This Is How Much My IDEAL LIFESTYLE Costs In Toronto (vs what I'll spend in Eastern Europe)

[@durf2753]

You're extremely lucky. You get to eat out at your favorite restaurants very often and travel the globe. You make great earnings. You're actually rich compared to a lot of people. 95% of the people in the world would kill to have your lifestyle. Consider yourself lucky. I wish I had what you had to a point.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you so much :) I feel the same way and feel incredibly grateful I get to live this lifestyle. Money is great if it helps you build a life you're happy with, but if you're miserable earning that money (for a long period of time), I'm not so sure it's worth it.

[@m99226]

She built it, she took all the risks, it wasn't given to her, there is no luck, if you want different, you got to do different.

[@jesusonXTC]

@durf2753 if you can make 100k a year, you can have that lifestyle, even 80k.. This girl doesn't even own a home or a car.

[@ozkrgq]

Canada gave her all the opportunities she needed to grow, nowadays the world situation sucks and despite that she leaves like a queen... we Canadian immigrants must believe in Canada and support the country, and above all be grateful! !

[@Macky1101]

I am sure she's probably making million$ per year just from youtube endorsements and ads. She's living the life that 99% of us wish we were living; just travelling and enjoying life and eating foods we can only dream of and not having to do the daily grind just to keep a roof over our heads.

[@menguardingtheirownwallets6791]

Toronto is a run-down 3-star hotel charging 5-star prices.

[@johnmorelli3775]

100%. & lousy weather most of the year.

[@peterkondrakhin1907]

So true

[@Euphorica]

Best description

[@nicktankard1244]

and Vancouver is a lonely cabin in the woods charging elite 5-star hotel prices :)

[@user-od9iz9cv1w]

It is a pretty apt summary. But trust me, it has 7-star neighborhoods, but the price is shocking. The good side is it is relatively safe, stable and diverse. It has no natural disasters threatening your life and it is a great jumping off point for world travel. It is however congested. I pretty much view my neighborhood as a village within a big city.

[@NormanF62]

Alina, you mentioned the financial aspects of living in Toronto but you left out one very important factor: stress. It can literally kill you if you find your life responsibilities too much to deal with. Safeguarding your health by having predictable expenses to the point where you can enjoy your life without stress complicating it, is huge! Money is important to have a good life, I don’t want to take away from it because everyone needs it to live but being positive, happy and relaxed about your life is what really makes it worthwhile. If you are able to balance those parts of your life in a way that fulfills you, you will be living your dream life. Best wishes! 😊

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you! Yes, stress is a huge factor of health and happiness. That's one of the main reasons of why I'm moving because it would be incredibly stressful to feel like every month I have to work so hard to meet my high expenses and on top of that there's more societal issues in Canada that I'm sure weigh heavy on people.

[@Jack-2day]

Stress....., what stress its only $3000+ month rent . Be positive! Cheers 😂

[@ernestconnell8087]

Cities, that drive up prices for the youth of today, will eventually become cities with aged populations.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Exactly. It will only be children of wealthy parents who will be able to get a start in these cities.

[@SamoelPrince]

I agree

[@ernestconnell8087]

@@AlinaMcleod I do think many of the older folks will eventually retire and sell out. The problem are these investment groups and corporations that buy up properties and drive up prices, making it less affordable for the youth in the future.

[@boohoo4962]

Good to see you ernest. 🍻 You need to visit Toronto if you haven't.

[@boohoo4962]

Downtown condos are falling in price. I've seen a couple 1 bdrms under $400,000 in the the core.

[@damanouch1]

I am a unionized tradesman making 100k plus a year with full benefits. My employer provides a work vehicle with gas and insurance covered. I own a 600 sq ft condo, however with the current interest rates none of my mortgage payments go to my principal. I essentially live cheque to cheque. I cannot fathom how people are surviving in the GTA, it does not make any sense!

[@fredwalter519]

A 6 figure income and living cheque to cheque? Are you supporting a stay-at-home wife and a bunch of kids?

[@8randomprettysecret8]

Excellent intro. The cost of living in Canada is above the roof! Hoping you enjoy your destination in Europe 🛫

[@wrestlingterrier8366]

I moved to Toronto from Montreal back in 1995. I was very young at the time and knew nobody there. Just bought a one-way bus ticket and arrived in Toronto with little money in my pocket, rented a very small room in a very old house and found a job as a waiter and met my girlfriend. She was working as a sales clerk in a mall. With our salaries combined we managed to rent a nice flat in a nice area of the city, we moved several times and changed flats because at the time there were plenty of options, mostly affordable. Ended up leaving Toronto for different reasons. Those were better times I think. Things have changed so much that it does not make sense.

[@davidpristupa1629]

Born and raised in Saskatoon. Living in Bogota is like being kissed on the cheek by an angel 😊

[@Jack-2day]

@@davidpristupa1629 lol (careful which angel u leave ur drink next to partner 😅)

[@wrestlingterrier8366]

@@davidpristupa1629 I've heard nice things about Bogotá but also on Medellin. I did live a short while in Winnipeg and I know what Prairies are like and no comparison to many placesnin Latin America! My favorite spot woukd be South California !

[@asadb1990]

If you didn't buy a house back then thats on you

[@wrestlingterrier8366]

@@asadb1990 I left Canada years ago !

