Are you planning to immigrate to Canada? The city you choose to call home is a very integral decision. It will play a significant role in your career opportunities and financial success going forward. This blog covers everything you need to know about living in Hamilton, Ontario.

Hamilton is one of the many cities that immigrants consider. 

Researching a potential spot in the city will help you understand the local job market as well as your housing options. Recently, Hamilton has seen a significant increase in the number of immigrants coming to the city, which is why the location is worth considering. 

So, without further ado, let us begin with our discussion. 

An Overview About Living In Hamilton, Ontario 

Hamilton is a medium-sized city, located over 75 kilometers from Toronto. The City includes the former municipalities of Dundas, Stoney Creek, Glanbrook, etc. The southern part of Hamilton includes the Niagara Escarpment, which Hamiltonians also call ‘the mountain.’ 

Hamilton is the center of the Golden Horseshoe, which is a densely populated region at the west end of Lake Ontario. 

Affectionately called as the ‘The Hammer,’ it was named after George Hamilton. He established the town in the year 1815. With the opening of the Burlington Canal in the year 1830, the city became an integral port and railway center. Over time, the region has evolved to be Canada’s top industrial sector. 

Job prospects in Hamilton, specifically in manufacturing, are promising. If you are looking for a lower-cost place to reside, Hamilton is a safe and healthy place to raise your children. It has beautiful parks, waterfalls, trees, and several world-class schools.  

How Many People Reside In Hamilton, Ontario?

Hamilton has the tenth-highest population in Canada, with a population of over 569,355, according to the 2021 census conducted by Statistics Canada. It is the fifth most populated city in Ontario. Many other regions are experiencing growth, which is majorly due to newcomers moving to the region. The city itself has 536,920 people as of the 2016 census. The census metropolitan areas have over 770,000 residents. According to Statistics Canada, 24% of the residents come from other nations. 

Hamilton’s Local Economy

The next thing to know about living in Hamilton, Ontario, is its local economy. 

Hamilton is known for producing steel for other kinds of heavy manufacturing, which is why it has got the nickname ‘Steeltown.’ The Hamilton area is the most industrialized region of Canada. It is known as the steel capital of the nation for a reason. In addition, the city produces over 60% of Canada’s steel through two leading companies: Stelco and Dofasco. 

The job market in Hamilton is steadily evolving. The major industries include: 

  • Manufacturing
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Bioscience
  • Agriculture 
  • Medical
  • Construction
  • Service 

Career Pathways In Hamilton 

Hamilton is one of the fastest-growing and most diverse economies. Gains in retail, wholesale, arts, utilities, entertainment, etc support this growth. 

The city traditionally has a lower employment rate as compared to the provincial and national average. Some of the top industries include. 

  • Construction
  • Healthcare and Social Assistance
  • Education
  • Transportation
  • Finance, Real Estate, Insurance, etc. 

You can look for jobs through the city of Hamilton’s Employment Services website. You can also use local recruitment agencies like Randstad Canada, Robert Half, KAS Staffing, Biznets Professional Recruitment, and online Job Boards. 

Is Housing Expensive In Hamilton, Ontario? 

Hamilton has more than 200 neighborhoods to choose from, from central Hamilton to Chinatown to Balfour. Where you choose to rent/ buy will significantly impact the cost of housing. 

Comparatively speaking, Hamilton is more affordable than large cities close by, such as Toronto, Mississauga, or Brampton. This is the reason why Toronto residents are choosing to move to the Hamilton area. 

Some of the most affordable neighborhoods to consider include Glanbrook, Hamilton East and West, and Dundas. The most expensive areas to live in include Waterdown, Flamborough, parts of Hamilton Center, etc. 

Post-Secondary Institutions In Hamilton, Ontario 

In order to study in Canada, you must know about the educational institutions and the quality of education it offers. 

Well, Hamilton offers many higher education alternatives that provide academic, practical and hands-on training. 

Schools include McMaster University, Redeemer University College, College Boreal, Mohawk College, and many more. 

Interestingly, in Maclean’s annual ranking of universities, Hamilton’s McMaster University was named Canada’s top innovative ‘medical doctoral’ university eight times in the last eleven years. 

Many universities around the world have adopted the university’s student-centered, problem-based, interdisciplinary approach to learning. Established in the year 1887, the university offers programs in healthcare, engineering, business, social sciences, education, humanities research, science, etc.   

Moreover, Hamilton also has many private colleges where residents can learn a new trade/ skill to better prepare to enter the workforce. Examples of schools include Trios College, National Academy of Health and Business, CDI College, and Academy of Learning College. 

Where To Get Medical Care/ Help In Hamilton, Ontario 

The last thing to know about living in Hamilton, Ontario, is where you can get medical help. 

Well, in case of an emergency, call 9-1-1. The number is the same regardless of where you live in Canada.  

In addition, there are six hospitals in Hamilton. Every hospital is a center of excellence for a specific specialty, offering a state-of-the-art healthcare system to those who live in Hamilton. The hospitals are teaching hospitals. The internationally acclaimed healthcare conducted at McMaster University ensures that the best in patient care is available to Hamilton and the surrounding region. 

Conclusion 

Living in Hamilton, Ontario, offers a blend of serene landscapes and urban amenities. Known for its vibrant arts scene as well as historic architecture, Hamilton boasts a rich cultural heritage. The city is surrounded by stunning waterfalls and trails, thus making it an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts.

Moreover, its diverse economy, with strengths in healthcare, education, and manufacturing, offers ample job opportunities. Hamilton’s proximity to Toronto and Niagara Falls adds to its appeal, offering convenient access to major attractions. With a growing culinary scene, family-friendly neighborhoods, and excellent educational institutions, Hamilton is a dynamic and welcoming place to call home.  

If you seek information on how to begin your Canada immigration application process, you can talk to our NavaImmigration experts at 1800-918-8490, or you can drop us an email at [email protected].