10 Things To Know Before You Move To Toronto

Toronto is by no means perfect, but it still gives its residents a lot to be grateful for, which is why most people are relocating to Toronto, and it has been ranked as one of the best cities in the world. 

From taking the ferry to the Islands to enjoying the night in Downtown Toronto or grabbing a quick lunch at St. Lawrence Market to taking a stroll at the Harbourfront during the night, the city has become home to millions of young professionals, immigrants, and international students. 

With a population of almost 3,000,000, Toronto provides numerous opportunities for everyone.

Whether we talk about school, jobs, or leisure activities, Toronto has the best of them.

We prepared a list of useful things you should know before you move to Toronto.

10 Things To Consider Before Making a Move To Toronto

1. Cost of Living is High

We agree that Toronto has plenty of things to do, and there is no chance that you can ever get bored if you are living in Toronto, but everything comes with a cost, be it basic expenses, leisure activities, or housing rentals; that is why it is known as one of the most expensive cities in Canada.

Ontario has a sales tax (HST) of 13% that is applied to every item you purchase. 

Speaking about the rentals, according to Numbeo, the average cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in Toronto is around $2,270-$2,514. In addition to that, utilities would be an extra $250. 

Below are approximate average rental prices for a two-bedroom and three-bedroom apartment if you are moving to Toronto, Canada.

If we factor in the cost of presto (the monthly pass for TTC buses and trains), around $156, the cost of groceries per month, around $250; the cost of a cell phone plan, approximately $80; and, of course, how can we not add in the additional expenses of eating out, entertainment, shopping, etc.

The cost only gets higher if you have a car to get around. The gas in Toronto can vary between 140-160 cents per Litre.

For a single person, the cost of living is approximately $1493.7 (without the rent).

The monthly costs for a family of four are estimated to be around $5499.4 (without rent). 

As per the Average Salary Survey, the average salary in Toronto is $96,897 per year.

For those living with family, it is suggested that you have at least two earning members. 

Prepare a Monthly Budget 

If you’re worried about your expenses before moving to Toronto, then try making a monthly budget to save on unnecessary expenses. 

You can refer to the table below to get an idea of how to prepare your monthly budget, depending on your status in the country. 

Note that these are approximate values based on the usage of consumers and the average living expenses of an individual.

It may vary depending on the income level, spending habits, location, and precise monthly expenses to get an accurate budget. 

2. It Has The Best Neighbourhoods

Let’s delve into the good stuff: Toronto has some of the best neighborhoods for young professionals.

Which one would be the most convenient for you to choose may come down to affordability, what your budget is, and how close it is to your study or work location. 

Here are some recommendations on the best neighborhoods to move in Toronto:

Best Neighborhoods in and near Downtown Toronto

• Bloor West Village

Located in the West End, Bloor West Village is a residential community with a road full of colorful shops and a vibrant shopping district along Bloor Street West. It is relatively quiet at night as compared to some of the other surrounding areas. 

Bloor West Village is located just minutes away from High Park; it has some of the best parkland in Toronto. According to Zumper, the average rent for an apartment in Bloor West Village is $2,531.

• High Park

High Park, also called High Park North, is just west of Downtown Toronto. Many people recognize this as a neighborhood away from the hustle and bustle of Downtown. This area is typically residential, with high-rise apartments and houses.

The USP of this neighborhood is that it is within walking distance of High Park, one of the biggest parks in North America.

It would take you 20 minutes to reach Downtown Toronto from High Park using public transportation. The average rent for an apartment in High Park is $2,674.

• The Annex

Like many neighborhoods in the West End of Toronto, The Annex is a popular hub for young professionals. It has been home to the students and staff of the University of Toronto. 

It has affordable pizza joints, cafes, pubs, restaurants, and bookstores for young adults. It is also super close to three subway stations on line 2, including Spadina, Bathurst, and St. George.

The average rent of an apartment in this area would be around $2,387.

• The Beaches

The Beaches is a chill neighborhood, home to many middle-class families.

It is the perfect destination for some sunbathing, beach volleyball, or just a stroll on the boardwalk. 

This neighborhood gets busy in the summer season as most of the people visit this place to have a relaxing weekend.

