Are you from Toronto?

Q: I'm looking for some information about Toronto... Tell me how is living in that city, tell me about your jobs, your free time... whatever you want...thanks

A: Toronto is a very diverse and "livable" city. Public transit (at least downtown) is good, the neighbourhoods are diverse, and there are many different entertainment options, from great restaurants to festivals like Caribana and Pride and the Film Festival. The population is also very diverse ethnically, so you will frequently hear foreign languages and find restaurants serving up different types of cuisines representing countries around the world. However, it is also a very expensive city in which to live. Rents are among the highest in the country (and North America), with your average 1-bedroom downtown going for at least $1000/month. Cost of living is high too, when you factor in food costs, transportation (a monthly Metropass for the TTC, the city's public transit system, is over $100/month), parking (if you own a car) and more. The job market is diverse but competitive. For well-paying jobs, you need at least a bachelor's degree. Since a lot of people move to Toronto from the rest of the country and the world, there are usually many, many people competing for the same entry-level jobs. Finding a job may require some perseverance on your part, or hopefully, some connections as a lot of jobs are found that way. You should have lots to do in your free time, whether you like to spend time in galleries and museums, or try out the newest Japanese restaurant, or taking in the city's varied nightlife. As for the people who live in Toronto, your mileage may vary but many people who move to the city often feel that Torontonians tend to be pretty cold, standoffish and money-driven. Given that the city is the country's financial capital, I suppose this is not entirely surprising. But, as with any big city, you can find people that suit your lifestyle if you look hard enough. Hope that was helpful.

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