[@hazell1593]

You are such an intelligent, thoughtful person. When I was your age, retirement savings was the last thing on my mind. Now that I am nearing retirement I have so many regrets!!! Great to see you have considered everything (present and future needs). I have no doubt you will make the right decision for yourself and your future. Hopefully sponsorships will come pouring in!!! Happy travels💚

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you so much! Very kind of you to say :) I have unfortunately seen a lot of examples of people being bad with money and not allocating enough for future stability, so I am trying my best to gain financial literacy and prioritize saving for the future.

[@donaldperson948]

Ya I have 5300.00 left from retirement and I live with my parents at 57 because I don’t have a job because my body is beat up!

[@Notavlogger817]

You sure know how to keep the suspense going with your journey. 😊 good luck to you

[@phonancialsuccess]

Thanks for sharing Alina! I came to Toronto as an international student with the "Canadian Dream" in mind 10 years ago, however, reality hits when I had a bank job like most people with office job and could not afford to live comfortably as I would like to, left alone owning a house and having enough savings for retirement. So here I am in Vietnam trying to figure things out. Hoping it all works out for us!

[@AlinaMcleod]

Yeah it’s a shock when people think that by having a good middle class job in Canada you will automatically be able to live comfortably, but that is no longer the case.

[@winstonw2020]

Great video Alina, it is really insane how much it costs to live in Toronto today. And the crazy thing is they are cutting rates, increasing leverage programs in Canada. Good luck on your move, will be looking forward to seeing where you are going and how that move is done. Thanks again and all the best.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you very much!

[@darellnewsome4459]

Really enjoyed this video Alina! Great job on doing the comparisons. It's just a shame what is going on in our countries! Wishing you the best and looking forward to your next video.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you very much!

[@JusikLife]

It's not just about money and the cost of real estate. In other countries, the people are completely different, the society is different, the laws are different, the healthcare system and government support are entirely different. This shouldn't be forgotten either. The standard of living and the crime situation are also factors. There's a different language, which you have to learn from scratch. You can't compare just the financial aspects.

[@Peter-jk1lt]

Very well researched and presented video. Good Luck Alina

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you so much!

[@user-l4y7r04wy6iv]

@@AlinaMcleod We're very impressed. As a side-hustle, you should become a freelance consultant, working with clients on matters involving finance, migration, housing, travel, blogging, remote work, communication skills, health and wellness, modeling, etc. You might also record and upload your sessions, with the clients' permission of course, using only their "username", so that it may help others with similar problems, issues, goals and aspirations..

[@joenogueira2801]

Happiness has no price stub attached, regardless of where you shop for it, however, it's not free. Physical and mental health status are the main ingredients that allow us to experience happiness. When you have health, happiness can be found anywhere in the world. I'm confident that you'll find it Alina. La vie est belle!

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you! Yes, happiness and well being certainly come first.

[@shoufen]

I’m also thinking leaving Canada for Asia. I wonder where you are moving?

[@davidellis5141]

Hi Alina ! Most of my life I spent 50% of my income on rent ! 30% is a nice but unfortunately for most unrealistic goal. Oh Canada 🇨🇦 !

[@noseboop4354]

You should move to Winnipeg.

[@ervinsmoviecorner8748]

Love this one, Alina!❤

[@TalkingPoint773]

But she dont love you haha

[@ageoflove1980]

The thing is, there is no point in living in a city like Toronto, NYC, SF whatever, if you dont have to live there for work. Because thats why those rent prices are so ridiculous because what they really offer you is a short commute. The problem is of course that this really doesnt take family, friends or personal preference in to consideration, but still. Its the same in The Netherlands. The average apartment rent is now 2200/mo. For that kind of money you can get a mortgage for a large detached family home somewhere more rural.

[@margd77]

Hey, Alina! I love your videos and enjoyed this one. Thanks! 😊

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you and I'm glad!

[@germainmorin4925]

More or less 10% tax rate sounds a lot like Bulgaria ;) Best of successes with your project! I'm absolutely not living the life I want. Been living in Québec City for the past 14 years. Not as expensive as Toronto, but still very expensive for a single person. Working hard to start my own gig and join the nomadic lifestyle in 2025, starting with a return to the Bansko Nomad Fest in June.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you and hope you are able to make it happen! I plan on going to the Nomad Fest in Bansko this coming year as well :)

[@germainmorin4925]

Great! I hope I get to say hi :) Safe travels!

[@TalkingPoint773]

bolgaristaaaan haha

[@maggie8586]

@@AlinaMcleod Hope it's not Bansko you're moving to specifically...you'll eventually feel bored and claustrophobic there. At least I did.

[@shackworks]

It was nice to listen to you. I live in Sydney and the cost of living here is very much in comparison to Toronto. Good luck with your move

[@TalkingPoint773]

Strayaaa dont be so desperate mate, have some self rsppect

[@yuehanslam1593]

Hi Alina, happiness come from within...there are usually so many alternatives to that one thing you longed for. Just go for what you yearn - life is great if you do not expect too much from it. Good luck with your application for your papers.

