40 Pros and Cons of Living in Toronto

If you’re wondering about the pros and cons of living in Toronto, you’ve come to the right place.

Toronto has a lot to offer, but no city is perfect.

On the one hand, Toronto has plenty of job opportunities and a lively cultural and food scene.

On the other hand, life here can be pretty busy and expensive, not to mention the insane housing prices!

I’ll take a look at both sides of the coin. The good and the ugly of living in Toronto, Canada’s biggest city.

I moved to Canada in 2019 so I’ll speak of my own experience as expat.

So whether you’re thinking of making Toronto your new home or are just curious about what it’s like to live in Toronto, read on to learn more.

40 Pros and Cons of Living in Toronto

Pro: Vibrant Neighborhoods to Choose From

Toronto is a vibrant city filled with pretty neighborhoods to explore. In fact, there are over 100 neighborhoods in Toronto.

Each neighborhood has its own unique feel, culture, and architecture.

From the trendy shops of Yorkville to the bustling Financial District, there are plenty of chic neighborhoods to explore.

Here’s the list of some of the most trendy and pretty neighborhoods in Toronto that are worth checking out:

Yorkville and Annex are one of the most fashionable and oldest neighborhoods in Toronto

They are filled with Victorian homes, high-end shops, sophisticated restaurants, and some of the city’s best hotels.

The area is also well-known for its art galleries and museums, making it a popular spot for culture lovers.

Kensington Market is a unique and vibrant neighborhood that is very diverse.

The area is known for its international street food scene, vintage shops, and funky street art.

Kensington Market is a great spot to soak up Toronto’s cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Liberty Village is a lively urban neighborhood that is filled with young professionals.

The area has plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars, as well as art galleries and unique shops.

It’s a blend between commercial and residential.

It’s in close proximity to King and Queen West.

Queen West is a great spot for vintage shopping and dining.

There are plenty of cool boutiques, vintage shops, art galleries, and hip restaurants.

Other popular touristy neighborhoods are Chinatown, Little Italy and Distillery District.

If you prefer more relaxing vibe, check out one of Toronto’s residential neighborhoods like The Beaches or Roncesvalles Village.

Con: Housing Crisis 

Housing costs in Toronto have been on the rise for years and there is no sign of them slowing down anytime soon.

The average price for a house in Toronto is now over a million Canadian dollars. Ouch!

And if you’re looking to rent, be prepared to fork out at least $2000/month for a one-bedroom apartment.

The housing expenses are one of the biggest cons of living in Toronto. It’s becoming increasingly difficult for young people and families to find affordable housing.

Many can no longer afford to purchase or even rent a house in Toronto and are forced to move to the suburbs, where commuting costs add up.

It’s not just the cost of buying or renting a home that’s expensive in Toronto.

Property taxes are also through the roof.

The high cost of living in Toronto is one of the main reasons why people are leaving Toronto. If you’re considering moving here, be prepared to spend a lot of money on housing.

Pro: Strong Economy with Many Job Opportunities

Toronto’s economy is booming and there are plenty of job opportunities.

The city is a major financial center and is home to the Toronto Stock Exchange – the seventh largest stock exchange in the world.

Toronto also has a strong film and television industry. Many American productions are filmed in Toronto because it’s cheaper than filming in the States.

Toronto is a great place for jobs in finance or tech. 

Many startups are based in Toronto because of the abundance of talent and resources.

Besides that, many large tech corporations have their headquarters in Toronto, so it’s a great place to start your career.

Overall, the strong economy and abundant job opportunities are two big advantages of living in Toronto.

Con: Competitive Job Market

Although there are many job opportunities in Toronto, the job market is also very competitive.

There are many highly-educated people hunting for the same positions, so it can be difficult to stand out from the crowd.

To land a job in Toronto, be prepared to put in some extra effort.

Building a solid network might help.

Many jobs are filled through word-of-mouth, so connecting with the right people is important. An excellent place to start is LinkedIn.

