London vs Toronto: frequently asked questions

For housing, yes, substantially, both to buy and to rent. For other costs it's more mixed. Property tax rates are higher in London, many households drive more and own more cars, and incomes are generally lower. Households that keep a Toronto-level income tend to see the biggest overall savings.

It depends on your household. Compare current benchmark home prices from LSTAR (London) and TRREB (Toronto) for the home type you want, then add property tax, utilities, transport and childcare. We avoid a single percentage because it hides the details that matter.

Buyers in the City of Toronto pay both Ontario's land transfer tax and Toronto's Municipal Land Transfer Tax. Up to $2 million, the municipal rates mirror the provincial ones. London has no municipal land transfer tax. On a $600,000 home, that's $8,475 in London vs $16,950 in Toronto before first-time buyer refunds.

Yes, generally, but the gap is usually smaller than for purchase prices. Use CMHC's Rental Market Survey for average rents and current listings for asking rents.

The tax rate is higher in London, more than double Toronto's in 2026 (1.727111% against 0.767311%, per each city's published rates). Because London homes are assessed at lower values, the actual bill on a comparable home may be similar or higher. Calculate it for the specific home.

Electricity commodity prices are set province-wide, and delivery charges differ by distributor. Gas and water rates differ somewhat. The bigger factor is usually home size: moving from a condo to a house typically raises utility bills.

Often, because Ontario premiums vary by rating territory and parts of the GTA are among the most expensive. But your driving record, vehicle and coverage matter more. Get a quote at your London address.

Most households do, and many have two. Living with one car or none is realistic downtown, near Western University and along the busiest bus routes.

Fees at participating licensed providers are reduced under the Canada-wide childcare system and are broadly similar across Ontario. The bigger differences are availability and waitlists.

Generally, yes, though in sectors with province-wide pay scales, like much of healthcare and education, the difference can be small. Compare wages for your occupation using the Government of Canada Job Bank.

Many people do, on remote or hybrid arrangements. Downtown Toronto is about 190 km away, roughly two hours by car in light traffic or a little over two hours by VIA Rail. Get your arrangement in writing and test the commute.

Many retirees choose London to release equity from a Toronto home while staying within reach of family and major hospitals. Compare property taxes, healthcare access and transportation needs, since driving becomes more important outside central neighbourhoods.

Generally, yes. Condo prices are lower, and there's no municipal land transfer tax. Condo fees depend on the building rather than the city, so compare what each fee includes. Our sister site London Ontario Condos explains how.

Most often: the variety of restaurants and culture, the transit system, and being close to friends and family in the GTA. What they gain most often: space, time, easier access to nature, and a calmer pace.

Generally, yes. London is affected by lake-effect snow from Lake Huron, while Toronto's climate is moderated by Lake Ontario.