For those who have moved to Toronto...?

Question

Was it worth it or what you expected? I am trying to figure out if Toronto or Vancouver is more my style. I have been to both, and have family in both places as well. Both have pros and cons (mostly pros both ways). For those "transplants", was it a good choice? Any advice? Right now, I go from favoring one or the other. Thanks!

Answer 1

I moved here from Seattle and been to Vancouver many times.  I hate the winters and I agree with Gillian traffic sucks and its too spread out.  I like Vancouver better. Its so pretty year round.   But Toronto is growing on me. Great vacation packages out of Toronto at least.    Go with your gut.  Having family around is nice.  Good luck

Answer 2

I have lived in both cities (now in Toronto), and the experience of either depends on what neighbourhood you live in. Vancouver was certainly my preferred city--I miss the natural beauty, the more laid-back attitude, the superior transit system, and the locations around the city (the mountains, the Gulf Islands). However, if I had to live in the east end of Vancouver, or in a suburb like Burnaby or Surrey, I don't think I'd have loved it as much (I lived in Kitsilano, which is extremely expensive unless you're renting--then it's on par with Toronto rental prices).

In Toronto, there are a number of wonderful neighbourhoods: the Beaches (as close to Vancouver as I can find!), High Park, the Annex, Mount Pleasant--all very expensive for buying, but the same price as Vancouver for rent. Toronto is more fast-paced, and there are lots of great shows going on, and if you like 4 seasons, it has that advantage, too (although the winter seems less appealing when you're in it and it drags on and on!).

One very negative thing about Toronto is the traffic. Because it's such a spread-out city, it can take forever to get from one place to another!

Personally, I would rather live in Vancouver. I'm only in Toronto for my graduate program, and hope to return to the West Coast once it's finished.

Good luck with your decision... I know from experience how difficult they are!