Well renowned as one of the largest countries in the world, over 80% of Canadians dwell in cities and more than two-thirds of the population dwell within 100 kilometers of the southern border. Canadians are known to have one of the highest standards of living in the world and steadily rank in the top ten of the world’s happiest countries.
It remains one of the wealthiest nations in the world and its service sector makes up two-thirds of the economy and natural resources. Note that the United States remains Canada’s closest trading partner, and for that reason, U.S. citizens and permanent residents enjoy some immigration benefits in Canada.
Noted as the second-largest country in the world, the Canadian economy varies massively by province and territory with each region having its own assets. The country also provides numerous health and social services including health care, education, unemployment insurance, and senior care.
Without doubts, numerous factors are attracting new residents to the Great White North with beautiful landscapes, global healthcare, and progressive policy. However, there are still downsides to living in Canada, just as with any other place. Canada remains a popular destination for people from all over the world.
Owing to the safe and economically sound environment it offers, most people consider Canada a viable option for career advancement and a wonderful place to raise a family.
8 Downsides of Living in Canada
Quite Expensive
The costs of living in Canada are quite higher when compared to living in other countries. Have it in mind that cities in the country are consistently ranked among the world’s most expensive for Immigrants. Cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal are some of the most expensive places to live in the world, with rent and accommodation ranked as some of the most expensive.
Taxes in the country are also high, and Immigrants tend to see a good proportion of their salary eaten up by both provincial and federal taxes. Even after dealing with the less favorable exchange rates, clothing is still around 20% more expensive. Howbeit, the reward for this is excellent public-service delivery and access to world-class universal healthcare and free education.
Climate
Unless you decide to stay close to the coast, Canada’s northern position entails that it has a very cold atmosphere more than you would likely experience in most countries across the globe. In the country, winter can last for as long as 8 months, especially in the northern territories and provinces.
In December, reports have it that the average high temperature is 0 degrees in Yellowknife, NT. And when it gets to January, it drops further to -2. Note that within these months, the average low varies from -13 to a mind-blowing -17. On the scale of Fahrenheit, you will witness the 70s in July and you will still have to cover up for most of the year.
Healthcare
Truth be told, Canada’s healthcare system has proven to be both an advantage and a disadvantage to residents of the country. While it is very encouraging that residents can get basic and essential treatment at little or no cost, note that elective procedures and long-term care can have unbearable waiting times, especially in Canadian cities and large towns.
Under the system of healthcare that is available in Canada, the revenues are redistributed according to demographics. It simply entails that if you live in a rural area, your health service provider may not get adequate funding to cater to the costs. In addition, healthcare facilities in rural areas tend to be improved at a slower rate, and most often, you may need to go to an urban area for care.
Bears
If you are not in any of the urban cities, have it in mind that you are in a bear country. Both species, grizzlies, and blacks can be dangerous. Although the black bear gets less respect, he is one of the most notable dangerous creatures in Canada. Black Bears are responsible for at least 10 Canadian deaths in the past 10 years. Black bears rarely go near humans unless they’re starving.
They’re great tree climbers and there are about 500,000 of them across the country. Grizzly bears are much bigger and with over 20,000 in the country, they are much more likely to attack humans than their little black brothers. Residents of Churchill, Manitoba are known to leave their car doors unlocked just in case someone needs shelter.
Government Control
A good number of Canadians believe that the government influences almost every part of their lives. In recent surveys, residents note that they would prefer if there were lesser rules to comply with. Even for inconsequential items, such as the quantity of Trans-fat in a restaurant meal, the government influences a whole lot of things in the country.
Most people residing in Canada believe that the laws are encroaching into their personal lives and would want to have to deal with fewer restrictions and less government intervention in their lives. If you are someone who likes to make their own decisions, then this problem may be a critical setback.
Cougars
Most people do not believe that Cougars live and thrive in Canada. According to reports, cougars remain one of the most dangerous animals in Canada. At least 40 % of all cougar attacks in North America happen in British Columbia. Note that around November, they can be seen in the area or a few deer kills would let you know they are around.
Cougars are known to stalk their prey, and then rapidly charge. In the country, children tend to be particularly vulnerable to Cougar attacks due to their size. If you ever find yourself having to deal with cougar assault, your best approach will be to make yourself look big and fight back. Acting dead seems not to be an effective strategy with cougars.
Mosquitoes
Have in mind that mosquitoes carrying diseases like West Nile mosquitoes are one of the deadliest insects in Canada. Note that most people infected with the virus tend not to show any symptoms or they have flu-like symptoms. In some situations, the virus can cause severe illness, and even warrant hospitalization or death.
Therefore, it is necessary to understand the symptoms of illness related to the infection and how to curtail your risk. Your location and time of year will most often determine the mosquito situation. Yukon is known as extreme, so ensure you are prepared if you stay there and also stock up on the best repellent you can find.
Moose
Moose can easily be one of the most dangerous animals in Canada. Just like the white-tailed deer, moose are known to be quite dangerous to motorists: 700 Moose-vehicle collisions occur annually in Newfoundland and Labrador alone. These animals are also dangerous off the road.
With a weight of around 600 kilograms, they tend to charge when they feel threatened or cornered. Coupled with their imposing antlers, a moose can also kick either with its front feet or its back feet, and they can hurt you in many ways.
Despite the downsides of living in Canada, the quality of life and spectacular scenery ensure that it remains an attractive option for people around the world. Nonetheless, ensure you weigh your options and also choose a more appropriate town to guarantee you will enjoy your stay in the country.