It’s no secret that housing in the Greater Toronto Area is expensive, but there’s a less-talked-about reason prices could keep rising: a shortage of general labourer. While interest rates, immigration, and supply issues dominate the headlines, the hands actually building our homes are often overlooked. And that’s costing all of us more than we think.

The Real Story Behind Rising Costs

Toronto’s skyline is ever-changing. From new condo towers in North York to suburban developments in Vaughan and Markham, construction is booming or at least trying to.

But here’s the challenge: there simply aren’t enough general labourer to meet demand.

According to recent data from BuildForce Canada, the construction industry is facing one of the largest labour shortages in decades. In the GTA, where population growth continues to outpace housing completions, the lack of skilled and unskilled workers is slowing down timelines and driving up costs. Fewer workers mean fewer homes get built, plain and simple.

How This Affects Homebuyers and Investors

• Limited supply drives up prices: When fewer homes are completed, buyers compete for what’s available, pushing prices higher.
• Delays become the norm: Pre-construction buyers are waiting longer than expected to move into new homes.
• Renovation costs climb: It’s not just new builds, home improvement and renovation timelines have stretched too, impacting sellers trying to boost their home’s value.

Whether you’re buying your first home or investing in rental properties, this labour shortage directly affects your bottom line.

Why It’s a National Problem With Local Impact

Federal immigration targets aim to bring in more skilled professionals, but general labourer, those working on-site doing the physical heavy lifting, aren’t arriving in high enough numbers. Without targeted recruitment and training, the GTA’s building industry can’t keep up.

Experts say that unless Canada adjusts its immigration strategy to attract more general labourer, the housing supply crisis will persist, especially in fast-growing urban areas like Toronto, Richmond Hill, and Mississauga.

“Without more boots on the ground, we simply won’t build fast enough to meet housing demand,” said a GTA-based developer who asked to remain anonymous.

A Positive Outlook: What’s Being Done

Thankfully, awareness is growing. More construction firms are partnering with trade schools, and some municipalities are pushing for faster credentialing for foreign workers. There’s also a growing conversation around expanding immigration pathways for general labourers, a step that could unlock massive economic benefits and housing relief.

Toronto’s resilience and innovation offer hope. With smart policy changes and community support, the GTA can build its way to a more balanced market.

What This Means for You

If you’re planning to buy, sell, or invest in GTA real estate, now’s the time to:

• Act before prices rise further
• Monitor new development timelines
• Consult with real estate professionals who understand market shifts

Understanding the factors behind housing costs empowers you to make smarter, more informed decisions.

Stay Informed and Stay Ahead

Toronto’s housing market is evolving fast, and so should your strategy. Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or investing, knowing what drives costs gives you an edge.

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