What To Know About Moving to Toronto from the U.S. (From A Family That Did It)

When my family and I moved to Toronto from the United States, it was a mix of excitement and uncertainty. We had two young kids, and I had plans to attend culinary school while my husband pursued a promising job opportunity. 

Fast forward to today, and we couldn’t be happier with our decision to stay. For us, Toronto has proven to be a family-friendly city that offers a high quality of life. Whether you’re moving for work, education, or simply a change of pace, this blog post will give you all the basic information to help you make the transition as smooth as possible.

Why Move to Toronto?

Toronto is the largest city in Canada and one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. Known for its diverse culture, and four distinct seasons, it’s a popular destination for US citizens and others looking to relocate. The city offers endless opportunities for families, international students, skilled workers, and retirees alike.

Toronto’s cultural diversity is one of its greatest strengths and something we have really enjoyed. With people from all over the world calling this city home, it’s easy to find a sense of community here. 

Whether you’re exploring its vibrant downtown core or considering settling into one of its suburban areas, Toronto is a great place to live for anyone looking for a liveable yet exciting city.

Understanding Immigration Basics

Before making the move, it’s important to understand Canada’s immigration system. Here are some key pathways to consider, but please know I am not an immigration expert and you can always find up to date information on the official Canadian Government website canada.ca :

• Express Entry Pool and Federal Skilled Worker Program:

  • If you’re a skilled worker with relevant work experience, this is one of the easiest ways to apply for permanent residency.

• Temporary Work Permits:

  • A temporary work permit allows foreign workers to live and work in Canada on a temporary basis. This can be a stepping stone to permanent residency.

• Study Permits:

  • International students planning to attend the University of Toronto or another Canadian institution will need a study permit.

• Family Sponsorship:

  • If you have a family member who is a Canadian permanent resident or citizen, they may be able to sponsor your move.

• Provincial Nominee Program:

  • Specific Canadian provinces, including Ontario, have programs that nominate skilled workers for permanent residency based on job opportunities in the region.

The Canadian Government website has a lot of great information, but hiring an immigration lawyer can help ensure a hassle-free transition.

Navigating the Move

Once your immigration paperwork is in order, the next step is planning the logistics of your move. Here’s what you need to know:

First Steps

• Hire a Moving Company: Choose a company experienced in cross-border moves to handle the transportation. Make sure you research the company well before deciding on one -- I have heard horror stories about bad long-distance moving experiences.

• Research Neighborhoods: Decide whether you want to live in the downtown core (we live downtown and love it!), or the greater Toronto area (GTA) suburban areas. Both options offer unique benefits depending on your lifestyle and budget. It’s a huge city so there are a ton of options depending on what you’re looking for!

Practical Matters

• Banking and Finances: Open a Canadian bank account and understand the exchange rate for converting US dollars to Canadian dollars. Most US credit cards work in Canada, but you may want to get a Canadian card for easier transactions. It’s also smart to do your research and find a good cross-border tax accountant who can help file taxes in both countries.

• Housing Costs: Toronto is one of the most populous cities in Canada, so housing in the city center can be pricey. Suburban areas often provide more affordable options. I used Zillow and Realtor.ca to find our house. 

The good news is that Toronto’s diverse housing market has something for everyone, from single-family homes to apartments and condos.

Life in Toronto

Public Transportation

The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) operates a reliable and extensive public transportation system, including buses, streetcars, and subways. If you’re commuting within the city, the TTC is a such a great way to get around. I also find that the TTC is very clean and kid-friendly -- we ride the streetcar with our kids on almost a daily basis.

Education

Toronto has excellent schools, from public schools to private schools and top-tier high schools. For families moving with children, researching the schools in your chosen neighborhood is a good idea. The public schools here are also funded more equitably which is a nice bonus.

Healthcare

One of the best things about living in Canada is access to its universal healthcare system. Free healthcare is available to permanent residents and citizens, covering most medical care needs. Temporary workers and international students should ensure they have health insurance until they qualify for provincial coverage. Health insurance is much more affordable than it is in the US, as is paying out of pocket for things.

Cultural Life

Toronto’s city life includes a diverse population, cultural events, and plenty of activities for all ages. From festivals celebrating the city’s cultural diversity to family-friendly parks, and bike paths along Lake Ontario, you’ll find no shortage of things to do in this beautiful city.

Challenges and Tips for a Smooth Transition

While Toronto is a great place to live, adjusting to a new home always comes with challenges:

• Immigration Paperwork: Working with immigration lawyers can help you navigate pressing issues like temporary work permits or permanent residency applications.

• Adapting to Seasons: Toronto’s winters can be intense if you’re used to milder climates. Investing in quality winter gear is essential. However, as someone who spent 5+ years in both New York and Chicago, I find it to be about the same as both places. 

• Cost of Living: The average cost of living in Toronto is higher than in many US cities, so budgeting accordingly is important. 

Moving to Toronto from the United States can feel like a big step, but we’ve found it’s one worth taking. With its cultural diversity, high quality of life, and countless opportunities, Toronto has been a great place for us to call home. 

Whether you’re drawn by career opportunities, education, or the promise of a more diverse city, you’ll find that Toronto has something for everyone.

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