What do you think of when you consider some of the most desirable Canadian cities to call home? Toronto or Vancouver might spring readily to mind. However, a strong case can be made for Winnipeg, often known as the “Heart of Canada.” Nestled within the Canadian shield, you’ll find an abundance of unspoiled natural beauty, stunning scenery, and the best amenities you’d expect in a world-class city. Currently, Winnipeg is home to nearly 800,000 people, and news of all it has to offer is getting out. According to the last census in 2021, Winnipeg’s growth is far above the provincial average. What is it that is making people start to take notice? 

An Affordable Lifestyle

Winnipeg is one of the few places left where you can enjoy a high standard of living on a reasonable income, particularly when it comes to housing. 

At the time of this writing, the average house price in Canada is $626,318. In Winnipeg, owning a house is much more accessible at an average of $323,400.

Housing isn’t the only thing that’s more affordable. Every dollar stretches further here as Winnipeg residents enjoy lower tax rates, utility costs, and less expensive groceries than those in most other Canadian cities. 

Employment Opportunities Abound

Lower costs wouldn’t mean much if they weren’t paired with an abundance of high-income employment opportunities. Luckily, Winnipeg is home to some of the top employers in Canada across multiple industries, including manufacturing, transportation, pharmaceuticals, finance, education, healthcare and agriculture.

No matter what stage you are at in your career, you’ll find countless opportunities and eager employers waiting to meet you. And if you’re thinking of starting a company of your own, you couldn’t ask for a better location. Winnipeg’s low business tax, competitive operating costs, and diverse population make it an ideal place for startups. The provincial government also offers several grants and support programs for new entrepreneurs and growing companies.

Access to Superb Education

When relocating, access to high-quality education is a common priority. Fortunately, you’ll find plenty of options at all levels, from preschool to university. The Winnipeg School Division has 78 public institutions serving over 33,000 students. Some of the most well-known schools include:

• Linwood School
• John M. King School
• Lord Wolseley Elementary School
• St. Boniface Diocesan High School
• École Secondaire Sisler High School
• Grant Park High School

You can find out which schools are in your division with this helpful interactive map right here.

In addition to public education, Winnipeg offers many private schools to choose from, including Balmoral Hall School,  St. John’s-Ravenscourt Private School, and The King’s School. 

Winnipeg appeals to families because of its access to elementary and secondary schools, but where it really shines is in its post-secondary education. Here are just a few examples:

University of Winnipeg

One of Canada’s top-rated universities, the University of Winnipeg, offers programs in business, science, kinesiology, and more. Small class sizes, hands-on learning, and affordable tuition are just a few of the perks at this sought-after institution.  

Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology

The demand for skilled trades has never been higher in Canada, with plenty of high-paying opportunities right here in Winnipeg. You can begin a brand new career with one of the certificate programs offered at the Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology. 

RRC Polytech

RRC Polytech is the largest institute of applied learning and research in Manitoba. It offers more than 200 accredited degree, diploma, and certificate programs. With a 94% graduate employment rate, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better way to prepare for a successful career.  

Curious about which Winnipeg neighbourhood would be best for you and your family? You can see all of our community guides right here.

Experience the Thrill of All Four Seasons

It won’t take long to love your new home once you begin experiencing the thrill of all four seasons! Winters are brisk and chilly, but bright and sunny. In fact, Winnipeg is one of the sunniest places in Canada. Soon, you’ll find yourself falling in love with our good old-fashioned winters. Just think of the incredible skating, skiing, snowboarding, and other snow-filled adventures there are to enjoy! If you need to warm up, there are plenty of cozy cafes to sip a coffee or hot chocolate.

Summers are short and warm, with usually comfortable levels of humidity. Hitting the hiking trails, visiting the beach, and attending one of our many exciting festivals are a few ways to make the most of these precious warm months.

Many would argue that autumn is the best season in Winnipeg, and who could blame them? With so many parks, farmer’s markets, and hiking trails, it’s hard not to get caught up in a festive mood.

Spring can be unpredictable in Winnipeg, but that just adds to the fun and excitement of it all. You may experience a warmer-than-average afternoon, which is the perfect opportunity to head out for ice cream. On the other hand, the snow might return for one last hurrah. In that case, it may be time to hit the ski hills before the warm weather begins in earnest. 

Amazing Entertainment & Culture Scene

If there’s one thing Winnipeg is known for, it’s the unbeatable entertainment scene and rich cultural heritage. Each year, the city hosts countless festivals and exciting events, such as:

• Folkorama
• Winnipeg International Jazz Festival
• Winnipeg Wine Festival
• Winnipeg Children’s Festival
• Winnipeg Harvest Festival of Food

Hardly a day goes by without the chance to join a happy crowd of festival goers while enjoying music, food, and a sense of camaraderie with your fellow Winnipeggers! But there’s more to the city than the events. 

Take the dining scene, for example. You’ll discover more than 1,100 restaurants serving every type of cuisine imaginable to tantalize your tastebuds. When you’ve had your fill, there are also museums, live theatre, heart-pumping sports events, and nightclubs to provide you with rich and fulfilling experiences.

Will the dynamic and growing city of Winnipeg be your next home? We’d love to start the conversation with you! Reach out to us at info@goodfellowrealty.com or call 204-224-2551, and we’ll tell you everything you want to know.