Let’s settle the debate once and for all: Is it cheap to live in Scarborough compared to Toronto’s core? As local movers Toronto families trust, we’ve helped thousands transition between these neighborhoods—and the financial differences might surprise you. Spoiler: Scarborough isn’t just affordable; it’s a hidden gem for living well Scarborough style, with cultural perks and space that downtown simply can’t match.
Housing: Where Your Dollar Stretches Further
The most glaring difference between Scarborough and downtown Toronto? Housing costs. While a one-bedroom condo in Toronto’s core averages $2,500/month, Scarborough offers the same space for $1,800–$2,000—a 20–25% savings. Families love the trade-up potential:
- Renters snag 3-bedroom townhomes for $2,400/month (vs. $3,500+ in midtown).
- Buyers find detached homes near the Bluffs for $1M–$1.3M (half the price of comparable Leslieville properties).
Pro Tip: Our local movers Toronto clients often use these savings to upgrade to homes with backyards or basements (perfect for that home gym you’ve been dreaming about).
The Hidden Perks of Scarborough Living
Beyond square footage, Scarborough delivers value in ways that don’t show up on a mortgage statement:
- Transit Access Without Downtown Premiums
The TTC’s Line 2 extension and express buses connect Scarborough to downtown in 30–45 minutes. Monthly passes cost the same ($156), but you’ll actually get a seat during rush hour. - Groceries That Won’t Grip Your Wallet
Ethnic grocers like Btrust Supermarket and Al Premium offer produce at 30% lower prices than downtown Loblaws. A weekly grocery haul for a family of four averages $150 (vs. $220 in the core). - Park Space You Can Actually Use
Compare Trinity Bellwoods’ elbow-to-elbow picnics to Scarborough’s Guild Park or Rouge National Urban Park—40km of trails where your dog can run leash-free.
The Trade-Offs (And Why They Might Not Matter)
Yes, you’ll hear complaints about Scarborough’s “lack of nightlife,” but let’s be real:
- Restaurant Savings: A date night at Scarborough’s Fishman Lobster Clubhouse (legendary seafood towers) costs $75 for two vs. $120 at downtown’s Oyster Boy.
- Cultural Richness: The Scarborough Arts Festival and Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre offer world-class events without downtown ticket markups.
One Day Movers Insight: 60% of our clients moving to Scarborough are young families or remote workers prioritizing space over proximity to clubs.
Job Market: More Than Just Suburban Sprawl
Scarborough’s employment hubs rival downtown’s:
- Healthcare: Scarborough Health Network employs 8,000+ with nursing salaries averaging $75K/year.
- Tech: Centennial College’s AI labs feed talent to nearby Scarborough Innovation Corridor startups.
- Logistics: Amazon’s Dixon Road fulfillment center offers $22/hour entry-level roles with benefits.
The kicker? Scarborough’s average after-tax income ($5,175/month) actually exceeds Toronto’s ($4,900)—a fact rarely mentioned in Scarborough cost of living debates.
Why Scarborough Moves Require Specialized Help
Here’s where we, as local movers Toronto residents rely on, see clients stumble:
- Storage Needs
Scarborough homes often lack basements. Our climate-controlled short-term storage (starting at $200/month) bridges gaps between move-out/in dates. - Long-Distance Logistics
Moving from a 500 sq ft downtown condo to a 1,200 sq ft Scarborough home? Our packing teams strategically label boxes by room so unpacking feels effortless. - Furniture Upgrades
That downtown sectional might not fit your new rec room. We offer eco-friendly disposal of unwanted items (included in full-service moves).
The Verdict: Scarborough Wins on Value
When weighing advantages of living in Scarborough, the math is clear:
| Expense | Scarborough | Downtown Toronto |
| 1-Bedroom Rent | $1,800–$2,000 | $2,400–$2,800 |
| Groceries (Weekly) | $150 | $220 |
| Transit Time to Core | 30–45 mins | 0 mins (but higher stress) |
| Green Space | 40+ km of trails | Crowded parks |
Final Thought: Scarborough isn’t “cheap”—it’s strategically affordable. You trade downtown bragging rights for tangible upgrades: bigger homes, shorter commutes (if you work east), and financial breathing room.
FAQs About Moving to Scarborough
Q: How much does it cost to hire local movers from Scarborough?
A: A 2-bedroom move from downtown averages $1,200–$1,800. Get a personalized quote based on your exact needs.
Q: Are Scarborough schools good for kids?
A: Agincourt Collegiate Institute and Woburn Collegiate rank among Ontario’s top 20%. Many families move specifically for these districts.
Q: What’s the worst part about Scarborough?
A: Some miss walkable nightlife, but the Scarborough Town Centre revitalization (new bars, live music) is changing that.
Q: Can your team handle piano moves to high-rises near STC?
A: Absolutely—we’ve moved 27 pianos in Scarborough this year alone.
Q: Is Scarborough safe?
A: Crime rates are comparable to midtown Toronto. Areas near UTSC and the Bluffs are exceptionally family-friendly.
Ready to Make the Move?
At One Day Movers, we’ve perfected the Toronto-to-Scarborough relocation. From navigating Kingston Road parking rules to packing your grandma’s china with military precision, we turn affordability into actual comfort.Call One Day Movers at 437-774-7495 or get a fast, no-obligation quote today. Let’s turn your Scarborough move into your best move yet.