Living & Working in Toronto
Toronto is Canada's largest city and one of the most multicultural places on earth, with over 200 ethnic groups speaking more than 140 languages. Nearly half of Toronto's population was born outside of Canada, making it a natural landing spot for newcomers.
The city is the financial capital of Canada and home to the Toronto Stock Exchange, all five major Canadian banks, and a thriving tech ecosystem often called "Silicon Valley North." Major sectors include finance, technology, film & television, healthcare, and professional services.
Toronto offers extensive settlement services, immigrant-serving organizations, and credential bridging programs. While the cost of living is high — particularly housing — salaries tend to be among the highest in the country, and the job market is Canada's largest.
Cost of Living
Top Employers
Shopify
Technology
Royal Bank of Canada
Finance
University Health Network
Healthcare
Deloitte Canada
Professional Services
Toronto-Dominion Bank
Finance
Settlement Resources
Employment services for newcomers including job search workshops, mentoring, and bridging programs.
Settlement, language training, employment, and education services for newcomers in the GTA.
Connects skilled immigrants with employers through mentoring and professional networks.
Newcomer-Friendly Neighbourhoods
Scarborough
Highly diverse area with large South Asian, Chinese, and Filipino communities. Affordable by Toronto standards with good transit access.
Avg. rent: $2,000/mo
North York
Suburban feel with urban amenities. Home to many newcomer families with good schools and diverse food options.
Avg. rent: $2,200/mo
Etobicoke
Western Toronto with a mix of high-rises and suburbs. Growing Somali, South Asian, and Latin American communities.
Avg. rent: $2,100/mo
Browse by Category in Toronto
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Toronto a good city for newcomers to Canada?
Yes — Toronto is Canada's most popular destination for newcomers. Nearly 50% of residents are foreign-born, and the city has extensive settlement services, multicultural communities, and a large job market across all sectors.
What is the average salary in Toronto for newcomers?
Entry-level newcomer salaries in Toronto typically range from $40,000 to $55,000 CAD, though skilled tech and finance professionals can earn $70,000–$120,000+ in their first Canadian role.
How much does it cost to rent an apartment in Toronto?
A one-bedroom apartment in Toronto averages $2,500 CAD per month. Suburbs like Scarborough and Etobicoke offer slightly lower rents around $2,000–$2,200.