Mississauga vs Burlington: Comparing Two of Ontario's Best Cities
Mississauga and Burlington are two cities in the Greater Toronto Area that are known for their high quality of life, strong economies, and thriving cultural scenes. While they share many similarities, there are also some key differences between the two cities that make them unique. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at Mississauga and Burlington and compare them in terms of location and geography, demographics and population, cost of living, economy and industry, education, transportation and infrastructure, and culture and entertainment.
Location and Geography
Mississauga is located just west of Toronto and is part of the Peel Region. It covers an area of approximately 292 square kilometres and has a diverse range of landscapes, including waterfront parks, forests, and urban neighbourhoods. Burlington, on the other hand, is located on the shore of Lake Ontario and is part of the Halton Region. It covers an area of approximately 187 square kilometres and has a mix of urban and rural areas, as well as parks and conservation areas.
Demographics and Population
Mississauga is one of the largest cities in Canada, with a population of over 900,000 (2023). It is also one of the most diverse cities in the country, with a large South Asian population, as well as significant Chinese, Filipino, and Black communities. Burlington, on the other hand, has a population of around 200,000 (2023) and is predominantly white, with smaller Chinese, South Asian, and Black communities.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Mississauga and Burlington varies depending on the neighbourhood and type of housing. In general, however, Mississauga tends to be more expensive than Burlington, particularly when it comes to housing. According to Zolo, the average rental price for a one-bedroom apartment in Mississauga is $2,250 (Feb 2023), compared to $2,180 in Burlington. The average house price in Mississauga is $1.3 million, while the average house price in Burlington is $1.1 million. Other living expenses, such as groceries, utilities, and transportation, are generally similar in both cities.
Economy and Industry
Both Mississauga and Burlington have strong economies and are home to a variety of industries. Mississauga is particularly known for its thriving business sector, with over 60,000 registered businesses, including several Fortune 500 companies. The city also has a large retail sector, as well as a growing tech industry. Burlington, on the other hand, has a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, professional services, and healthcare. It is also home to several large employers, including Ikea and the Joseph Brant Hospital.
Education
Mississauga and Burlington both have strong education systems, with a range of public and private schools, as well as post-secondary institutions. In Mississauga, the Peel District School Board and the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board oversee the public school system, while Sheridan College and the University of Toronto Mississauga are the main post-secondary institutions. In Burlington, the Halton District School Board and the Halton Catholic District School Board oversee the public school system, while McMaster University's DeGroote School of Business has a campus in the city.
Transportation and Infrastructure
Both Mississauga and Burlington have well-developed transportation and infrastructure systems that make it easy to get around the city. Mississauga is served by the GO Transit commuter rail system, as well as the Mississauga Transit bus system. It is also home to Toronto Pearson International Airport, one of the busiest airports in Canada. Burlington, on the other hand, is served by the Burlington Transit bus system, as well as the GO Transit commuter rail system and VIA Rail intercity train service. The city also has easy access to the QEW and Highway 407, making it easy to get to other parts of the Greater Toronto Area.
Culture and Entertainment
Both Mississauga and Burlington have thriving cultural and entertainment scenes that offer a variety of options for residents and visitors alike. Mississauga is home to several arts and cultural venues, including the Living Arts Centre, the Art Gallery of Mississauga, and the Meadowvale Theatre. The city also hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Mississauga Waterfront Festival and the Carassauga Festival of Cultures. Burlington, on the other hand, has several parks and green spaces, including the Burlington Waterfront Trail and the Royal Botanical Gardens. The city also hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Sound of Music Festival and the Taste of Burlington.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mississauga and Burlington are two of the best cities in Ontario, each with its own unique character and charm. While Mississauga is larger and more diverse, Burlington offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes and a more affordable cost of living. Both cities have strong economies, good education systems, and excellent transportation and infrastructure. And when it comes to culture and entertainment, both cities have plenty to offer. Ultimately, the choice between Mississauga and Burlington will depend on your personal preferences and priorities, but either way, you can't go wrong with either of these great cities.
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