Where should I live in Canada as a new immigrant? Can't choose between Ontario and Alberta, Please help.?

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will_o_the_west

That depends on what you're looking for, not just jobs but lifestyle.

Toronto is Canada's biggest city, so if you like the big city lifestyle, that'd be a good choice. You can get almost any kind of job there.

Though most immigrants go to Toronto first, most people in Ontario actually live away from Toronto. Ontario has more than a dozen medium-sized cities to choose from, and the way people live there is generally more community-based and friendly. Ontario also has hundreds of smaller towns, but work is harder to find in them.

Alberta has just two medium-to-big cities, and a handful of smaller towns. The lifestyle is hardier, with more severe winters, but more fun with the mountains nearby. Alberta has many jobs open now, especially for people who like working outdoors. But Alberta's economy has gone down in other years, so keeping your job there isn't guaranteed.

SteveN

You should go to the place that offers you the best chance at getting a job, and which is affordable to live.

You did not specify if you are coming to Canada with any portable skills. For example, a craftsman or construction worker should find work quickly in Alberta because they cannot keep up with the demand for building houses and are hiring all sorts.

If you are a doctor or some university educated profession, it is likely that Ontario would offer more of a selection.

And if you are not as skilled or may start off by working in a convenience store, as a taxi driver, or hotel staff, then it probably does not matter either way but I think Ontario would be less costly for rents and housing than Alberta at the moment due to the housing shortages that are happening out west.

Limestoner62

How important is holding onto your culture as opposed to job opportunities. Ontario, particularily Toronto is a better place for immigrants from different cultures. Certain jobs might be more plentiful in Alberta and taxes are lower.

Danelady

I see Biff is back in business - just ignore him, maybe he will go away.

James Dean

Depending on your skills...Alberta is looking for more experianced workers.

Lydia

choose Alberta.

Christopher

Living here in Calgary, I would like to welcome you to the city one day! There are a LOT of jobs in this city, but finding a place to live is very difficult.

No matter where you decide to live, welcome to Canada!

Lyndon001

Depends what your skills are.

Alberta runs a Provincial Nominee Programme which makes immigration much easier, as far as i am aware Ontario doesnt.

Google the PNP and see if you fit the criteria, housing and cost of living will also be cheaper in Alberta and you pay less tax.

Slightly different weather too, wetter but milder in Ontario and i have heared that the area suffers from Smog. The air will be cleaner in Alberta and the weather drier although there will be more seasonal variation. Winters are helped to be slightly milder though when the Chinooks blow.

I am slightly biased as we are moving to Lethbridge in late summer and i am a Long Haul Truck Driver.

An interesting sidenote, 1 poster (Biff i think his/her name is) said some uncomplimentary things about Canada in general. There are a couple of websites dedicated to defaming Canada and Canadians, its interesting to where these all seem to be located, it may be a touch of jealousy. May be because Canada has got oil, beautiful countryside, friendly people, nicer looking money and better doughnuts eh.

uncare_bear

Ontario is the home of the government and might recieve some favoritism. Alberta is oil rich with no taxes to pay; however, housing is very expensive.
Just some things to consider...hope it helps even just a little.

Lucas S

Alberta is like Montana or Idaho.

Ontario is like New York.

People wear cowboy hats and go to rodeos in Alberta! Beware if that is not your thing! Ontario is where it's at.

biffnasty

both are dangerous and dirty compared to American standards...heck all of canada is like that....

been there a few times and could not believe the level of poverty, and crime i witnessed....

www.notcanada.com

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