Saskatoon is an excellent place to be if you want to move to Canada. And while it is a big decision, selecting the apt city to settle in Canada will shape your future. This blog covers all you need to know about living in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. So, without further ado, let us begin!

About Saskatoon, Saskatchewan 

Saskatoon is a great multicultural city where applicants can live, work, play, and study. Known as the City of Bridges, it is found on the banks of the Saskatchewan River in the heart of the Canadian Prairies. Residents of the city are known as Saskatonians. 

The city was the location of the Northwest Rebellion of 1885. The Aboriginal people, who make up around 10% of the city’s population, have largely preserved the city’s rich culture. Saskatoon officially became a city in 1906. 

Saskatoon offers job and entrepreneurship opportunities in mining and energy, biotechnology and life sciences, and manufacturing and transportation. Moreover, educational opportunities are many, with easy access to many elementary as well as high schools, technical colleges, and the University of Saskatchewan. The city has three major hospitals, including a teaching hospital. 

How Many People Live In Saskatoon, Saskatchewan?

The first thing to know about living in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, is its population. The city is a mid-sized city with a population of 282,900, which ranks it as the 19th largest Canadian city. It is also the largest city in the province of Saskatchewan, followed by Regina, Moose Jaw, and Prince Alberta. 

Saskatoon’s Local Economy 

Saskatoon is also known as the ‘Hub City’. It refers to its location in the province of Saskatchewan. Moreover, the city has a diverse economy with a wide range of products as well as services in demand from across the globe. It has a steadily growing infrastructure, research and development, natural resources, and a well-educated workforce. The city’s economy is associated with potash, oil, and agriculture, mainly wheat. Almost two-thirds of the world’s potash reserves are in the Saskatoon region.    

In addition, Cameco, the world’s largest publicly traded uranium company and PotashCorp, the world’s largest potash producer, have their headquarters in Saskatoon. The city is also the home of BHP Billiton’s Diamonds and Specialty Products business unit. 

The top industries in Saskatoon are: 

  • Agriculture and Agri-Value
  • Energy
  • Forestry Development
  • Manufacturing
  • Oil and Gas
  • Life Sciences and Biomass
  • Mineral Exploration and Mining 

Career Pathways In Saskatoon 

Saskatoon is growing and creating more job opportunities. In anticipation of population growth, the city is developing the River Landing Project.

There are numerous ways to look for jobs in the city. You can use websites like Saskjobs.ca and the Government of Canada Job Bank. In addition, you can also collaborate with local recruiters like Essence Recruitment, Adecco, Express Employment Professionals, and Randstad Canada. 

Is Housing Expensive In Saskatoon, Saskatchewan? 

The next thing to know about living in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, is its accommodation costs. 

Well, finding a place to live is a crucial step when moving to Saskatoon. Housing prices in Saskatoon have increased in recent years. However, homeownership is attainable for most people. It is more affordable as compared to other cities in Canada.

Some of the most affordable neighborhoods in the city are Mayfair, Meadow Green, Westmount, Pleasant Hill, Fairhaven, etc. 

Driving and Public Transit In Saskatoon, Saskatchewan 

Driving is a vital form of transportation for residents. Saskatoon is situated on the Yellowhead Highway. Well, this is part of the Trans-Canada Highway system. This is also known as Highway 16. A wide variety of highways meet within the city limits. They include Highways 5, 7, 11, 12, 14, 41, 219, 684, and 762. Thus, you can see why the city is referred to as a hub. 

Saskatoon has a ring road – Circle Drive and nine bridges across the Saskatchewan River in the city. 

To operate a vehicle, all drivers must have a valid Saskatchewan driver’s license. The province uses a guided licensing program.    

As far as public transit is concerned, there are many options for getting around the city or traveling to other destinations. Depending upon where you are, your destination might be within easy walking distance. 

Saskatoon Transit runs numerous buses with various routes to get you where you need to go. Around 100 of these buses have bicycle racks on the front. For those who have mobility issues and are not able to use regular transit buses, Access Transit offers life-equipped buses and cabs within the city limits. 

By air, the city is served by the John G. Diefenbaker International Airport. From here, you can reach major Canadian, the US, and international destinations with one-stop connecting flights in several North American airline hubs.

Community Support For Newcomers in Saskatoon

The next thing to know about living in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, is the community support it offers to newcomers. 

The Newcomer Information Center is a significant first stop for any newcomer to the city. You can find information on housing, schools, and where to shop, along with making an appointment for a language assessment. Moreover, NIC staff can refer you to other settlement services. You can use a computer, make free local phone calls, and have all documents photocopied.   

Other settlement services include Saskatoon Open Door Society, Immigrant Partnership Saskatoon, and Saskatoon Newcomer Network. 

Public Spaces and Attractions In Saskatoon

The Aboriginal people have largely preserved Saskatoon’s rich culture through sites like Wanuskewib Heritage Park, Batoche National Heritage Site, and Fort Carlton Provincial Park. 

The city is also home to a lively arts as well as entertainment community, along with scores of festivals and events, performing arts and museums, and galleries. Art enthusiasts will absolutely love the permanent collection of around 500 works at the Mendel Art Gallery. Also, there’s TCU Place in Midtown Plaza, which plays host to various concerts and theatrical performances throughout the year. 

Conclusion 

Living in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, offers a balance of urban amenities and natural beauty. Known for its picturesque riverfront along the South Saskatchewan River, Saskatoon boasts a vibrant arts scene, diverse cultural festivals, and excellent dining options. The city enjoys a growing economy, specifically in sectors like agriculture, technology, and education, with the University of Saskatchewan being a key hub. 

Moreover, winters can be cold, but residents embrace the outdoors with activities like skating and skiing. Affordable housing and a strong sense of community make this city appealing to families, newcomers, and those seeking a quieter lifestyle.

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].