Newcomer Guide to Living in Toronto, Ontario
By WelcomeAide Team
Quick Summary
- Toronto is Canada's largest city and most popular destination for newcomers, receiving over 100,000 immigrants annually
- Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranges from $1,800 to $2,600 depending on neighbourhood
- The TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) operates subways, streetcars, and buses across the city
- OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) covers medically necessary services after a 3-month waiting period
- Key settlement agencies include COSTI Immigrant Services and Access Alliance Multicultural Health and Community Services
Why Newcomers Choose Toronto
Toronto is the most diverse city in Canada and one of the most multicultural cities in the world. Over half of Toronto's population was born outside of Canada. The city is the economic engine of the country, home to Canada's largest financial district, a booming tech sector, and headquarters of major corporations across every industry. For newcomers to Canada, Toronto offers unmatched job opportunities, established ethnic communities, and extensive settlement services.
However, Toronto is also expensive. Housing costs are among the highest in Canada, and competition for rental units is fierce. This newcomer guide will help you understand the city, plan your budget, and find the settlement support you need.
Toronto Neighbourhoods: Where to Live
The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) includes the City of Toronto and surrounding municipalities. Each area offers different advantages for newcomers in terms of cost, community, and transit access.
Downtown Toronto
Downtown is the city's core, with condos, offices, shopping, and entertainment. The area is well-served by the TTC subway and streetcar network. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,300 to $2,600 per month. Downtown is ideal for young professionals who want to walk or take transit to work.
Scarborough
Scarborough, in Toronto's east end, is one of the most diverse areas in Canada. Large South Asian, Chinese, Tamil, and Filipino communities call Scarborough home. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800 to $2,100 per month. The Scarborough RT connects to the Bloor-Danforth subway line, and the Scarborough Subway Extension is under construction.
North York
North York stretches across the northern part of the city and includes areas ranging from affluent residential neighbourhoods to more affordable apartment corridors. The Yonge-University subway line runs through North York. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,900 to $2,300 per month. Large Korean, Chinese, Iranian, and Russian communities are present.
Etobicoke
Etobicoke is in western Toronto and offers a more suburban feel. The Bloor-Danforth subway extends into Etobicoke (Kipling station), and there is good bus service. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800 to $2,200 per month. Somali, Latin American, and South Asian communities are well-established here.
Mississauga
Mississauga is a large city west of Toronto with its own downtown core (Square One area). It is connected to Toronto by GO Transit and MiWay buses. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,900 to $2,300 per month. Mississauga has large South Asian and Middle Eastern communities. The Hurontario LRT is now operational, improving transit within the city.
Brampton
Brampton, northwest of Toronto, has one of the fastest-growing populations in the GTA. It has a very large South Asian community, particularly Punjabi. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,700 to $2,100 per month. Brampton Transit and GO Transit provide connections to downtown Toronto, though commute times can be longer.
Tip:
If you work downtown, choose a neighbourhood near a subway station or GO Transit stop. Commuting by car in the GTA can take 60 to 90 minutes each way during rush hour. Transit is often faster and cheaper.
Cost of Living Comparison
Here is a comparison of typical monthly costs across the Greater Toronto Area to help you plan your newcomer budget.
| Expense | Downtown Toronto | Scarborough | Mississauga | Brampton |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom Rent | $2,300 - $2,600 | $1,800 - $2,100 | $1,900 - $2,300 | $1,700 - $2,100 |
| Groceries (family of 2) | $600 - $800 | $450 - $650 | $500 - $700 | $450 - $650 |
| Monthly Transit Pass | $156 (TTC) | $156 (TTC) | $135 (MiWay) | $120 (Brampton) |
| Utilities (heat, electric) | Often included | $100 - $150 | $100 - $150 | $120 - $170 |
Public Transit: TTC, GO Transit, and Regional Systems
Toronto has the busiest public transit system in Canada. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) operates the city's subways, streetcars, and buses.
TTC Subway Lines
The TTC has four subway lines:
- Line 1 (Yonge-University): The main north-south line running in a U-shape from Finch station through downtown to Vaughan Metropolitan Centre
- Line 2 (Bloor-Danforth): The main east-west line from Kipling in the west to Kennedy in the east
- Line 3 (Scarborough RT): Connects Kennedy station to Scarborough Town Centre (being replaced by the Scarborough Subway Extension)
- Line 4 (Sheppard): A short line running east from Sheppard-Yonge to Don Mills
PRESTO Card
The PRESTO card is a reloadable fare card used across the GTA and Ottawa. It works on the TTC, GO Transit, MiWay, Brampton Transit, and other regional systems. A single TTC fare is $3.35 with PRESTO, and a monthly pass costs $156.00. You can buy a PRESTO card at Shoppers Drug Mart locations, subway stations, or online at prestocard.ca.
GO Transit
GO Transit operates regional trains and buses connecting Toronto to surrounding cities like Mississauga, Brampton, Hamilton, and Oshawa. GO fares are distance-based and range from approximately $4.00 to $13.00 per trip. If you live outside Toronto and commute to downtown, GO Transit is your main option.
Did you know?
