Moving to Newfoundland from Within Canada
Newfoundland and Labrador, the easternmost province of Canada, is known for its stunning natural beauty, rugged coastline, friendly communities, and rich cultural heritage. From the historic streets of St. John’s to the remote beauty of the West Coast, Newfoundland offers a lifestyle unlike anywhere else in Canada.
If you’re considering moving to Newfoundland from within Canada, it’s important to understand the province’s unique characteristics, from employment opportunities and housing to transportation and logistics. This guide provides everything you need to know, including a detailed moving checklist and insights for moving from Ontario, Alberta, Saskatchewan, British Columbia, Manitoba, and anywhere else in Canada.
Why Move to Newfoundland?
Newfoundland offers a unique blend of lifestyle, natural beauty, and affordability.
Key Reasons Canadians Move to Newfoundland
Stunning landscapes including cliffs, fjords, and scenic coastal drives
Strong sense of community and friendly residents
Affordable housing relative to major provinces
Unique culture with Irish, English, and Indigenous influences
Outdoor lifestyle: hiking, fishing, boating, and winter sports
Employment opportunities in healthcare, education, oil and gas, fishing, and tourism
Lower cost of living compared to Ontario and British Columbia
Newfoundland appeals to a wide range of Canadians, including families, retirees, remote workers, and adventure-seekers looking for a lifestyle change.
Things to Know Before Moving to Newfoundland
Cost of Living
While Newfoundland can be more affordable than central Canada, there are some considerations:
Housing: Lower costs in rural areas, higher in St. John’s
Utilities: Slightly above national averages, especially for heating in winter
Groceries: Can be higher than mainland Canada due to shipping costs
Transportation: Personal vehicle recommended outside urban areas; public transit is limited
Taxes: Moderate provincial taxes; HST is 15%
Housing Market
Urban centers like St. John’s, Corner Brook, and Mount Pearl have competitive rental markets
Rural areas offer spacious, affordable homes, often with large yards
Renting is a common first step for newcomers
Employment Opportunities
Key industries include:
Healthcare and social services
Education
Oil and gas and natural resources
Government and civil service
Fishing and aquaculture
Tourism and hospitality
French is less common in Newfoundland, so English is sufficient for most jobs and daily life.
Climate & Lifestyle
Winters are cold with snow and strong winds, especially along the coast
Summers are mild and ideal for outdoor recreation
Community events, festivals, and cultural gatherings are central to Newfoundland life
Moving to Newfoundland Checklist
A detailed checklist ensures your move is organized and stress-free.
12 Weeks Before Moving
Research neighborhoods and communities in Newfoundland
Create a moving budget
Decide on DIY vs professional movers
Request and compare moving quotes
Declutter your home to reduce moving costs
Notify your employer or arrange remote work
8 Weeks Before Moving
Gather packing materials
Confirm school or childcare arrangements
Book movers or rental trucks
Notify banks, insurance providers, and subscriptions
Arrange utility disconnections at your current residence
4 Weeks Before Moving
Confirm housing in Newfoundland
Pack non-essential items
Update your address with Canada Post
Organize important documents (medical, financial, and educational records)
Arrange pet transport if needed
2 Weeks Before Moving
Pack essential items for easy access
Confirm moving dates with movers
Prepare a “first night” box with toiletries, clothing, and essentials
Photograph valuable items for insurance purposes
Ensure all utilities are prepared for disconnection
Moving Week
Complete final packing and disassemble furniture
Ensure movers have all necessary access information
Verify travel plans and identification
After Arrival in Newfoundland
Apply for Newfoundland and Labrador MCP health card
Update driver’s license and vehicle registration
Register children for school
Set up utilities, internet, and other essential services
Explore your new community and local amenities
Moving to Newfoundland from Ontario
Ontario is a common starting point for movers relocating to Newfoundland.
Motivations
Lifestyle change, seeking a slower pace of life
Family relocation or retirement
Employment opportunities in government or healthcare
Remote work flexibility
Logistics
Distance: 1,500–2,000 km depending on location
Long-distance moves typically require professional movers or containerized shipping
Budget for fuel, ferry crossings (if moving a vehicle), and lodging
Tips for Ontarians
Consider renting in Newfoundland before purchasing a home
Research employment options in your sector
Learn about ferry schedules if moving to remote areas or the west coast
Moving to Newfoundland from Alberta
Albertans often relocate for lifestyle or family reasons.