The competitive job market is one of the biggest disadvantages of living in Toronto. If you’re not prepared to work hard and network, you may have a tough time finding a job.

Pro: Extensive Public Transit System

Toronto has an extensive public transit system (TTC – Toronto Transit Commission) that makes getting around the city quite convenient.

If you live downtown, you can easily get around without a car.

The TTC covers Toronto and the surrounding municipalities, known as the Greater Toronto Area.

The transit system is also expanding. A new subway line is currently being built, which will make getting around the city even easier.

Overall, the public transit system is one of the best in North America and is a significant benefit of living in Toronto.

It’s efficient, reliable and reasonably priced.

A monthly pass will only cost you $156, which is a small price to pay compared to parking tickets downtown and current fuel prices.

Con: Pretty Bad Traffic Jams

Although the public transit system is quite good, traffic can be a nightmare during rush hour.

Traffic congestion can make getting around the city center very frustrating and time-consuming.

If you’re commuting by car, be prepared to sit in gridlock for hours.

The subway can also get very crowded during peak times.

If you have the option to work from home or outside of the downtown core, it’s worth considering.

Pro: Wide Range of Public Schools and Universities

Toronto has a wide range of prestigious schools and universities.

Some of the top-ranked schools in the city include the University of Toronto, York University and Ryerson University.

There are also many great elementary and secondary schools.

No matter what level of education and field you’re looking for, you’ll be able to find it in the city.

So whether you’re moving to get a degree or moving here with your kids, Toronto is a great place to study.

Con: One of the Most Expensive Childcare in Canada

Childcare costs are amongst the highest in Toronto compared to other major Canadian cities.

The high costs can make it difficult for young families to get by in the city.

Some child benefits are available from the government, but they don’t cover the total cost of childcare.

According to CBC, a full-time spot for a toddler in Toronto typically costs around $1,600 a month or $70 a day.

So if you’re moving to Toronto with young kids, it’s essential to factor in the high cost of childcare when budgeting for your move.

Pro: Four Seasons

One of the great things about Toronto is its four distinct seasons.

It’s great to experience all the different seasons and access so many seasonal activities.

Spring goes hand in hand with cherry blossom.

The best places for cherry blossom in Toronto:

• High Park
• Centennial Park
• Birkdale Ravine
• Broadacres Park
• Robarts Library
• Trinity Bellwoods Park
• Toronto Island Park

For winter sport lovers, there are many ski hills such as Blue Mountain Resort and ice rinks around the city.

Or, if you prefer summer weather, you can enjoy Toronto’s beaches, kayaking on lake Ontario or biking on Toronto island.

We love the autumn season in Canada the most.

There is nothing quite like the smell of pumpkin spice and a bowl of hearty soup.

Here are the best places to take in fall colors in Toronto:

• Don Valley ravine system
• Crothers Woods
• the Brick Works
• Taylor Creek
• Sunnybrook Park
• Edwards Gardens
• the East Don Parkland

Overall, the four seasons are a big benefit of living in Toronto.

Con: Hot Summers and Freezing Winters

Although the four seasons are wonderful, the weather in Toronto can be a bit extreme.

The summers are hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celcius, making it difficult to enjoy being outdoors.

And the winters can be long and very cold, with temperatures often dipping below zero.

The winter lasts roughly from December to March and there’s often a lot of snow.

If you don’t like cold winters, you may want to consider living in another Canadian city with a slightly warmer climate such as Vancouver, Okanagan valley or Halifax.

Pro: Diversity is Toronto’s second nature

Toronto is very cosmopolitan and diverse city.

This diversity is reflected in the city’s food, culture and overall way of life.

You’ll find cuisine from all over the world, as well as many multicultural festivals and events.

No matter your background, you’ll fit right in.

Con: Unfriendly People

Canadians are known for saying sorry too much and being one of the friendliest nations in the world. However, this is not the case with Torontonians.

One of the biggest cons about living in Toronto is that Toronto residents can be a bit cold and uninviting.

Unlike Canadian maritime provinces with a more laid-back atmosphere, Toronto has a similar culture to New York.

