Oshawa
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Oshawa, debt help, Ontario
Oshawa, Ontario, known for its rich history and cultural diversity, is grappling with financial challenges linked to its reliance on the automotive sector. The transition to a modern community brings issues like housing affordability and limited public transportation. Residents face difficulties managing their finances, making debt relief options like consumer proposals and bankruptcies vital for stability and future savings.

Computer illustration of Oshawa, Canada
City: Oshawa
Province/Territory: Ontario (ON), Canada
Est. Population: 335,949
Overview
Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, this city in Ontario, Canada, is known for its rich history and diverse culture. Initially a hub for auto manufacturing, it has transformed into a modern community with a blend of education, arts, and recreational offerings, including the University of Ontario Institute of Technology and a variety of parks and cultural centers. The waterfront area features picturesque trails and opportunities for outdoor activities. The local economy is supported by industries such as healthcare, education, and technology, promoting growth and community engagement.
Financial Challenges
Residents grapple with a few financial challenges that are quite specific. One of the primary issues is the reliance on the automotive sector, which, while providing many jobs, can create instability when market shifts or changes in manufacturing needs occur. This dependency means that when car production slows or moves elsewhere, the ripple effect on employment is significant. Moreover, there is the pressure on housing affordability. Prices for both ownership and rental properties have climbed steadily, making it harder for families to secure living spaces without stretching their budgets thin.
Additionally, public transportation options are not as developed compared to larger urban centers nearby, which can increase commuting costs for workers and limit access to higher-paying job markets outside their immediate area. Limited local job diversification also ties into this challenge. These factors combined mean that residents often have to juggle just to meet their daily financial responsibilities, let alone save for the future. Exploring possible solutions, such as encouraging economic diversification and transportation expansions, could potentially ease these financial strains.
Debt Relief Solutions Available
Financial Planning
Financial planning means making a smart plan for your money. It helps you budget, set goals, and save for the future. With a plan in place, you can feel more in control of your money and avoid falling into debt again.
Find out more about Financial PlanningDebt Management Plan
A Debt Management Plan, or DMP, helps you pay back what you owe in one simple monthly payment. A credit expert talks to your creditors to lower your interest and make the debt easier to handle.
Find out more about Debt ManagementDebt Consolidation
Debt consolidation means putting all your debts—like credit cards and loans—into one new loan. This new loan usually has a lower interest rate, which can help you save money and pay off your debt faster.
Find out more about Debt ConsolidationDebt Settlement
Debt settlement means offering less than the full amount you owe to clear your debt. Creditors may accept it because they get paid quickly. A debt settlement company usually helps with this process.
Find out more about Debt SettlementConsumer Proposal
A consumer proposal is a legal deal between you and the people you owe. You agree to pay back part of your debt in smaller monthly payments. A Licensed Insolvency Trustee helps make the plan and talks to your creditors for you.
Find out more about Consumer ProposalsBankruptcy
Bankruptcy is a legal way to clear most of your debts if you can’t pay them back. It gives you a fresh start, but it can also hurt your credit score for several years.
Find out more about BankruptcyElimiate up to 80% of Your Debt
High cost of gas, high cost of groceries, high lending rates, low salary - being in debt is not your fault! See if you qualify for government debt programs and get out of debt today!