[@DarrylWolk]

I live in the suburbs just outside of Toronto and the cost of living is ridiculous. A single person needs a six figure salary to live comfortably. A household has to pull in 200k to afford an "average" house in Toronto. Unemployment is over 8% and the average salary is about $55k before taxes. We have also seen the worst of Trudeau's Canada with rising crime, inflation, homelessness encampments, open drug use, traffic congestion and businesses leaving or closing on mass.

[@Maria-wy8gm]

10% tax sounds like my homeland, I will be so happy if you move here Alina!! I recently moved back “here” at 43 after a life in the US after parents immigrated there. It’s a very personal decision but you’ve done an amazing breakdown of it backed up by today’s true costs and considerations! Can’t wait for your reveal, 😊

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you so much :)

[@SophiepTran]

Enjoying the journey and hope you find what you're looking for. Each journey is different and luckily mine didn't end a few weeks back. Don't discount medical issues in the long term. In the hospital for stroke now but thought I was invincible before. Now I don't dare leave for waters that don't have good healthcare. A young girl like you shouldn't have to worry but as one ages, it might become more of a consideration.

[@GalinBorodinov]

Mystery solved. Some of us are already in the country you are planning to move to and could confirm your great choice. Good luck with the formalities!

[@TalkingPoint773]

Lol wowwwwww haha

[@gastonblancat6755]

Wow It s extremely expensive. Never been there but it seems to be a marvellous city. You should consider Buenos Aires it s a nice , cosmopolitan and relative safe city and with a budget of 1.5 million pesos (U$S 1500) you can rent a nice flat, and have dinner at restaurants and go out. Love your channel. Love your work. Keep going. Best of luck!

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you very much!

[@anhthunguyen8792]

What a considerate video! I just moved to Canada, so your video really appealing me when I envisioned my ideal lifestyle. Thank you for sharing your journey. I wish you all the best!

[@AlinaMcleod]

Aw pleasure and thank you!

[@anindyamunshi7715]

Really informative as well as entertaining video. Keep up the good work Alina! Can you please create a future video about a comparison between the cost of living in Saskatchewan and Saskatoon with Toronto? That would be highly appreciated.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you so much!

[@rozinant1237]

Strange plan. You could easily live your ideal life in a smaller city in central Canada. $5000 a month pre-tax, would easily buy your lifestyle here.

[@AlinaMcleod]

I don't want that lifestyle. My goal is to keep being able to travel half the year, build different businesses and live in a capital city close to an airport.

[@rozinant1237]

@@AlinaMcleod so can you clarify? When you are travelling 6 months a year, are you planning to give up your apartment? Or are you keeping the same apartment year-round?

[@MrDedushkoMoroz]

@@rozinant1237 you would not get logical answer..it's all based on "feelings" . I might try to translate her idea - "butterfly life style" travel, purchase, coffee, dining out , etc. , typical modern women. nothing unusual. 😁

[@rozinant1237]

@@MrDedushkoMoroz It is very interesting to Watch these GenXr’s who think they have the rest of their lives figured out. She is banking heavily on the KZbin thing lasting into her old age, which of course it won’t. And she is really going to cry when she realizes that her Canada pension will be peanuts when she comes crawling back to Canada.

[@AlinaMcleod]

@@rozinant1237 When I move abroad I will be able to keep an apartment year round while traveling half the year.

[@ajaykotecha]

There is an illusion that owning property is an asset. If you calculate your property tax, interest, utilities, maintenance etc over 25 years, you are losing $$$. If you purchase property and it appreciates 2x or more, within 2 years and flip it, then it is worth it. As for cooking, if it's only for one person, it is better to eat out. Cost of groceries, labor and time. If you are having breakfast or lunch, then it may be worth it. I cook at home and my food turns out tasty (kuzna). I admit that I improved on a few dishes the 2nd time. I make over 4K, live in Edmonton and save $0. I am paying for rent, private loan, student loans, car payment, life insurance and health insurance. I am thinking of saving, but thinking how to do.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Yeah I definitely agree about home ownership not always being the best option. It’s usually way more costly than people realize and somehow owners don’t factor that in when they say “my house has appreciated by $300k in 10 years” that they spent far more money on it than just their mortgage.

[@AgeCobra]

Thank Alina for that informative video .

[@TalkingPoint773]

And she dont give 2 cents about ur thanks, apart frim tge youtube money financing her

[@brindusanraul6571]

Shes moving to Bulgaria, they have a 10% tax rate.

[@LuiS-xo7qw]

Congrats with following your dreams in Eastern Europe! I know the country you’re going to because of your other videos. Be sure to send more videos of what it’s REALLY like to live there please. Some people are citing weather, snail mail, and potholes. Thanks for everything you do Alina!

[@craigs1437]

The only thing really special about Toronto in my opinion are the community colleges & universities that offer many career-specific education and skills training, provided you have the means and know exactly what you want career wise. Thanks

[@BradenPettigrew-w4z]

The mindset of the bubble bursting is different from renters vs owners. Try telling someone whose paying a mortgage about the bubble bursting and see how they react

[@AlinaMcleod]

Of course! It's the crux of it all where a good chunk of Canadians are home owners and don't want prices to go down because their house is their biggest investment, but at the same time all the younger people can't afford to buy in at that price.

[@johnmorelli3775]

@@AlinaMcleod Exactly. And that means that these home owners didn't save enough! I really don't care if my home drops by even 50%. However most of my retirement assets are not in real estate!