Motivations
Slower pace of life and coastal living
Retirement or downsizing
Career change or remote work opportunities
Logistics
Distance: ~4,500 km cross-country
Professional movers or containerized moving options are recommended
Winter travel may be challenging for long-distance drives
Lifestyle Adjustments
Colder, wetter climate along the coast
Lower housing costs in most regions outside St. John’s
Employment in certain sectors may require flexibility
Moving to Newfoundland from Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan residents are drawn to Newfoundland for coastal living and community life.
Motivations
Family relocation or lifestyle change
Career or educational opportunities
Desire for maritime culture
Logistics
Distance: ~3,000–3,500 km
Professional movers or shipping containers recommended for large loads
Seasonal weather may impact transit times
Lifestyle Adjustments
More urban amenities than most Saskatchewan towns
Coastal climate with wind and humidity
Strong community involvement in small towns
Moving to Newfoundland from British Columbia
BC residents moving to Newfoundland are often seeking lifestyle changes, retirement, or affordability.
Motivations
Lower housing costs
Coastal lifestyle with maritime culture
Remote work or career relocation
Logistics
Distance: ~5,000 km cross-country
Professional movers or containerized shipping strongly recommended
Timing and weather planning essential for long-distance moves
Lifestyle Adjustments
Slower pace compared to major BC urban centers
Maritime climate with more wind, snow, and humidity
Smaller population density outside St. John’s
Moving to Newfoundland from Manitoba
Manitoba movers are attracted to Newfoundland’s natural beauty, outdoor lifestyle, and community culture.
Motivations
Lifestyle change, retirement, or family relocation
Employment opportunities in healthcare, education, or natural resources
Coastal living and outdoor recreation
Logistics
Distance: ~2,500–3,000 km
Professional movers recommended for large loads
Seasonal weather planning is crucial
Lifestyle Adjustments
Coastal climate with more wind and humidity
Smaller communities compared to Manitoba’s larger cities
Greater emphasis on community events and social engagement
Moving to Newfoundland from Anywhere in Canada
For Canadians moving from other provinces not listed, consider these factors:
Distance: Long-distance moves require planning for fuel, lodging, and logistics
Cost: Moving expenses vary by distance, volume, and method
Housing: Secure accommodation in advance to avoid temporary housing costs
Employment: Research job markets in your sector
Community: Newfoundland emphasizes community engagement and cultural participation
Choosing a Moving Company for Newfoundland
Professional movers make long-distance relocations smoother.
Factors to Consider
Licensed for interprovincial moves
Provide binding or not-to-exceed estimates
Offer insurance coverage
Experienced with cross-country logistics and ferry transport
Strong reviews and references
Questions to Ask Movers
Is this a direct or consolidated move?
What insurance coverage is included?
Are fuel and ferry costs included in the quote?
How long is the estimated transit time?
What happens if delivery is delayed?
DIY vs Professional Movers
DIY Moving Pros
Lower upfront cost
Complete control over timing and packing
Flexibility to choose route and schedule
DIY Moving Cons
Physically demanding, especially for long-distance moves
Fuel, lodging, and equipment costs add up
Risk of damage if inexperienced
Professional Movers Pros
Reduced stress and workload
Faster and more reliable
Insurance coverage included
Professional Movers Cons
Higher upfront cost
Less control over timing
For long-distance moves to Newfoundland, professional movers are often the most practical choice due to distance, logistics, and ferry requirements.
