Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): Canada’s vibrant Indian diaspora continues to grow across major cities, but soaring housing prices are posing significant challenges for families hoping to own a home.
According to recent figures, Toronto remains the city with the highest Indian population, exceeding 650,000 residents. However, the average home price in Toronto has climbed to $1.1 million, requiring a family income of at least $250,000 to afford a property comfortably.
Vancouver, which hosts more than 260,000 people of Indian origin, tops the chart with the highest average house price among the five cities at $1.24 million. Families there would need to earn around $275,000 to keep up with housing costs, underscoring the city’s reputation as one of the country’s most expensive real estate markets.
Meanwhile, Brampton, often called a hub of the Indian community in Ontario, has an Indian population of over 160,000. The average home price stands at $850,000, requiring a family income of roughly $130,000 still a significant financial hurdle for many newcomers and young families.
Western cities like Calgary and Edmonton offer relatively more affordable options. Calgary, with an Indian population exceeding 105,000, has average home prices at $640,000, demanding a family income of $100,000. Edmonton, home to over 83,000 Indians, remains the most affordable among the five, with an average home price of $450,000 and a recommended family income of $85,000.
These figures highlight a stark reality: while Canada remains a popular destination for Indians seeking new opportunities, the dream of homeownership is increasingly tied to high income levels in the country’s largest urban centres.
Experts say this trend could influence migration patterns within Canada, pushing new immigrants and younger families toward more affordable regions while established communities continue to grapple with housing affordability in major cities.
