7 Reasons to Love Winnipeg

By Tal Klachook
June 03, 2014

#1 The economy

92601377 Winnipeg boasts an increasingly diverse economy — from manufacturing to tourism to the financial industry — this city has it all. In fact, in a recent national survey of 25 city economies, CIBC ranked Winnipeg’s economy fourth after Toronto, Calgary and Regina. A thriving economy is key for job growth and a healthy housing market.

#2 Rental Rates

484428361 Good news, apartment-hunters! The market here looks promising, as more rental units are coming available. According to the 2013 Rental Market Report from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. (CMHC), apartment availability in Winnipeg is on the rise. These units are also very affordable, as average rents for a two-bedroom range from $643 to $1,300 a month – talk about a bargain!

#3 Homeownership

174943390 Renters aren’t the only ones who can benefit from a healthy housing market. Similar to many prairie cities, homeowners in Winnipeg benefit from the relatively low cost of living. With a large inventory supply and low mortgage rates, it’s never been a better time to buy a home. As of April 2014, CMHC reports that the average house is listed at about $277,000. So while you may be a renter now, if you decide to buy, you’ll be glad you’re living in Winnipeg!

#4 Culture

474108741 Winnipeg is truly a centre for all things related to arts and culture. Named the Culture Capital of Canada in 2010, the city is home to the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Canada’s oldest ballet company, and the longest running ballet company in North America. The city also hosts numerous festivals and celebrations throughout the year, such as the Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival and the Folklorama Festival, favourites among tourists and residents alike.

#5 Nature

466602795 This city is a total package. With a prospering economy and a wide range of cultural activities, it’s only fitting that nature is also on the list of attractions. Winnipeg is surrounded by the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, which not only provide a gorgeous backdrop to the city but also offer opportunities for fishing or boating. And with tons of great parks and trails to explore, residents can make a stay-cation feel like a vacation!

#6 Sports

465177791 In 2011, the NHL’s Winnipeg Jets finally returned to the city, after leaving in 95-96 to move to Phoenix. Their home rink, the renowned MTS Centre, has ranked in the world's top 20 busiest arenas among non-sporting touring events. Another notable sporting centre is the recently-opened $200-million football stadium. The Investor Group Field is the new home to the CFL's Winnipeg Blue Bombers and the University of Manitoba’s Bisons.

#7 Winnie the Pooh

450855095 The list would not be complete without Winnie the Pooh. Believe it or not, the story of the yellow bear hails from Winnipeg. During the First World War, Lt. Harry Colebourn who was serving for Great Britain, purchased a small black cub and named the bear after his home town—Winnipeg! After donating the bear to the London Zoo, "Winnie" became an inspiration to A.A. Milne's famous character, Winnie the Pooh.

About Tal Klachook

Tal Klachook is a journalism student at Carleton University. She is currently an Editorial Intern at Yellow Pages NextHome. Obsessed with all things related to cakes and social media, she enjoys learning and writing about the latest real estate trends.

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