Your guide to settling in Regina, SK

Regina stands out with its strong sense of community, walkable neighborhoods, and a pace that feels just right. It offers more structure and opportunity than smaller towns, yet still reflects the values people appreciate across the province. If you’re already living in Saskatchewan and thinking about settling in Regina, this guide will help you plan with confidence. Every section gives you practical steps for making Regina feel like home.

Find the right neighborhood

Before choosing a home, you need to understand how Regina’s neighborhoods truly differ. The city isn’t large, but local zones offer unique personalities. Cathedral is filled with charm, art galleries, and century-old homes. Families often look to Harbour Landing, where wide roads and new builds draw people who want space and convenience.

Not far away, Lakeview offers tree-lined streets and older homes with character, often near parks and some of Regina’s best schools. If you prefer to walk to restaurants or events, living downtown might appeal to you. However, keep in mind that parking is limited and condos dominate the skyline.

While housing costs remain lower than in major cities, prices are starting to climb in high-demand areas. It’s important to act quickly once you find the right match. Schools, grocery access, and commute times all play into the decision. Also, don’t forget to research local bylaws and property taxes.

Many people moving from Ontario to Regina SK are surprised by how quiet the evenings can be. The pace here is slower, but that’s what attracts most newcomers. It’s not about being entertained—it’s about building a daily life you enjoy.

The right neighborhood will make settling in Regina much easier

Investigate the prices

Regina remains a relatively affordable city by Canadian standards. Because:

• Housing stands out as the largest expense. For a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre, renters pay about C $1,300 per month on average, with budget units closer to C $1000 and larger apartments reaching C $1,800. Those choosing to rent outside the centre typically pay around C $1,150.
• Food costs also stay modest. A single person typically spends around C $500 monthly on groceries, while a family of four can expect around C $1,400 . Eating out is cheap by big-city norms—fast food costs about C $9, and a basic restaurant meal runs around C $16.
• Utilities are reasonable. A one-bedroom apartment’s monthly utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage) average C $100 . Internet access generally costs C $48–55 per month.
• Transportation expenses remain manageable. A monthly transit pass sits at about C $88 . For drivers, gasoline averages C $1.45 per litre, and total monthly driving costs reach around C $600.

Work and career opportunities

So, what kind of work can you find here? For many newcomers, jobs in public service or utilities provide a strong starting point. Regina is home to provincial employers like SaskPower, SGI, and SaskTel. These organizations hire in fields ranging from administration to IT. Don’t ignore contract work, either—short-term positions can often lead to something permanent.

While jobs in education and healthcare remain steady, trades are always in demand. Electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians have consistent work, especially as new developments continue in suburban areas. The city’s economy runs on practical skills.

Of course, those with university degrees aren’t left out. The University of Regina and Innovation Place support careers in engineering, business, and science. Regina is also growing its small business and tech scenes, especially around the downtown corridor and east end. That said, many roles require in-person work—remote jobs aren’t as common here as they are in larger markets.

Commuting is straightforward, especially if you own a vehicle. Traffic rarely backs up for long. However, public transit in Regina is limited. Buses run on a basic schedule, but late-night and Sunday service can be sparse. Plan ahead if you don’t drive.

If you’re relocating across Canada for work, using trusted relocation companies in Canada saves time and avoids delays. Choose one that understands long-distance logistics and knows how to protect fragile work equipment and electronics.

In short, settling in Regina means stepping into a job market that rewards reliability, skill, and patience. Make contacts, explore job boards, and don’t be afraid to ask locals for recommendations. People here usually want to help.

There are plenty of job opportunities in different industries available

Setting up your new home in Regina

Once you’ve arrived, it’s tempting to unpack quickly and settle in. But don’t rush. Before you open a single box, make sure your basic services are active. Call SaskPower and SaskEnergy early—they often need a few days’ notice to activate your account. You’ll also need to register with the City of Regina for water, recycling, and garbage pickup.

Internet options are limited to providers like SaskTel and Access Communications, so check availability by address. Some areas may have only one choice. While waiting for installation, download important documents and maps beforehand.

Furniture and appliances can take time to arrive. If you’re ordering locally, know that delivery schedules are often slower than in major cities. In the meantime, organize your essentials. It helps to unpack room by room. Kitchen and bathroom come first.

Housing in Regina often includes basements, detached garages, and back lanes. These features bring extra storage, but also more responsibility. Inspect your furnace, water heater, and outdoor taps early. Freezing temperatures can cause damage if you’re not careful.

If you’re moving across provinces, province to province movers can help avoid damaged items and late arrivals. Professionals handle logistics that many people underestimate.

Family life and community connections

Families settling in Regina find many services geared toward support and education. The city runs two school systems: public and Catholic. Both offer English and French immersion. Make sure to check school zones before signing a lease—some schools have tight catchment areas.

Childcare is in demand. Waitlists for full-time spots can stretch several months. Start calling centers as soon as you confirm your move. For parents working full-time, Regina also offers before-and-after school programs through local community associations.

