There are many reasons to choose to learn, earn, and live in Chatham-Kent.
Nestled in the heart of southwestern Ontario, Chatham-Kent is the second largest municipality and, conveniently located one hour from the U.S. and 2.5 hours to the GTA. CK offers job opportunities, a thriving economy, and a high quality of life in safe communities. Let us share some of the key reasons you should choose Chatham-Kent.
1) Canada’s First Welcoming Community
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada designated Chatham-Kent as Canada’s first official Welcoming Community in 2016. Our community welcomes newcomers, including refugees and immigrants from around the world and helps you plant your roots and build a thriving future.
Choose Chatham-Kent to call home and work. Chat with the LivingCK team at the Learning, Earning and Living CK Career Expo and Job Fair at the John D. Bradley Convention Centre on October 18, 2023, from 3:00 pm – 7:30 pm to learn more about the community. Meet over 50 local employers to find your next career opportunity.
2) Affordable housing
Chatham-Kent offers an affordable cost of living in safe and beautiful communities. We offer a variety of competitive housing and rental options, with room to grow. Choose from a variety of lifestyle options, from downtown living to lakeside escapes. The average home purchase price is $427,465 (July year-to-date), making home ownership more of a reality in CK. With on-going housing developments and growth across Chatham-Kent, there are many opportunities for you and your family to find your new home.
3) Home to some of “Canada’s Top 100 Employers”
Chatham-Kent is home to amazing employers across many sectors who warmly welcome newcomers, helping them achieve their professional goals and develop their skills. With a diverse and robust economy, there are always a wide range of active job postings to be viewed on ChathamKentJobs.com.
By 2030, there will be over 18, 300 jobs to be filled across in-demand sectors like construction, manufacturing, agriculture, finance, and healthcare. Meet Chatham-Kent employers at the Learning, Earning and LivingCK Career Expo and Job Fair to learn more about current and future employment opportunities.
Grow you career in CK and join a community where almost half of the workforce enjoys driving 15 minutes or less to work. A community that allows you to keep everything in balance: family, work, health, relaxation, and your budget.
4) Inexpensive for business start-ups
Our community is ideal for starting, relocating, or expanding your business. With low start up and operating costs, nearly one in four immigrants are self-employed in Chatham-Kent. At the Learning, Earning and Living CK Career Expo and Job Fair, visit the Chatham-Kent Small Business Centre booth to about opening a business in the community.
5) Great community spirit
Chatham-Kent is home to over 20 ethno-cultural communities and a wide variety of groups and associations. These communities are hosting events, gatherings, and festivals to help you find new friends and make community connections.
6) Wonderful place to raise a family
Chatham-Kent is an ideal place to raise a family. With over 70 languages spoken at homes in CK, our communities are home to diverse and family-friendly neighbourhoods. With a range of reputable schools, healthcare facilities, and recreational amenities, your loved ones will thrive in safe and nurturing environments. From parks and trails to sports leagues and arts programs, there are many activities to keep everyone active and connected.
7) Accessible healthcare and education
The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance offers two hospital campuses with several programs and services. Access through the community, family doctors, walk-in clinics, dentists, and health care professionals including specialists, alternative medicines practitioners for you and your family’s health and wellness care.
Chatham-Kent families can choose from more than 50 elementary and secondary schools. From Public, Catholic, or Private schools, and English or French language programs, you have quality choices for your family’s education.
There are also two post-secondary schools in Chatham-Kent; St. Clair College – Chatham Campus and University of Guelph – Ridgetown Campus. Both post-secondary schools offer a variety of programs in diplomas, certificates, apprenticeships, co-op education pathways.
Talk with representatives from St. Clair College and University of Guelph – Ridgetown Campus at the Learning, Earning and Living CK Career Expo and Job Fair to learn about their programs and services.
8) Close to nature, beaches, and lakes
If you love the outdoors, you’ll be amazed by Chatham-Kent’s stunning landscapes. CK is home to three provincial parks, over 55 walking trails, and serene waterfronts along Lake Erie and Lake St. Clair with access to 10 public beaches. Hiking, kayaking, fishing, cycling, and birdwatching are just a few of the activities you can enjoy in CK to unwind from the demands of everyday life.
9) Thriving arts, culture, and entertainment scene
Chatham-Kent offers a vibrant art, culture and entertainment scene that caters to a variety of interests. Museums, galleries, restaurants, theatres, and music venues are scattered throughout the municipality, providing opportunities to explore and enjoy a night out. Join local art classes, attend live performances, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry that makes Chatham-Kent unique.
Chatham-Kent is more than just a place to live – it’s a community that nurtures growth, embraces diversity, and offers opportunities for newcomers and immigrants.
Become a part of Chatham-Kent’s growing community and explore career and lifestyle opportunities at the Learning, Earning and Living CK Career Expo and Job Fair on October 18, 2023, from 3:00pm – 7:30pm.
Your journey to a brighter future starts here.