Living in Hamilton: the ultimate expat guide

Hamilton's economy has evolved from its traditional steel manufacturing base into a diversified hub of healthcare, education, advanced manufacturing, and life sciences. The city generates approximately $48 billion in household and business incomes. With McMaster University and Hamilton Health Sciences as major employers, the healthcare sector has become a cornerstone of the local economy.

Key Employment Sectors

The top sectors accounting for 40% of jobs in Hamilton include healthcare and social assistance, manufacturing, retail trade, and education. Hamilton Health Sciences, McMaster University, and the City of Hamilton are among the largest employers. The manufacturing sector, while smaller than in previous decades, still produces 60% of Canada's steel through companies like ArcelorMittal Dofasco.

Work Permits and Immigration

Foreign nationals typically require a work permit to work in Canada. The main pathways include the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (requiring an LMIA from the employer), International Mobility Program (LMIA-exempt categories), and Express Entry for permanent residence. As of 2025, candidates with valid job offers no longer receive additional CRS points under Express Entry. Processing times for work permits range from 8 to 21 weeks depending on the application type and country of origin.

The following table summarizes key employment indicators for Hamilton:

Sources: Ontario Ministry of Finance, Ontario Living Wage Network, Invest in Hamilton

Hamilton is a prominent education hub in Ontario, home to institutions that attract students from over 120 countries. Whether pursuing undergraduate studies, graduate research, or professional training, the city offers diverse academic pathways and strong employment outcomes for graduates.

McMaster University

McMaster University is a world-renowned public research institution established in 1887. Ranked #4 in Canada by Times Higher Education (2025) and #98 globally in QS World University Rankings, McMaster is particularly acclaimed for its Health Sciences, Engineering, and Business programs. The university enrolls approximately 37,500 students, with 22% being international students.

Undergraduate tuition for international students ranges from CAD 28,000 to CAD 40,000 per year, depending on the program. The average total cost including residence and meal plan is approximately CAD 43,000 annually. Admission requirements include strong academic records, English proficiency (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent), and program-specific prerequisites. Applications are submitted through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC).

Mohawk College

Mohawk College is one of Ontario's largest colleges, offering over 160 programs in health sciences, technology, skilled trades, and business. The college operates three main campuses: Fennell (Hamilton Mountain), Stoney Creek, and the Mohawk-McMaster Institute for Applied Health Sciences. Mohawk is recognized as Canada's largest trainer of apprentices in Ontario.

International student tuition ranges from CAD 15,000 to CAD 20,000 per year. The college boasts an 88% graduate employment rate within six months of graduation. Admission requires a high school diploma and IELTS score of 6.0 to 6.5.

Sources: McMaster University International, Mohawk College International

Hamilton offers a comprehensive range of educational options for families, from public schools to private and international institutions. The city is served by four school boards providing education in English and French, with secular and Catholic options available.

Public School Boards

The Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB) operates over 100 elementary and secondary schools serving approximately 50,000 students. The Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board (HWCDSB) provides Catholic education across numerous schools. Both boards offer French Immersion programs starting from kindergarten. Public education in Ontario is free for residents and children of work permit holders.

Private and International Schools

Columbia International College (CIC) is Canada's largest private boarding school, offering Grades 9-12 with a Total Care Education System. CIC has strong university placement records, ranking #1 for offers of admission to the University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, and McMaster University. Tuition for international students is approximately CAD 3,300 per course.

Hillfield Strathallan College is the largest private school in Hamilton with approximately 1,285 students from nursery through Grade 12. Other options include Southern Ontario Collegiate and Ridley College in nearby St. Catharines, which offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.

Private school tuition in Hamilton ranges from approximately CAD 4,400 to CAD 48,500 per year, depending on the institution and whether boarding is included. Many schools offer scholarships and bursaries based on academic merit or financial need.

Sources: Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board, Columbia International College, Our Kids Private Schools Directory

Hamilton's housing market offers more affordable options compared to Toronto, attracting newcomers seeking value without sacrificing urban amenities. The city features diverse neighbourhoods ranging from historic downtown areas to suburban communities on the mountain (escarpment).

Popular Neighbourhoods for Newcomers

Westdale is a charming neighbourhood adjacent to McMaster University, featuring tree-lined streets and walkable village atmosphere. Popular with students, academics, and young families, median home prices hover around CAD 950,000. Kirkendall, centered on trendy Locke Street, offers Victorian-era homes and excellent walkability with a walk score of 95. Downtown Hamilton provides high-rise condos and historical homes near James Street North's arts district. Ancaster and Stoney Creek offer more suburban living with newer developments and family-friendly amenities.