[@ChasingBogeys]

I have a mortgage and I agree it’s a bubble. But thankfully I bought around the end of 2018, so even with a massive correction, I have equity in my place. Just to give you an idea, my place went up over 50% because it’s downtown core, it’s a Tridel building, it has both water and CN tower views. But even with a bubble and mortgage, I prefer to own. It’s just a cultural thing being south Asian.

[@QileWang-f2n]

I am coming from Bilibili platform in China and I am surprised that your English is so standard and there is hardly any accent. I am a doctoral candidate and will go to Canada for exchange next year, but my English is not very good. This is the first time for me to watch your video, and I will use your video as an English learning tool in the future. Thank you so much for the video

[@howarddecker3841]

I moved out of Toronto in 1990, moved back in 1997 - 1999 and still miss the city. But, it's far too expensive today for my budget. "Toronto the Beautiful, but for the Rich" I have visited the Philippines twice this year and currently renting a small Condo in Manila for future visits. The Philippines is great for Snowbirds if you are on a retirement budget. Plus, English is their second language and they are friendly people.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Love the Philippines!

[@nileshpatel2256]

Hello.....I think Canada still suits you better than any other country....I get a different kind of vibes when I see your vlogs about Canada...love it ❤️

[@AlinaMcleod]

I do love it and will always come back but Europe is calling my name 😁

[@nileshpatel2256]

@@AlinaMcleod All the best for Europe...My best wishes for you...

[@BillOCoy]

Alina, I'm wondering what is your educational background and work experience? Most people in Canada have bought their first property and are paying off their mortgage in their 30's by having a regular job. A couple with two regular incomes can pay off their first property by the time they are 40-45, some earlier. Relying only on youtube income is an outlier.

[@AlinaMcleod]

I never went to university but I don’t regret it. There was no career I wanted to do that I needed a degree for. Now I have no debt, a good amount of savings, make more than the average Canadian and have multiple streams of income that allow me to live from almost anywhere. I can afford a home right now outside of Vancouver and Toronto but the lifestyle isn’t what I’m looking for right now.

[@user-l4y7r04wy6iv]

@@AlinaMcleod Good for you. Universities are mostly blah, blah, blah lectures by PhD professors who focus on trees, but not the forest. Unless it's lab-related STEMs, you can learn more, about anything from YT, ChatGPT, and Wiki.

[@sercionuz]

So many haters in the comments just because you have ability to leave and they do not. I myself would not want people like that to benefit from my tax money either. Good decision.

[@costasworldofmusicmemories5792]

We love Toronto. It's a city dear to our hearts. But it needs to get it's act together and the council members need to stop pointing fingers at each other. Losing people like you Alina who bring so much to the city would not be a good thing. As always, Alina , You've done the research. And the real estate moguls need to rethink their strategy about how they are pricing young people out of the market for housing. The young are the future of a vibrant and thriving Toronto. What is you answer real estate moguls ? As always, Alina. a great video that touches all the important points. Sending much love🥰🥰 from Harriet, Jim and Yuki currenting visiting in-laws in Washington DC

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you so much!

[@bobsmithers]

If I were to move to T.O this day in age, I would have to live on the streets with my shopping cart like so many Canadians do there. Think I'll stay in the woods. Thanks Trudy, World Economic Forum and the World Economic Forum.

[@alvarorodelo6761]

Toronto looks more beautiful with you.

[@JEgkt]

The biggest con living in Canada in general is we are too reliant on other countries especially fresh produce and other goods. Now with the strike in U.S ports, it will definitely cripple consumer spending. People have no idea were in for in the next couple of months. There is already lots of Layoffs in tech in 10000 plus white collar jobs in Silicone Valley alone. If you have a crappy job right now, hang on to itIt will not get better in this economy especially war is intensifies in the middle east.

[@ericballi4701]

Northern Virginia is similarly expensive, as we are near D.C. and home to many large tech and defense companies. So, salaries tend to be much higher than in other areas of the country, but so is the cost of living. Renting a nice 2 bed/2 bath apartment will cost between $2500 - $3500/month. Buying a modest condo will cost $400K to $500K, with modest single family homes costing between $700K to $900K.

[@ElectroSharpTurtle]

I would probably say that in order to thrive and prosper in the City of Toronto, you have to make around $10,000 CAD per month after taxes. 😊

[@David-nu6kw]

Sounds like 1 percent of the population.

[@ElectroSharpTurtle]

@@David-nu6kw Correct. 👌 Canada is one of the most expensive countries on earth at this point. 😭

[@AlinaMcleod]

Yup that has sadly become the new benchmark to living independently.

[@johnmorelli3775]

@@ElectroSharpTurtle Thanks mostly to the Liberal government (since they are in power most of the time). And the provincial governments have also helped to wreck our country.

[@Resmith18SR]

Does that $10,000 include Starbucks every morning? 😂

[@111msw]

Wow !!! Eye watering numbers and even though Canada 🇨🇦 is a great country, anywhere else has to make economical sense…..Good luck with your adventure 👍

[@2GringosOnTheGulf]

Another epic video my friend ❤ We also do a monthly budget video living here in Mexico. Keep up the great work Amiga. ❤🎉 Cheers from 2 Canadians 🇨🇦 living in Mexico.🇲🇽✌🏼🥰

[@mracer8]

and how much you will make in that wonderful Mexico town if you actually have to work there?