People always seem to be in a hurry and nobody has time to engage in small talk.

It’s nothing personal, perhaps it’s just the byproduct of the ‘rise and grind mentality.’

Pro: Delicious Food at Every Corner

Toronto has a mouth-watering food scene.

From the different cultures represented in the vibrant Kensington Market to the various food festivals held throughout the year. There is something for everyone to enjoy.

Toronto even has entire districts dedicated to a specific type of cuisine and culture.

Italian – Little Italy

Greek – Danforth

Chinese – Chinatown

The food scene in Toronto is constantly changing, with new restaurants and cafes opening all the time. So you’re sure to never get bored.

• Kensington Market food tour (one of Toronto’s most diverse neighborhoods)
• Toronto beer tour ( get a taste of Toronto’s best local beers!)
• Canadian Food Discovery at the St Lawrence Market

Con: Imported Produce

Although Toronto is a foodie’s paradise, eating out can be expensive.

This is because a lot of the produce is imported from other parts of Canada or other countries.

Imported produce also affects the prices of groceries and the freshness of fruit and vegetable.

If you have a tight budget, check out this Toronto best cheap eats guide.

Pro: Low Crime Rate

One of the major benefits of living in Toronto is its low crime rate.

In general, Toronto is a pretty safe city to live in compared to other similar major cities such as London in the United Kingdom or New York in the United States.

Like in any other big city, there are a few areas that you should avoid at night.

You might stumble across some dodgy drunks at the entertainment district, but overall it is a safe place.

Con: Toronto is Overcrowded

Toronto has the biggest population in Canada of over six million people.

Depending on your preferences, this can be both a pro and a con.

If you enjoy city life and having a lot going on, you’ll love the hustle and bustle of Toronto.

But if you prefer a more laid-back lifestyle, then the crowds and constant noise might be too much for you.

Pro: Free Healthcare

One of the best advantages of living in Canada is its universal healthcare system.

All residents of Canada are covered by this system, which means you don’t have to worry about expensive medical bills.

There are many public hospitals and clinics that offer free or low-cost primary healthcare.

So whether you have a minor cold or a serious injury, you can rest assured that you’ll be able to get the top treatment.

Con: Expensive Dental Treatments

Although primary healthcare is free in Toronto, dental care is not.

Dental treatments can be really expensive.

Some government-funded dental clinics offer reduced-cost services, but it can be challenging to get an appointment.

If you don’t have dental insurance or coverage as part of your job, you’ll have to pay out of pocket for any dental procedures you need.

I was shocked by the bill when I went for my first tooth scaling and polishing in Canada.

It cost 5 times more than what I would pay in my home country for the same treatment.

Our neighbor even used to travel to Mexico to get his teeth done.

It still worked out cheaper flying out to Mexico than getting his teeth done in Canada.

Pro: There is Never a Dull Moment

Living in Downtown Toronto is for you if you love being in the heart of the action.

You can find here some of Toronto’s most popular attractions like the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, and the Royal Ontario Museum.

Downtown Toronto is also where you’ll find many of the city’s best restaurants, bars, and clubs.

There is always something going on in Toronto.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s cultural scene, checking out the latest art exhibits, or dancing the night away at one of the many clubs and bars. 

Throughout the year, the city comes alive for music, food, and cultural or film festivals.

In Toronto, there is never a boring moment, indeed.

Con: The Cost of Living is High

Although there are countless options for entertainment and eating out in Toronto, this lifestyle also comes with a price.

Living in Toronto is expensive.

Just to give you an idea of average cost of living in Toronto for a single person:

1 Bedroom Apartment (Downtown Toronto) – $2,000

Utilities and Internet – $250

Groceries and 1 Meal Out – $200/week

Monthly TTC Pass – $156

That’s roughly $3000 for a single person to cover basic personal needs.

If you’re not careful, it’s easy to blow through your budget here.

To save money, you can cook at home as often as possible and take advantage of Toronto’s many free attractions.

