Is there anyone who was born and raised in the U.S., has or still do live in Canada?

Question

Was or is it still a wise move? What are the pluses and minuses?

Answer 1

Well, I am only a temporary resident of Canada but I would say that it was a wise move in that I am able to experience a different government. Now, I have a better sense of what works and what doesn't. So...

Advantages: Canada is very culturally rich. Cities like Montreal have a wide array of ethnicities. Plus, you can learn a whole language in Montreal/Quebec.

Disadvantages: Not a huge fan of socialism (but that is just my personal opinion).

Answer 2

I love Canada, and the only reason I will return to the states to live permanently will be if something happens to my husband, then I will return to be closer to my children and grandchildren, as none of them have any desire to move up here.

I grew up in Oregon, lived in Washington state a few years, and have traveled extensively throughout the U.S., and less extensively Mexico and Canada, so even though I have only lived in the Pacific Northwest (I am currently in British Columbia, Canada), I do have a good deal of experience of much of North America.

The minuses to Canada are:
Cost of Living is about 35% higher than U.S.
The "free" National Health care is NOT free, and quality of care is lower than in the U.S. (in some provinces, you pay a much higher tax, in other provinces employers pay a tax for it and pay lower wages, and in some other provinces, you pay a monthly amount depending on income, it can be as high as $150+), also, medicines, applicances (crutches, machines, etc.) are not covered, nor are dental or optical, for these you pay out of pocket or get private insurance coverage for. Canada is rapidly developing a two tier health care system (better and faster care if you can pay).

Plusses:
Fewer People
Huge cultural diversity, and the cultures maintain their customs and traditions.
National health care ... despite comments above ... everyone GETS health care, and you don't generally go bankrupt if there is a serious illness or accident like in the U.S.
The beauty of nature is everywhere, awe inspiring
Hand guns are illegal for most people, and tightly restricted.
Crime is lower, and cities are cleaner.
IMO, quality of life is higher.