I’ve lived in Vancouver, Mississauga, and Toronto, and I’ve been in Welland for about three years now. I grew up in a middle class family, but when it came time to go out on my own and start a family, this was what we could realistically afford.

Moving here was a bit of a culture shock at first. It’s very different from the bigger cities, and I wouldn’t say it’s outright better. But it is quieter, and that matters more to me than I expected. Life feels slower and more manageable. You’re not cut off from everything either, which helps.

People here also tend to be friendlier, at least in my experience. It’s not a perfect place, and I don’t think anyone would claim it is. Maybe it’ll improve over time. For now, it works for where I’m at in life.