[@2GringosOnTheGulf]

@@mracer8 The wife works remotely online for a Canadian company. ✌🏼

[@samuelromeo6937]

You are speaking on living in a eastern European country where the Canadian dollars stretches alot more as with the US or UK or AUD. Try living in those countries with their local currency in a regular career job and see how well you may live. So at the end of the day you still need Canada in someway. Since the 1980 most of those eastern European countries have improved but not to the point where the local currency can afford you a great lifestyle, unless you have a extremely well paying career job. At the end of the day you are speaking on the fact that you will be living there using Canada currency converting it and getting way more at way cheaper so it's easier. Same reason alot of easter european women jump to marry foreginers leave and then come back to their home country to live a better lifestyle

[@ibizawavey8630]

Have you not heard of AI? or have you not figured out how to make money with it? either way that sounds like a YOU problem.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Yes, of course that's the situation and what many people have to do to survive nowadays. You think most people can afford to retire on just their savings and pensions in Canada? More people than ever are having to move abroad. Many people used to move to Canada/US to get better paid jobs but personally if I was in their position I would learn English to a native level, develop some online skills for companies and work remotely. The world has changed and we have to change with it.

[@davidnollers7538]

Good points. Not to mention her income is in US dollars, which goes much further. Fortunately, I guess some people can make a very good living putting up videos and living a life of leisure travelling the world. Good for them. Something like this would be unheard of just a few years ago. Yes, the times have changed. We live in a very strange world indeed.

[@User12345fan]

It’s not about currency, she is moving to a country that uses Euro which is worth more than the Canadian dollar. What you mean is purchasing power and yes, Canada even though it’s expensive AF, has high salaries still compared to eastern europe, so Canada’s purchasing power is relatively high. Though it has deteriorated a lot in the last 10 years. 10 years ago it used to be the same as the US, but now it is half that. The US is on top gear and Canada is sleeping.

[@user-l4y7r04wy6iv]

The situation in Eastern Europe has improved considerably, at least economically, to the point where most people there own and drive sleek, flashy German cars.

[@BlueRoad_Vietnguyen]

Great job Thant's Lady❤

[@ad2tran]

Not to judge, but any interested soulmate for Alina, please take notes! :) GTA cost of living is out of control and how does the government expect a single adult like Alina to live comfortably?

[@flyinphil42]

Government really doesn’t care, none of the G7 countries give a toss about affordability , it’s all about growth and economic prosperity for the elites.

[@shauncameron8390]

Get a roommate or SO. If immigrants and refugees can do it, locals can too.

[@CanadianExpats]

Great video Alina! Looking forward to finding out which country gives you the Visa.

[@CrimsonLibra_20]

I live in a bedroom in a beautiful house in Tottenham. But I don't have my 'own' place. I can use a lot of the house, but it's nowhere at all 'mine'. I drive cab and money is not good (jobs are crazy hard to find that doesn't require a bunch of degrees). Building my small buisness is a challenge because of costs. If anyone has their own place, even a 1 bedroom apartment, bachelor apartment or even a small townhouse, you are lucky.

[@hainansu4119]

Nicely said and analyzed about Toronto from someone who has lived in the Ontario province for 2 years. The lifestyle is not the only aspect that migrants consider. For example, I want to move from China to Canada. There's a downgrade in terms of lifestyle especially in terms of delivery services and public transportation, like the high-speed rail you shown in the video, but I still want to move here for a freer political environment.

[@robocop581]

Enjoy Trudeau 😂

[@jimross7648]

Well, most of the figures you used I would agree with except the 20% savings for retirement. I think and many studies I've read have indicated realistically 10% is the maximum most people can manage, and that is often a struggle. Now if it is assumed that you you actually have saved 20%, the government of the day looks at that large pile of capital, and indicating that they should be able to tax it again, so they can redistribute it as the government sees fit. Of course the whole premise falls apart when the average wage is around 50% or slightly less in Canada. That is why your plans make economic sense.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Yeah I sadly don't feel the government is currently that adept at helping people with their retirement and people have to be able to prepare their own savings on top of pension to actually be able to live without worry.

[@dimitar1443]

Glad to see you choose my lovely country ❤

[@tridentyyz1031]

If you want to live in the core then, things get expensive. Condos that were built in the late 80's sell for less than the new ones, but give you more space. My first Condo in Toronto was across the highway from Fairview Mall. It was a 1 bedroom and a den and it was 1,000 square feet in size. I sold it just before the Sheppard subway came out to Fairview.

[@durf2753]

My suggestion since you have decent amount of money and waiting for a visa to move to a European country, head to California for 10 days visiting major cities in the state: LA, SF, San Diego and San Jose. You can stay at cheaper lodging like hostel or cheaper hotels. You can take Coast Starlight train down. Very cheap. This is the best time to go there. You will love it there, especially San Diego, which could be your favorite city.

[@mike_fly_]

You may already know that Torontonian Nora Dunn (KZbinr: The Professional Hobo) has been (or may still be) in Bulgaria with her husband. Try to connect! Pretty sure that's where you're heading.

[@Global_citizen-m2v]

The 10% tax rate made it clear where she was moving to :).