Rental Market Overview

As of September 2025, the average rent in Hamilton is approximately CAD 1,992 per month. A one-bedroom apartment averages CAD 1,787, while two-bedroom units average CAD 2,126. Rents have remained relatively stable, with slight year-over-year increases of around 1.2%. The rental vacancy rate has increased slightly due to new supply and changes in student enrollment.

The following table shows current rental prices in Hamilton:

Sources: Nesto Housing Market Report, CMHC Rental Market Report 2024

Hamilton punches above its weight in arts, culture, and outdoor recreation. From world-class botanical gardens to a thriving arts district, the city offers diverse experiences for residents and visitors alike.

Nature and Outdoor Activities

The Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) is Canada's largest botanical garden at 2,700 acres, featuring five distinct gardens, 27 kilometers of trails, and the world's largest lilac collection. Admission provides access to stunning seasonal displays year-round. Hamilton's 100+ waterfalls are a defining feature, with highlights including Webster Falls, Tew Falls, and Albion Falls. The Bruce Trail, Canada's oldest and longest footpath, passes through the city along the Niagara Escarpment.

Arts and Culture

James Street North is the heart of Hamilton's arts scene, hosting monthly Art Crawl events and the annual Supercrawl festival that attracts over 220,000 visitors. The Art Gallery of Hamilton (AGH) is the largest art museum in southern Ontario with over 10,000 works. Dundurn Castle, a 40-room Italianate-style villa built in the 1830s, offers tours showcasing Victorian-era life.

Sports and Entertainment

The Canadian Football Hall of Fame celebrates the country's gridiron heritage. Tim Hortons Field hosts the CFL's Hamilton Tiger-Cats and major concerts. The Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum features one of Canada's largest collections of flying vintage aircraft. For families, Wild Waterworks offers summer water park fun, while winter brings ice skating at numerous outdoor rinks.

Dining and Nightlife

Hamilton's diverse food scene ranges from farm-to-table restaurants on Locke Street to ethnic eateries across the city. Hess Village offers nightlife options, while craft breweries like Collective Arts and Merit Brewing showcase local brewing culture.

Sources: Royal Botanical Gardens, Tourism Hamilton

Hamilton offers a practical blend of urban convenience and natural surroundings. The city's compact downtown, extensive trail systems, and integrated transit make daily life manageable whether you drive, cycle, or use public transportation.

Public Transportation

The Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) operates the city's bus network with over 30 routes. As of September 2025, adult cash fare is CAD 3.75, while PRESTO card users pay CAD 2.85 per ride. Monthly passes cost approximately CAD 123 for adults. The HSR Fare Assist Program offers a 30% discount for low-income residents.

GO Transit connects Hamilton to Toronto and other Greater Toronto Area destinations. The West Harbour GO Station provides direct service to Toronto's Union Station in approximately 90 minutes. Fare integration allows seamless transfers between HSR and Burlington Transit at no additional cost.

Cycling and Walking

Hamilton has invested significantly in cycling infrastructure, with dedicated bike lanes throughout the lower city. The Escarpment Rail Trail offers a scenic 32-kilometer route, and the Bruce Trail, Canada's oldest and longest footpath, passes through the city. Many neighbourhoods like Westdale and Kirkendall have walk scores above 90.

Lifestyle and Climate

Hamilton experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers (average July high of 27°C) and cold winters (average January low of -8°C). Lake Ontario moderates temperatures somewhat. The city's cultural diversity is reflected in its restaurant scene, with cuisines ranging from Italian in Little Racalmuto to Ethiopian on Augusta Street. Farmers' markets, including the historic Hamilton Farmers' Market operating since 1837, provide fresh local produce year-round.

Sources: City of Hamilton HSR, GO Transit

Hamilton offers a cost of living approximately 25% lower than Toronto, making it an attractive option for newcomers seeking affordability without sacrificing urban amenities. According to Numbeo, the estimated monthly cost for a single person (excluding rent) is approximately CAD 1,400, while a family of four can expect around CAD 5,000 excluding housing.

Single Person Monthly Budget

The following table estimates monthly expenses for a single person living in Hamilton:

Family of Four Monthly Budget

The following table estimates monthly expenses for a family of four:

Sources: Numbeo Cost of Living Hamilton, Nesto Rental Data, HSR Fares