Moving to Ontario: Relocation Guide & Moving Tips
Ontario is one of Canada’s most popular destinations for newcomers. With a diverse population, strong job opportunities, and vibrant cities, families and individuals have plenty of reasons to call Ontario home.
If you’re moving to Ontario from another province, understanding housing costs, local requirements, and moving services will help you prepare. In this article, we will explore important aspects to consider when planning to move to Ontario and what to expect when hiring professional movers.
Why Move to Ontario?
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Ontario is known for diversity and international cities that can make newcomers feel welcome. If you’re looking for cultural diversity, outdoor recreation, and employment opportunities, Ontario can offer a great province to call home.
Cities like Toronto and Ottawa also feature world-class restaurants, festivals, museums, and entertainment venues. Or, if you prefer time in nature, between Lake Ontario’s beaches and Algonquin Provincial Park, there’s plenty to explore year-round.
Pros:
Safety: Ontario boasts a low crime rate that offers a welcoming environment for both families and individuals.
Entertainment: The province is Canada's entertainment hub, with numerous arenas, stadiums, and venues hosting events and performances catering to diverse interests.
Healthcare: Eligible newcomers can apply for the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) without a waiting period.
Employment Opportunities: Ontario has established technology, manufacturing, finance, and healthcare industries.
Education: Residents can benefit from a strong education system with reputable schools, colleges, and universities.
Cons:
Cost of Living: Toronto and Ottawa can be quite expensive, especially compared to smaller Ontario communities.
Weather: Winters can bring heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, and icy roads.
Traffic: Congestion in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) can increase commute times.
Ontario Moving Services
Allied Van Lines offers customizable moving services in Ontario, including transportation, packing, and storage. Our Ontario movers handle residential relocations within the province and across Canada.
Long-Distance Moving
As a long-distance moving company in Ontario, Allied coordinates loading, transportation, and delivery between cities such as Toronto, Ottawa, London, and beyond.
Interprovincial Moving
Our cross-country moving services support relocations from Quebec, Alberta, British Columbia, and other provinces. Allied provides full-service linehaul logistics and scheduling.
Packing and Storage Services
Allied provides professional packing and short- or long-term storage, including service-in-transit. Our moving and storage services in Ontario are built around each customer’s needs and moving timeline.
How Much Does It Cost to Move to Ontario?
While every move is different, here are some average linehaul costs for moving to Ontario:
Quebec to Ontario: Approximately $3,257
Newfoundland and Labrador to Ontario: Approximately $8,655
These are transportation averages for a single-family home, not all-inclusive quotes. Shipment weight, distance, packing, storage, and property accessibility affect final costs.
Use our free moving cost calculator to help build a preliminary budget. For a more precise estimate, request a free, no-obligation quote.
Popular Cities to Move to in Ontario
Toronto
Toronto offers employment in finance, technology, healthcare, and entertainment, with popular neighbourhoods such as Leslieville, The Annex, and High Park. The city has plenty of modern amenities, although housing costs are among Canada’s highest.
Ottawa
As Canada’s capital, Ottawa offers a metropolitan environment with employment opportunities in tech and the public sector. Popular neighbourhoods include Centretown, Westboro, and The Glebe.
Mississauga
Mississauga offers nearby access to Toronto Pearson International Airport, as well as career opportunities with many major employers. Consider neighbourhoods such as Port Credit, Streetsville, and Erin Mills.
Hamilton
Hamilton combines manufacturing, healthcare, and education opportunities with suburban neighbourhoods such as Westdale and Stoney Creek.
London
London, Ontario, is home to Western University and major healthcare employers. Old North, Wortley Village, and Byron offer unique neighbourhoods for families.
Toronto & GTA Moving Tips
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Choosing an Ontario Moving Company
The moving company you choose to help you move to Ontario should be reputable, reliable, and trustworthy. Compare Ontario moving companies before signing a contract. Look for experienced local movers in Ontario with clear estimates and positive customer reviews.
Review written estimates for additional fees.
Check Better Business Bureau ratings.
Read customer testimonials.
Ask about packing, storage, and moving valuation coverage.
Settling Into Ontario
Once you arrive in Ontario, you'll need to take a few steps to make the move official. Here’s a brief checklist you can use to get started:
Apply for OHIP through ServiceOntario within 30 to 60 days of moving.
Exchange your out-of-province driver’s licence within 60 days.
Register your vehicle in Ontario.
Update your address with the Canada Revenue Agency, utilities, and subscriptions.
Cost of Living, Jobs, and Housing in Ontario
Cost of Living in Ontario
The cost of living in Ontario varies depending on the city, but Ontario is considered one of the most expensive provinces in Canada. Statistics Canada’s Survey of Household Spending reported average annual household spending of $81,975 in Ontario, compared with $65,344 in Quebec and $82,657 in British Columbia.
Housing in Ontario
The Ontario Real Estate Association reported an average resale home price of $791,691 in 2026.
Here are average monthly rents for a two-bedroom apartment in the following Ontario cities*:
*According to CMHC’s 2025 Rental Market Report
Job Opportunities in Ontario
As Canada's economic powerhouse, Ontario offers a wide range of job opportunities across several industries.
Toronto is a major centre for finance and technology. Ottawa employs workers in government and telecommunications, while Hamilton and London have established healthcare, education, and manufacturing sectors.
Ontario Moving Checklist
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You'll want to start planning your move at least 2 to 3 months in advance to have enough time for comparing rates, getting organized, and packing your belongings. These Ontario moving tips can help:
Compare moving quotes and book your preferred date.
Declutter before packing.
Create an inventory of your belongings.
Pack similar items together and label each box.
Keep important documents and medication with you.
Arrange utilities and address changes.
If you don't have time to pack your belongings for the move, consider hiring professional packers to help. Use Allied’s moving checklist for additional planning guidance.
Why Choose Allied for Your Ontario Move?
With moving experience dating back to 1928, Allied Van Lines offers trained Ontario movers, customizable services, nationwide transportation, and 24/7 customer support.
Whether you’re moving across Ontario or across Canada, our team can help coordinate your relocation. Contact Allied Van Lines today for a free, no-obligation quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to move to Ontario?
Allied’s average linehaul cost for a Quebec-to-Ontario move is approximately $3,257. Your final quote depends on shipment size, distance, and services.
How far in advance should I book movers for an Ontario relocation?
Book an Ontario moving company about 8 to 12 weeks in advance. For summer moves or month-end dates, book 3 months in advance.
What is the difference between long-distance and interprovincial moving in Ontario?
Long-distance moving involves relocating over a substantial distance, including within Ontario. Interprovincial moving specifically means crossing provincial boundaries.
What should I know before moving to Toronto or the GTA?
If you're moving to Ontario from another province, consider hiring a professional Ontario moving company to help you with the transition. Budget for higher Ontario housing and commuting costs. As you plan your move, confirm any parking restrictions, elevator bookings, and loading arrangements before moving day.