As one of the fastest growing and most sought after industries in the world, the technology sector offers ample opportunities for tech enthusiasts out there. With an ever growing, modern environment that fosters entrepreneurship, Canada stands out as a top destination for technology careers, especially software engineering, where startups and major tech companies are investing in Canada’s thriving IT industry.
If you’re looking to discover the best software engineer jobs in Canada, and where to find them, IMM Consult is here to assist you. As one of the leading immigration consultancy firms, we specialise in helping aspiring software engineers secure the best jobs.
Top 7 Canadian Cities for Software Engineers
With a diverse market based on cities that cater to the various skill sets, specialties, and employment opportunities, Canada is a destination full of tech hubs that will guarantee your dream job.
- Toronto
Home to the largest and fastest growing tech hub in Canada with over 24,000 companies in the region, Toronto is the third largest tech-hub in North America. Multiple renowned companies such as DoorDash, Pinterest and eBay have set up base here. The city’s key sectors including software development, computer support, database systems, and IT management experience significant growth in employment, making Toronto one of the best tech job markets in Canada.
While Toronto offers unmatched job opportunities, it’s also an expensive city, with the average one-bedroom apartment costing around CAD $1,000 per month in rent and gas prices being higher than New York at the rate of $1.09 per litre.
- Vancouver
As a city renowned for its artistic and creative prowess, it shouldn’t be a surprise that Vancouver is one of the best spots for game design and development, animation, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality. Vancouver has one of the highest costs of living in Canada, with the cost of accommodation exceeding the national average, with rent ranging from CAD $1,500 to CAD $25,00, depending on the area. The price of food has seen a noticeable increase in recent years. Despite the expense, Vancouver’s vibrant tech community continues to draw in talent from all across the globe.
- Ottawa
The capital of Canada, Ottawa, is a hub for government- related tech jobs entities and agencies, particularly in cybersecurity, software development, aerospace, defence and security. In terms of the cost of living, Ottawa is said to be more affordable compared to other major cities, with average monthly rent of an apartment being CAD $1,359, and the cost of essentials such as food is also more affordable. However, public transportation is more inconvenient here than in other cities.
- Montreal
With cutting edge technology and advanced expertise, Montreal is a city that is becoming renowned for its stronghold in artificial intelligence and the IT industry, where well known companies such as IBM, Oracle and Onepoint all have a strong presence. There is also demand for game development and clean technology. Being the top city in Canada funded by university research, this city is undoubtedly one of the best for those who want to focus on artificial intelligence. With the best quality of life to cost of living ratio, Montreal is ideal for those seeking a balance between professional growth and affordability.
- Calgary
Traditionally known for its energy sector, Calgary is rising up the ranks in the tech industry. With a large number of startups being established and a massive influx of talent into the city, the tech industry in Calgary has significantly increased over the years. There are a significant amount of software companies in Calgary, that make it a great destination for individuals looking for a career in Software. Calgary is considerably a more affordable tech-centric city in Canada, with the average monthly rent starting from CAD $1,200 onwards and recreational options that are also budget-friendly.
- Waterloo
The birthplace of Blackberry, Waterloo is nothing short of innovation and entrepreneurship. From fintech to artificial intelligence to cybersecurity, Waterloo is one of the most dynamic tech hubs in Canada and is a great option for those looking to diversify their skills. This tech hub has one of the highest talent densities in the tech talent pool, with citizens keen on engaging in tech jobs, making it quite competitive. The average cost of living for a person in Waterloo is CAD $3,599, which includes housing, food, transportation and other factors.
- Halifax
Located on the Eastern Coast of Canada, the tech ecosystem in Halifax is diverse and vast. With strong government support initiatives, a booming startup industry, and the presence of big tech companies such as IBM, BeyondTrust and CGI, the technological network of Halifax cannot be ignored. Halifax boasts strength in key sectors such as software development, aerospace, cybersecurity and data analytics. The cost of living in Halifax is increasing with each passing day, and the average monthly rent of a one bedroom apartment is now around CAD $1,788.
Canada is undeniably a heaven for tech enthusiasts, with multiple opportunities available across a range of IT sectors. With supportive government initiatives, a population keen on innovation and entrepreneurship, and a diverse tech ecosystem, Canada will expand its technological prowess in the years to come. If you are ready to start your own journey in the tech industry in Canada, hurry and contact IMM Consults now, where our expertise and experience can aid you in finding your perfect destination.