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Pro: Thriving Start-ups

Toronto is a hub for start-ups and tech companies.

Many young entrepreneurs are drawn to the city because of its diverse population, strong economy, and abundant resources.

There are many investors that provide mentorship and funding for new start ups in Toronto.

So if you’re considering starting your own business, Toronto is a great place to do it.

Con: High Taxes

It’s no secret that taxes in Ontario are high.

In fact, according to the Fraser Institute, they are among the highest in all of Canada. 

In Toronto, you’ll have to pay both provincial and federal income taxes.

The sales tax (13%) is also among the highest.

For comparison, Alberta only charges 5% sales tax, while Nova Scotia has a sales tax even higher at 15%.

High taxes can discourage investment and economic growth.

This can lead to job losses and make it more challenging for businesses to thrive. 

Pro: High Standard of Living

Toronto has a high standard of living.

You get access to all amenities and career opportunities.

A big factor contributing to Toronto’s quality of life is its diverse population, which creates a vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Additionally, Toronto is a clean and safe city, with low crime rates, good health care and an education system.

Thanks to these factors, the life expectancy in Toronto is above average at 83 years.

What also contributes to an enjoyable lifestyle is a rich cultural and food scene and many lush green spaces in the city.

No wonder that so many expats choose to call Toronto home.

Con: Living in Toronto is Noisy

One thing you’ll notice when living in Toronto is that it’s a noisy city.

The constant sound of traffic can be pretty overwhelming, especially if you live near a busy street.

To combat the noise, consider investing in a good pair of earplugs, noise cancellation curtains or a white noise machine.

Or move to some quiter residential neighborhoods in Toronto such as:

• Scarborough
• East Danforth
• The beaches
• North Riverdale
• Forest Hill
• Lawrence Park
• Etobicoke

Pro: Everything you Need at Your Doorstep

The advantage of living in a metropolis such as Toronto is that you’ll find all amenities readily available.

There are countless restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops.

You can also find just about anything in terms of entertainment.

From art galleries and museums to movie theaters and concert halls, Toronto has it all.

Con: Endless Constructions and Roadworks

It seems every time you turn around, there’s a new building going up or a street being dug up in Toronto.

This can make moving around the city quite tricky and frustrating.

Pro: A lot of Green Spaces in the City

Toronto is not just a concrete jungle.

In fact, there are many green spaces throughout the city.

You’ll find large parks such as High Park and the Toronto Botanical Gardens, as well as smaller community gardens.

These green spaces provide a pleasant escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Con: Pollution

Living in a big city also comes with some downfalls.

One of the biggest problems Toronto faces is pollution and smog.

This is caused by emissions from cars and factories, as well as the high number of people living in close proximity.

The smog can be especially bad in the summer, making breathing difficult.

If you’re sensitive to pollution, you may want to consider living in a less populated area. 

Pro: Downtown Underground Pass System

One of the benefits of living in downtown Toronto is the underground pass system.

This system lets you walk around the city without having to go outside, which is great during the winter.

You can access the underground pass from many buildings, including office towers, shopping malls, and hotels.

The underground pass is also convenient for getting to and from public transportation.

Con: Difficult to Find Parking Downtown

The downside of the downtown is that it can be quite crowded, especially during rush hour.

And if you’re driving, good luck finding a parking spot!

Downtown Toronto is notoriously difficult to park in, so be prepared to pay between CA$9 – $22 per day for parking.

Parking fees can add up quickly.

Pro: Fun Festivals

One of the best things about living in Toronto is that there’s always something going on. You can attend fun festivals and events all year round.

Throughout the year, you’ll find festivals and events dedicated to everything from music and film to food and art.

Some of the most popular events include:

• Taste of the Danforth
• Caribana
• Pride Week
• Nuit Blanche

Con: Hustle Culture

Toronto’s fast-paced lifestyle can be quite stressful.

This city is where people are always on the go, trying to achieve something. There’s a sense that if you’re not working hard, you’re not doing enough.

