Overview
Moving to London
London is a regional health, education, finance, manufacturing and service centre with a large student population. Housing may cost less than Toronto, but the city lacks urban rail and many outer workplaces are easier to reach by car.
Use the regional employment base
London Health Sciences Centre, Western University, Fanshawe College, insurers, manufacturing, food processing and government are major anchors. Industrial jobs extend along highway corridors outside the central transit grid.
A posting labelled London may be in a neighbouring municipality.
Choose housing around bus routes
London Transit serves the city, but cross-town journeys can require transfers and time. Test early, late and weekend service for hospitals, factories or shift work.
Student demand influences neighbourhoods near Western and Fanshawe.
Prepare for a mid-sized city market
London offers more services than many regional centres but fewer employers in highly specialized fields than Toronto. Build occupation networks and consider the broader southwestern Ontario corridor.
Intercity rail and buses do not function as local commuter transit for most jobs.
Use newcomer and family supports
Settlement agencies, school boards, libraries and health organizations provide multilingual assistance. Child-care and family-doctor access depend on local availability.
The Thames Valley area includes surrounding communities with different transit and housing systems.
Frequently asked questions
Questions about moving to london
Is London part of the GTA?
No. It is a separate southwestern Ontario metropolitan area about two hours from Toronto by road in normal conditions.
Does London have rapid rail transit?
No. Local public transport is bus-based.
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