Maple News reports that for many newcomers to Canada, finding a sense of belonging often begins with seeking out familiar cultural communities. Fortunately, Canada’s longstanding commitment to multiculturalism means that immigrants from around the world can expect to discover pockets of their own culture almost anywhere in the country.
A recent breakdown by the 2021 Canadian National Census offers valuable insight into the demographic profiles of the country’s most populous cities. The report highlights key data such as immigrant status, ethnic origins, and language proficiency, helping newcomers identify the communities in which they might feel most at home.
Toronto, Canada’s largest city and economic hub, exemplifies the depth of this diversity. With a population exceeding 2.7 million as of the last census, almost half of Toronto’s residents are immigrants. Specifically, 46.6% of Torontonians are immigrants, 48.2% are Canadian-born citizens, and 5.35% are non-permanent residents. This rich cultural blend makes Toronto one of the most internationally diverse cities in the world.
The city’s linguistic landscape also mirrors its multicultural population. English and French remain the official languages, but Toronto is home to speakers of dozens of other languages, ranging from Punjabi and Mandarin to Spanish and Tagalog. This multilingual ecosystem makes it easier for many newcomers to navigate daily life and integrate into society.
Maple News emphasizes that beyond Toronto, similar diversity exists in other major urban centers across the provinces. Each city carries its own unique blend of cultural groups shaped by historical migration patterns, regional economic factors, and educational opportunities.
The Canadian government classifies its residents into three primary immigration categories: ‘immigrants’ (those granted permanent residence or naturalized as citizens), ‘non-immigrants’ (Canadian-born citizens), and ‘non-permanent residents’ (those temporarily living in Canada on permits such as work or study visas).
With cities like Toronto setting the tone, Canada remains a global model of inclusive urban living. For new arrivals seeking community, language familiarity, and cultural connection, the data suggests that the country offers an abundance of welcoming options.