Settling in North America · Field Guide No. 11

Moving to VaughanOntario

43.8333° N · 79.5° W / POP. 323,103 / NEAR TORONTO

Vaughan’s 15-minute drive to Toronto hides a cost of living that’s mid-range, but the real story is in the neighborhoods.

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◉ You are here CPR Woodbridge ca.1910 in Vaughan, Ontario
CPR Woodbridge ca.191043.8333°N 79.5°W
~323kCity population
~15 minDrive to Toronto
~25 minDrive to Mississauga
Local guideUpdated from live data
Reading 01 — Cost of Living

Cost of Living: Mid-Range, Close to Toronto

Living here is mid-range compared to Toronto and Mississauga, but cheaper than Oshawa. Housing costs are stable, though demand in Thornhill drives up prices. Groceries and transport are standard, with public transit options connecting to Toronto.

Housing

  • Housing is stable with limited new developments.
  • Thornhill sees higher demand and prices.
  • Rentals are competitive, but buying requires patience.
  • New builds are limited, keeping prices steady.

Note: Prices update monthly based on live listings, so check recent data for accuracy.

Everyday costs

  • Property taxes are moderate compared to Toronto.
  • Public transit connects to Toronto via frequent buses.
  • Groceries are standard, with local markets offering fresh options.
  • Gas prices are in line with Ontario averages.
Reading 02 — Where to Settle

The neighbourhoods, plainly

Urban Edge · Thornhill

Thornhill

Dense with amenities but high demand drives up prices.

Suburban Blend · Maple

Maple

Balanced mix of shops and parks, with a quieter pace.

Family-Friendly · Concord

Concord

Tree-lined streets and good schools make it ideal for families.

Reading 03 — Work, Study & Getting Around

Jobs & Commute: Close to Toronto, Mixed Options

Jobs are plentiful in nearby Toronto (15 min drive), with tech and finance sectors nearby. Schools are solid, with top-rated options in Thornhill. Public transit connects to Toronto via frequent buses, but driving is common due to traffic.

Nashville Road - Kleinburg, Vaughan, Ontario, Canada - October 17, 2023 in Vaughan, Ontario
Fig. 2 — Nashville Road - Kleinburg, Vaughan, Ontario, Canada - October 17, 2023
Reading 04 — The Honest Pros & Cons

The honest pros & cons

What newcomers love

  • Proximity to Toronto’s amenities
  • Stable housing market
  • Good schools in Thornhill
  • Diverse neighborhoods
  • Efficient public transit to Toronto

What to go in knowing

  • High demand in Thornhill drives up prices
  • Limited new housing developments
  • Commuting can be stressful during peak hours
  • Fewer cultural attractions compared to Toronto
  • Rentals require patience due to competition
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What's it actually like to live here?

Cost of living and paperwork are only half the story. For the day-to-day — events, food, the real feel of each neighbourhood — cross to our sister guide.

Everyday life in Vaughan on Tiny Local Adventure
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Reference — Common Questions

Frequently asked

Is it a good place to live?
It’s a good place for those wanting suburban comfort with urban access, but high demand in Thornhill can make housing competitive.
How does it compare on cost to the nearest big city?
Living here is mid-range compared to Toronto and Mississauga, but cheaper than Oshawa, with stable housing costs.
Distance to the nearest hub?
About 15 minutes to Toronto via car, with frequent bus routes connecting to the city.
Best neighborhoods for families?
Concord and Maple offer family-friendly environments with good schools and parks.
Is it easy to rent?
Rentals are competitive, but patience is needed due to high demand in popular areas like Thornhill.