From Ontario To Where? Ontarians Leaving For Greener Pastures in 2024

Key Takeaways

• Ontario’s population has continued to grow, despite net interprovincial outflows, due to permanent and temporary residents settling in Ontario. 
• It has been over four years since Ontario had more Canadian residents move to it than away from it. 
• People are moving from Ontario to Alberta and Atlantic Canada.
• For newcomers, learning what you value and working out how you can afford it is key to finding your home in Canada. 

Background

Ontario has seen higher numbers of people moving out of the province compared to how many people from within Canada moved to the province since Q1 in 2020. 

Here’s the data showing the most recent quarter when more people moved to Ontario compared to those those who left Ontario. As you can see, it was Q4 2019.

Source: Statistics Canada

Why is this happening? 

Well, Statistics Canada only provided information about the numbers of people, not their reasons. But we can guess what’s driving the net outflows. 

Here’s what we think: 

Housing Costs: Ontario has very high housing costs, with a one-bedroom rental in Toronto costing on average $2,428 per month. 

Cost-of-living: The cost of living in Ontario (outside of housing costs) is also quite high, and does not correlate with the minimum wage in the province. 

Higher-than-average unemployment: Unemployment in Ontario has been consistently higher in Ontario than the Canadian average across most demographics. Workers in rural Ontario and smaller towns (fewer than 100,000) are faring better than the overall average within Canada. But workers in Toronto and other large population centres across Ontario are, on average, facing a tougher labour market than the average Canadian resident. 

Remote Work: Remote work allows people to live in more affordable regions without sacrificing job opportunities.

Where Are People Moving Within Canada? 

Generally, people are moving to Atlantic Canada, particularly New Brunswick, and Alberta. Here’s why these areas are so attractive at the moment: 

Affordable Housing: Lower real estate prices make homeownership more accessible compared to expensive markets like Toronto.

No Sales Tax in Alberta: Alberta doesn’t charge a provincial sales tax, which results in a lower cost of many goods and, therefore, cost of living overall. 

Lifestyle and Nature: Atlantic Canada offers a slower pace of life with access to natural beauty, while Alberta boasts proximity to the Rocky Mountains.

Government Campaigns: Alberta and Atlantic Canada have advertised to Canadian residents, including the recent “Alberta is Calling” campaign. 

How Can Newcomers Choose Where To Settle In Canada?

Deciding where to settle is one of the most important choices you’ll make. While the current trends show many people leaving Ontario for provinces like Alberta and New Brunswick, this doesn’t mean that Ontario isn’t the right choice for you. After all, Ontario is still seeing population growth due to immigration. 

So, your decision should be based on a variety of factors that align with your personal needs, goals, and lifestyle preferences.

One major consideration should be affordability. The cost of living in Canada is quite high. For most residents, the quality of life means that the higher costs are worth paying. That said, housing and other costs vary widely across Canada, with Ontario and British Columbia being the most expensive provinces to live in, particularly in cities like Toronto, Etobicoke, Mississauga, Burlington, and Brampton.

In contrast, provinces like Alberta and New Brunswick offer more affordable housing options for those looking to rent or buy. Everyday expenses like groceries, transportation, and utilities should also factor into your decision. 

Next, think about the job market. Ontario has historically been a hub for job opportunities, but Alberta is currently seeing growth in sectors like technology, construction, and energy. Atlantic Canada is also experiencing economic development, with an increased demand for skilled workers, especially in healthcare, IT, and trades. If you have a specific career path in mind, research the provinces and cities that are experiencing job growth in your field. You should also compare the wages to the average cost of living in those regions, since an $80,000 salary is going to go further in Edmonton than a $90,000 salary in Toronto. 

Lifestyle is another key factor to consider. Do you enjoy the fast-paced, urban environment of a large city like Toronto, or do you prefer a slower, more relaxed pace of life? Atlantic Canada, for instance, is known for its tight-knit communities and proximity to nature, offering a peaceful lifestyle that might appeal to families or those looking for more space and tranquility. Alberta, on the other hand, offers a balance between urban life and easy access to outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and camping, thanks to the nearby Rocky Mountains. Think about what kind of environment will make you feel most comfortable and fulfilled.

Other factors you might consider are: 

• Climate; 
• Community; 
• Driving and transportation; 
• Available immigration pathways; 
• Leisure opportunities; 
• Access to healthcare and other services; and
• Wait times for healthcare.

You can get access to a host of free resources to help you settle in Canada through a Moving2Canada account. Get started today.