And while there are certainly benefits to being a go-getter, hustle culture also has drawbacks. 

One of the biggest problems of hustle culture is that it promotes a sense of never taking a break. This can lead to burnout, both mentally and physically.

In Toronto, it’s easy to get caught up in the rat race of city life and forget to enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

Pro: Air Travel Hub of Canada

Toronto is Canada’s air travel hub, which means you have many options for inland or international flights.

The Toronto Pearson International Airport is easily accessible by public transportation.

This is one of the perks of living in Toronto, which makes traveling for work or pleasure a breeze.

Con: Expensive Inland Flights

Although Toronto is the air travel hub of Canada, inland flights to other parts of the country can be a bit pricey.

Coming from Europe, you get spoiled with many low-cost airlines and cheap flights.

You can find many flight tickets below $50 and explore the historical, picturesque European towns on your weekend getaways.

However, in Canada, you’ll pay on average $300 – $400 for an inland flight.

Train tickets are not any better when it comes to prices; the connections aren’t great.

This makes spontaneous travel a lot more difficult and expensive.

Pro: Bike-friendly City

Toronto is bike-friendly, with many dedicated bike lanes throughout the downtown core.

You can easily get around by bike.

If you don’t have your bike, there is an option to rent from BikeShare Toronto for reasonable prices and save on parking fees and fuel.

Plus, biking is an excellent way to get some exercise and keep fit.

• Toronto Islands: Morning or Twilight 3.5-Hour Bike Tour
• Best Bike Tours in Toronto
• Downtown Toronto Bike Tour

Con: Bike Lanes are Not Very Well Structured

Although Toronto does have dedicated bike lanes, they are not always very well structured.

The bike lanes can be narrow and cross traffic lanes, making biking in heavy traffic dangerous.

The safest biking area is on the boardwalk.

Pro: Exciting Dating Scene

If you’re single and looking for a partner, you’ll be happy to know that Toronto has an exciting dating scene. 

There are many bars and nightclubs where you can meet new people.

And if you’re into online dating, you can also check out Tinder.

With so many diverse cultures and people, you’re sure to find your perfect match in Toronto.

Con: It Can Be Challenging to Make Friends

If you’re not into clubbing, meeting new people in Toronto can be difficult.

It’s easy to get caught up in your work and not have time or opportunity to socialize.

A bit of an unfriendly vibe from locals also doesn’t help.

You might also like:

10 Easy Ways to Make Friends in Canada

Pro: Great for Sports Fans

Living in Toronto also has its perks for sports fans.

The city is home to several professional sports teams, including the Maple Leafs (hockey), the Raptors (basketball), the Blue Jays (baseball), and Toronto FC (soccer).

If you love hockey, check out the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Con: Not so Exciting for Mountain Lovers

If you love the outdoors and hiking, Toronto might not be the ideal best place for you.

The city is quite flat with not many mountains or hills.

There are parks, beaches and Ontario lake, but if you’re looking for a real nature escape, you’ll have to drive out of the city.

It’s not the typical iconic Canada you might know from Instagram with photos of canoes on turquoise lakes.

If you love mountains, then Calgary is just an hour’s drive from the Rocky Mountains.

Final Verdict: Is Toronto a Good Place to Live?

Overall, the pros and cons of living in Toronto are pretty balanced.

The city has a lot to offer, but there are also some cons that you should be aware of.

The high cost of living and real estate might be a deal breaker for many.

However, you can get by even on a smaller salary if you know how to budget and live in shared accommodation or outskirts.

If you’re planning to buy a house for your family, then Toronto might not be ideal.

The pros are countless options for entertainment and culture that are hard to beat.

Before moving to Toronto, be sure to do your research and weigh up all the reasons why to live in Toronto.

Only you can decide if moving to Toronto is the right choice for you.

If you’re still on the fence about whether or not to move to Toronto, check some of these other blog posts:

Essential Guide to Moving to Toronto

What is the Best Province in Canada?

Living in Montreal vs Toronto

Living in Toronto Pros and Cons FAQ