Moving to Toronto Guide – S.B Movers

Thinking about moving to Toronto? You’re not alone. Every year, thousands of people pack up and head to Canada’s biggest city to start a new chapter. Whether you’re moving from another province, another country, or just a few cities over, Toronto has a lot to offer. Some come here for work, others to study, and many are just looking for a better life in a city that has it all.

But moving can be overwhelming. There are so many things to consider finding a home, packing, dealing with paperwork, choosing the right neighborhood, and making sure the whole process goes smoothly. That’s why we put together this easy-to-follow, in-depth guide written from the perspective of moving experts who know the city inside and out.

A Guide to Relocating to Canada’s Largest City: Toronto

Whether you’re coming from across the country or just moving from Mississauga or Vaughan, this guide will help you get organized, avoid common mistakes, and settle into your new life in Toronto with confidence.

Why Do People Move to Toronto?

Toronto is Canada’s largest city. It’s known as the financial, cultural, and business capital of the country, and it offers endless opportunities for growth and connection.

Here are the top reasons people decide to move to Toronto:

1. Career and Job Opportunities

Toronto is a major hub for industries like:

• Technology and innovation
• Finance and banking
• Healthcare and pharmaceuticals
• Film, media, and design
• Education and public services

Whether you’re a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, the city is packed with employers hiring across many fields. There are also plenty of networking events, career fairs, and startup incubators to help you connect with others.

2. Top-Tier Education

Moving to Toronto for school? You will be in good hands. The city is home to world-class universities and colleges like:

• University of Toronto (U of T)
• Ryerson (Toronto Metropolitan University)
• York University
• George Brown College
• Humber College

Many students from across the globe choose Toronto for higher education, thanks to its strong academic reputation and student-friendly neighborhoods.

3. Diversity and Culture

Toronto is often called one of the most multicultural cities in the world. Over 50% of its population was born outside of Canada, and more than 160 languages are spoken here. No matter where you’re from, you’ll find communities, foods, shops, and cultural events that make you feel at home.

4. Food, Events, and Things to Do

There’s never a dull moment in Toronto. Whether you love nightlife, family outings, or quiet coffee shops, Toronto has a place for you. You can:

• Eat authentic food from every continent
• Visit free public festivals all year round
• Catch concerts, sports, and theatre shows
• Explore art galleries and museums
• Walk or bike along the waterfront or High Park

5. City Life with Nature Access

Even though it’s a big city, Toronto offers green spaces everywhere: parks, ravines, bike trails, and even beaches. It’s the best of both worlds: the excitement of a big city with room to breathe and relax.

Best Neighborhoods in Toronto

Toronto has something for everyone. Here are a few areas to check out:

1. For Families:

• Leaside: Quiet with good schools
• The Beaches: Close to water, family-friendly
• High Park: Big park, nice homes

2. For Young Adults:

• Liberty Village: Trendy condos, walkable
• King West: Lively area with nightlife
• Yonge & Eglinton: Busy but balanced

3. For Students:

• The Annex: Close to U of T
• Kensington Market: Unique and creative vibe

4. For Saving Money:

• East York: Affordable and quiet
• Scarborough: More space for less rent
• Junction Triangle: Up-and-coming and cool

Renting a Home in Toronto

Try to find a place before you move so you are not stuck looking while living out of boxes. Here are the rent trends in Toronto.

Average Rent in 2025:

• 1-bedroom: $2,300–$2,700/month
• 2-bedroom: $2,800–$3,500/month

What You Should Know:

• Rentals go fast, don’t wait until the last minute
• Landlords usually ask for a credit report and job info
• Most leases are for 12 months

How to Get Around the City

Public Transit:

• TTC runs subways, buses, and streetcars
• Presto cards make paying easy

Other Ways to Get Around:

• GO Transit: Trains to nearby cities
• UP Express: Train to the airport
• Driving: Downtown is busy; parking is tough
• Biking: Lots of bike lanes and a rental bike program

Getting Settled: Living in Toronto

Shopping & Groceries:

• Big grocery chains: Loblaws, Metro, No Frills
• Fresh food: Kensington and St. Lawrence Markets
• Shopping malls: Eaton Centre, Yorkdale

Things to Do:

• Visit parks like High Park or the Toronto Islands
• Go skating in winter or swimming in city pools

Meet People:

• Join local events or festivals
• Visit your library or community center
• Find Facebook groups for your neighborhood

1. How to Prepare Before the Move

Begin planning at least two months ahead. You can use our handy moving checklist to stay organized. If you are hiring movers, make sure they are experienced in Toronto moves. Some buildings need special paperwork or have strict moving rules.

Moving to Toronto isn’t cheap so plan your budget. You will need to set aside money for:

• First and last month’s rent
• Toronto Moving company or rental truck
• Utilities and deposits
• Parking permits

2. What Happens on Moving Day

Things to Expect:

• Downtown traffic can slow things down
• It’s hard to find parking, get a permit if needed
• You might only get 2 hours to use the building’s elevator
• If it is winter, make sure walkways are clear and salted

Keep things like cash, keys, and medicine with you. Stay hydrated and let your local movers know what is fragile.

3. What to Do After the Move

Set Up Your New Place:

• Call to turn on hydro, internet, and water
• Tell your bank, job, and government your new address
• Register for health coverage (OHIP)
• Get a library card
• Learn your garbage/recycling day

Schools and Childcare:

• Sign kids up with the school board
• Apply early for daycare spots

If you plan ahead and work with people who know what they are doing, you will be settled in no time in Toronto, Ontario.

Whether you are starting a new job, going to school, or moving closer to family, Toronto is full of opportunity. When you’re ready to make the move, let professionals handle the heavy lifting, literally.