Tips for a Smooth Move to Newfoundland
Start Early: Begin preparations at least 2–3 months in advance
Declutter: Sell, donate, or recycle items to reduce costs
Pack Strategically: Label boxes, keep essentials accessible, and protect fragile items
Research Communities: Understand differences between urban, suburban, and rural areas
Check Weather Conditions: Winter or stormy weather can affect transport
Budget Wisely: Account for moving costs, deposits, utilities, and living expenses
Prepare Important Documents: Health cards, driver’s license, school records, and employment documents
Settling in Newfoundland
After arriving, several steps are essential for a smooth transition:
Apply for Newfoundland and Labrador MCP health card
Update your driver’s license and vehicle registration
Register children for school if applicable
Set up utilities, internet, and other essential services
Explore your community and local attractions
Engage in cultural and community events to integrate
Lifestyle in Newfoundland
Newfoundland offers a unique lifestyle experience:
Community Life
Strong emphasis on community, festivals, and volunteer work
Friendly and welcoming locals
Tight-knit towns with active social engagement
Outdoor Recreation
Hiking, kayaking, boating, and fishing
Winter sports including snowshoeing and skiing
Coastal drives and scenic exploration
Culture
Rich Irish, English, and Indigenous heritage
Local music, arts, and festivals
Strong culinary culture with seafood and traditional dishes
Employment Considerations
Before relocating, consider employment prospects:
Healthcare: Constant demand in hospitals and clinics
Education: Teaching and administrative positions available
Oil and Gas: Opportunities in offshore projects and exploration
Tourism: Seasonal work in coastal towns and national parks
Remote Work: Increasingly feasible in urban and rural areas
Fluency in English is sufficient for most jobs, though some administrative roles may require bilingual ability in French.
Housing Options
Urban Areas
St. John’s: apartments, condos, and single-family homes
Mount Pearl and Corner Brook: suburban housing
Rural Areas
Larger properties at affordable prices
Quiet lifestyle with access to nature
Renting vs Buying
Renting common for newcomers until familiar with the area
Purchasing is generally affordable compared to mainland Canada
Transportation
Personal vehicle recommended outside urban areas
Public transit limited to St. John’s and select towns
Ferry services connect the island portion to mainland Canada
Healthcare
Newfoundland and Labrador Medicare provides universal coverage
Apply for your health card promptly
Wait times may vary by specialty and region
Conclusion
Moving to Newfoundland from within Canada provides an opportunity to embrace a unique, coastal lifestyle with a strong sense of community, stunning scenery, and affordable living. While relocation requires careful planning—including housing, employment, logistics, and lifestyle adjustments—the rewards are substantial.
By using a moving-to-Newfoundland checklist, researching your new community, and selecting the right moving method, your transition can be smooth, organized, and rewarding. Whether relocating from Ontario, Alberta, Saskatchewan, British Columbia, Manitoba, or any other province, Newfoundland offers a fresh start and a vibrant new chapter in your life.
Moving to Newfoundland? Trust Two Amigos – Your Reliable Newfoundland Movers
Newfoundland is a province unlike any other. Known for its breathtaking coastlines, charming fishing villages, rugged landscapes, and warm, welcoming communities, it’s a place that offers both adventure and comfort. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, education, retirement, or a lifestyle change, moving to Newfoundland represents an exciting new chapter in your life. However, moving to a new province, especially one as unique as Newfoundland, requires careful planning, expertise, and a trusted team of professionals.
Two Amigos is a full-service, Canada-wide moving company specializing in long-distance and interprovincial relocations. We help families, professionals, retirees, and businesses move to Newfoundland safely, efficiently, and stress-free. From professional packing and secure transportation to flexible storage solutions and final delivery, Two Amigos manages every detail so you can focus on settling into your new home.
Why Moving to Newfoundland Requires Experienced Movers
Newfoundland presents distinct challenges for anyone relocating from another province. Interprovincial moves to Newfoundland often involve long distances, ferry logistics, seasonal weather conditions, and unique delivery considerations. For example, moving to St. John’s requires navigating narrow streets, high-density neighborhoods, and sometimes limited parking for moving trucks. Rural communities along the coast or in interior regions present their own challenges, such as access roads, steep driveways, or extended travel times.
Attempting a DIY move or hiring inexperienced movers can lead to damaged belongings, delays, and unnecessary stress. Two Amigos understands these challenges and develops a detailed moving plan for every Newfoundland relocation. Our team coordinates routes, schedules transportation, handles packing, and ensures delivery—all while minimizing risks and ensuring your belongings arrive safely and on time.
Full-Service Moving Solutions for Newfoundland Relocations
Two Amigos offers a complete, full-service moving experience designed to make interprovincial moves seamless. We handle all aspects of your relocation, from start to finish.
