What to think about when moving from one Canadian province to another

A major job opportunity or the chance of a fresh start are just two of the reasons why so many Canadians are packing their bags and moving to one province to another. Before you do, there are lots of things to think about. Below, we round up a few of the biggest…

Housing costs

The average house price for a detached property in Greater Vancouver hit an eye-watering $1,754,795 in 2018, whereas the average house price in Fredericton, New Brunswick, as an example, measures in at a more affordable $173,000. These figures will no doubt have a major influence on the province you choose. Even if you’re taking on a well-paid job and you can afford to pay for a house in a more expensive residential spot, you should weigh up the opportunity costs - would you prefer to live somewhere cheaper and enjoy a higher standard of living, or does city life beckon and make you willing compromise for the right location?

Your salary

The chances are that you’ve already secured a job in your new province, or you’re planning to work for the same company either at home or in a new office. But have you considered the implications on your income tax? As well as paying federal income taxes, you also are responsible for provincial income taxes, which can vary from city to city. Consider using a Canadian tax calculator before you make the move so that you know exactly how much you will lose per month, or you could be in for a shock when you first new paycheck arrives.

The weather

Canada is a big old place, and the weather in one city can be very different from another. In Vancouver, for example, you’ll likely experience cold air from the Arctic and mild weather with some snow, whereas in Winnipeg, you’ll experience more extreme weather conditions and brutal temperatures at certain times of the year. As well as buying a new wardrobe full of clothes when you make the move, the weather may affect things such as getting to work or the type of car you’ll need, so do your research and see what your neighbours are doing. It’s important to have the right insurance and equipment, so stock up in the summer months to be prepared if you’re worried about the winter and brief your children on staying safe outside.

Friends and family

Moving from Vancouver to Quebec would put more than 4,800 kilometres between you and your family - that’s a 48-hour non-stop drive or an eight-hour flight with WestJet. There are a whole host of reasons why you may be considering moving to a new city, but leaving behind your friends and family can be one of the hardest drawbacks. It’s important to consider their feelings before you move your children to the opposite end of the country, too, and schedule regular trips back to your hometown so that loved ones can stay connected. Of course, the world has changed, and technology means you’ll always be able to speak to your nearest and dearest at the other end of the phone - but nothing can truly beat real human contact!

Wherever you’re moving to, we wish you the very best of luck!