Areas / Neighbourhoods
Downtown Oshawa
The vibrant core of the city, Downtown Oshawa features a mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural venues. It hosts events throughout the year, making it a lively spot for residents and visitors alike. Notably, it is home to the Robert McLaughlin Gallery and the Oshawa Centre, one of the largest shopping malls in Ontario.Lakeview
This picturesque area is known for its proximity to Lake Ontario, offering scenic views and access to waterfront parks. Lakeview is a desirable residential neighborhood with a mix of older homes and new developments. The waterfront trail is a popular spot for walking, cycling, and enjoying outdoor activities.Harmony Village
A family-friendly neighborhood characterized by its quiet streets and traditional homes. Harmony Village is known for its close-knit community feel and access to parks, schools, and amenities. It’s an ideal area for families looking for a suburban lifestyle with easy access to urban conveniences.Eastdale
This area is primarily residential and offers a variety of housing options, including single-family homes and townhouses. Eastdale is well-serviced with schools, parks, and shopping facilities. It’s popular among families due to its community atmosphere and recreational amenities.Northwood
A predominantly residential neighborhood that features a good mix of older homes and newer constructions. Northwood offers several parks and is close to schools, making it appealing for families. It also has convenient access to major roads, facilitating commutes to other areas.Taunton
Known for its newer developments, Taunton is a rapidly growing neighborhood. It features spacious homes, modern amenities, and access to parks and recreational facilities. With its family-oriented atmosphere, Taunton appeals to young professionals and families alike.Brooklin
Once a small village, Brooklin has grown into a bustling community within Oshawa. It combines rural charm with urban convenience, offering a variety of shops, cafes, and local amenities. Brooklin is popular for its community events and proximity to recreational areas.Centennial
This neighborhood is known for its affordability and accessibility, making it attractive for first-time homebuyers. Centennial has many parks and schools and is conveniently located near shopping centers and transportation links. Its diverse community contributes to a lively atmosphere.Oshawa Industrial
Predominantly an industrial area, this region plays a crucial role in the economy of Oshawa. It houses many businesses and industries, providing significant employment opportunities. While not a residential area, its importance cannot be overlooked in the context of the city’s overall landscape.West Oshawa
A diverse area that boasts a range of housing options from older bungalows to newer homes. West Oshawa is recognized for its vibrant community feel, access to parks, and a variety of local shops and services. It’s a great spot for those looking for a blend of city and suburban lifestyles.
Top Questions
- What are the main attractions and things to do in Oshawa?
- How is the cost of living in Oshawa compared to other cities in Ontario?
- What transportation options are available in Oshawa?
- What are the best neighborhoods to live in Oshawa?
- What schools and educational institutions are located in Oshawa?
- What is the job market like in Oshawa and what industries are prominent?
- Are there any annual events or festivals held in Oshawa?
If you have a question about debt see our debt related question or ask your own debt related question.

Computer illustration of Oshawa, Canada
Debt Data
This table includes estimates on the number of residents who are experiencing financial stress situations. You are not alone.
Item | Description | Estimated |
---|---|---|
Living paycheck to paycheck | Number of residents who are living paycheck to paycheck | 157,896 |
Living in poverty | Number of residents who are living in poverty | 37,290 |
Debt defaulted | Number of residents who have defaulted on a debt payment | 3,662 |
Insolvencies | Number of residents who filed for insolvency | 840 |
Consumer proposal | Number of residents who filed for a consumer proposal | 638 |
Personal bankruptcy | Number of residents who filed for personal bankruptcy | 202 |
The estimates above are based on the following ratios living paycheck to paycheck rate (47%), poverty rate (11.1%), delinquency rate (1.09%), insolvency rate (0.25%), consumer proposal rate (0.19%), personal bankruptcy rate (.06%) from the following sources leger360.com, statcan.gc.ca, consumer.equifax.ca and is, d-isde.canada.ca.
Cost of Living
This table provides a breakdown of various average cost-of-living expenses in Oshawa, Canada to help understand the financial requirements for different living situations.
Item | Description | Average Cost |
---|---|---|
Housing (1BR) | Monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment | $2,400 |
Housing (2BR) | Monthly rent for a 2-bedroom apartment | $3,000 |
Average Home Price | Average price to purchase a home | $885,000 |
Utilities | Monthly cost for electricity, heating, water, and garbage | $145 |
Food (Single) | Monthly grocery cost for a single person | $350 |
Food (Family) | Monthly grocery cost for a family of four | $1,000 |
Healthcare (Rx) | Monthly cost for prescription medications | $35 |
Healthcare (Dental) | Monthly cost for dental care | $200 |
Healthcare (Vision) | Monthly cost for vision care | $225 |
Transportation (Public) | Monthly cost for public transit | $2,400 |
Transportation (Car) | Monthly cost for car ownership | $650 |
Childcare (Daycare) | Monthly cost for daycare | $1,250 |
Childcare (After-School) | Monthly cost for after-school programs | $400 |
The cost of living data is based on provincial averages and may differ between cities, towns, and rural areas.
Elimiate up to 80% of Your Debt
High cost of gas, high cost of groceries, high lending rates, low salary - being in debt is not your fault! See if you qualify for government debt programs and get out of debt today!