How to choose where to move/live?

[SweetheartSarah]

Hey there!

I am from Montréal and have only ever lived there in Canada. We are considering a move back to Canada from the US and do not want to return to Québec, rather Ontario or the Maritime. Neither of us has lived in either and though I've traveled a good portion of Ontario, I don't know how to hone down on cities/neighborhoods that match what we are looking for.

I'd love insight as to how you go about choosing where to plant your feet without knowing the areas well.

What we're looking for are the following:

• Safe city/neighborhood
• Quality school district
• Family-friendly environment
• Lots to see and do

 

[zardoz]

Hey there!

I am from Montréal and have only ever lived there in Canada. We are considering a move back to Canada from the US and do not want to return to Québec, rather Ontario or the Maritime. Neither of us has lived in either and though I've traveled a good portion of Ontario, I don't know how to hone down on cities/neighborhoods that match what we are looking for.

I'd love insight as to how you go about choosing where to plant your feet without knowing the areas well.

What we're looking for are the following:

• Safe city/neighborhood
• Quality school district
• Family-friendly environment
• Lots to see and do

https://www.macleans.ca/best-communities-canada-2019-full-ranking-tool/

 

[canuck78]

Would really depend on where you can find employment and your skills/education.

 

[steaky]

Hey there!

I am from Montréal and have only ever lived there in Canada. We are considering a move back to Canada from the US and do not want to return to Québec, rather Ontario or the Maritime. Neither of us has lived in either and though I've traveled a good portion of Ontario, I don't know how to hone down on cities/neighborhoods that match what we are looking for.

I'd love insight as to how you go about choosing where to plant your feet without knowing the areas well.

What we're looking for are the following:

• Safe city/neighborhood
• Quality school district
• Family-friendly environment
• Lots to see and do

Then do more traveling!

Perhaps drive your car to the Maritimes, steer west to Ontario, Manitoba and the Prairies up to BC.

 

[Hurlabrick]

From our own very limited experience. We tried Ottawa but found it quite quiet and frankly boring. Maybe coz its a largely government town. We moved to London ON and live it. Punches way above its weight for stuff going on and a lovely place to live with beaches on both Erie and Huron in easy reach.

Looked at Barrie, but felt too seasonal and would be dead in the winter. I am told Hamilton is surprisingly nice despite its outdated historic 'rust belt' reputation.