Public transit can be used to reach anywhere in Downtown from this area. 

The average rent of an apartment in Beaches would be around $2,618.

• Riverdale

Riverdale is located just east of Downtown Toronto and has plenty of housing options.

It has been scattered into several small neighborhoods, each with its own specifications.

During the summer, Riverdale Park is a hub for outdoor games. The park hosts several activities, including running clubs and softball games.

For those avid book readers who just want to sit on the grass, sip your coffee, and relax, this is the place for you.

 The average rent of an apartment in Riverdale is around $2350. 

Some Suburban Neighbourhoods in Toronto:

• Vaughan 

It is a low-key suburb to the north of Toronto, and the population in this city is rapidly growing. This growth is expected to increase in the coming years. 

The new subway extension to Vaughan has made the commute to Downtown Toronto more convenient. Some of the best attractions in Vaughan include Canada’s Wonderland Theme Park and Vaughan Mills Shopping Center. 

The average rent of an apartment in Vaughan is $2,422. 

• Scarborough 

Scarborough has one of the cheapest rents among Toronto suburbs, making it an affordable place for immigrants and international students. 

If you are looking to settle here, there is plenty of public transit in this city to commute to other parts of Toronto for work. 

Some famous attractions in Scarborough include the Toronto Zoo and the beautiful Scarborough Bluffs. 

The average rent of an apartment in Scarborough is around $2240. 

• North York  

North York is in the northern part of Toronto; it is largely a residential area and has several small neighborhoods of its own. 

Several reputed universities and colleges, including York University, Schulich School of Business, and Seneca College, are in North York. 

If you want to travel to Downton, you can easily go there via line 1 of the subway system on either the Yonge side or the University side. 

The average rent of an apartment in North York is around $2,371.

• Etobicoke 

Etobicoke lies within the west end of Toronto (the ‘ke’ at the end is silent) and is easily accessible to Downtown, as line 2 functions well in the neighborhood- Islington, Royal York, and Kipling station all come inside Etobicoke.

It’s considered a well-to-do area and very convenient to Toronto Pearson International Airport and the reputed Humber College. 

The average rent of an apartment in Etobicoke is around $2,570. 

3. It Is Convenient To Get Around Toronto

Public Transportation

The best and the most convenient way to get around Toronto is public transportation.

The TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) has three main modes of transportation, including the subway, buses, and street cars and the GO Transit. 

Apart from the TTC subway, you can also take the GO Transit; for those commuting to suburbs or neighboring cities, GO Transit has bus and train service options that connect Toronto with the GTA (Greater Toronto Area) and beyond. 

If you are planning to rely on the subway trains, then it is a good idea to buy a monthly Presto card ($156), or you can easily reload your Presto cards at any subway station.

The only drawback with public transportation is the potential delays that may occur.

Whether it’s an emergency track work or an incident on the subway, it’s a smart move to plan it prior and leave as early as you can (An additional 30 minutes is always a good idea).

Uber

Another convenient yet expensive option to get around the city is Uber but be prepared to spend more than usual if you’re a frequent traveler. You can expect to pay around $50-$70 for a ride to the airport, while the subway is only $3.35.

 Bike

 If you’re not a fan of transit, there is an option for biking in most places. There are separate lanes for bikes. (but it is not advisable when the streets are filled with ice).

Car

It might look convenient, but it is expensive to own a car in Toronto. On weekdays, your car might betray you and can cause a delay in reaching your workplace on time because of the bad traffic. Not only that, but you also have to be prepared to spend a good amount of money monthly on fuel and car insurance. 

4.  Toronto Has Plenty of Fun Things To Do

If you’re visiting Toronto, you’d have a hard time squeezing in the time to do all the great things in the city. But if you are permanently moving here, then we have a list of plenty of fun things to do in the city.

Outdoor Activities

You cannot start exploring Toronto without visiting the famous CN Tower. Enjoy a cute date at the 360 restaurant. 

If you are someone who loves adventure, then try the Edge Walk. And if you’re a family with kids, Ripley’s Aquarium will be just a few steps away. 

Sports Fans

For those who love sports, this is the city for you.