Libraries play a big role in community life. With free events, children’s programming, and newcomer services, the Regina Public Library is more than books. Even toddlers can join early literacy groups, and teens can take part in free workshops.

Newcomers often feel isolated. That’s why it’s smart to join neighborhood Facebook groups or attend city-run events. These are good places to meet other families. Also, multicultural groups like the Regina Open Door Society offer help to people from outside Canada.

To move comfortably across provinces with children in tow, hiring cross country movers in Canada removes a big layer of stress. Safe delivery matters when you have strollers, cribs, or school materials in transit.

Family life is strong here , too

Make the most of life in Regina

While settling in Regina, don’t ignore the fun side of life. The city offers more than just work and housing. Wascana Centre stands at the heart of local recreation. It’s bigger than New York’s Central Park and includes walking paths, picnic spots, a small lake, and even a legislative building.

Sports fans have reason to stay busy too. Saskatchewan Roughriders games at Mosaic Stadium bring in thousands, and the energy is contagious. Don’t miss out—buy tickets early and wear green.

Art and culture play a quiet but strong role in city life. The MacKenzie Art Gallery and Globe Theatre offer rotating exhibits and productions throughout the year. You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy them. Just be open.

When it comes to food, Regina stands out for its mix of local and international flavors. You can enjoy handmade pierogies one night and smoked brisket the next. Try Skye Café for seasonal ingredients or Bushwakker Brewpub for a casual night out.

Shopping is more practical than flashy. Cornwall Centre, Victoria Square Mall, and the Regina Farmers’ Market cover most needs. For groceries, options like Safeway, Save-On-Foods, and Superstore are easy to find.

If you’re bringing your own vehicle, consider using car shipping companies in Canada. It often costs less than driving long distances yourself, especially in winter. To fully enjoy settling in Regina, stay active. Get outside, meet people, and learn what locals already know—life here can be simple and satisfying.

Food is very important to the people in this city

Regina’s weather and seasonal lifestyle

Regina’s climate is not for the unprepared. Winters here stretch from late October into April, and they demand respect. Temperatures often drop below minus 20°C, and windchill can make it feel worse. You’ll need proper winter clothing, not just extra layers. Think thermal socks, insulated boots, and a good down-filled coat.

Snow isn’t the only challenge. Icy roads and sidewalks require caution. Invest in winter tires, and keep a shovel in your car. Heated garages are rare, so make sure your block heater works. During cold snaps, plug in your vehicle overnight to avoid battery problems.

Spring arrives slowly. Melting snow often leads to flooding in low-lying areas. Inspect your home’s drainage early and clear any leftover ice. It’s also smart to check for cracks in basement walls. The thaw can expose issues that weren’t visible in fall.

Summer, by contrast, feels dry and warm. Daytime highs in July often reach 30°C, but humidity stays low. This makes the heat more bearable. Outdoor life picks up fast. Residents flock to nearby lakes, fire up their barbecues, and enjoy the long evenings. Fall brings crisp air and cooler nights, with a short but beautiful burst of golden leaves.

If you’re planning a move during winter, don’t attempt it alone. Weather delays and frozen roads make professional help essential. With long distance moving, trained teams understand how to manage winter moves without damage or injury.

Winter can be tricky for people who are not used to it

What to know before arriving: culture, pace, and mindset

At first glance, Regina seems quiet. It is. That’s one of its strongest traits. You won’t find honking traffic, endless sirens, or crowds. This slower rhythm forces you to slow down too. Many people from larger cities say it takes a few weeks to adjust.

Here, neighbors wave. People hold doors. Clerks make small talk. While it may feel unusual, this friendliness is real. Responding with kindness helps you settle in faster. Accept invitations. Chat at the dog park. Say hello in the elevator. These small acts build trust and familiarity.

The city values community. Local events, fundraisers, and public markets all thrive on participation. While it may not look busy from the outside, Regina is full of quiet engagement. That only becomes clear when you step into it.

If you’re coming from the east, you’re not alone. Data shows more Canadians are moving from east to west. Lower housing costs, simpler living, and job opportunities are all reasons people leave larger provinces for Saskatchewan.

Helpful newcomer resources and services

Newcomers need support—and Regina provides it. Start with the Regina Open Door Society. They offer English classes, job training, and help with paperwork. This service is free and open to all permanent residents.

The Newcomer Welcome Centre, run through Regina Public Library, offers workshops, translation help, and family events. These places help you build confidence. They also connect you with others who are just starting over too.

Don’t ignore local programs. The City of Regina’s website lists everything from waste pickup schedules to recreation sign-ups. Public notices appear often, so check for road closures or snow alerts weekly.

There are great services that newcomers can use to get to know the city

Are you ready for settling in Regina?

Settling in Regina takes more than unpacking. It means learning how the city works and finding your own rhythm within it. While the weather may challenge you at first, the people and pace make up for it. If you plan carefully and stay open to local ways of living, it can feel natural. Trust your preparation, ask questions, and lean on professional moving companies in Ontario to handle the hardest parts. This move can mark a fresh, stable chapter if you stay involved, alert, and curious.