A before-and-after perspective from those who have already made the leap
For many Torontonians, the daily grind of city life—long commutes, skyrocketing home prices, and the never-ending hustle—can feel like an unavoidable reality. But an increasing number of residents are opting for a change: packing up and heading west to Alberta.
From more affordable homeownership to a slower pace of life, moving to Alberta offers a stark contrast to the high-intensity lifestyle of Toronto. But what is life really like after the move? We spoke with people who made the transition to get an inside look at the before-and-after experience of trading Toronto traffic for Alberta tranquility.
Before the Move: The Toronto Experience
1. The Daily Commute
📍 Before: “My commute from Etobicoke to downtown Toronto took over an hour each way. Traffic was unpredictable, and public transit was often packed and unreliable. It felt like half my day was spent just getting to work.” – Melissa, 34, former Toronto resident
2. Cost of Living
💰 Before: “I was paying over $2,800 a month for a one-bedroom condo downtown. Groceries, parking, and entertainment were all expensive. Even with a decent salary, I felt like I was just getting by.” – Amit, 38, moved to Calgary in 2023
3. Work-Life Balance
⏳ Before: “The pressure to keep up in Toronto was exhausting. Work hours stretched longer, and social life often meant expensive dinners or waiting in lines for everything—whether it was coffee or a gym session.” – Jessica, 30, moved to Edmonton in 2022
After the Move: Alberta’s Lifestyle
1. Commute and Traffic? What Commute?
🌄 After: “I now live in a detached home in Calgary, and my drive to work is just 15 minutes. The roads are open, and there’s no gridlock. I get home in time to enjoy dinner with my family every night.” – Melissa
2. Affordability and Homeownership
🏡 After: “I bought a three-bedroom house in Calgary for less than what I was paying in rent in Toronto. I have a backyard, a garage, and peace of mind knowing I’m investing in my future.” – Amit
3. Work-Life Balance and More Time Outdoors
🏞 After: “I work remotely, and I’ve taken up hiking on the weekends. Banff is only an hour away, and I actually spend more time outdoors instead of being stuck in the concrete jungle.” – Jessica
Key Takeaways: What to Expect if You Move
✔ Lower cost of living – Alberta’s housing market is significantly more affordable than Toronto’s, allowing for better financial freedom.
✔ Less congestion – Say goodbye to endless traffic jams and overcrowded subways. Alberta’s cities are built for easier commuting.
✔ More space, both indoors and outdoors – Whether it’s a larger home or access to nature, many former Torontonians feel a greater sense of peace.
✔ A slower, yet still thriving economy – Alberta has a strong job market, with opportunities in tech, finance, and energy, plus the advantage of no provincial sales tax.
Is It Time to Make the Move?
For many, moving to Alberta isn’t just about affordability—it’s about lifestyle. The trade-off between the fast pace of Toronto and the more relaxed, nature-filled life in Alberta is becoming an increasingly attractive option.
If you’re considering making the move, take the time to visit, explore different cities, and weigh what’s important to you. The transition may be big, but for many, the benefits far outweigh the challenges.