If you are planning to settle in Canada, choosing the right province and city is very important. Well, the City of London is one of the many cities to consider settling in. However, it is important to research the local job market, housing options, and the community before you arrive. Remember that the city you choose to live in decides your economic success in Canada. This blog covers everything you must know about living in London, Ontario. So, without further ado, let us begin! 

About London, Ontario 

Located midway between Windsor and Toronto, London is in the heart of Southwestern Ontario. As the sixth-largest city in Ontario and the tenth-largest city in Canada, it serves as a regional hub for surrounding communities. 

For newcomers/ immigrants, the city offers affordable housing, low crime rates, beautiful parks, culture, etc. It is also known as the ‘Forest City’ because of its natural beauty, trees, and green space. Whether you are seeking the urban lifestyle of a big city or the appeal and security of a mid-sized community, the City of London is an excellent place to live, raise a family, and enjoy life.  

Well, don’t get the city confused with London, England. It is arguably the second-best-known London across the globe. The two share many similarities. London, Ontario, was first settled in 1793 by Lord Simcoe on behalf of the Commonwealth. It was supposed to be the future capital of Upper Canada. It officially became a city in 1855. 

How Many People Live In London, Ontario? 

The first thing to know about living in London, Ontario, is its population. Well, London is one of the top ten fastest-growing cities in Ontario. The city has around 400,000 residents, with over 550,000 residents in the Census Metropolitan Area. It has become a big city but still has a small-town feel. 

London’s Local Economy 

London is a hub of higher education, technology, medical research, and manufacturing. Its location in southwestern Ontario makes it a key supply chain as well as transportation hub for the province. 

The strength of the rich agricultural lands, manufacturing sector, and proximity to the United States border make it an integral economic region. The city attracts foreign direct investments in advanced manufacturing, information technology, food processing, and other knowledge-based industries. 

The top industries in London are: 

  • Agri-Food
  • Manufacturing
  • Healthcare
  • Education
  • Professional Service 
  • Digital Media and Technology 

Is Housing Expensive In London, Ontario?  

Even though housing costs have increased by over 35% in the last two years alone, it is still more affordable as compared to other cities. London was presently ranked as the second most affordable city in the province. With lower housing costs, you are able to afford more. 

The price increase is driven by rapid population growth as well as fewer homes for sale. 

However, you can even search for more affordable housing in surrounding communities like Strathroy, St. Thomas, etc. 

Buying A Home In London 

The cost of buying a home in this city is increasing rapidly. As per the Royal Lepage, in 2021, housing prices increased 34.6% year over year. 

The median cost for a single-family detached home is $170,000. This is around a 30% increase from the previous year. The average price for a condominium is $410,600. This is an increase of over 46%. Even with such steep increases, it still has lower housing prices than the national average – $779,000. 

Driving In London, Ontario

Another thing to know about living in London, Ontario, is driving and public transit. 

In London, driving is straightforward. There aren’t any major highways that run through the city. You need to drive through the city to get to your destination. Highways 401 as well as 402 run along the south end of the city and connect London to Toronto, and to the US border crossings at Windsor and Sarnia. It is about a one-hour drive to the Sarnia-Port Huron US Border. Drivers should have a valid Ontario driver’s license. 

Community Support For Newcomers In London

The city continues to become more ethnically diverse and has dozens of ethnocultural groups as well as organizations to support newcomers.

There are various settlement agencies in the community. They include the London-Middlesex Local Immigration Partnership, The London Cross Cultural Learner Center, LUSO Community Services, South London, Neighborhood Resource Center, College Boreal, and the YMCA of Southwestern Ontario. 

Personal Finance and Banking in London 

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

Well, all local banks as well as financial institutions in this city have programs to help immigrants/ newcomers open bank accounts and obtain credit cards. You can even begin the mortgage qualification process; visit the local branch to begin the process.

Elementary and High School Education In London 

If you have young children, selecting a school that is close to your home will be important. You must choose a school that is within the school district where you live. The city has two English-language school boards as well as two French-language school boards: 

  • London District Catholic School Board (English-language school board)
  • Thames Valley District School Board (English-language school board)
  • Conseil scolaire catholique Providence (French-language school board)
  • Conseil scolaire Viamonde (French-language school board)

Conclusion 

Living in London, Ontario, offers a unique blend of city amenities as well as small-town charm. Known as the “Forest City” for its lush parks and green spaces, London is a vibrant community with a growing economy. It’s home to top educational institutions like Western University and Fanshawe College, thus making it ideal for students and professionals alike. The city’s affordable housing, excellent healthcare, and diverse cultural scene offer a high quality of life. With its proximity to Toronto and Detroit, London offers the convenience of nearby major cities while maintaining a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

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].