What is it Like Moving to Winnipeg from a Bigger City?

So, you’re moving to Winnipeg! Whether it’s due to a job change or joining a loved one, this city has a lot to offer. If you’re coming from a larger city, you might not know much about “The Peg” beyond its location between Saskatchewan and Ontario and its reputation for wheat fields. However, Winnipeg has a unique charm with its distinct traditions and quirks that are sure to make you smile.

Here's what’s in store for you when you move to Winnipeg:

Real Estate – You can finally own your Home!

You might love jogging along the ocean in Vancouver or the nightlife in Toronto, but living in those cities comes at a high cost. One of the first things you’ll notice in Winnipeg is the affordability of homeownership compared to cities like Vancouver and Toronto.

In Vancouver, renting a tiny room in a shared apartment can cost around $1,300 - $1,400, and buying a home averages around $990,600. In contrast, the average home price in Winnipeg is $292,198. This significant difference means that more professionals in Winnipeg can afford to buy homes rather than rent. Even rental prices are more reasonable, with one-bedroom apartments in the city center costing between $750 - $1,200.

Diverse Employment Opportunities

While big cities often lure millennials with diverse job opportunities, Winnipeg stands out with one of the most diverse economies in Canada. The city offers employment in sectors like aerospace, manufacturing, agribusiness, healthcare, and public administration. Winnipeg’s unemployment rate has consistently been below the national average, thanks to its diversified economic base.

The manufacturing sector is growing with a projected 4% increase, agriculture remains a strong performer, and there’s a burgeoning tech sector. Tourism and retail are also on the rise, with consumer confidence boosting retail performance from 3.7% in 2017 to 4.5% in recent years.

Amazing Communities and Neighbourhoods

Finding a neighborhood that suits your lifestyle is crucial when moving to a new city. In Winnipeg, you can maintain your quality of life without breaking the bank. The city offers fantastic, diverse, and welcoming communities.

For those who embrace the “live, work, play” concept, areas like St. James/CF Polo Park Mall, Grant Park Festival, and Shops of Kildonan Mall are ideal. Families seeking a small-town feel should consider Charleswood, known for its mix of traditional and new homes. Westdale offers affordable new housing developments, perfect for those looking for modern amenities.

Cultural Capital of Canada

Winnipeg boasts a rich cultural history, being the main cultural center in Manitoba. It was declared the Cultural Capital of Canada in 2010. The city is home to the oldest public gallery in Western Canada, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, the oldest ballet company in Canada, and numerous artist-run cultural centers. Winnipeg also houses several general and thematic museums, making it a haven for history and art lovers.

We’re Contenders – Yay!

If you’re a sports lover, Winnipeg is the place for you. The city is passionate about its sports teams, and this enthusiasm permeates daily life. Winnipeg has dozens of skating arenas, baseball pitches, cycling trails, and soccer fields. The Winnipeg Jets made it to the NHL Conference Finals for the first time in team history, and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers boast the third-highest win total in the Grey Cup among CFL teams.

Okay, let’s talk about the Weather!

Winnipeg’s weather is certainly interesting. Situated in the Canadian Prairies, the city experiences a humid continental climate. Summers are warm and pleasant, with temperatures in the mid-to-high twenties, while winters are long, cold, and dry, with temperatures sometimes dropping to -40 degrees Celsius. Despite the harsh winters, Winnipeg is one of Canada’s sunniest cities, offering plenty of bright, clear days.

Are you moving to Winnipeg in the upcoming days? Let’s give you an additional nudge in the right direction. Give all your moving woes to Two Small Men with Big Hearts Movers as we hope you have a great time in this great city. For any moving advice or to get an estimate for your move, call us on 204-654-3278.

Welcome to Winnipeg – we hope you enjoy this vibrant and welcoming city!