[@lyoubomiratanassov7357]

​@@Global_citizen-m2v I don't think Canadian citizenship will qualify for immigrant visa to Bulgaria. Out of the countries that I saw the flags of only probably Georgia (or maybe Albania - but less likely) could give immigrant visa to Canadians.

[@Global_citizen-m2v]

@@lyoubomiratanassov7357 Michael Rosmer from offshore citizen is another Canadian, and he used to live in Bulgaria before he moved out to Dubai. I guess there is some sort of visa some Canadians can qualify for.

[@westernwanderer8397]

It's really sad how we are pretty much living in poverty these days. Yes, we may earn a high salary, but with the cost of living so high, we are living hand to mouth, paycheck to paycheck. We really do not have any "extra" money anymore for quality of life. I am with you 100% and plan to live abroad soon.

[@johnmorelli3775]

Places like Mexico are affordable, great medical care & mostly great weather. Get out and have a look! Leave Toronto far behind.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Yeah it's honestly insane how people with 'high paying careers' can be living paycheque to paycheque.

[@shauncameron8390]

@@AlinaMcleod It's not really that insane. It's just people trying to live a lifestyle their incomes cannot support.

[@neilwadden1749]

One thing I never did is fill out any forms with CRA to become a non-resident. I’m now a resident in another country. Is that something necessary to do? I assumed that you automatically become a non resident when out of Canada for more than 6 months. Can you explain this process when moving overseas? 🙏

[@ChasingBogeys]

I left Toronto last year and have an apartment downtown that I rented out to my friends fully furnished w parking. It’s $3100 lol so I can attest to this. The going rate for that was actually $3600 (2+den with a water view) which is crazy, my friends are thankful for paying the rent and say it’s a great deal. Lol Toronto is expensive, anything under 150-175k is living very average in Toronto, and I have lived in the city for 13 years so not talking based on hypothetical knowledge. Btw you said almost a million, my condo is 1.3M now, I bought for $800k 5 years ago when I was 27. It’s definitely a bubble.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Well lucky you got in when you did! It will be interesting to see what happens in the future.

[@ChasingBogeys]

@@AlinaMcleod for sure.. and even when I got in I stress tested myself for double the interest rate which came to use now. It’s a roll of the dice which is not how housing should be. Anyway I think the rates are going to slow down and stabilize over the next 3-4 years. No one can guess what happens after. Btw I sent you a dm, did you visit Aera at the well? Great new spot for content and views (and cocktails). Have fun Alina!

[@AlinaMcleod]

@@ChasingBogeys Thanks, will try to check it out!

[@HeartbeatsLocal-me9by]

For transit have you tried the Bikeshare and the ttc pass?

[@NightOwwl728]

My ideal place to live? A country with a great biking infrastructure like the Netherlands but weather like California.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Love that

[@user-l4y7r04wy6iv]

That sounds like the university town of Davis, California.

[@NightOwwl728]

@@user-l4y7r04wy6iv Well, then, all I need now is a green card and a couple million dollars. 🙂

[@DedoMaco85]

Italy? It has good biking infrastructure and the weather is generally nicer than the Netherlands. No idea if it's like California, it's different in the different parts of the country.

[@NightOwwl728]

@@DedoMaco85 I visited there way back (Rome, Florence, Venice) but didn't know that they also had good bike infra. Although, that would make cultural sense given that they have a storied history of road race cycling. Did come away from the visit thinking, yeah, I wouldn't mind living here one day.

[@weslaycock466]

Incredible video, thank you for the value

[@roachtoasties]

Interesting statistics. I also don't post my income online, but if someone asks, I'll just tell them so we can both cry about it. 🙃🙂 Good video.

[@goldyparmar2467]

The question was something personal but I was thinking, so I asked.. when are you going to get married?…. One more thing, I live here in Saskatoon. I love this city. Why did you leave?

[@mihaylivanov9512]

The best city to live in Bulgaria is Burgas. Don't waste your time with Bansko, Varna or other cities.

[@cx_enby]

Toronto is expensive. I'm on disability social assistance and make $1300/month. I pay no taxes and get some coverage for dental and glasses. How i survive is by cooking my own food, go to clothing swaps, food banks. I have a subsidized rent living in a co-op. It's not ideal!

[@AlinaMcleod]

Sorry to hear that, very difficult situation to be in.

[@7321janedou]

You make ? How exactly ?

[@johngreydanus2033]

@@7321janedou Surely he means receives, not makes? Perhaps not good English?

[@Nature_with_Peter_Kane]

@@johngreydanus2033 Proper English is to say I earn $1300 / month but to say I make is just as common. Even Alina says "you need to be MAKING a minimum of $4,000/month" at 48 seconds in the video. Cheers.

[@johngreydanus2033]

@@Nature_with_Peter_Kane But when you are on social benefits, e.g.. pension or disability, most people do not not say they "make" money, they receive money! You don't get old or injured so that you can earn or "make" money.

[@donstravelsandrants.]

That is crazy, crazy money Alina. I am shocked.😲

[@jamessullenriot]

Toronto is San Francisco / NYC costs with Buffalo NY salaries, and the public transit of a city 50% its size. Not to mention, bike lanes all over that are barely used from October - April ... and a city council cil that spends their time renaming streets and city squares that are deemed "offensive". Oh, and the odds of your car getting stolen are much higher than many other places.

