How is it in Canada, eh?

[SiliconJon]

I'm seriously considering moving out of the USA. Quite frankly I'm sick of the politics and the way the country is heading. Less and less freedom everyday, unless you are a crook or corporation (not that there's much difference these days in the USA).

My aim for moving is Summer 2005. We the family like the chillier weather (but not stone cold!), and I've heard some pretty good things about Canada. I need to go before the kids get far into school (currently 3 and 4 years old). But my inquiries include the laws, politics, schools, etc. I don't want to move up there if Canada is right behind the US in forms of policy. I'll just stay put if that's the case, or perhaps find somewhere else to move to.

Who is from Canada or has spent some serious time in Canada that could give me some info, as well as sources to check the info against. I would prefer to be somewhat close the the US border to make for a reasonable drive for trips to visit the family (as we would fly much less often).

[Theophylact]

I lived in Canada (St Catharines, Ontario) for six years (1969-75) and really liked it (St Catharines is a boring town, but it's only about an hour from Toronto, which isn't). I have close friends there; it's still a good place. Whenever things get crazy down here, I think seriously of moving back.

Canada's much more in tune with the rest of the civilized world than the US is. That doesn't mean they get everything right, but they never get as wacky as we do.

[brandon184]

I (and many/most others) would say that Canada's policies and world-view are a little more progressive than that of the U.S... Though don't be mistaken, our government and it's officials are a lot to tolerate at times.

Weather is fantastic, depending on where you move to... If you're not much for cold weather at all, go to the West Coast. If you like snow - go East.

Laws - It's not radically different.. The only thing that immediately pops into mind is gun laws, which aren't nearly as lenient.

Schools - Most public school systems are pretty generously funded.. For the time I spent in them, I'd say some are even over-funded.

Canada is a great place to live.. But it's probably not for everyone. Depends on the individual.

[vass0922]

Beware of where you are moving for jobs
Jobs are real tough to get in the US, and probably even tougher in Canada depending on what kind of work you do.



deleted remark in SJ's defense to thread crapper, it's not relevant now, the crappers comment is gone.

[SiliconJon]

Yeah, the tech market is "tough all over". But I'm versitile. I did plan on doing a job hunt in whatever cities/areas I narrowed it down to and that would be the final deciding factor.

[J-Excel]

A few years ago unemployment was pretty high in Canada. Their healthcare system is in shambles. Tax rate is quite a bit higher I believe.

The good news is that if you ever want to travel to another country, the best one in the world will be just south of the border.

[brandon184]

Government of Canada

Canada has been suffering from some of the same problems as the U.S. as far as economy is concerned.... Just to a lesser degree. The Canadian dollar has seen excellent performance lately.

[vass0922]

Yes taxes ARE higher in Canadia
You have GST and PST (provincial and federal taxes, kinda like state and fed taxes) but they take a bigger chunk out. Although you get GST payments back quarterly I believe

Its a beautiful country, I love driving up there. (some pics in my gallery of ontario)

Not to mention ya just gotta love the accent
I'd suggest taking some serious vacation time in whatever area you intend on moving to make sure you could adjust.

[brandon184]

vass is right about the taxes. GST is 7% .. PST is typically 6%.. So 13% tax on everything, but you do get a GST rebate.

[CraigK]

Silicon. I suggest that you check out http://canada.gc.ca/main_e.html for some info.

edited by surreal