Ontario
Let’s learn about Ontario, the most populated Canadian province that offers diverse opportunities for newcomers. Ontario’s various employment options, housing choices, and essential services help ease your transition to life in Canada. This guide will help you navigate the key aspects of settling in Ontario, including housing, commuting, employment, healthcare, and more.
Benefits of Living in Ontario
Ontario provides unique advantages for newcomers, including robust employment prospects, a variety of living environments, and a large immigrant population to support your settlement.
Employment Opportunities
Ontario is home to many global companies, making it an ideal destination for job seekers across various industries. With a high population and diverse sectors, newcomers can find opportunities that match their skills and experience.
Diverse Communities
Ontario’s communities range from peaceful rural areas to vibrant urban centers, offering a lifestyle choice for everyone. For a quieter life, places like Stratford are ideal, while Toronto offers a bustling urban experience.
Strong Immigrant Presence
Ontario attracts a large number of immigrants, making it easier for newcomers to find communities with similar cultural backgrounds. This support network helps ease the adjustment process.
Housing in Ontario
Ontario has a large housing market, with over 5.4 million properties for over 15 million residents. Like much of Canada, most newcomers to Ontario tend to settle in the province’s largest Census Metropolitan Areas (CMAs). These include Toronto, with a population of over 6.6 million, Ottawa-Gatineau (Ontario population exceeding 1.1 million), and Hamilton, home to over 821,000 people. Housing options in these areas vary depending on location, family size, and personal preferences.
Rental Costs
Rental prices in Ontario depend on the city and neighborhood. Major urban centers like Toronto, Ottawa, and Hamilton typically have higher rental costs. A one-bedroom apartment in Toronto can range from $2,200 to $2,800 per month, while in smaller cities, it may cost $1,500 to $2,000.
Owning Property
For those looking to buy, home prices in Ontario also vary. In Toronto, the average price for a home can exceed $1 million, while in Ottawa and Hamilton, prices range from $500,000 to $700,000. Buyers should factor in property taxes and maintenance costs.
Commuting in Ontario
Ontario offers multiple commuting options, from public transportation to personal vehicles. Most major urban centers are well-connected by public transit.
Public Transit Accessibility
In cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Hamilton, over 80% of residents live within 500 meters of a public transit station. These cities offer bus, subway, and above-ground train services for easy commuting.
Driving in Ontario
Despite robust public transit, many residents prefer using personal vehicles. In Toronto, over 1.4 million people commute by car, while Hamilton and Ottawa-Gatineau have over 220,000 and 240,000 car users, respectively.
Ontario Driver’s License
Newcomers can use their home country’s driver’s license for up to 60 days. After that, they must apply for an Ontario driver’s license. The process includes a written test (G1), a practical driving test (G2), and a highway driving exam (G Test).
Employment in Ontario
As of October 2024, Ontario’s minimum wage is currently set at $17.20 per hour, ensuring fair pay for workers across various industries. However, newcomers can expect higher wages in more advanced industries. Ontario offers a wide range of employment opportunities across various sectors. The top three industries in Ontario by employment are:
- Trade Occupations
- Healthcare and Social Assistance
- Manufacturing
Key Employment Sectors
Trade Occupations
Trade occupations in Ontario include retail and wholesale trade jobs. More than one million residents are employed in wholesale trade, which involves purchasing large quantities of goods to resell to other businesses. Retail trade jobs, where workers sell goods directly to consumers, also provide significant employment opportunities.
Healthcare and Social Assistance
This sector employs over 780,000 people, including doctors, nurses, and social care workers. Healthcare professionals in Ontario play a crucial role in maintaining the health and well-being of the population. The demand for workers in this sector remains high due to its importance to the community.
Manufacturing
Over 670,000 Ontarians work in the manufacturing industry, which is vital to both the provincial and national economy. Jobs in this sector range from mechanical engineers to laboratory technicians, contributing significantly to the production of goods for the economy.
Healthcare in Ontario
Ontario offers immediate healthcare coverage for newcomers without requiring a waiting period. With an Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) health card, residents can access a range of healthcare services at no cost.
What OHIP Covers
- Doctor visits
- Hospital stays
- Laboratory tests
- Emergency services
- Some dental and eye-health services
While most public healthcare services are free, certain treatments, such as prescription drugs, may require out-of-pocket payments. Ontario recommends residents obtain private health insurance to supplement public coverage.
