Canadian-Born American Explains Why He 'Wouldn't Advise Americans To Move To Canada'

The United States and Canada share neighborly status and consider each other among their closest allies. While the two countries are similar culturally, they differ in many respects. One Canadian-born American was dumbfounded by Americans’ desire to relocate to their icy, northern neighbor.

The U.S. vs Canada: A recent Business Insider profile featured Jim D., a Canadian from Ontario who moved to the United States in 1991 and floated around several cities in the Southern U.S.

“It almost seemed like Canada was 10 or 20 years behind, progressive-wise — and I don’t mean politically,” Jim said. “The amenities, the shopping, the food, and the restaurants in Canada are way behind if you’re outside Vancouver or Toronto.”

Jim also noted the advantages of America’s extensive road network.

“When you live in Northwestern Ontario, getting places is very difficult — and that’s in the summer,” Jim said. “The maneuverability to get around the United States because of the well-designed infrastructure of the roadways was phenomenal compared to northwestern Ontario.”

Jim clarified several misperceptions about Canada’s healthcare system.

“Healthcare is not free. That’s a lie. Nothing is free in this world, but especially healthcare. You are paying for it through many other means. The goods-and-services tax is 13% across the board. In Ontario, it’s 13% on everything you buy. That is the government taxation that they’re supposed to be paying for health insurance with,” he told Business Insider.

Even though he railed against Canada’s healthcare system, he did not vindicate the U.S. system. He pointed to the control of American healthcare by insurance companies, lobbyists, and pharmaceutical companies as reasons for the expensive premiums Americans have to pay.

Why it Matters: Many Americans have expressed interest in moving to Canada, particularly over politics. Ahead of what will inevitably be a hotly contested 2024 election, there may be a renewed interest among Americans in relocating to Canada.

While Canada’s visa options for Americans may be enticing, Jim’s perspective could offer a dose of reality for wanderlust Americans.

Also Read: Canada’s Cannabis Giant Eyes US Market: ‘It’s Like Looking Into The Future’

Photo: Protasov AN/Shutterstock