Ever wonder if your dream career might be hiding in a different postal code? Sometimes the best career moves come with a change of address. Let’s talk about a word that either lights a fire under people or makes them clutch their couch cushions like their life depends on it: relocation. We know. It sounds dramatic — like you’re about to haul your life across the country for a mystery job with mystery people and mystery coffee (which honestly might be the most terrifying part).
But trust us — relocating for a job could be the best thing you’ve never seriously considered. Whether you’re chasing career growth, better quality of life, or a job that doesn’t involve your neighbour’s cousin as your boss, relocation opens a door to possibility. As a professional recruitment search firm working across Canada, we’ve helped a whole lot of people walk through that door taking the leap to relocate for new opportunities that align with their career goals and personal growth.
Why Are Canadians on the Move for Work?
Here’s a little truth bomb for you:
Over 20% of Canadians say they would relocate to a different city or province for a better job opportunity — and this trend is growing, especially among younger workers and those in leadership positions. (Source: Statistics Canada, Labour Force Survey, 2024)
One in five Canadian job seekers actively considers relocation when applying for jobs, particularly in skilled trades, healthcare, and engineering — industries that are booming in regions outside major metropolitan areas. (Source: Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, 2023 Employment Mobility Report)
When it comes to relocation, one of the biggest roadblocks we see isn’t logistics — it’s perception. Too often, people write off certain locations based on preconceived notions or second-hand stories. Take Saskatchewan, for example. You might picture endless fields and long winters, but what you might not know is that it’s home to thriving industries, affordable housing, vibrant cultural scenes, and communities that genuinely welcome newcomers. The reality is every “hidden gem” city has more to offer than meets the eye — if you’re open to seeing it for yourself.
Now let’s be real. Relocating isn’t for everyone. But if you’re working with a professional recruitment search firm like ours (hi, Essence Recruitment), you’re not leaping blindly. You’ve got a parachute, a map, and a team that knows where all the best coffee shops are.
Why Relocation Could Be Your Best Move Yet
There’s no one-size-fits-all reason people pack up and start fresh, but here are the heavy hitters:
- Career Growth With a Side of Adventure
Especially for folks working in small-to-medium size businesses, relocation often leads to stepping into more senior or specialized roles — ones that might not exist in your current city. Smaller organizations in emerging markets need strong people to lead growth, and they’re not shy about recruiting from across Canada.
Think of it like a career cheat code: you’re leveling up without waiting five years for your manager to retire.
- Lifestyle Glow-Up / Cost of Living
Relocating could mean trading a cramped downtown apartment for a home office with actual sunlight. Or swapping a three-hour commute for a walk to work. Or finally living in a city that hosts real music festivals.
Where you live affects how you live — and many candidates find that moving unlocks a better work-life balance. For many, relocation also means finding a community where the cost of living stretches further, allowing their salary to go beyond just covering the basics. Lower housing costs, reduced transportation expenses, and more affordable amenities can make a noticeable difference in both financial stability and overall quality of life.
- Fresh Start, Fresh Perspective
A new city = a new chance to define your professional identity. Whether you’re looking to pivot industries, try your hand in leadership, or just escape your ex who still lives two blocks away (no judgment), relocation offers a blank slate.
It’s not about running away from something — it’s about running toward something.
But Wait — What’s the Catch?
We won’t sugarcoat it. Relocation has its challenges. Luckily, we’ve got answers for the common “but what ifs”:
“What about my family?”
Most companies hiring across Canada (especially in small-to-medium size businesses) know that people move with people. Family support, spousal employment resources, and school recommendations are often included in relocation packages.
“What if I hate it?”
That’s why many employers now offer trial relocation periods, virtual onboarding from your current home, and flexible return clauses. You’re not being tossed in the deep end — you’re being guided into a warm pool with floaties.
“What if it’s too expensive?”
A good professional recruitment search firm will help you negotiate relocation incentives like moving costs, temporary housing, and paid home-hunting trips.
“I’m not 22 anymore — is this even for me?”
Absolutely. In fact, mid-career professionals aged 35–54 made up the largest group of job-based relocators in Canada in 2023. (Source: Canadian Employee Relocation Council, 2024 National Mobility Trends Survey)
What We Do at Essence Recruitment (Spoiler: It’s a Lot)
As a professional recruitment search firm proudly serving clients across Canada, we don’t just connect resumes to roles — we match people to possibilities. And when relocation’s part of the equation, we’re there every step of the way.
Real Talk Career Guidance: We don’t push you into a new postal code unless it makes total sense for your life and goals. We’ll talk through the job, the company, the community, and whether you’re more likely to thrive in a beach town or a prairie city.
Employer Intel: When small-to-medium size businesses are hiring, they’re often willing to go above and beyond for the right person. We help you navigate those offers — including relocation perks — like a total pro.
Local Tips: From average rent prices to where to get good Thai food at 10 p.m., we’ve got the inside scoop on communities across the country. (Seriously — don’t move somewhere without knowing donut-to-person ratio.)
Aftercare: Once you land, we check in. A lot. Because finding a job is just the beginning — building a life takes support.
So, Should You Consider Relocating?
Here’s the checklist:
- Feeling stuck in your current role
- Curious about other parts of Canada
- Looking for meaningful work in a values-aligned organization
- Open to better housing, lifestyle, or career growth
- Want to work with people who get it (hi, us again)
If even one of those gets a little head nod from you — let’s talk. Whether you’re just curious or already halfway through Zillow listings, we’ll help you figure out if relocation is your next right step.
Open the Door — We’ve Got Your Back
You don’t have to make big life changes alone. At Essence Recruitment, we work with people from all walks of life, helping them make smart, supported career moves — across the street or across the country.
Your next job might not be where you are now. And that’s okay. Because the world is your oyster — and this oyster might have a lower property tax rate, shorter commutes, and surprisingly excellent tacos.
Ready to Relocate (or Just Want to Chat)?
We’re a professional recruitment search firm that works with candidates, not-for-profits and small-to-medium size businesses across Canada. If you’re relocation-curious, opportunity-hungry, or just open to seeing what’s out there. Contact us via email at info@essencerecruitment.ca or call us at 306-652-5232 (Saskatoon) / 587-601-0523 (Calgary – by appointment only). www.essencerecruitment.ca
