Goodbye Canada: the reasons behind the emigration increase

Tens of thousands of Canadians left the country last year, and new data suggests that emigration from Canada has reached unprecedented levels in 2024.

According to a new report from rental platform liv.rent, emigration from Canada has hit its highest level since 2017, with 81,601 people moving abroad – a figure just shy of the 83,210 who left eight years ago.

The Rental Market Trends Report examines the key factors contributing to the decline in rental prices. Among them: a slowdown in immigration and interprovincial migration, rising emigration rates, and a growing number of permanent residents leaving the country.

The report also highlights that every Canadian province saw an increase in emigration compared to last year, with a 3% overall rise from 2023. However, one province alone accounts for nearly 50% of all departures.

Which part of Canada is seeing most emigration?

Ontario recorded 48% of all Canadians leaving the country, marking the highest level of international emigration from the province since 2011.

Following Ontario, the provinces with the next highest emigration rates were:

• British Columbia (18%)
• Alberta (13%)
• Quebec (13%)

Ontario also experienced the largest net loss in interprovincial migration, further underscoring its status as the epicenter of Canada’s emigration trend.

Why are so many Canadians leaving?

Housing affordability, high unemployment, and the rising cost of living are among the top reasons Canadians are seeking opportunities elsewhere.

In Ontario, the cost of living is estimated at $2,139 per month, according to Livingcost.org – 1.16 times higher than the national average. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate in the province stood at 7.3% in February, one of the highest in the country despite a slight recent decline.

As economic pressures mount, more Canadians appear to be looking abroad for a better quality of life.

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