Professional Packing and Inventory Management
Packing is a critical component of any long-distance move. Our experienced crews use high-quality packing materials, protective wraps, and custom crates to safeguard your belongings. Fragile items, electronics, furniture, and appliances are packed with the utmost care. Every shipment is inventoried and labeled for accuracy, ensuring nothing is lost or damaged during transit.
Interprovincial Transportation Across Canada
Whether you’re relocating from Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, Alberta, or the western provinces, Two Amigos coordinates reliable transportation to Newfoundland. Our logistics team plans routes, considers ferry schedules when necessary, and manages timelines to guarantee safe and timely delivery. For areas accessible only via ferry, we ensure scheduling aligns with both departure and arrival windows to prevent delays.
Secure Storage Solutions
Sometimes your Newfoundland home may not be ready when you arrive. Two Amigos provides secure short-term and long-term storage options, giving you flexibility and peace of mind. Your belongings remain protected until you’re ready for delivery, allowing you to move on your schedule without stress.
Newfoundland Movers With Local Expertise
Newfoundland communities each have unique delivery challenges. Two Amigos has experience delivering moves to key areas, including:
St. John’s – Navigating downtown streets, high-rise apartments, and heritage buildings
Mount Pearl – Managing suburban and residential logistics
Corner Brook – Coordinating long-distance rural deliveries
Rural and Coastal Communities – Handling ferry schedules, seasonal access, and narrow roads
With local knowledge and expertise, we ensure your move is efficient, safe, and completed without unexpected surprises.
Clear Communication Every Step of the Way
Moving long distances can feel stressful without proper guidance. Two Amigos assigns a dedicated move coordinator to every relocation. From your initial consultation to the final delivery, your coordinator provides clear timelines, regular updates, and personalized support.
You’ll always know where your belongings are, when they’ll arrive, and who to contact with questions. This transparency reduces stress and ensures a professional, well-managed Newfoundland move.
Transparent Pricing and Cost Control
Moving to Newfoundland is a significant investment. Hidden fees or unexpected costs can create unnecessary stress. Two Amigos provides detailed, upfront quotes with no surprises.
Our careful planning helps avoid delays, damage, and extra expenses. When compared to DIY moves—including truck rentals, fuel, lodging, ferry fees, and potential damages—professional movers save time, money, and stress in the long run.
Who Can Benefit From Two Amigos Newfoundland Moving Services
Two Amigos works with a wide range of clients relocating to Newfoundland, including:
Families seeking vibrant communities, quality schools, and safe neighborhoods
Professionals relocating for work, corporate assignments, or remote opportunities
Individuals moving for personal or family reasons
Retirees downsizing or moving closer to nature and family
Students relocating for education or career opportunities
Businesses relocating employees, offices, or equipment
Every move is unique, and Two Amigos tailors each relocation to meet the client’s specific needs and timeline.
Why Choose Two Amigos for Your Newfoundland Move
Two Amigos stands out because we combine nationwide moving expertise with personalized service. When you move to Newfoundland with us, you benefit from:
Experienced crews trained in long-distance and interprovincial moves
Full-service solutions including packing, transportation, and storage
Local knowledge for urban, suburban, and rural deliveries
Transparent pricing and reliable timelines
Clear communication and dedicated support throughout your move
We don’t just move belongings—we provide peace of mind, ensuring your relocation is safe, efficient, and stress-free.
Start Your Move to Newfoundland With Confidence
Relocating to Newfoundland should be exciting, not overwhelming. Two Amigos makes it simple by handling every aspect of your move. From packing and transportation to storage and final delivery, we manage the logistics so you can focus on settling into your new home.
Whether you’re moving to downtown St. John’s, a suburban home in Mount Pearl, or a rural property along the coast, Two Amigos ensures your move is completed professionally, safely, and on time.
If you’re planning a move to Newfoundland, don’t leave it to chance. Choose trusted movers who understand long-distance logistics, interprovincial transportation, and the unique challenges of the province.
Contact Two Amigos today for a personalized moving quote. Let our experienced team handle the heavy lifting—so you can start your new life in Newfoundland with confidence, ease, and peace of mind.
