Mississauga is Canada’s seventh largest city, located in the Peel Regional Municipality of Ontario, west of Toronto. It’s part of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and is the largest suburban municipality in North America. Incorporated as a city in 1974, Mississauga has experienced rapid growth, doubling in size in each of the last two decades of the 20th century, with an estimated population of over 715,000 residents. But is Mississauga a good place to live? This guide has all the information newcomers need to know about moving to Mississauga.
Mississauga has become a popular place to live for those who desire all the amenities of a large city combined with the proximity to a bustling metropolis. Similar to Toronto, Mississauga also has its own identifiable skyscrapers. Absolute World is a five-tower residential condominium complex, but the site is dominated by two distinctly curved buildings, nicknamed the “Marilyn Monroe” towers.
Where to work in Mississauga
The City of Mississauga itself is listed as one of the major employers with over 1,000 employees. The city has a diverse range of industries, including aerospace, high-tech operations, computers and electronics, machine shops, food processing, printing and publishing.
Mississauga has a strong business community, with over 21,000 businesses employing over 363,000 people across various sectors. The largest employment sectors include manufacturing (18.5 per cent of employment), retail trade (7 per cent of employment), and transportation and warehousing (11.3 per cent of employment).
Additionally, 23 Mississauga companies were named top Greater Toronto Area (GTA) employers last year, indicating a strong corporate presence in the city. PepsiCo Canada, based in Mississauga, was specifically highlighted for its progressive work policies.
Major employers in Mississauga
- Accenture Inc.
- Air Canada
- Bell Canada
- Canada Post – Gateway Postal Facility
- City of Mississauga
- Federal Express Canada Ltd.
- GlaxoSmithKline Inc.
- Greater Toronto Airports Authority
- Hewlett-Packard Canada Ltd.
- RBC Financial Group
- TD Bank Financial Group
- Trillium Health Centre
- University of Toronto Mississauga
- Walmart Canada Inc.
What makes Mississauga a good place to live?
Mississauga is considered a great place to live for several reasons.
Multicultural environment
The city is known for its rich diversity, with over half of its population being immigrants. This multiculturalism fosters a welcoming community and is celebrated through events showcasing various cultures through food, music, and arts.
Strong economy
Mississauga boasts a robust economy with numerous job opportunities in sectors such as aerospace, technology, and pharmaceuticals. Its proximity to Toronto and the Toronto Pearson International Airport enhances career prospects for residents, making it a desirable location for professionals and entrepreneurs.
Excellent education
The city offers high-quality educational institutions, including public schools with strong academic programs and campuses for renowned post-secondary institutions, making it ideal for families prioritizing education.
Recreational amenities
With over 500 parks, numerous golf courses, shopping centers, and cultural attractions, Mississauga provides a wide range of recreational activities. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities, arts, and entertainment, contributing to a high quality of life. There are popular outdoor spaces, such as Jack Darling Memorial Park and Lakefront Promenade Park, events such as the Mississauga Waterfront Festival, and art spaces such as the Art Gallery of Mississauga.
Efficient transportation
Mississauga has a comprehensive transportation network, including the MiWay public transit system, which connects residents to Toronto and other regions. This accessibility makes commuting convenient and supports a car-dependent lifestyle.
Pleasant weather
The city enjoys a mild climate with over 240 days of temperatures above 0°C, resulting in manageable winters and warm summers, which many residents appreciate.
These factors combine to make Mississauga an attractive option for individuals and families looking for a vibrant community with ample opportunities and amenities.
What makes Mississauga’s cultural diversity unique?
Mississauga is known for its welcoming spirit and newcomers from around the world find the city to be a pleasant place to settle and purchase a home. But what makes Mississauga such a culturally diverse area?
Historical roots and immigration
Mississauga’s history is deeply intertwined with various waves of immigration. From its early days as Toronto Township, welcoming Loyalist settlers and Irish, and later immigrants from other parts of Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean, the city has continually evolved into a multicultural hub.
Demographic diversity
Over 60 per cent of Mississauga’s residents identify as visible minorities, making it one of the most diverse cities in Canada and the world. This demographic richness is reflected in the city’s vibrant communities, where more than forty different languages are spoken as mother tongues.
Cultural celebrations and festivals
Mississauga hosts numerous cultural festivals that celebrate its diversity. Carassauga, the second largest cultural festival in Canada, showcases cultures from around the world through food, dance, and performances. Other events like the Mosaic Festival, Muslimfest, and Fiesta Ng Kalayaan further highlight the city’s commitment to celebrating its multicultural heritage.
Culinary scene
The city’s food scene is a testament to its multiculturalism, with over 1,200 restaurants offering cuisines from more than 150 countries. This thriving foodie culture is a central part of Mississauga’s identity, bringing people together through diverse culinary experiences.
Arts and public programs
Mississauga’s commitment to the arts is evident through initiatives such as the Public Art Master Plan and the Resident Artist Program. The Art Gallery of Mississauga and organizations like the Mississauga Arts Council foster a rich arts scene that reflects the city’s diversity.
Community engagement and inclusion
Mississauga actively promotes equity, diversity, and inclusion through various programs and advisory committees. These efforts ensure that all residents feel represented and included, fostering a sense of belonging and community.
