A few months ago, I ruptured my Achilles tendon which required me to make frequent visits to my local hospital for check-ups and physiotherapy. With my inability to drive due to my right foot injury, I relied on Uber to get to and from the hospital. It was no surprise that most of my Uber drivers were immigrants, many of them recent arrivals in Canada. For these new immigrants, driving for Uber seemed like a golden opportunity given the limited job options especially for those with limited English skills.
One memorable encounter was with a Ukrainian man who revealed that despite only being in Canada for four months, he was struggling to support himself and his family. Working as a line cook full time and driving for Uber as another full-time job, he was visibly fatigued and expressed longing for his previous life in Kyiv where he lived in a nicer place at a lower cost and more affordable food despite the stark difference in GDP per capita between Ukraine and Canada. This experience was not unique; immigrants from different countries shared similar sentiments about their struggle to make a living in Canada.
The cost of living in Canada has increased dramatically over the past few years, with the average rent doubling to $2,150 a month. This has resulted in an impossible situation where only a small percentage of Canadians earn enough to afford the average apartment in the country. The combination of high living costs, low income growth, and increased demand due to immigration has strained the economy, making it difficult for new immigrants to find economic opportunity.
Moreover, the disappointment new immigrants feel towards Canada is a result of poorly managed expectations and the gap between reality and reputation. Many new immigrants come to Canada seeking economic opportunity, unlike previous generations who were motivated by freedom and equality. As the economic gap widens between Canada and other Western nations such as the United States and Australia, new immigrants may find themselves in a less promising economic situation.
These economic challenges may lead to a brain drain in Canada, with the most productive and educated citizens seeking better opportunities elsewhere. This includes members of Canada’s Jewish community, who may opt for better opportunities in Israel or the United States. The increase in hate crimes against Jews in Canada may further prompt them to seek opportunities outside the country. This trend could extend to other productive individuals as Canada’s economy continues to face challenges.