Ask HN: Computer Science in Canada: Toronto or Vancouver?

[mcasaje]

So, it's almost (finally) time for my graduation - less than a year. I've lived in Canada my whole life and want to continue living here a while more. I consider myself lucky having experienced life in Toronto and Vancouver in almost equal amounts. I've come to conclude that, for myself, either city would make a fine home, but what about work?

Which city (Toronto or Vancouver) would lend itself to: - Higher salaries - More start-up companies - Interesting jobs - Easier to get a job (with a BSc in Comp Sci) - More tech jobs available - Working for Big-Name companies - a larger IT/Tech community - IT/Tech events/conferences

If you have anything to add to the list that is not present, please feel free to do so.

Any constructive help is appreciate! Thanks for the replies in advance!

[otoburb]

Perhaps this is the time where attempting to match your current interests with where you think your interests will be post-graduation would help. Are you in high-school or just about to finish up your Bachelors?

Specifically, Toronto seems to have a greater variation in the number and, presumably, types of firms that would seek out Comp Sci graduates. As an example, if you had an inclination to work within Finance tech, then your best bet by far would be Toronto since all the major financial firms and banks are located primarily in Toronto.

Alternatively, if you're interested in game development, I hear that Vancouver seems to have strong presence, mainly due to the influence of EA's Vancouver (Burnaby) location, with a vibrant startup scene. I haven't heard of other types of firms with a strong demand for CS in Vancouver other than gaming and startups.

I can't comment on Waterloo nor Montreal, except that they both seem to be continually growing tech hubs. RIM and UofW are strong reasons for the talent draws in the Waterloo region, and the Montreal startup scene seems quite lively.

From a salary perspective, most people tend to agree that Vancouver firms pay lower than Toronto equivalents. I can't comment on startup salaries since they're so specific to the situation (startup stage, equity vs. salary compensation considerations).

On a more personal note, although I agree that either city would make a fine home, I find Toronto highway traffic a complete mess compared to the Vancouver bridge bottlenecks. Tech events and gatherings tend to be located within downtown Toronto. A younger person will have more fun living downtown or in a subway accessible location. If your job is in Mississauga (due to the cheaper commercial lease rates), then from personal experience I can attest the commute will significantly bring down your quality of life.

[mcasaje]

Firstly, thank you for the great reply!

I'm graduating from U of T (should have clarified that). I've heard the same things about Toronto and Vancouver as you've mentioned, but it's good to have my sources confirmed. I'm not so adamant about being in the Financial Tech industry, so the gaming one in Vancouver would be more viable. However, salary would sway me to stay in Toronto.

I've been in those Vancouver bottlenecks, but not Toronto's traffic so it's good to hear some sort of comparison. Living in North York shouldn't be a problem in terms of a commute.

This is a great start to start weighing job options. Thanks!

[rcfox]

What about Waterloo? We've got tons of tech companies, both big and small. It's also significantly less expensive to live here than Toronto or Vancouver.

[mcasaje]

I've looked into some of Waterloo's tech companies. I'm not sure what sort of jobs they are, still, but if they have any entry-level (graduate-experience) jobs, I'll be sure to consider them. Good to know that there are other options with cheaper housing!

[swhopkins]

Why discount Montreal? They've got a great start up scene.

[mcasaje]

I was in Montreal for this year's CUSEC and revisiting that city, I can only say that I fell in love with it. I'm not sure of their startups, but I saw a games company there (Eidos, I believe..).

I'll look into jobs there for sure - if not for a reason to eat in Montreal again. Yumm....

[leeHS]

I'd go for Toronto or Waterloo.