Frequently Asked Questions about Toronto

The fourth-largest city in North America, Toronto is an exciting metropolis and expats moving there are likely to have many questions about life in their new city. Here are answers to some of the most common expat questions about Toronto.

How safe is Toronto?

Toronto is very safe. It is safe to walk the streets at almost any hour of the day or night, with the only caveat being to avoid traditionally run-down areas after dark. Heed this and little will go wrong.

What is there to do in Toronto?

Toronto is a world-class city with a large and varied population. If the world has got it, Toronto probably has it too. Expats will find that there is plenty to see and do in Toronto. Cultural activities and artistic endeavours are celebrated and there are a wide variety of performances and festivals.

If that’s not enough, Toronto boasts an excellent array of museums and art galleries. Boating, swimming and fishing are popular on the nearby lakes. For nightlife, there is a great deal from which to choose, with restaurants, clubs and bars open into the early hours of the morning.

Do I need a car in Toronto?

Canada is a big country and having a car allows exploration beyond the city limits. However, within Toronto, there are few places that can't be reached with the public transport system, so a car is an unnecessary expense for most. Added to this, the city experiences some of the heaviest traffic in the country, so driving can be more of an inconvenience than anything else.

What is the cost of living in Toronto like?

The cost of living in Toronto is high, with accommodation likely to put the biggest dent in an expat's budget. Still, the salaries are generally higher to match, and the benefits of Canadian schooling and healthcare usually outweigh the slight loss of buying power.