Looking for a change? Tired of where you are? Here’s some of the top 5 fabulous reasons why you should be considering moving to the Greater St. John’s area:
1) One of the most affordable major cities in Canada
Over the past number of years, many individuals and families are cashing out of the ‘big ticket’ markets, taking their cash in hand and heading to the Greater St. John’s Area. With the large price tag of the the real estate in other parts of Canada, individuals are putting themselves in amazing positions- being able to ‘cash out’ and move to St. John’s to live MORTGAGE FREE (or very close to). The average sell price for a free standing, single family home is ~$350,000. Even new construction prices are averaging under $500k for a roomy and modern family home (most also having a garage).
Being the capital of the province also makes the economy and industries quite stable. It is the hub for the major industries, amenities (shopping, recreation, entertainment, airport, etc) post-secondary schooling, and more, directing much of the population to the area.
2) Great School Systems
The surrounding municipalities have both public and private school systems, offering after school programs/extracurricular activities, and school sports. They have good reputations, and some also offer French Immersion programs.
Beyond that, there are also vast opportunities for post-secondary; ranging from public and private Colleges and Memorial University Campuses. Newfoundland is also known for having some of the most affordable post-secondary tuition rates around.
3) Multi-Industry Economy
NL is no ‘one-trick-pony’ when it comes to resources and industries. Some of the major employment forces include:
-oil and gas
-construction
-commercial fishery
-mining
-tourism
-public sector (health care, education, etc)
-dining & entertainment
-forestry and wildlife
-tech
-'green’ energy
4) Recreation & Entertainment
You’ll find a combination of both local traditional restaurants and larger chains. Some local favorites include Mallard Cottage, Little Sparrow, North of 48, Moxies, and Boston Pizza (just to name a few).
You’ll find an endless list of recreational activities to do, from hiking the coast-line trails, to watching the local ECHL hockey team. Boating and offroad ATVing. Iceberg and whale watching tours, local food fishery, golfing and local festivals are popular in the summer. When the colder temps come, there’s ski hills 2hr & 7hr from town, guided hunting trips and lodges, skating rinks, and more.
If you’re more of an ‘indoors’ person, there is a recently renovated shopping mall with Rec Room (arcade, entertainment and restaurant) and cinema. Local brewerys, ax throwing, escape rooms, swimming, gyms and fitness centers, local museum (The Rooms), pottery and art facilities, and more.
5) Lifestyle
Many come for the financial opportunities. Many come for the schools. Many come for the safety. But there are some who come to go ‘off-the-grid’. Slow things down- leave the hustle and bustle behind. Wake up and smell the salt water. Hike the East Coast trails. Enjoy the beverages of the quaint cafès, local brewery’s and shenanigans of the infamous George Street. Take in the history. To live the ‘East Coast Lifestyle’.
So come check it out- you won’t be disappointed.