Article
7 min read
USA vs Canada: Where Should You Move?
Immigration

Author
Jemima Owen-Jones
Published
October 09, 2024
Last Update
January 31, 2025

Uprooting your life and moving to a new country is a life-changing experience, and choosing where to move can be challenging.
The United States and Canada are two popular options for immigrants considering a move to North America. These two countries share a similar quality of life and overlap culturally but differ significantly in many areas. While the US tends to be the top choice for many immigrants, Canadian immigration tends to be more accessible.
This article compares the experience of immigrating to Canada and the US and the advantages and disadvantages of living in these two countries. Keep reading as we discuss key factors to consider when deciding between Canada and the US as your new home.
Advantages of moving to the United States
Employment opportunities
Both the US and Canada offer a plethora of employment opportunities for foreign workers. The US is particularly attractive for foreign nationals seeking jobs at top tech companies like Apple, Microsoft, Google, and Tesla.
Higher salaries
Salaries in the US tend to be higher than in Canada, although the average cost of living in Canada is lower.
See also: US Tax Treaties: Save on Foreign Taxes In 60+ Countries
Access to US investors, professional networks, and clients
Many startup founders and entrepreneurs prefer the US for its proximity to investors, networking opportunities, and American clientele.
American education system
Many foreigners, from academics to high school students, are interested in studying at one of the many academic institutions in the US.
Climate and natural diversity
The US is incredibly diverse. You can settle on the tropical Hawaiian islands, get an apartment in iconic New York City, live in a mountain cabin in Oregon, or choose from many other locations.
See also: Moving to the US: A Guide for Expats and Digital Nomads
Benefits of moving to Canada
Universal healthcare
Canada’s public healthcare system provides access to medical services for all citizens and permanent residents.
Accessible immigration system
Immigration to Canada is much more streamlined than the US immigration system.
Affordable education
University tuition in Canada tends to be significantly lower than tuition for US universities.
Lower cost of living
Canada’s average cost of living is generally lower than in the US. However, living costs in major Canadian cities like Vancouver and Toronto are comparable to those in major US cities like New York City and Seattle.
Stunning nature
While Canada doesn’t have tropical islands like Hawaii, it boasts unparalleled natural beauty—from snow-tipped mountain peaks to breathtaking alpine lakes.
See also: Moving to Canada: A Guide for Expats and Digital Nomads
Work From Anywhere
Disadvantages of Moving to the US
Challenging immigration system
Hundreds of thousands of people immigrate to the US each year, but the demand for US visas and green cards still outweighs the annual caps. This makes immigrating to the US more difficult than to other countries like Canada.
See also: US Immigration Reforms: How to Secure Your Green Card Ahead of the 2024 Election
Expensive healthcare
The cost of healthcare in the US is significantly higher than in Canada due to Canada’s universal healthcare system.
High university tuition and debt
Despite being one of the wealthiest nations, Americans struggle significantly with paying for college education and often end up with massive student loan debt.
Gun violence
Gun violence and mass shootings are at least three times more common in the US than in Canada.
Extreme weather
While many US states have mild weather year-round, parts of the US experience hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes, and more.
Disadvantages of moving to Canada
Cold, dark winters
Due to Canada’s distance from the equator, winters in most parts of the country are both dark and cold. If you move to Canada, you’ll need to learn how to drive in the snow and brave the cold for several months each year.
Expensive cities
The cost of living in Canada’s major cities, like Toronto and Vancouver, is high. Many US cities also have a high cost of living, but if you’re looking for an affordable town in Canada, you’ll need to look in rural areas.
See also: Opening a Bank Account in Canada: A Comprehensive Guide
Navigating life in English and French
A significant percentage of Canadians only speak French, while others only speak English. Depending on where you live, you may need to learn both languages.
Immigration pathways for the US vs. Canada
US visas and permanent residency
Employer sponsorship
The L-1, O-1, and H-1B visas are a few work visas that allow foreign nationals to work for a US company temporarily. US employers can also sponsor the permanent residency process for foreign-born employees.
See also: Guide to US Work Visas
Self-sponsored employment green cards
Talented foreign workers can apply for a US green card without a sponsoring employer through the EB-1A and EB-2 NIW categories.
Family sponsorship
American citizens and permanent residents can sponsor immigration applications for close family members, such as spouses and children.
Student visas
The F-1 and J-1 visas allow international students to study in the US temporarily.
Canadian immigration options
Federal skilled worker program (FSWP)
Canada’s FSWP enables skilled international workers to live and work in Canada. Many skilled workers also apply for Canada's Express Entry permanent residency program.
See also: How to Get a Work Visa and Permit in Canada
Provincial nominee program (PNP)
Many Canadian provinces have special immigration programs that help fill regional labor shortages.
Family immigration
Family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents can qualify to come to Canada under the family immigration program.
Watch: Deel's Work Visa Webinar Series: Canada Work Visa
Move to Canada or the United States with Deel Immigration
The United States and Canada are both incredible places to live, and choosing between the two is no easy task. To discover which route is best for you, schedule a free consultation with an immigration expert today.

About the author
Jemima is a nomadic writer, journalist, and digital marketer with a decade of experience crafting compelling B2B content for a global audience. She is a strong advocate for equal opportunities and is dedicated to shaping the future of work. At Deel, she specializes in thought-leadership content covering global mobility, cross-border compliance, and workplace culture topics.