Similarities and differences between Ontario and Quebec



    Canada’s two largest and most populated provinces in the east are Quebec and Ontario. They are sharing a border with each other and the USA.  It can be challenging to compare both provinces since they are so big and each has a lot of things to offer. The capital of Canada, Ottawa, is situated close to the line between these two provinces, and many people are unsure which side to choose. It is always difficult to choose the location for your next home. For this reason, before booking Centennial Moving Canada, you need to do research. In order to make it easier for you, here are all the similarities and differences between Ontario and Quebec. When you have everything in one place, it is easier to make a decision.

    The cost of accommodation in both provinces

    The first people care about would be the cost of living. You can receive a much bigger house for a lot less money in Quebec. The difference might range from 50% to 100% depending on many factors. After interest is taken into account, this can amount to hundreds of thousands of dollars in the purchase price and significantly affect monthly mortgage payments. This means a 2,500-square-foot home in Quebec with six bedrooms, two bathrooms, a pool, and a hot tub will run you about $300,000. If you want to find a similar house in Ontario, it would be almost $350,000 more expensive which means double the price. This is one of the reasons why people are moving from Ontario to Quebec often these days. Therefore, if you have a smaller budget, Quebec might be a better choice for you.

    a row of houses

    It is more expensive to purchase a house in Ontario

    Purchasing a house in both provinces

    Now that you know about home prices, you should learn about the purchase process. Similarities and differences between Ontario and Quebec can also be seen here. All of the fees and taxes that are included in closing expenses are something that many homebuyers overlook when they are applying for a loan. According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, these costs may range from 1.5% to 4% of the final purchase price. Thankfully, whether you buy in Ontario or Quebec, the taxes and fees are essentially the same. However, interestingly enough, they have different names. These charges are referred to as welcome taxes in Quebec and land transfer taxes in Ontario. You should also think about Canadian moving services. When you are moving from one province to another, it may be expensive. Therefore, make sure to leave a certain amount of money to cover your moving expenses. 

    Similarities and differences between Ontario and Quebec with income taxes

    If you select Quebec over Ontario, the income tax varies significantly. For example, let’s say you have a $75,000 yearly salary. With the same income, you will pay $16,550 in income taxes in Ontario compared to $20,850 in Quebec. It translates to a monthly difference of more than $350. However, the precise numbers will change depending on things such as your deductions, income, and other circumstances. In addition, one of the considerations you need to take into account is how much of your money you get to have. It is equally crucial to consider how much your basic necessities will cost you and to consider whether there are benefits to residing in one province over another. For this reason, do the calculation before hiring the best cross Canada movers. Most people would choose a province based on the affordability factor. 

    Similarities and differences between Ontario and Quebec when calculated

    Income tax is higher in Quebec

    Transportation options in both provinces

    When talking about similarities and differences between Ontario and Quebec, it is important to mention transportation. Unfortunately, Ontario is yet again more expensive. Moving throughout Ontario will cost you extra, whether you travel by vehicle or take public transportation. After Canada car shipping companies deliver your car,  you will have to spend around $400 annually for auto insurance and $230 for a license plate in Quebec. However, you will have to pay almost nothing for a license plate in Ontario but insurance is over $1000. In the capital area, there are two city bus routes in operation. On the Ontario side, OC Transpo is in charge, and an adult’s monthly pass costs $113.75. On the other hand, The Société de Transport de l’Outaouais operates in Quebec for $99.00. This means saving almost $300 annually in Quebec.

    Healthcare and insurance in two provinces

    Long distance moving always comes with certain challenges. For this reason, it is good to know that you will have access to medical facilities in both provinces. There is some false information that the hospitals in Quebec have higher waiting times and greater problems with the standard of service. However, these are just stories. You can receive the treatment you require by coordinating with professionals and experts. Consider whether your unique condition requires a specific specialist because healthcare expenses are generally consistent in both provinces. If you need to take something into account while making a decision, you must do enough research to get the information. In addition, new Canadian citizens will not be qualified for first-day health care in Ontario or Quebec, unlike certain other provinces, such as Alberta. Therefore, make sure to check for alternatives if you are moving from abroad. Private insurance would be a safe choice.

    a doctor's office

    Healthcare is a great example of similarities and differences between Ontario and Quebec.

    Similarities and differences between Ontario and Quebec with utilities

    If you reside in Quebec, your water and power costs will be significantly lower. According to one survey, energy costs are $.0855/KWH in Quebec against $.123/KWH in Ontario. This represents a difference of about 50%. The main reason appears to be attributable to Quebec’s advantage in creating and implementing an effective and dependable hydroelectric scheme. Nowhere in Quebec will you be charged for municipal water service, thus you’ll save money on utilities over time. This is yet another important aspect to consider when choosing between the two provinces.

    Put everything on paper

    Put all the costs down on one piece of paper. Add province to province movers and all the moving-related costs as well. As for now, Quebec has the advantage of being a more affordable province when compared to Ontario. If this is something you prioritize, then Quebec would be a reasonable choice for you. However, there are even more things to consider.

