Everything You Must Know Before Moving From Halifax to Toronto in 2023
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to move from Halifax to Toronto in 2023? Halifax is a vibrant coastal city located in the Atlantic region of Canada, with a population of just over 400,000 people. It is known for its picturesque harbour and lively nightlife scene. For those who live in Halifax, they can experience a mix of urban convenience and rural charm all within walking distance.
Toronto on the other hand is one of the largest cities in North America, with over six million people living there. A major international hub for culture and finance, Toronto offers plenty of exciting opportunities and diverse neighborhoods to explore. From bustling downtown streets to sprawling parklands filled with lush greenspaces, Toronto has something for everyone!
Moving from Halifax to Toronto
Moving from Halifax to Toronto can be a big undertaking, but there is a lot to consider. While it may seem like an overwhelming task, we have narrowed down the most important considerations so you can make the right decision for you and your family. From cost of living to best moving solutions, our guide will provide everything you need to know before relocating in 2023.
Cost of Living
Toronto is a large metropolitan city with a variety of lifestyle options, and so the cost of living can vary greatly depending on the lifestyle you choose. To help understand expenses better when moving from Halifax to Toronto in 2023, below is a comparison table of the average costs for various essentials.
| Category | Toronto | Halifax |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (Production Home) | $428 / sq ft. | $250 / sq ft. |
| Real Estate (Custom-Built Single- Family) | $820/sq ft. | $228 / sq ft. |
| Housing (1 Bedroom) | $2400 / Month | $1,300 / Month for a 1 bedroom apartment. |
| Housing Utilities and Insurance | $220 / Month | $190 / Month |
| Transportation | $156 / Month with a TTC Monthly Metro Pass. | $78/month for a monthly adult transit pass. |
| Car Insurance | $1500 / Year | $891 / Year. |
| Entertainment | $200 / Month | $150 / Month |
| Grocery Cost for 1 Person | $400 / Month | $250 / Month |
| Communication (Phone and Internet) | $100 / Month | $150 / Month. |
| Health and Fitness | $80-100/month for gym memberships. | $50-$100 / Month. |
| Sales Taxes | 13\% | 15% / Year |
Moving to Toronto from Halifax is an exciting change of scenery, however it comes with some significant costs. The real estate in Toronto is significantly more expensive than what can be found in Halifax, with production homes costing more than $400 per square foot compared to Halifax's $250 per square foot, and custom-built homes costing nearly four times as much in Toronto. Renting a one bedroom apartment in Toronto will cost around $2,400 per month compared to just $1,300 in Halifax. Monthly transportation costs are also much higher in Toronto; a TTC pass will set you back $156 per month compared to Halifax's $78 for an adult transit pass. Even basic utilities and insurance for your home cost more in Toronto, at around $220 per month, compared to the $190 it costs monthly in Halifax. Groceries and entertainment are slightly more expensive as well, coming out to around $400 and $200 respectively for one person a month in Toronto versus only being about $250 and $150 respectively in Halifax. Communication such as phone and internet is cheaper in Toronto at around $100 a month compared to the estimated monthly cost of $150 a month for Halifax customers. And finally health and fitness memberships range between 8-100$/month depending on your preference while it is only 50-100$/month in Halifax. All this comes with the 13% sales tax rate that applies in Toronto instead of the 15% that applies within the city limits of Halifax.
Benefits of Moving to Toronto
Toronto is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant cultural atmosphere, an up-and-coming economy, and top-notch public transportation. These amenities are in stark contrast to Halifax, where the hustle and bustle of city life are replaced by more laid back and relaxed vibes. Moreover, Toronto offers high quality healthcare facilities and options which may not be as readily available in Halifax. Meanwhile, Toronto also boasts an energetic nightlife that gives it an edge over its Maritime counterpart. Furthermore, Toronto provides a level of diversity not found anywhere else in the country – something you won’t find in Halifax either! All these reasons make Toronto far more attractive than its Atlantic Coast cousin for those looking to move across Canada.
Best areas to live in Toronto
Choosing a neighbourhood in Toronto can be quite a challenge, especially with the sheer number of options available and their diverse range of offerings. With its diverse culture and many attractions, it is no surprise that selecting the ideal place to live can be overwhelming. To make life easier, this post outlines five of the best neighbourhoods in Toronto to help you narrow down your search.
