Saskatoon is the largest city in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan, with a population of around 202,000, and is located along the South Saskatchewan River.
It’s known for its friendly community, riverfront trails, prairie landscapes, and affordable housing compared with larger Canadian cities.
In this post, you will find practical tips to make your move to Saskatoon so much easier.
Pros & Cons of Living in Saskatoon
Saskatoon is rich in culture and community spirit
Pros
Affordable Cost of Living Housing and everyday costs in Saskatoon are notably lower than inbigger cities like Toronto or Vancouver.
A one-bedroom rental is typically around $1,150–$1,600 CAD/month, whilst buying a single-family home is usually in the $350k–$500k CAD range.
Lower Taxes Saskatoon residents pay some of the lowest combined sales taxes in Canada (currently around 11%), which can make everyday purchases more affordable.
Growing Economy & Job Sectors Industries with strong local demand include agriculture, mining (potash & uranium), energy, healthcare, manufacturing, and technology, with major employers like Nutrien and Cameco.
Community & Culture Local culture and community are strong, with festivals, river walks, green spaces, and a vibrant music and dining scene. Residents often highlight the pleasant river scenery, parks, and friendly vibe of the city.
Cons
Harsh Winters & Extreme Weather Winters can be long and very cold (often below -20°C), with strong winds and heavy snow, which can be a tough adjustment for many newcomers.
Limited Public Transit Saskatoon’s transit system isn’t as extensive as in larger metro areas, and most residents rely on cars, which should be factored into your budgeting.
Crime and Safety Crime can vary significantly by neighborhood, and some parts of the city have higher rates of property crime than others. It’s important to research specific areas before deciding where to live.
Local Job Markets Whilst opportunities exist, some newcomers report a slower job market for certain professions and recommend proactive networking and local credential recognition.
Overall, Saskatoon’s living costs are reasonable when compared to other Canadian cities, but can still feel high depending on your income, family size, and lifestyle.
You may also like to read: Moving After Retirement. In this guide, we look at the pros and cons of moving to a new place after you retire.
Best Places to Live
River Landing Spray Park, Saskatoon
Saskatoon has a wide range of neighborhoods, each with its own personality:
Central & Family-Friendly
Nutana & Broadway: Historic, walkable, near cafés and river trails; popular with families and professionals.
Varsity View: Close to the University of Saskatchewan with a strong community feel.
Suburban & Quiet
Hampton Village: Affordable, family-oriented with parks and new homes.
Westview: Good for families, classic suburban layout with schools and green space.
Montgomery Place: Quiet, nature-rich neighborhood best for retirees or those desiring serenity.
Up-and-Coming Urban Areas
Downtown & Riversdale: Close to events, nightlife, and cultural hotspots. Riversdale has seen revitalization, but still sees lower incomes and varied safety levels.
University Heights & Evergreen: More affordable housing, good for students and young professionals.
Tip: Visit neighborhoods at different times of day before choosing, and talk with locals to understand vibes, safety, and amenities. Neighborhoods vary widely in feel and commute times.
You may also like to read: How to Choose a New Neighborhood. In this guide, we suggest things to take into consideration when choosing a neighborhood to live in.
Job Market and Career Opportunities
Downtown Saskatoon
Key Industries
Agriculture: Saskatoon sits in an agricultural region with logistics, tech, and bio-agriculture growth.
Mining & Resources: Potash and uranium production are major industries.
Healthcare & Construction: Ongoing demand for skilled professionals.
Tech & Services: Growing tech firms and business services present opportunities for professionals.
Job search tips
Use local job boards.
Attend networking events or local career fairs.
Connect with local recruitment agencies.
Ensure foreign credentials are assessed and recognized if coming from outside Canada.
You may also like to read: Moving for Work. In this guide, we look at the pros and cons of moving to a new place for work.
Best Schools and Education
Westmount School, Saskatoon
Public School System
Saskatoon’s public schools are operated by Saskatoon Public Schools, serving Pre-K through Grade 12 with dozens of elementary and multiple secondary schools.
Notable High Schools
Nutana Collegiate: One of the city’s oldest and most respected public high schools.
Bedford Road Collegiate: Offers the IB Diploma and strong academic programs.
Evan Hardy Collegiate: Large secondary with arts and media focus.
Elementary Schools
Greystone Heights School
Lawson Heights School
Roland Michener School
Brownell & Brunskill School
These are well-reviewed options for primary education across the city.
Catholic families can also choose Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools, one of Saskatchewan’s largest Catholic school systems.
You may also like to read: Choosing a New School. In this guide, we suggest things to take into consideration when choosing a new school for your children.
Climate and Climate Change Considerations
Weather
Saskatoon experiences distinct seasons: Cold winters with snow, and short, warm summers. Winter conditions demand good heating, proper clothing, and cars equipped for snow.
Climate Change Impacts
Climate change is projected to bring more temperature highs and lows, heat waves, and extreme weather hazards (e.g., heat, heavy rain, drought challenges). Local planning includes adaptation strategies to protect infrastructure and residents.
Wider regional changes may also shift ecosystems and affect agriculture, which is an important part of the local economy.
Wildfires across Prairie Provinces have been increasing in intensity and frequency due to warming climate patterns, affecting air quality and emergency planning.
You may also like to read: Where to Move to Avoid Climate Change. In this guide, we suggest things to take into consideration when moving somewhere and how climate change may affect that area.
Tips for Moving and Integrating
Saskatoon Festival
Before You Arrive
Visit first (if possible) to assess climate, neighborhoods, and commute times.
Budgeting for winter gear, such as boots, coats, and vehicle winter prep, is essential.
Settling In
Get familiar with public transit, but plan for owning a car for the best mobility, especially in winter.
Connect with local groups on social media and community centers to build relationships.
Jobs and Networking
Join local networking groups or LinkedIn communities.
Reach out to settlement service organizations if you’re new to Canada; they can help with credential recognition and community integration.
Daily Living
Explore community activities (river paths, markets, festivals).
Engage with local culture and Indigenous heritage. Saskatoon is on Treaty 6 Territory.
You may also like to read: Moving to a New Province in Canada. In this guide, we suggest things to take into consideration when moving to a new province.
You may also like to read: Choosing a Good International Mover. In this guide, we explain how to choose a reputable international moving company if you are moving to Canada from elsewhere in the world.
Should I Move to Saskatoon?
Delta Hotel Bessborough, Saskatoon
Saskatoon can be a rewarding and affordable place to live, especially if you are looking for community, outdoor living, family-friendly neighborhoods, and job opportunities.
Like any city, it has its downsides, such as winter weather, transit limitations, and less desirable neighborhoods. None of which are deal breakers with good planning.
If you’re considering the move, visit, research neighborhoods, budget carefully, and connect with locals to ensure your transition is smooth and informed.
And be sure to visit our home moving blog, which is packed with guides to make every aspect of your move easier, cheaper, and safer.
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