Thunder Bay is one of the many Canadian cities that you can explore. It’s better to research different Canadian cities before you come so that you can select the city that best meets your personal as well as professional needs. This blog covers what to know about living in Thunder Bay, Ontario. So, without digressing much, let us begin! 

About Thunder Bay, Ontario 

Thunder Bay is the capital city of Northwestern Ontario which offers a relaxing, natural atmosphere with lively urban spaces to live, learn, and work. Situated on the north shore of Lake Superior, it is also known as the ‘Lakehead’ because it’s the head of the Great Lakes. It is a significantly populated municipality in Northwestern Ontario. 

Moreover, the city has roots dating back to 1683 when it was settled as Fort Camjnitigoyan. And today, the city has two former towns, i.e., Port Arthur and Fort William which both still retain much of their distinct identities. The cities joined to become the City of Thunder Bay in 1970. 

How Many People Reside In Thunder Bay, Ontario? 

The first thing to know about living in Thunder Bay, Ontario, is its population. As per the 2021 Census, the population is 108,843. If you include the surrounding communities, like Oliver Paipoonge, Neebing, Conmee, Gillies, and the Fort of William First Nation, there are over 125,000 people in the region. 

Thunder Bay’s Local Economy 

Being the largest city in Northwestern Ontario, the city is a vibrant and growing community and the region’s commercial, administrative, and medical hub. From trees to transport to research, health, and life sciences, Thunder Bay has been evolving and developing its knowledge-based industries, majorly in the fields of biotechnology and molecular medicine. 

Thunder Bay is home to the western campus of the Northern Ontario School of Medicine. It is the first medical school to have opened in Canada in a generation. 

The top industries of this city are: 

  • Transportation
  • Mining
  • Forestry
  • Manufacturing
  • Education  

Is Accommodation Expensive In Thunder Bay, Ontario? 

Affordability is an attractive attribute of living in the city. In 2021, the fourth annual Demographia International Housing Affordability Survey ranked Thunder Bay number 1 out of 227 urban international cities for affordable housing. 

Finding A Place/ Home To Rent In Thunder Bay 

Even though you might not have as many alternatives as other larger cities, you still have more affordable rental options. The average rental cost for an apartment is $1,150 for a bachelor, $1,250 for one bedroom, $1,350 for a two-bedroom, and $1,349 for a three-bedroom. 

It is important to note that when renting, it is also integral to consider buying renter’s insurance. While renter’s insurance is optional, many property owners might also require you to get a policy. 

Driving In Thunder Bay, Ontario 

The next thing to know about living in Thunder Bay, Ontario is about driving as well as public transit. 

There are many rural roads in the city. Driving can be challenging at times, specifically during the winter months. With significant wildlife in the region, it is vital to always pay attention. The primary highway through the city is Highway 11/17, which is known as the Thunder Bay Expressway. 

Moreover, all drivers need to have a valid Ontario driver’s license to operate a vehicle. 

Well, Thunder Bay Transit operates 17 bus routes across the city. Public transit costs vary depending on the route, distance, and method. The city is home to Thunder Bay International Airport, which is a railway hub for the Canadian National and Pacific Railway. 

Personal Finance and Banking In Thunder Bay

Establishing your finances in a new nation is a vital step. Local banks and credit unions offer programs to assist new immigrants, and newcomers can open a bank account, apply for a credit card/ loan, and get a mortgage. 

Thunder Bay’s Education System 

There are primary and secondary education schools. Thunder Bay has 38 schools, three middle schools, two private schools, a university, eight secondary schools, a college, a medical school, as well as an adult education facility. These schools include French immersion programs, an International Baccalaureate Programme, comprehensive special education services, and an Outdoor Education Center. 

Where To Obtain Medical Care In Thunder Bay 

Another thing to know about living in Thunder Bay, Ontario, is from where you can get medical care. 

The city is home to Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Center and many long-term care centers operated by the St. Joseph’s Care Group, like the Lakehead Psychiatric Hospital, St. Joseph Hospital, and Hogarth Riverview Manor. There are also smaller medical and dental clinics. 

The Ontario Health Insurance Plan provides residents with health care coverage. In case of an emergency, call 911. This number is the same no matter where you reside in Canada. For prescription drugs and services that Ontario Health doesn’t cover, you can pay for extra health insurance plans. 

Things To Do In Thunder Bay, Ontario 

Thunder Bay is an excellent place to live if you enjoy the outdoors. It is home to many parks, conservation areas, and trails. It is a family-friendly city with many recreation facilities and neighborhood community centers that offer fitness and seasonal activities. 

The city operates indoor and seasonal outdoor ice rinks, indoor and seasonal outdoor community pools, numerous curling sheets, golf courses, and more. Residents enjoy active lifestyles because they are in close proximity to the Boreal Forest wilderness as well as the rolling hills and mountains of the Canadian Shield. 

Conclusion 

Thunder Bay in Ontario, offers a blend of natural beauty as well as urban convenience, thus making it an appealing place to live. Situated along the shores of Lake Superior, it offers picturesque landscapes and outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and skiing. The city has a welcoming, close-knit community with affordable living options and essential amenities like schools, healthcare, and shopping centers. 

In addition, Thunder Bay’s economy is driven by industries such as healthcare, education, and manufacturing, offering stable job opportunities. With its vibrant arts scene and rich cultural heritage, there’s always something to explore, making it a great 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].