to search for housing about two months in advance to browse the market and sign a lease.
ental sites post new rental listings daily. You can start your search for off-campus student accommodation at Rentals for Newcomers.
Discover how to find shared accommodation with Sparrow and manage your student accommodation costs.
You may find it difficult to find exactly what you want at a price that fits your budget. A good way to move forward is to list things you’re willing to compromise.
You may find budget-friendly student housing in neighbourhoods close to colleges and universities. Search for rentals that offer incentives, discounts, and gift cards for students. Engage with the school’s off-campus housing office for landlords that they recommend.
When searching for housing provide details about your student status, finances, and rental needs. This can help overcome challenges like a lack of credit history.
Choosing the right student accommodation is more than finding a place to live. It is about creating a safe and comfortable environment that will allow you to thrive. Your student accommodation will be your home for the next few years, so choose a place that meets all your needs.
Housing suitable for studying can make a huge difference in your grades. A comfortable space can help you focus on your studies. Living close to campus and social amenities can make it easy to join extracurricular activities and make new friends.
Choosing the right housing can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Consider these factors when choosing student accommodation:
The first step to help you find suitable student accommodation is to consider your monthly budget. Once you know how much you can afford, you can start searching. Consider your living expenses, including rent, utilities, groceries, entertainment, and transit. Remember to budget for all costs to manage financial stress and focus on your studies.
If you plan to work part-time in Canada, you can earn extra income to cover our housing costs. International students can work up to 24 hours without a work permit if:
| Is the Cost of Student Accommodation Important to You? |
|---|
| ✓ Yes, I need the cheapest accommodation I can find |
| ✓ No, I can afford a more expensive place |
| ✓ I have some extra money, but I have to be careful |
| ✓ I’d rather pay a bit more for a nice place to live |
Consider how important the cost of student accommodation is to you.
Student housing costs depend on the city, neighbourhood, type of housing, on-campus versus off-campus housing, etc. Sharing accommodation is likely the most affordable option. Generally, you can expect to rent a room for $500 – $1,000 monthly if you share accommodation. However, if you attend school in a large city such as Toronto or Vancouver, you can expect to pay more. Student housing in smaller cities or suburbs around major cities like Toronto is often more affordable.
Consider your location when choosing student accommodation. Living close to campus can be convenient, especially if you have early classes.
The travel distance to school may be a deciding factor. Or, you may want lower-cost student housing that is further from school. Take advantage of public transit and look for housing near transit hubs to save costs. Check local public transit schedules and routes to ensure travel time and costs are reasonable.
Living in a safe neighbourhood is vital for your well-being. Consider how close the location of your student housing is to transit, social amenities, grocery stores, and healthcare facilities.
| Is Being Near Campus a Deal Breaker for You? |
|---|
| ✓ Yes, I prefer to live on campus so I don’t have to wake up too early for classes |
| ✓ No, I want to get off campus when I’m not studying |
| ✓ Definitely, it might be unsafe to live off-campus |
| ✓ I want to live where other students live |
Consider how important location is to you.
Different types of student accommodation are available, including dormitories (dorms), shared apartments, and private rentals. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages. Consider your lifestyle and preferences when choosing the accommodation that suits you best.
Here are some common student housing options in Canada:
Living on-campus in a dorm can provide private or shared rooms.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Affordable | Limited privacy |
| Convenient location | Noisy and disruptive living environment |
| Access to campus amenities (library, fitness centre, etc.) | Restrictive rules and regulations |
| More opportunities to participate in campus life | Limited space |
Private rentals are another option for students that can offer more privacy and independence. They are also more flexible with fewer rules and regulations than living in a dorm.
Apartments are often the first choice when it comes to private rentals. However, you can explore other types of housing such as homes, townhouses, and basement apartments.
You can search for rentals in student-friendly neighbourhoods close to colleges and universities. Look for rental listings that show how close it is to campus and budget-friendly restaurants, cafes, and shopping.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| More privacy and independence | Expensive |
| More space | Additional expenses for furniture |
| Greater control over your living environment | Limited access to campus amenities |
A homestay allows international students to live with local families. Homestay hosts can include couples, families, retirees, and individuals. While there are different homestay options, you can expect a private bedroom with room for your clothing, a quiet place to study, internet, laundry facilities, and meals.
Hosts provide safe accommodation and introduce their guests to life and culture in Canada. Universities can pair students with local homestay hosts.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Can be part of a family unit | Can be expensive |
| A supportive environment with home-cooked meals | Won’t be living on campus |
| Can immerse yourself in local culture | Must respect host family rules (cleanliness, guests, etc.) |
Sharing off-campus housing is a popular option for students. It allows you to live independently while having the support of roommates. Sharing accommodation can also create close relationships and foster a sense of community.
However, sharing a living space can be a challenge when you have to deal with conflict. Assess potential housemates to ensure they match your personality, study habits, and lifestyle.
| Do You Want to Live with Other Students? |
|---|
| ✓ For sure, I can’t wait for group movie nights and parties! |
| ✓ Having housemates is cool, but I want my own room |
| ✓ Absolutely not, I need my own space |
Assess if sharing accommodation is right for you!
Ask the right questions when viewing a student apartment to ensure it meets your needs:
And, check all the appliances work. You don’t want to discover they don’t work after you move in.
Finding student accommodation that meets your needs is vital to your grades, social life, and well-being. So, consider what the right environment is for your success. From your budget to the location and type of student accommodation you select, making the right decision will enhance your university experience in Canada.
Searching for your first home in Canada? Join this exclusive session for key insights on housing market conditions, affordable options, and renting without credit history. Tailored for newcomers settling in the next six month, register now for valuable tips and a free guide!
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