Pros and Cons of Moving to Canada

Canada remains a popular destination for expats, thanks to its thriving economy, strong public services, and high quality of life that appeals to globally mobile, business-minded individuals. Whether it’s the lively cities or the diverse culture, many find that the advantages of living in Canada far outweigh the downsides.

Below are some of the pros and cons that you may experience living in Canada.

Culture in Canada

+ PRO: Multicultural society that is welcoming to immigrants

Culture in Canada is diverse and vibrant, thanks to a multicultural society that has been shaped by immigration. The government’s commitment to inclusivity, enshrined in the Canadian Multiculturalism Act, promotes cultural diversity. You’ll find multicultural communities across the country well accustomed to integrating newcomers, which helps ease the transition. This makes a big difference when settling in and finding a place to belong.

Diversity and Inclusion in Canada

Working in Canada

+ PRO: A strong employment market

Canada offers a strong and welcoming employment market, particularly for those with skills in demand. Many Western nations have faced record unemployment, but Canada has remained resilient, actively bringing in new arrivals. If you have the right skills – especially in sectors like healthcare, technology, and skilled trades – you’ll find the economic climate here incredibly favourable.

Finding a Job in Canada

Climate in Canada

- CON: Harsh weather conditions

The climate in Canada is incredibly varied due to the country’s vast size. You’ll experience everything from freezing Arctic conditions in the northern territories to milder maritime climates along the coasts. In many places, winters are severe – you may spend months shovelling snow, scraping ice off your car, or battling freezing temperatures.

For those looking for a more temperate climate, Vancouver and other coastal areas of British Columbia have milder winters thanks to their proximity to the Pacific Ocean. Southern Ontario, including cities like Toronto, also offers relatively milder weather than northern parts.

Climate and Weather Charts in Canada

Public services in Canada

+ PRO: High-quality public education system

The quality of public education in Canada is generally high, but it varies by province. Some of the top public schools in Canada are located in Ontario and British Columbia, and Quebec has a unique focus on French-language instruction.

Education and Schools in Canada

- CON: Bureaucracy can be time-consuming

Dealing with bureaucracy as a newcomer can feel like jumping through endless hoops. The process can take time, whether it’s applying for health cards, setting up bank accounts, or sorting out tax numbers. Thankfully, digital tools and online services have simplified many aspects of these processes, although challenges still exist. Ensuring you have all the necessary documents and seeking guidance from local services can ease this burden considerably.

+ PRO: Excellent healthcare

Healthcare in Canada is high-quality and accessible, thanks to the universal healthcare system known as Medicare. As a citizen or permanent resident, you are entitled to free health insurance. Canada’s healthcare system includes advanced medical facilities and well-trained healthcare professionals, ensuring top-notch care.

Provinces offer different coverage options, and while some services like dentistry and optometry are not included, you can get private insurance to cover those. Access to Medicare varies – some provinces like Alberta offer immediate coverage for newcomers, while others like British Columbia and Ontario have a waiting period.

Healthcare System and Health Insurance in Canada

Cost of living in Canada

- CON: An expensive place to live

The cost of living in Canada can be quite high, which might come as an initial shock. Cities like Vancouver and Toronto regularly rank among the world’s most expensive. Housing costs are particularly steep, driven by high demand and limited supply.

Newcomers often underestimate certain expenses, such as utilities during winter, transport costs, and groceries. Public transport is a great way to save money instead of owning a car, especially in cities like Toronto and Vancouver.

Want to learn more about managing the costs? Here’s more on the Cost of Living in Canada and the Banking and Tax System in Canada.

Accommodation in Canada

+ PRO: Great standard of accommodation

Accommodation in Canada comes in various forms, including apartments, condos, and standalone houses – all generally of high quality. Compared to many European cities, apartments here are more spacious. If you’re moving with your family or simply need more space, finding suitable accommodation is typically not an issue outside of major urban hotspots.

Accommodation in Canada

– CON: Housing is extremely expensive

Due to a mismatch between housing demand and supply, Canada has one of the world’s most expensive property markets. If you’re open to living in smaller cities or away from the city centre, you’ll find that housing becomes more affordable. Smaller towns and regions offer much more value for money, so it’s worth considering these if budget is a concern.

The rental market is competitive, especially in larger cities. Expect to see sustained upward pressure on rent prices as demand continues to outstrip supply. Government programmes like the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive (FTHBI) can also be beneficial if you’re planning to purchase your first home.

Safety in Canada

+ PRO: Safety

Safety in Canada is one of its biggest draws. You don’t have to worry much about crime, even in major cities. Crime rates are low, and the Canadian police force is professional, well-respected, and effective. In cities like Ottawa, Quebec City, and Calgary, crime is minimal, adding to the sense of security.

You’ll find that Canada’s safe environment makes it easy to settle in and feel at home. It’s common to see children playing in parks and people jogging alone, even after dark – something that speaks volumes about the peace of mind you can expect here.