Canada's big city leavers are disproportionately adults in their mid-20s to early 40s with young children, and they're moving to smaller communities with more affordable housing. This trend is not just a Toronto story; it's happening in Montreal and Vancouver as well. The migration is causing population growth to lag behind the rest of the country, leading to economic, social, and political consequences. The middle class is being priced out of cities, leading to a form of durable inequality. This is a complex issue that requires a deeper understanding of the causes and consequences. In my opinion, the root cause is the lack of affordable housing in cities, which is preventing families from staying and raising their children. This is a critical issue that needs to be addressed to ensure the well-being of our cities and the country as a whole. The solution lies in allowing for more housing to be built, which would help to alleviate the housing crisis and provide more opportunities for families to stay and thrive. However, this is not a simple solution, and it requires a comprehensive approach that takes into account the needs of both the cities and the smaller communities that are receiving the big city leavers. The benefits and costs of this migration are complex and multifaceted, and they need to be carefully considered to ensure a sustainable and equitable future for all.