The PRESTO card offers a fare discount when you transfer between GO Transit and local transit systems. If you take GO to Union Station and then the TTC, you pay a reduced TTC fare. This can save you over $50 per month on commuting costs.
OHIP: Ontario Health Insurance
Ontario's public health insurance is called OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan). Like BC's MSP, OHIP covers medically necessary doctor visits, hospital care, and diagnostic tests. OHIP is free for eligible residents.
How to Apply for OHIP
You can apply for OHIP at a ServiceOntario location. You will need:
- Your immigration documents (permanent resident card, work permit, etc.)
- Proof of Ontario residency (a lease agreement, utility bill, or bank statement)
- Your passport or travel document
The Waiting Period
There is a three-month waiting period before OHIP coverage begins, similar to BC's MSP waiting period. During this time, you must purchase private health insurance. Plans from companies like Manulife CoverMe or Blue Cross typically cost $100 to $200 per month per person.
Important:
Do not go without health insurance during the OHIP waiting period. A single emergency room visit can cost $500 to $1,000 or more without coverage. Purchase private insurance before you need it. For more on healthcare in Canada, visit our healthcare guide.
Finding Housing in Toronto
The Toronto rental market is extremely competitive. Apartments can receive dozens of applications within hours of being listed. Here are key platforms and tips for your housing search.
Where to Search
- Rentals.ca and PadMapper: Aggregate listings from multiple sources
- Facebook Marketplace and housing groups: Active GTA rental groups with daily listings
- Kijiji: More popular in Ontario than in BC, with many rental listings
- Realtor.ca: Lists condos for rent through real estate agents
- ViewIt.ca: Toronto-specific rental listing site popular with building managers
Tenant Rights in Ontario
Ontario has strong tenant protections under the Residential Tenancies Act. Key rights include:
- Landlords can only raise rent once per year by the provincial guideline amount (in 2026, approximately 2.5%)
- Landlords cannot evict you without following the legal process through the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)
- Security deposits: In Ontario, landlords can only collect a last month's rent deposit. They cannot collect damage deposits or key deposits beyond a reasonable amount.
- Contact the Landlord and Tenant Board at 1-888-332-3234 for disputes
Job Market in Toronto
Toronto has the most diverse job market in Canada. Key industries for newcomers include:
- Finance and Banking: Canada's five largest banks are headquartered in Toronto. The financial district employs thousands in banking, insurance, accounting, and financial technology.
- Technology: Toronto's tech sector is the fastest-growing in North America. Companies like Shopify, Google, and hundreds of startups are hiring in software development, AI, and data science.
- Healthcare: Ontario faces healthcare worker shortages. Nurses, personal support workers, and allied health professionals are in high demand.
- Construction: Toronto has more construction cranes than any other city in North America. Skilled trades are in strong demand.
- Professional Services: Consulting, legal, engineering, and management roles are plentiful in Toronto.
Register with Employment Ontario for free job search support, skills training, and employment counselling.
Settlement Agencies in Toronto
Toronto has dozens of settlement agencies funded by federal and provincial governments to help newcomers at no cost.
Key Settlement Agencies
- COSTI Immigrant Services: One of the largest settlement agencies in the GTA, offering employment, language training, settlement counselling, and mental health support. Serves newcomers in over 65 languages. Main office: 416-658-1600.
- Access Alliance Multicultural Health and Community Services: Provides primary healthcare, settlement, and community programs specifically for immigrants and refugees. Locations in Scarborough and downtown. Main office: 416-324-8677.
- YMCA of Greater Toronto - Newcomer Services: Offers language assessment, employment programs, settlement counselling, and youth services. Call 416-928-3362.
- WoodGreen Community Services: Provides employment training, settlement services, and affordable housing support in east Toronto. Call 416-645-6000.
Things to Do in Toronto
Toronto offers world-class culture, entertainment, and outdoor activities. Many attractions are free or affordable.
- Toronto Islands: A short ferry ride from downtown, offering beaches, picnic areas, and stunning views of the skyline. Ferry tickets cost $8.70 for adults round trip.
- CN Tower: The iconic Toronto landmark with observation decks. Look for discount days and newcomer welcome events.
- Kensington Market and St. Lawrence Market: Vibrant markets with multicultural food, fresh produce, and local vendors
- Free museum days: The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) offers free admission on Wednesday evenings. The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) offers discounted admission for newcomers through community programs.
- Toronto Public Library: 100 branches offering free programs, language classes, computer access, and settlement information
- Ravine trails and parks: Toronto has an extensive ravine system with over 300 km of trails for walking and cycling
Getting Started in Toronto
Toronto is a city of opportunity for newcomers who come prepared. The size and diversity of the city mean there is a community for everyone, no matter where you come from. Connect with a settlement agency early, explore affordable neighbourhoods with good transit, and take advantage of the many free newcomer resources available.
WelcomeAide is here to help you settle successfully in Canada. Our AI Newcomer Navigator provides free, multilingual settlement support. Learn more about our mission, explore our programs, or browse our blog for more newcomer guides. For essential first steps, read our guide to your first weeks in Canada.