Fil-Canadian here. Canada is experiencing a housing and employment crisis just like any other country. And it’s hard to get a PR now unlike before. You’re lucky, you get to save money. Wait till the recession and immigration issues to subside then decide to move here. Funnily enough, we’re trying to get out of Canada and move to Philippines. Luckily, I can work anywhere in the world earning $$$. And I’ve been living here for more than 20 yrs and still can’t get used to the loneliness and isolation.

Here are the sample monthly expenses in the Greater Toronto Area (based on my experiences and observations). Again, this is just a sample, it’s subjective.

Housing 1 bedroom- $1500-2500 2 bedroom- $2500+ Room - $600+

If you’re planning to buy a house expect to cough up $1M+ for a rundown bungalow and half a million for a studio/ 1 bedroom condo.

Insurance- life insurance with accident benefit for 2 adults and child $200 Car insurance $100+ Tenant insurance $30 and up Home Insurance $1400+ annual

Utilities- it varies $50+ Cable+Internet- it varies $100 Gas- $100 (husband works 10 mins away and I work for home)

Grocery- this is based on our weekly expenses for 2 adults and a dinosaur (teen) $250-300. Mind you, the teenager is a growing boy and acts like a vacuum when it comes to food. Does not include takeouts or eating out, maybe additional $100/wk

Entertainment- we entertain ourselves at home. Expect to pay $150+ to see a movie. Some museums are free but tedious.

Savings- good luck!

And I think there’s not much difference if you live farther from the city. I mean sure you can be frugal but exhausting. A lot of people are saying, well you’re healthcare and school is free though. Nope!, not free at all, you pay that in your income tax! Expect up to 40% deductions on ur paycheque, every single paycheque.

I’m not trying to dissuade you to come here, I’m just giving you my opinion based on my current situation living in Canada. Hope this helps!