Canada Housing Market

The number of Canadians emigrating to the United States has surged to a level not seen in over a decade. Data compiled by CBC News from the American Community Survey (ACS) indicates that 126,340 Canadians moved to the U.S. in 2022, marking a 70% increase from the 75,752 who made the move in 2012.

Increased Emigration Rates

The ACS, conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, shows that of the 126,340 individuals who emigrated, 53,311 were born in Canada, 42,595 were Americans returning to their homeland, and 30,434 were foreign-born immigrants to Canada who decided to relocate to the U.S. The number of Canadian-born emigrants has notably increased by roughly 50% compared to pre-COVID levels.

Popular Destination for Canadians

The United States remains the most common destination for Canadian emigrants. According to United Nations data compiled by Statistics Canada, approximately 800,000 Canadians lived in the U.S. as of 2020. This figure is significantly higher than the 100,000 Canadians residing in the U.K., the next most popular destination.

Reasons for the Move

Several factors contribute to this rising trend. One primary reason is the pursuit of a more affordable lifestyle. The cost of living, including housing and daily expenses, tends to be lower in many U.S. states compared to Canada. For instance, the average U.S. home price is 20% lower than in Canada, after adjusting for exchange rates.

Additionally, higher wages in certain professions, such as information technology and healthcare, make the U.S. an attractive destination. Many states also offer lower taxes; for example, Florida has no state income tax, making it a popular choice for Canadians seeking financial relief.

Political Dissatisfaction

Another significant factor driving this emigration surge is political dissatisfaction. Many Canadians express frustration with the current political climate under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s leadership and are looking to pursue the American dream instead.

Support Networks

To assist with the transition, numerous Facebook groups have emerged, helping Canadians navigate the complexities of moving to the U.S. These groups provide valuable advice on securing visas or green cards, finding housing, and understanding health insurance options. One such group, “Canadians Moving to Florida & USA,” has over 55,000 members and continues to grow rapidly.

Real Estate Trends

Real estate agents and immigration lawyers note that the influx of Canadians moving to the U.S. is partly driven by the allure of a more affordable life. These professionals have reported a significant increase in inquiries from Canadians looking to relocate, particularly to states like Florida.

Conclusion

The trend of Canadians emigrating to the U.S. is driven by a combination of economic opportunities, political dissatisfaction, and the pursuit of a more affordable lifestyle. With emigration numbers at a 10-year high, the U.S. continues to be the preferred destination for many Canadians seeking change.

Source: Emigration from Canada to the U.S. hits a 10-year high as tens of thousands head south | CBC News