Burlington is a medium-sized city located along Lake Ontario. It is a vital part of the Hamilton metropolitan area and is only about 60 kilometers from Toronto. The city is also a significant part of the Niagara Peninsula and the Golden Horseshoe. Well, here’s all you need to know about living in Burlington, Ontario.

Canada is one of the most beautiful nations to live in the world. It is also remarkably diverse culturally, economically, and geographically. The province and the city you choose to call home will have an integral impact on your financial success once you arrive in the nation. While Toronto attains a lot of attention, other cities, like Burlington, Ontario, have a lot to offer to newcomers. Therefore, it is integral to research a potential landing spot. So, read on till the end to know all about the city. 

About Burlington, Ontario 

People are drawn to Burlington because of its natural beauty, waterfront, as well as great infrastructure, thus making it an ideal place for commuters. The city has a diverse economy, and its location between Toronto and Hamilton and proximity to the United States border make it a prime location for economic growth. 

In 2022, the city was ranked as one of Canada’s 25 Best Small Cities. Burlington took first place in the Safety subcategory, which is often a key consideration when selecting a new community. 

Moreover, Burlington was originally established as a village in 1874. It obtained city status in 1974, the same year it surpassed 100,000 residents. Presently, there are nearly twice as many residents.     

How Many People Reside In Burlington, Ontario? 

According to the 2021 Census, the city of Burlington has a population of 186,948, a 2% increase from 2016. Moreover, it is the 28th biggest population-wise, thus making it an ideal location for newcomers/ immigrants interested in moving to a smaller city. 

Burlington’s Local Economy 

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

Burlington has a diverse economy which is not dominated by a single industry. However, it is known for agriculture, manufacturing, and transportation because of its strategic location. The city is home to around 13,000 businesses employing more than 85,000 people. So, if you are looking for work in Burlington, consider these top industries: 

  • Clean Technologies
  • Software Development
  • Advanced Manufacturing
  • Food and Beverage
  • Logistics
  • Information and Communication Technology

Career Pathways In Burlington 

The Burlington Economic Development Center is a partner in the Global Skills Strategy from the Canadian government. This program seeks to attract skilled individuals from other nations. This is an opportunity for newcomers/ immigrants to secure a work permit. Moreover, you can search for jobs by looking at the company websites or by collaborating with local recruiters, like Randstad Canada, AppleOne Employment Services, etc. 

Is Housing Expensive In Burlington, Ontario?

Burlington is a popular city to live in in Ontario, and housing costs reflect this. The city has the highest real estate as well as rental costs in the province. It’s following the similar trend as other cities in the region, such as St. Catharines, Oakville, and the Niagara region. 

Moreover, the Burlington housing market has a lot to offer. During your search, consider a variety of neighborhoods, including Aldershot, Alton Village, Headon Forest, Palmer, Plains, Tansley, and many others. 

Post-Secondary Institutions In Burlington, Ontario 

In order to study in Canada, you must know about the post-secondary institutions in the city. 

Well, Burlington lacks post-secondary education. The city is home to the DeGroote School of Business, McMaster University, and the Oxford College of Arts, Business, and Technology. 

However, the city is also close to other big cities with major colleges and universities, so there are still many alternatives within a short drive. 

Personal Finance and Banking in Burlington, Ontario    

The next thing to know about living in Burlington, Ontario, is finance and banking. 

Strong personal finance is vital to getting off to a good start in your new environment. All local banks as well as credit unions offer programs for newcomers and immigrants to apply for a mortgage, open a bank account, etc. You can visit the local branch to get started. 

Driving In Burlington, Ontario 

Burlington is situated along a major transportation corridor. Numerous major highways run throughout the city, like Highway 403, the Queen Elizabeth Way, and Highway 407 ETR. Moreover, many people commute in the region, and highway traffic can delay driving times. Also, road conditions can be difficult during the winter. 

All drivers need to have a valid Ontario driver’s license. Also, you must be 16 years old to start the graduated licensing process. 

Finding A Place To Rent In Burlington, Ontario 

Burlington is the most expensive city in Ontario when it comes to rentals. Rates start at around $1,500 and go up from there. The average cost to rent an apartment is $2053 for a one-bedroom, $2,349 for a two-bedroom, and $2,260 for a three-bedroom. 

Once you find a place to rent, make sure to protect it with renter’s insurance in Canada. Property owners might request proof of insurance as part of the rental agreement. Moreover, your landlord’s insurance policy will not cover you. 

Where To Get Medical Care/ Help In Burlington, Ontario 

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

The Joseph Brant Memorial Hospital is the city’s main care facility. If you don’t have a family doctor, you can visit walk-in clinics for non-urgent care. Numerous hospitals are also located in surrounding cities. 

In case of emergencies, call 9-1-1. The number is the same regardless of where you live in Canada.    

Conclusion 

Living in Burlington, Ontario offers a perfect blend of urban convenience as well as natural beauty. Nestled alongside the shores of Lake Ontario, Burlington boasts picturesque waterfront parks and a vibrant downtown area filled with restaurants, cultural attractions, shops, and much more. 

Moreover, the city is known for its excellent schools, diverse housing options, and a strong sense of community, thus making it ideal for families and professionals. Also, with easy access to major highways and public transit, commuting to Toronto and other nearby cities is quite convenient. Thus, Burlington’s commitment to green spaces, recreational activities, and a high quality of living make it a desirable destination 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].