    Education and daycare

    The cost of a university education in Quebec is significantly lower than that of an equivalent program in Ontario. Because postsecondary education in Quebec is subsidized, people can save more than 25% on university coursework. In addition, you should expect to pay roughly twice as much for child care in Ontario than in Quebec. You won’t be eligible for the provincial subsidy that is offered there. As for the prices, childcare costs $45 per day in Ontario while in Quebec, this would cost $25 per day. Then take into account that a family earning $125,000 per year is qualified for subsidies in Quebec, which reduces the whole cost to about $7 per day. However, both provinces offer great education and daycare. Since the median home income is almost $20 000 higher in Ontario, it is possible to live comfortably there. Therefore, hire Ontario long distance movers and move with your kids here.

    kids reading about Similarities and differences between Ontario and Quebec

    Education and daycare are more expensive in Ontario

    All about the similarities and differences between Ontario and Quebec in numbers

    When considering all the similarities and differences between Ontario and Quebec in numbers, here is the final conclusion. Housing purchases and apartment rentals are less expensive in Quebec. Costs for utilities, transportation, health care, and education are either lower in Quebec or on par with those in Ontario. At the end of the day, living in Quebec would result in savings of more than $10,000 per year for a person making $75,000. However, since taxes are such a significant component, it is important to note that there is a threshold at which a person’s income level would result in a tax burden that would make living on the Quebec side more expensive. The specifics would vary depending on your unique personal tax position, but as a general rule, someone making over $150,000 per year would pay around $7,000 more in taxes on the Quebec side.

    Consider the language when choosing between the two provinces

    Many people claim that living in Quebec without having conversational French fluency is doable. This is particularly prevalent in large cities and near the province’s southern border. However, living in Quebec without speaking French would be challenging. As you can see, it is more affordable to live in Quebec but you need to learn French. Generally speaking, you should have had French as your second language in school. Therefore, brush up on your knowledge and speak French as much as possible and to the best of your ability if you intend to reside in Quebec. The story is completely different in Ontario. You only need English if you plan to live there. Still, it is a huge advantage if you can speak two or more languages. In addition, you can meet more people in Quebec if you are fluent in French.

    two women talking

    You should learn French if you want to live in Quebec

    Cultural differences between the two provinces

    Compared to a generation ago, the cultural difference between Quebec and the rest of Canada is not as stark. Even so, if you decide to reside in Quebec, you should be aware of it and ready for it. The biggest difference is the influence of France and French culture in Quebec. Someone moving here could encounter a certain coldness or standoffishness if they are not familiar with the Francophone manner of doing things. For this reason, it is important to learn French. Locals will welcome you more warmly if you can speak French as mentioned. In addition, you will have an easier time finding a job if you are fluent. Apart from this, there aren’t any big cultural differences. Once you move to either Quebec or Ontario, you will see that it will be easy to fit in.

    Where to live in each province?

    It’s challenging to choose between the aesthetic appeal of each province’s environment, architecture, food, leisure activities, or entertainment. For this reason, here are some places to consider when moving to either of these provinces. The first four cities are in Quebec and the second four are in Ontario.

    • Boucherville – has a beautiful environment with low unemployment and crime rates.
    • Quebec City – is the capital of the province and provides a lovely setting where the natural beauty and sights merge with excellent man-made structures and services across the city.
    • Lévis – a quiet suburb with all the great amenities.
    • Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville – the most affordable one in Quebec.
    • Toronto – is a global city and is often regarded as the best one in Ontario.
    • Ottawa – the capital with affordable housing.
    • Waterloo – affordable housing for young professionals.
    • Oakville – has a family-friendly atmosphere and great schools.
    a city in the distance

    Toronto is one of the best cities to live in Ontario

    Quality of life in both provinces

    It’s challenging to describe the quality of life, much less to condense it into a few simple phrases. Living on one side of the border against the other has many advantages and disadvantages. In Quebec, the public good, service delivery, and social safety are given higher priority. On the Ontario side, social services and personal opportunities are treated with more laxity. You should make a decision based on which option you find more appealing. In the end, both provinces offer high quality of life so you can live comfortably in both cases. It all comes down to your personal preference.

    Take into account all these similarities and differences between Ontario and Quebec

    While looking for a place to reside, there are many other factors outside the real estate market to take into account. Your personal preference is also important. There are several significant economic factors when deciding whether you want to live in Ontario or Quebec if you add up all it costs to get by on a year’s worth of expenses. Finding the solution for your specific scenario should be simple after reading about all the similarities and differences between Ontario and Quebec. Now it is your time to consider all the aspects.

     

     

    References:

    https://turbotax.intuit.ca/tax-resources/ontario-income-tax-calculator.jsp

    https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/t1/tbl1/en/tv.action?pid=1110023901

    https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-basic-income-pilot

    https://turbotax.intuit.ca/tax-resources/quebec-income-tax-calculator.jsp

    https://www.revenuquebec.ca/en/citizens/income-tax-return/completing-your-income-tax-return/income-tax-rates/

    Get a Free Estimate for your Moving!

    Get Quote



      Contact Us

        Our Moncton branch

        400 English Dr Unit 201, Moncton, NB E1E 3Y9, Canada

        Our Markham branch

        500 Esna Park Dr UNIT 11, Markham, ON L3R 1H5, Canada

        Our Concord branch

        582 Rivermede Rd Unit 1-3, Concord, ON L4K 2H5, Canada

        Our Calgary branch

        3352 47 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2B 2W1, Canada

        Our Surrey branch

        19130 24 Ave unit 107, Surrey, BC V3S 3S9, Canada

        Car icon Get free
        quote