The debate on whether to buy a car or rely on the Canadian transit system is a deliberation that many newcomers tend to make. Buying a car is no trivial decision and requires careful consideration of the upsides and drawbacks, especially if you are living in any of Canada’s major cities. More importantly, the decision has to be examined against the other viable alternative, which is to rely on the Canadian transit system. Within North America, Canadian cities like Vancouver, Montreal, and Toronto are often ranked among the stronger transit systems, with Vancouver especially noted for its multimodal network. The dilemma will be deconstructed extensively in this episode, making it easy for immigrants to reach the most practical conclusion, tailored to their needs.

Buying a car as an immigrant from Nigeria or other parts of Africa is not a necessity if you live in any major city, unless it is a requirement for a job. The situation is further aggravated by ongoing costs such as gas, insurance, maintenance, and registration, with car insurance being particularly expensive for newcomers due to their lack of Canadian driving history. In addition to all of these challenges, the value of a car does not appreciate, which effectively means a gradual and cumulative decline in the value of your car over time.

Major Canadian cities offer efficient public transit systems that are accessible, affordable, and environmentally friendly. Residents can rely on a variety of options, including buses, subways, light rail, and bike-sharing programs, while most urban areas provide good coverage, allowing easy commuting, errands, and shopping. Transit-oriented urban planning in cities like Vancouver further supports living without a car, and the system’s ability to reduce traffic congestion and carbon emissions adds to its overall efficiency and appeal. The weekly and monthly pass system is one feature that makes the need for a car unnecessary, especially for newcomers and students. The pass system lets you ride buses, subways, or light rail an unlimited number of times within the month.

While there are challenges associated with the Canadian transit system, with issues relating to frequency, reliability, and aging infrastructure, these issues are very minor and do not significantly detract from the overall performance of the Canadian transit system in major cities.

Immigrants with limited resources and looking to make smart financial decisions need to consider the facts as they are. Canadian public transit is strong in major urban centers, offering accessible, environmentally friendly, and affordable options. However, outside cities or during peak hours, gaps in coverage, reliability, and frequency can make it less convenient. On the other hand, buying a car offers maximum convenience but might come with a long list of monetary responsibilities, which could easily be a burden for immigrants, newcomers, and students.

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