[@mracer8]

I don't think Toronto is her only issue, there is other city in Canada beside Toronto which is quite nice! how about Vancouver, Montreal, Quebec City etc, I truely believe and I don't blame her, the bottom issue is she DO NOT need to be in Canada to earn her living, so she is not happy about paying so much "federal" tax that she don't really use or have to! basically same reason even wealthier people move to Monaco, UAE, Bahamas! avoid tax until they stop generate income but want the social benefit! then they will do all they can to move back!!

[@TheTroyc1982]

Rent in Toronto is about half of that of NYC and SF.

[@shauncameron8390]

@@TheTroyc1982 So are salaries.

[@TorontoNeurospicyGirl]

Is it really worth it? Yes, if you love ❤Toronto❤. If you have to ask yourself this question, then you don't love Toronto enough, and then it's not worth it. We love Toronto and make it a priority to live here. So we make don't splurge on a 2 bedroom, we fit into a 1 bedroom (as a married couple with a dog, no kids) in Midtown Toronto, this this great! We've lived in this apt for 12 years, so our rent is really good compared to what it would be if we were moving into our building right now. We don't own a car, since we are right on the subway line, 5 mins walk from a subway station. We also have several beautiful parks surrounding us. All the necessities are within a 5-10 mins walk. Evethying else is a 10-20 min transit ride away. A myriad of restaurants, shops and entertainment. I honestly can't imagine living anywhere else. I love it here so much.

[@AlinaMcleod]

That's wonderful to hear!

[@menguardingtheirownwallets6791]

Yes, you've lived in that apartment for 12 years now so your rent is really low, but now ask yourself if you would STILL love living in Toronto if you had to move to another part of the city for a new job (your old company went bankrupt) and now your rent is $3,500/month for a 1-bedroom apartment?

[@bw5911]

I wish you were going to the country that I am, but the other one is a good choice too…just not as central to get to Western Europe. Hopefully I will still get to meet you and we can girl chat over a coffee. P.S. I was there in the Spring because I wanted to see the BEAUTIFUL church. Amazing on the outside, but so-so on the inside. Good luck!❤

[@hamzasalhi2460]

Awesome video as always, Alina! I'm also considering moving out of Toronto, and I'm really drawn to Southeast Asian countries like Thailand and Indonesia. In your experience, what would be a reasonable budget for a couple to live comfortably, including some entertainment?

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you! It depends what you consider 'comfortable' but personally I would say if you're living in a popular hub like lets say Bangkok or even Koh Samui and sharing a spacious 1 or 2 bedroom apartment, eating out a lot, use Grab regularly and put money away for savings, I'd say around $4,000 would be a good place to start. You can do it for less of course, but at that range you will be able to do quite a bit.

[@hamzasalhi2460]

@@AlinaMcleod thanks a lot ! assuming these are Canadian dollars right ?

[@AlinaMcleod]

@@hamzasalhi2460 Yes in CAD

[@VikingJack-il4hw]

KZbin is an American company. You are where you are because of the United States and not Canada. 😊

[@matthewsmith908]

These comparisons are fine but you're really missing the important details, incomes in developed western countries are higher than in eastern Europe. You have the ability to make money online and aren't part of the local workforce, of course its cheaper to live in Montenegro or Bulgaria or Albania.

[@AlinaMcleod]

I did say I'm in a privileged position to be able to work online and in CAD/USD currency. Many people move to Canada in the hopes of getting a better paid job but personally if I was an immigrant from a poor country I would only do that for a short period of time to build experience, but ideally just learn English to a native level and create a remote career.

[@stevo728822]

A $1,000 a month just for eating and drinking out !!! $600 a month for discretionary shopping !!! You're high maintenance. One day the high salaries enjoyed in Canada, Australia and the USA are all going to come crashing down to fall into line with the rest of the world.

[@Euphorica]

High salaries in Canada ? Lol

[@sweetvictory5643]

She wants only such a lifestyle without working 8 hours every day. She also wants to travel the world just like many Russian speaking immigrants who also want to live in a warm climate and near the sea. Bulgaria is one of those countries, but she would be happy there. I know because I have listened to many Russian speaking immigrants stories...

[@valeria-militiamessalina5672]

She said her "ideal" lifestyle, not her actual lifestyle, your reading listening comprehension does not seem great.

[@funvideogames581]

lol wtf, you're delusional. she's extremely reasonable

[@TheTroyc1982]

@@Euphorica compared to Europe Canadian have huge salaries. Doctors only make 100,000 CAD in Germany for example

[@JohnCash001]

That rent is so good.. I was living in Miami paying $4400 USD for rent.. 5,973 CAD.. For a one bedroom downtown Miami

[@vdawg2224]

My guess is Alina is moving to Bulgaria since she mentioned the 10% tax rate. Only other euro country with 10% tax rate is Romania.

[@TeslaRules1856]

We are in the USA, things seem a bit dicey here lately. A visit to Toronto might be in order to see how it compares to cities here. From what you mention, the cost of living is comparable to where we live now.