Education in Ontario
Ontario offers a robust education system from kindergarten through to post-secondary education, making it an attractive destination for newcomers. The province is home to a wide variety of educational institutions, from primary and secondary schools to world-class universities and colleges.
K-12 Education
Ontario’s public education system is available to all children starting at age six. The curriculum focuses on a broad range of subjects, including arts, language, mathematics, health, science, and social studies. Parents have the option to send their children to public schools or private institutions, though the latter requires out-of-pocket tuition.
Ontario also has over 400,000 licensed childcare spaces across the province, ensuring that young children have access to quality early education.
Post-Secondary Education in Ontario
Ontario is home to over 500 Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs), providing a wealth of opportunities for students to pursue higher education. The province’s institutions offer programs in various fields, including arts, sciences, business, engineering, and healthcare. Many of these programs make students eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows international students to gain valuable Canadian work experience.
Notable Universities in Ontario
- University of Toronto: Known for its global reputation, the University of Toronto is one of the top universities in Canada and the world. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in diverse fields, including medicine, law, engineering, and humanities.
- York University: Located in Toronto, York University is one of the largest universities in Canada. It offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its strong focus on research and community engagement.
- Queen’s University: Situated in Kingston, Queen’s is known for its rigorous academic programs, particularly in business, law, and healthcare. It offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees in various disciplines.
- University of Ottawa: The University of Ottawa is the largest bilingual university in the world, offering programs in both English and French. It is known for its strong programs in law, political science, and social sciences.
Notable Colleges in Ontario
- George Brown College: Located in Toronto, George Brown College offers a wide range of diploma and certificate programs, particularly in fields like business, healthcare, hospitality, and design. It also has strong ties to industry, offering students hands-on learning opportunities.
- Sheridan College: Known for its programs in arts and technology, Sheridan College is located in Oakville and offers both diploma and degree programs. It is particularly famous for its animation, digital media, and theatre programs.
- Humber College: Humber College, located in Toronto, is known for its diverse range of programs, including those in business, technology, health, and the arts. It is also well-regarded for its practical approach to learning and strong industry partnerships.
International Students in Ontario
Ontario’s educational institutions attract students from around the world, offering diverse programs that cater to different career aspirations. Many of these institutions are also recognized for their support services for international students, such as orientation programs, language assistance, and career counseling.
Weather in Ontario
Ontario experiences distinct seasonal changes throughout the year, with each season requiring different clothing and preparation. Weather can vary within the province, with southern regions often warmer than the north.
Winter
Winter begins in late December and lasts until mid-March. Ontario typically sees heavy snowfall and cold temperatures during this period. Layered clothing is recommended to stay warm.
Spring
Spring runs from late March to mid-June. The weather warms gradually, with longer days. Rain is common, so raincoats and waterproof shoes are essential. Light sweaters can help manage the cooler evenings.
Summer
Summer spans from mid-June to mid-September. This season brings warm weather, ideal for wearing t-shirts, shorts, and sandals. Breathable fabrics, sun protection, and comfortable footwear are important for staying cool and dry.
Fall
Fall lasts from mid-September to December. The weather cools, with temperatures dropping as the province prepares for winter. Windy conditions are common, so layered clothing, wind-resistant jackets, and waterproof footwear are necessary.
Newcomers in Ontario
Ontario provides settlement services to newcomers through various agencies. These services assist with housing, school enrollment, job searching, and more. Newcomers can access these resources before, during, and after their move to Ontario. For assistance, residents can call 2-1-1 or visit the provincial website.
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) also offers national newcomer services. These services include language classes, job assistance, and community support, specifically for groups like women, seniors, and youth.
Taxation in Ontario
Ontario has two primary types of taxes: sales tax and income tax.
- Sales Tax: Ontario applies a 13% Harmonized Sales Tax (HST), which combines the federal Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the provincial Retail Sales Tax (RST).
- Income Tax: Income tax rates in Ontario are based on income brackets. Higher earners pay a higher percentage of tax.
For information on filing personal taxes in Ontario, refer to the provincial tax guidelines.
Things to Do in Ontario
Ontario offers many iconic attractions, making it an exciting place for newcomers to explore. Niagara Falls is a must-see, attracting visitors from around the world. The CN Tower in Toronto is another popular destination.
Ontario is also home to various cultural events, celebrating diverse heritages. Diwali and Lunar New Year festivals are held across the province, especially in multicultural cities like Toronto. These events allow newcomers to stay connected with their cultural roots while enjoying the local community.
Exploring these events and attractions will help newcomers experience Ontario’s rich culture and natural beauty.
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