Are you thinking about moving to Vaughan, Ontario? Is Vaughan a good place to live? This article will discuss things about living in Vaughan, Ontario – things they probably did not tell you!

Firstly, Vaughan is known for its hot summers and cold winters, with wind chill making the winters feel even colder. The summer humidity intensifies the heat, which may not come as a surprise to some. However, adapting to the temperature fluctuations can take some time. During winter, the area experiences heavy snowfall, and the combination of wetness and wind can make it even more challenging. It is not unusual for the residents to receive severe weather alerts to prepare for significant weather changes such as upcoming winter storms, strong wind, or hot and humid summer days.

On average, Vaughan receives around 140 cm (55 inches) of snow annually, most of which falls during winter. The exact amount of snowfall can vary yearly depending on weather patterns.

Another thing to consider is the cost of living in Vaughan. As with most major cities, the cost of living can be pretty high. Housing prices, in particular, are costly, and housing options are somewhat limited. As with many cities in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), housing prices in Vaughan have risen in recent years. According to the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB), the average home price in Vaughan in March 2023 was over $1,400,000. This is a significant increase from the average home price of $980,000 two years earlier, in March 2021.

The high cost of housing in Vaughan is partially due to the city’s proximity to Toronto and its reputation as a desirable place to live with excellent amenities and schools. While there are some rental options available, they too can be pretty expensive and rental options are limited. Besides housing costs, other living expenses in Vaughan can also add up quickly.

Traffic is also a challenge in Vaughan. Rush hours are particularly busy, so plan your commute accordingly. It’s also worth noting that public transit options can be limited in some areas of the city.

Vaughan is just above Toronto, and Highway 400 runs through the city. Highway 400 has been especially busy lately because of construction on Major Mackenzie Dr and Rutherford Road, with traffic jams everywhere. We hope it will get easier to commute once the construction work ends. Traffic also can be a bit of a challenge during rush hour. 

Remember that owning a car is necessary for Vaughan, and costs like insurance and gas can add to the cost.

So, Vaughan is a car-dependent city. This means that owning a car in Vaughan is not just a luxury but a necessity. Maintenance costs can also increase, especially if you own an older vehicle. Regular maintenance, like oil changes, tire rotations, and winter tires, adds to the cost.

Speaking of cars, did you know that finding a good used car right now is hard, and buying a new car can mean a waiting time of over a year and a half for specific models? Crazy, right? Wait time is something to keep in mind. In April 2023, finding a good used car is hard, and buying a new car means an average wait time of 12 months to more than a year and a half.

Car insurance rates in Vaughan can be pretty high, especially for young drivers, due to the high accident rate in the area. Shop around for insurance quotes to find the best rates for your needs. Also, gas prices in Vaughan tend to be higher than in other areas of the province.

Lastly, it’s essential to factor in parking costs when owning a car in Vaughan. Many areas require paid parking, and some buildings charge for parking spaces. If you want to lease a condo in the area, you may need help to lease a condominium with a parking spot, making it even harder to rent a condominium in the city. Make sure to budget accordingly for these expenses.

Lastly, while Vaughan is a vibrant and diverse city, it can be quite spread out. Explore different neighbourhoods to find the one that best suits your lifestyle and needs.

In conclusion, while there are some challenges to living in Vaughan, the city has a lot to offer in terms of amenities, culture, and community. You can make the most of living in this exciting city with careful planning and research.

Read more about living in Vaughan, ON.