Forest Hill
Forest Hill is a vibrant and cosmopolitan neighbourhood in Toronto. As home to the Toronto Jewish community, it features a wide range of cultural attractions, from the renowned art gallery to its various restaurants. The nearby attractions such as downtown Toronto and High Park are within easy reach; CN Tower is only 8 kilometres away, while Scarborough Bluffs Park is only 10 kilometres away. Forest Hill offers a unique combination of urban lifestyle with plenty of Green space for active outdoorsy individuals, making it an ideal place to live for anyone looking for an exciting Canadian experience.
Lawrence Park
Lawrence Park is known as an affluent and desirable neighbourhood in Toronto. It's surrounded by lush ravines, scenic trails, parks and golf courses making it a great place for family life. The attractions nearby include the Lawrence Park Golf Club, the Earl Bales Ski Hill and the Yorkdale Shopping Centre which are all within a few kilometres. With its impressive homes and green spaces, living in Lawrence Park is like having your own piece of paradise nestled away from the hustle and bustle of city life yet still close enough to enjoy all that Toronto has to offer.
Rosedale
Rosedale is one of the most affluent and exclusive neighbourhoods in Toronto. It lies just north of the city's downtown core, surrounded by a network of parks, ravines and recreational trails. Rosedale is within close proximity to many attractions, including the Royal Ontario Museum, Casa Loma and Toronto's bustling nightlife on Yonge Street. Living in Rosedale offers residents all of the excitement that comes with living near a vibrant city centre combined with small-town charm and community spirit. With plenty of restaurants, shops and activities nearby, moving to Rosedale is sure to be an enjoyable experience for anyone looking for an exciting new home.
Yorkville
Yorkville is a fashionable and eclectic neighbourhood in Toronto, located northwest of downtown. It is known for its fashion institutions, art galleries, high-end restaurants, cafés and shopping. The area is also home to many parks such as Ramsden Park and MacDonald Park which are just a few minutes away from the neighbourhood centre. Travelling around Yorkville is easy with numerous public transportation options nearby. Living in Yorkville gives you access to all the amenities of downtown Toronto while providing the comforts of living in a quieter residential community. Whether you're looking for culture or convenience, it's easy to see why so many people choose Yorkville as their new home!
The Bridle Path
The Bridle Path is an affluent neighbourhood in Toronto that is well known for its lush greenery and spectacular views. Situated between two major highways, the area offers easy access to downtown Toronto and the Pearson International Airport. There are a variety of shops and restaurants nearby, as well as plenty of parks for outdoor recreation. The Bridle Path also boasts excellent public transit options, making it a great choice for those looking to commute easily around the city. For those seeking an active lifestyle, there are plenty of running trails within walking distance and recreational sports available close by. With its perfect balance of city living and nature's beauty, The Bridle Path is ideal for those wishing to experience true Canadian living at its best.
Pros
- The move from Halifax to Toronto offers more job opportunities than the former, making it a great choice for those looking for career advancement.
- The pro point of moving from Halifax to Toronto is the larger city with more activities, sights, and attractions to explore.
- A move to Toronto offers higher salaries than Halifax, making it an enticing option for those seeking a financial boost.
Cons
- Moving from Halifax to Toronto is likely to incur a higher cost of living due to higher expenses such as housing, transportation and food.
- The congested traffic in Toronto can be an issue, as compared to Halifax where it is manageable.
- Making a move from Halifax to Toronto can be challenging due to the much colder winter weather in the latter.
What Are the Best Moving Solutions in Moving From Halifax to Toronto?
Moving from Halifax to Toronto in 2023 requires careful consideration of all available moving solutions. Professional movers offer a variety of services including packing and unpacking, storage and transportation. Hercules Moving Company is one of the most reliable companies operating in this business, but there are plenty more to choose from. It's important to consider the reputation of the moving company, making sure it is registered with Canadian Association of Movers (CAM). Moreover, reading online reviews can give insight into users’ experience when using a certain mover’s services. Meanwhile, it is wise to compare different prices and be aware that the cheapest option might not necessarily be the best one. Therefore, carefully researching your options before committing will result in a smooth move without any unexpected surprises afterwards.
Conclusion
Moving to Toronto from Halifax in 2023 is an attractive option for many, however there are some cost implications involved. It is important to research moving companies and gain an understanding of the cost of living compared to Halifax's before making a decision. Additionally, picking the right area to live can be overwhelming with so many options available; Forest Hill, Lawrence Park, Rosedale and The Bridle Path are some of the best places to live in Toronto which offer unique city experiences with different benefits. Lastly, it is important to weigh all your pros and cons before embarking on this cross Canada journey!