While the fanbase of the Toronto Raptors basketball team has been growing rapidly for the past few years, Toronto has always been and will always be known as the Hockey City.

Art and Museum Lovers

Art is well represented in the city through theatres, including the Royal Alexander Theatre, Massey Hall, and Fox Theatre.

People who love museums can visit the ROM (Royal Ontario Museum) and the Hockey Hall of Fame, among many others.  

5. You’ll Want To Be Prepared For The Harsh Winters

Winters in Toronto can be harsh but not as cold as other Canadian cities (excluding Vancouver).

If you are moving from a warm climate, you should pack according to the below-freezing temperatures that you’ll get to experience here,

 Be sure to pack thermals and a good winter jacket (don’t worry if you don’t have one; you can get it here at good deals).

And don’t forget about buying good waterproof winter boots; you’ll definitely need one to save yourself from a bad fall that can happen because of the excessive ice present on the roads.

For those of you who are planning to buy a car, make sure you get good quality winter tires.

Toronto winters can be unpredictable, with icy roads and snowstorms, and winter tires provide better traction and control during these situations. 

While all-season tires are suitable for mild winter days, winter tires are specially designed for below-freezing temperatures and icy roads. 

6. It Has a Quality Educational System

For international students or families moving with kids, Toronto offers a wide range of educational institution options, from public to private and post-secondary education.

The city’s educational system focuses on quality education and inclusivity. 

Public Schools 

Toronto’s public institutions are managed by the TDSB (Toronto District School Board) and the TCDSB.

(Toronto Catholic District School Board). Public schools are funded by the government and are free for permanent residents of Canada.

Schools follow a standard curriculum and follow diversity and inclusivity. 

Private Schools

There are several private schools in the city that focus on a more specialized curriculum, often with smaller class sizes, and put more emphasis on religious or educational philosophies.

Various international schools offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) or other globally recognized programs.

Higher Education

Toronto is home to several recognized universities and colleges, including the University of Toronto, Schulich School of Business, Toronto Metropolitan University, York University, OCAD University, Humber College, Seneca College, and George Brown College, amongst others.

7. Toronto is Full of Job Opportunities 

While you may be worried about the high rentals in Toronto, the city also provides plenty of job opportunities in different fields to meet your high cost of living. 

For those of you who want to get into the banking sector, the city has the Toronto Stock Exchange.

It is the headquarters of Canada’s largest banks, including TD, CIBC, and BMO, as well as several renowned Canadian and multinational corporations. 

Fields including technology, design, financial services, education, arts, fashion, aerospace, real estate, and tourism have a strong emphasis on Toronto’s economy.

The tech industry in Toronto is also booming. 

Toronto is also known as “Hollywood North” because it is home to the Canadian Film and Television industry.

 There have been several Hollywood films that have been filmed in Toronto, including Suicide Squad, Degrassi, Suits, etc. The famous TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival) takes place in the city. So, if you’re into creative fields, including direction and cinematography, this might be the right place for you. 

8. It’s a Multicultural City

You can take a trip around the world for just the cost of a Toronto Subway ticket. The city is one of the most multicultural cities in the world. 

It has different cuisines and festivals that represent almost every country in the world. If you’re an international student or an immigrant away from home, don’t worry. In this city, everyone can find a piece of home that they left behind. 

Some of these diverse communities include:

• Italy

 Toronto is home to two Italian neighborhoods. Little Italy is on College Street on the West End of Downtown.

It showcases rich Italian culture, diverse Italian shops and events.

The neighborhood is renowned for its Italian food, including pizza, pasta, expresso, and cannoli.

This stretch also includes Gelato, bakeries, and other specialty stores. 

• China

The famous Chinatown can be found in the Kensington market area of Downtown.

This area is filled with vibrant markets, local and authentic restaurants serving Asian cuisine, grocery stores, and markets that sell Asian ingredients and products.

It is not just food but shops selling clothing, jewelry, home decor, and traditional Chinese products. 

• Korea

Koreatown is just east of Christie Pits Park, where you can find the latest Korean fashion and culture. Other restaurants also offer Korean waffles, bibimbap, grill-it-yourself kalbi, soon tofu, and other specialties. 

