What Kind of City Is Toronto? Life, Costs, and Opportunities in 2025
- Murat Koçak
- Jul 26
- 5 min read
Updated: Oct 20
How is Life in Canada’s Largest City?
Toronto, Canada’s largest and most cosmopolitan city, is not only the country's financial and commercial hub, but it also stands out with its cultural diversity, high quality of life, and strong social services network. Each year, tens of thousands of new immigrants, students, and professionals settle in Toronto to pursue their career goals or build a new life.
In this guide, we explore what the city has to offer for individuals and families planning to live in Toronto in 2025, including living costs, housing options, education, job opportunities, public transportation, and more, based on official sources.
General Characteristics of Toronto
Toronto is the capital of Ontario and the largest metropolitan area in Canada. As of 2025, the city’s population is approximately 2.85 million, and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) has grown to over 6.5 million residents.
One of the city’s most notable features is its diversity; about 48% of Toronto's population was born outside of Canada. This makes Toronto one of the most immigrant-populated cities in the world. The city is home to over 200 ethnic backgrounds and more than 160 spoken languages.
Its multicultural environment, social inclusiveness, and use of English as the primary language make Toronto a welcoming and livable city for newcomers.
Cost of Living (2025 Data)
Rent Prices
Toronto is one of the most expensive cities in Canada. Rental costs and basic living expenses are above the national average. However, the city also offers higher income opportunities and a strong public service infrastructure.
Housing Type | Avg. Monthly Rent (CAD) |
1-bedroom (downtown) | 2,500 – 2,700 |
2-bedroom (downtown) | 2,900 – 3,300 |
2-bedroom (outside downtown) | 2,200 – 2,700 |
Rental costs vary based on neighborhood, access to public transit, and housing type. Downtown homes are more expensive, while areas like North York, Scarborough, or Etobicoke may offer more affordable options.
Other Living Expenses
● Groceries (family of 4): 700 – 1,200 CAD
● Utilities (electricity, water, gas): 150 – 250 CAD
● Phone and internet: 100 – 150 CAD
● Transit (TTC monthly pass): 156 CAD (adult)
Monthly expenses vary based on lifestyle and family size. A single person may need about 3,000 CAD, while families can expect to spend 4,500 – 6,000 CAD per month.
Education Opportunities
Toronto hosts some of Canada’s top educational institutions, offering a wide range of public and private options from elementary to post-secondary levels.
Elementary and Secondary Schools
Children aged 5–18 can attend public schools for free if at least one parent holds a study permit (college/university) or work permit.
Children of visitors must pay tuition to enroll in public or private schools.
Universities
University of Toronto: One of Canada’s most prestigious universities, ranked in the global top 50, especially in engineering, medicine, law, and social sciences
Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson): Known for applied sciences and media
York University: Recognized for arts, business, and law
Toronto also has numerous colleges (Seneca, George Brown, Humber) and language schools offering diverse options for international students.
Employment and Career Opportunities
Toronto has the largest labor market in Canada and a lower unemployment rate than the national average. There is particularly high demand in finance, tech, and healthcare.
Key Industries
Finance & Banking: Bay and Wellington Streets are at the heart of Canada’s financial district
Tech: Many global companies are based here, especially in AI, data, and software development
Healthcare: Toronto offers extensive career opportunities in the medical field
Media & Culture: A strong presence in film and publishing industries
Individuals with international experience and strong language skills have good chances of finding employment. However, some professions may require Canadian accreditation or certification.
Transportation and Daily Life
Toronto has a well-developed public transit network operated by the Toronto Transit
Commission (TTC), including subway, bus, and streetcar lines.
Key Transportation Features
● Subway system: 4 main lines with over 75 stations
● Monthly adult TTC pass: 156 CAD
● GO Transit provides regional service outside the city
● Bike-sharing programs are widely available
Toronto promotes sustainable urban living with pedestrian-friendly zones and green transit options. However, mental health services and housing resources can sometimes be strained, leading to regional differences in safety and access.
Still, Toronto’s healthcare, transit, and public services place it high on the livability scale.
Housing and Neighborhoods
Toronto’s neighborhoods cater to different lifestyles and budgets. Families often choose areas that are safe and close to schools and parks.
Neighborhood | Features |
Downtown Core | Central and dynamic, but expensive |
North York | Family-friendly, high immigrant population |
Scarborough | Affordable, strong community vibe |
Etobicoke | Larger homes, nature access, moderate rent |
East York | Quiet, close to downtown, balanced lifestyle |
When choosing a neighborhood, school access, public transport, and community services should be considered.
Safety, Healthcare, and Social Services
Toronto is one of the safest major cities in Canada. Still, as in any big city, safety levels can vary by area.
Safety
● The city is generally safe
● Pickpocketing may occur in crowded tourist spots
● Social housing areas may face occasional security issues
Healthcare
● PR holders are covered by OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan)
● Students and workers may need private insurance depending on provincial rules
● Family doctor system is in place, with referrals needed for specialists
Toronto also provides a supportive network through mental health services, community centers, and social assistance programs.
Social Life, Culture, and Events
Toronto experiences four distinct seasons cold, snowy winters and hot, humid summers. The city embraces these seasonal shifts through both nature and culture.
● Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is one of the world’s top cinema events
● Music, theatre, and dance performances enrich the city’s cultural life
● Community festivals, outdoor activities, parks, and waterfront paths create a vibrant social scene for all ages
Who Should Consider Living in Toronto?
Toronto may be a good fit for:
● Students planning academic or graduate studies
● Professionals seeking roles in global companies
● Immigrants aiming to build a long-term life with their families
● Individuals who enjoy urban life and value cultural diversity
However, living in Toronto requires both financial and strategic planning. High rent prices, intense job competition, and the fast-paced lifestyle should be considered.
Toronto offers exceptional opportunities, safety, cultural richness, and strong public services, making it a key destination for those planning to live in Canada. As in any major city, successful settlement depends on preparation and access to accurate information.
At C&C Education Visa and Immigration in Canada, we offer personalized and up-to-date consultancy for students, families, and professionals considering life in Toronto, including:
● Visa type selection
● Educational institutions and application processes
● Housing and neighborhood planning
● Immigration strategy and PR transition
For anyone starting a new chapter in Toronto, reliable information and informed decisions are the foundation of a successful journey.
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Our team has extensive and detailed knowledge of Canada's immigration laws and regulations. This guarantees that we provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
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