Introduction:
Living in Canada has become increasingly challenging in recent years. Once known for its high quality of life and welcoming attitude towards immigrants, Canada is now facing a housing crisis, a cost of living crisis, and rising concerns over immigration policies.
What has caused these significant changes? Let’s explore how living in Canada has become more difficult over the past decade.
Skyrocketing Housing Costs
Just two years ago, the average cost of renting a simple two-bedroom apartment in Toronto was $2,400. Today, that figure has surged to $3,300—an increase of 25% per year.
Toronto is not alone; housing costs have risen sharply across most Canadian cities. To afford a one-bedroom apartment, many residents need to earn at least double the minimum wage.
Buying a home has become even more impossible, with mortgage qualification requirements now demanding an income double or triple the median household income.
Trudeau’s Early Promise
When Justin Trudeau was elected in 2015, his campaign brought a sense of hope and positivity. On his first day in office, he interacted with commuters at a Montreal Metro station, an event that went viral.
Trudeau enjoyed one of the highest approval ratings of any new prime minister in Canadian history. However, fast-forward to today, and public approval has declined dramatically.
Historical Immigration Policies
Canada has always been a nation built by immigrants. In the mid-1800s, the country used immigration to populate its vast western regions, attracting skilled farmers to develop the land.
By 1920, Canada’s population had tripled, but these early policies were racially selective. After World War II, discriminatory practices were phased out, and Canada introduced a points-based system to assess prospective immigrants based on merit.
Shifting Immigration Trends
Living in Canada Initially, economic migrants made up the majority of newcomers. However, by the 1980s, family reunification programs had shifted the lack of balance, prompting stricter entry requirements.
By the early 2000s, Canada’s immigration system was considered one of the best globally, with high public acceptance. In 2018, two-thirds of Canadians believed immigration was beneficial. But that sentiment has shifted dramatically in recent years.
A Rapidly Growing Population
Between 2015 and 2019, Canada’s population grew at record rates, primarily driven by immigration. In response to labor Lack and an aging population, the government announced ambitious plans to welcome 1.5 million new permanent residents between 2023 and 2025.
However, these plans coincided with an already strained housing market and a backlog of two million immigration applications.
Key Statistics:
-
Population Growth: Living in Canada experienced its fastest population growth in 70 years in 2023.
-
Temporary Residents: The number of temporary residents, including international students and workers, doubled from 1.4 million in 2022 to 2.8 million in 2024.
-
Public Opinion: In 2022, 27% of Canadians felt there was too much immigration. By 2024, that number had risen to 58%.
Rising Discontent
Public unhappiness became increasingly visible. In July 2024, protests erupted—an uncommon sight in Canada. With federal elections looming in 2025, Trudeau faced mounting criticism.
Public opinion polls in September 2024 showed his approval rating at just 33%, with only 26% supporting his continuation as prime minister.
Housing Shortages and Living Standards
The housing crisis is perhaps the most tangible aspect of Canada’s struggles. Stories of overcrowded living in canada conditions, such as 25 students sharing a single basement in Brampton, have shocked the public.
While the government attempted to address the issue by appointing former Immigration Minister Sean Fraser as the new Housing Minister, many saw this move as “too little, too late.”
Critics argued that the government’s decision to allow millions of new residents without adequate housing infrastructure contributed directly to the crisis.
Declining Living Standards:
-
Per Capita Growth: Despite overall economic growth, per capita growth has declined.
-
Cost of Living: In 2019, 66% of Canadians felt the cost of living had worsened. By 2024, that number had surged to 84%.
-
Income Inequality: The percentage of Canadians who believe the country is extremely unequal rose from 19% in 2019 to 38% in 2024.
Government Response
Under pressure, Trudeau acknowledged mistakes. He admitted that decades of underinvestment in affordable housing, coupled with building challenges and supply chain issues, had exacerbated the crisis.
To address public concerns, the government pledged to reduce immigration targets and slow population growth.
Conclusion
Canada’s struggles with housing affordability, cost of living, and immigration have created a perfect storm of public dissatisfaction. While Trudeau’s government has taken steps to address these issues.
many Canadians remain doubtful With federal elections approaching, it remains to be seen whether these measures will be enough to restore confidence in the government. For now, living in Canada continues to be more difficult than ever before.