[@napke8571]

So if I combine my salary with Alina's ( as a man I have to dream about some scenario's 🤭) we do have a great living in Canada for sure! I am Dutch and I can tell you everything about 'life is expensive in my country', very well organized but one of Europa's most expensive countries. Eastern Europe is still a lot more affordable but their economics are growing. For example Poland, Slovakia and Czech Republic are in no way the same as 25-30 years ago. Tremendous grow in wealth and we are happy about it, more and more Europeans from the more rich countries are discovering Eastern Europe. Beautiful people, good food, space and little more a relax attitude. Hopefully the RUS-UA war will end and give Ukraine the change to become a new powerhouse. Nice video as always👌

[@fabobg]

Ah, I wanted to write a long comment about this "unnamed Eastern European" country you've chosen, but I'll respect your decision of keeping it 'a secret' for now and will comment on the video with the announcement. Hope all goes according to plan. Cheers :)

[@AlinaMcleod]

I might be announcing soon because the processing time is much longer than I expected lol

[@johnmorelli3775]

@@AlinaMcleod I am guessing Romania. If I am right do I win anything, LOL!

[@User12345fan]

@@AlinaMcleodjust announce it, I know Bulgaria came first to Albania second. But do go visit the Albanian alps and coast while you live in Bulgaria.

[@PeterPaulson-x4d]

@@AlinaMcleod To be expected, Bulgaria is well known for being a corrupt, bureaucratic mess.

[@santostv.]

I bet Bulgaria, they have the 10% tax

[@gb2121-d1g]

Why don’t you choose a country like Portugal or Spain? A bit more expensive than Bulgaria, but more comfort. Interesting to know your reasons.

[@MacDiggity]

Watched about 3 minutes and it continues to amaze me how very little people understand inflation. Hard assets are more or less the same, the spending power of the dollar is worth about half of what it used to be. The only thing that isn't rising with inflation is salaries.

[@yaroslavkasyanenko8104]

Left Toronto, left Canada. Happy about it. Will wait for normal government to fix it back

[@booishoois309]

I thought you were leaving? What is taking so long?

[@NicheTravelersGuide]

Love your videos. Just wondering have you done or would you consider doing a series on how to get started doing a travel vlogging for those interested in do these kinds of videos? Not sure if you have and I just haven’t found the video yet? Thanks.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you! No, I haven't actually done a lot of videos on that topic just yet, but will keep it in mind for the future!

[@MikeHageman]

Thanks for your video. It resonates here. I hope you’ll find your destiny and easy living. Canada is changing. And that’s not a positive change. I have visited the country more than 20 times the last 3+ decades. (My mother lived in Alberta for 35 years and moved back to The Netherlands.) And lived there for a few Months. We were shocked by the prices of almost everything, groceries, apartments, housing, RV renting, lodging, restaurants, etc. when we visited BC last week. Especially hotels charge absurd prices. A 400% increase in one year! And they fluctuate more than the weather. And taxes on everything a totally non consistent. But most shocking were all the junks in Vancouver. More to the centre now. Some look like zombies. Whole neighbourhoods down the drain. (I have red a lot about the situation and feel sorry for them. ) Total government failure. And service / friendliness is almost gone in major cities. A huge takeover by foreigners is really reflecting on service. Money making is the sole goal now, it seems. What a bummer! It used to be such a nice country to visit.

[@ludvik01]

I thought Toronto was cheaper then Vancouver what an eye opener once again Vancouver is Awesome Place now i see why so many people are moving here

[@adm.petercowell9573]

Oh Alena you should move to Siam Reap full time. I know you loved it there. Its also livable to a high standard for around 1500usd per month. I have left Thailand a few weeks ago and moving to Siam Reap next month.

[@davewong4834]

Thank you for the update! Very useful. Have you considered Thailand for your next move?

[@AlinaMcleod]

I absolutely love Thailand and it was my top choice to live in SEA, but overall living in Eastern Europe was the better fit for now.

[@nickob55]

The 60k CAD/ 40K Euro will be pretty much high standard in say Sofia, two bed apt very high standard will be up to 1200-1500 E everything incl, then an eating out lifestyle no holding back maybe 40E/day, so you could easily burn through 40k euro.............unless you live like me on 5500 E/year in Bulgaria

[@ravipeter-andrew1603]

Makes a lot of sense Alina for you and your work. Does it mean you renounce your Canadian citizenship and Passport? If that is true, some soul searching is needed given the tremendous value both these factors hold. Is your income portable on dollar for dollar value basis without any devaluation if you move?

[@Kylo_Ren_2033]

Just finished my travel in Canada. The hotel prices in Toronto and Vancouver are indeed too high. Calgary price in comparison is reasonable.

[@Kylo_Ren_2033]

I stayed in holiday inn Toronto downtown for one night. They charge hotel guest 20$ before taxes for parking, and their underground parking facility smells bad. So, I find myself another hotel the next day.

[@sofotographic]

There's a clip in this video that looks awfully familiar. The drone shot over Queen's Park. Care say where it came from?

[@AlinaMcleod]

Yes, I have a stock subscription with Envato Elements.

[@sofotographic]

@@AlinaMcleod Thank you!

[@jonnysaint5261]

Toronto is where it's at. It's Canada's New York. It's always cost alot to live there. It's the financial, cultural capital of Canada.

[@LEX-rh8jr]

Living standards in Canada 🍁 are going down... 👎

[@CommandoMaster]

Makes no sense to live in Toronto, unless you're very wealthy, and like getting ripped off.