City Profile
Burlington, Ontario
Canada · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Burlington, Ontario, is a vibrant city situated at the western end of Lake Ontario, forming a key part of the Greater Toronto Area and the Golden Horseshoe urban region. Established in 1874 and gaining city status in 1974, Burlington is renowned for its compelling balance of natural beauty, urban convenience, and strong community spirit. The city consistently ranks high in national reports for its exceptional quality of life, making it a desirable location for families, professionals, and newcomers alike. Its strategic location offers residents access to major job markets and cultural centers in both Toronto and Hamilton, complemented by a peaceful suburban setting.
Burlington's character is defined by its picturesque waterfront, numerous parks, and proximity to the Niagara Escarpment, which provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The city has a reputation for being safe, livable, and family-friendly, with amenities and services catering to all ages. This blend of natural attractions, robust infrastructure, and a welcoming community contributes to why many choose to call Burlington home.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Burlington is notably higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 138 as of June 2026. This makes Burlington approximately 11.9% to 22.7% more expensive than Canada overall, depending on the source and specific categories. Housing is a significant driver of these costs, with average rents for apartments being considerably above the national median.
While groceries and some restaurant expenses might be comparable or slightly lower than the Canadian average, other categories such as childcare, transportation, and entertainment tend to be more expensive in Burlington. A single person's estimated monthly expenses, excluding rent, are around $1,057 USD. The high cost of living necessitates a substantial income to maintain a comfortable lifestyle, with an estimated annual salary of approximately $61,000 USD needed for a single renter.
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Burlington boasts a diverse and high-performing economy, strategically located within the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA), making it an attractive hub for various industries. The city's economy is not dominated by a single sector, but rather thrives on a mix of knowledge-based and technology-intensive industries. In 2024, over 2,500 new jobs were created, indicating a positive employment growth trend.
Key employment sectors in Burlington include Healthcare & Social Assistance, Accommodation & Food Services, Other Services, Advanced Manufacturing, and Biomedical & Life Sciences. While the Halton Region saw a slight decline in the overall number of businesses in 2024, Burlington Economic Development aims for a 1% annual increase in new businesses, fostering an entrepreneurial climate. Remote work also plays a significant role, with about 21% of surveyed businesses in Halton reporting work-from-home arrangements in 2024.
The average salary in Burlington is $52,855 per year. You would need approximately $61,000 to live comfortably.
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Transport
Getting around Burlington largely depends on personal vehicles, as the city is generally considered mostly car-dependent. However, efforts are being made to enhance public transportation and walkability. The city has an average Walk Score of 43, indicating that some errands can be accomplished on foot, particularly in areas like Downtown Burlington, which boasts a Walk Score of 80+.
Burlington Transit provides public bus services, and the city benefits from its location within the Greater Toronto Area, offering GO Train access to Toronto and Hamilton for commuters. While public transit options exist, many residents still rely on cars for daily commutes and errands. The average monthly cost for a transit pass is around $106 USD. The city's strategic position with access to major highways also facilitates driving for those commuting to neighboring cities.
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