Other businesses, including salons, grocery stores, gift shops, and bakeries, began opening, mostly catering to the Korean-Canadian community. 

• Greek

Greektown, also called Danforth, is between Chester Avenue and Dewhurst Boulevard.

It is known for its Greek restaurants and Mediterranean cuisine. 

The popular highlight of Greektown is the Danforth Festival, which celebrates Greek culture and cuisine.

It has live music, dance performances, food vendors, and more. Thousands of visitors can be seen here every year. 

1. Portugal 

Little Portugal is in Downtown Toronto. It has a strong emphasis on its culture and is known for its Portuguese restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional events. 

It is a residential neighborhood with several housing options, including Victorian-style homes and apartment buildings. 

9. The Tipping Culture is Mandatory

The tipping culture in Toronto is mandatory, with restaurants generally expecting a 15-20% tip on top of your bill.

You can carry cash handy for this, but in most places, they allow you to pay for the tip when you’re paying by card. 

The tipping culture applies to taxi drivers as well as those offering personal services, including plumbers, hairdressers, and nail technicians. 

10. The City is For Shopping Enthusiasts

For those who love shopping, Toronto is the place to be. The Eaton Centre is one of the city’s biggest malls.

It opened in 1977 and today has around 200 different stores

 Other notable malls in Toronto include Square One, Yorkdale, and Sherway Gardens, but Toronto’s shopping options are not restricted to shopping malls only. 

You can visit premium outlets like TPO (Toronto Premium Outlet) and Vaughan Mills, where you can find high-end brands, including Louis Vuitton, Coach, Tiffany and Co., Burberry, Cartier, Gucci, Prada, Dolce and Gabbana, Rolex, Michael Kors, Kate Spade, Harry Rosen, and Holt Renfrew.

If you want slightly more affordable options, you can visit the Bohemian Kensington Market.

This market is famous for indie shops, vintage boutiques, and some independent clothing stores that offer unique collections of clothing that are difficult to find in big outlets. 

Final Thoughts

There is no doubt that living in a big city like Toronto has its own perks and challenges that might not be similar if you live in the suburbs or a small town.

We agree that it is expensive to live in this city, but on the other hand, it provides good quality education and numerous job opportunities. 

If you want to experience a high standard of living with a low crime rate and plenty of fun things to do, then this could be the perfect place for you.

Weigh the pros and cons of moving to Toronto and then decide what is best for you and your family. 

The next step arises in choosing a DIY vs hiring a professional moving company.

However, if moving to Toronto is on the cards, then hiring professional movers would be a safer option.

They will help you relocate seamlessly without any hassle. Professional movers are well-equipped to handle your belongings and know how to pack your valuables safely.

You can focus on planning the interior of your new home while the expert movers can handle all the stressful tasks of moving for you. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Toronto a nice place to live?

Toronto is a good place to live as it provides a high standard of living. It has lush green parks, high-rise buildings, and plenty of job opportunities.

Moreover, it has a crime rate of 43, while New York sits at 50. 

Toronto is considered to be one of the safest cities in the world.

The best part? The residents here are really nice; you can have a conversation with anyone in your neighborhood, and you might make a friend or two. 

2. Is Vancouver better or Toronto?

This question might come to your mind more than often, but it ultimately comes down to your lifestyle preferences and financial situations.

Toronto offers a bustling environment full of jobs and culture, while Vancouver boasts natural surroundings with several outdoor activities.  

You’ll have to spend more each month to live in Vancouver.

According to Numbeo, you would need around $9400 to maintain a similar standard of living, with just over $8826.16 in Toronto.

The cost of basic things, including rent, groceries, and consumer prices, are all lower in Toronto. 

3. What salary do you need to live in Toronto?

To live comfortably as a single person in Toronto, you would need to earn at least $60,000 per year.

This salary would help you rent an apartment in a nice neighborhood, and you can manage your other expenses and still have some room in your budget to do all the fun activities or savings. 

4. Do I need a car to live in Toronto?

The answer is no; you don’t need a car to live in Toronto.

The city has an efficient public transit system that includes buses, subways, and streetcars, making it easier to navigate the city without a car.

With well-mapped routes and a proper schedule, you’ll most likely reach your destination on time.