Saskatoon

Saskatoon is located the central portion of the province of Saskatchewan, spread over a relatively flat area which dips into the South Saskatchewan River Valley. In the city, there are many attractive walking trails along the river valley. Technically in the Aspen Parkland section of the province, Saskatoon is surrounded by farmland.

Saskatoon has four distinct seasons. Winter and summer can be extreme; temperatures can range from -30 Celsius in January to +30 Celsius in July. Saskatoon is one of the sunnier places in Canada, averaging around 6.5 hours of sunlight per day!

Saskatoon’s culture is a tapestry woven with the threads of diversity, artistic expression, and a deep connection to the surrounding natural landscapes. The city’s cultural identity is shaped by a rich blend of Indigenous heritage, European traditions, and the contributions of a multicultural population.

Indigenous peoples, including the Cree and Dene, have deep-rooted ties to the region, and their influence is evident in various aspects of Saskatoon’s cultural life. The city celebrates its heritage through events like the Saskatoon Indigenous Poets Society’s performances and the vibrant Saskatoon Indigenous Arts & Craft Market. Art and creativity flourish in Saskatoon, with a robust arts community that embraces everything from visual arts and theater to music and literature. The Broadway Theatre and the Persephone Theatre are venues that showcase a diverse range of performances. Furthermore, Saskatoon’s numerous festivals, such as the SaskTel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival and the Nutrien Fringe Theatre Festival, bring the community together in joyous celebration.

The city’s residents are known for their warmth and friendliness, creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages cultural exchange and collaboration. Whether exploring the unique exhibits at the Wanuskewin Heritage Park or enjoying the local cuisine at the Riversdale District, Saskatoon’s culture reflects a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, creating a dynamic and inclusive community spirit.

Saskatoon enjoys one of the lowest costs of living among major cities in Canada. This means that you will pay less for housing, utilities, food, and taxes in Saskatoon than in other similar-sized or larger cities. Paying less for these essential things means that you will have more money available for saving, or spending on less essential items!

Saskatoon has four hospitals, including a children’s hospital, and a number of medical clinics:

Royal University Hospital is located on the University of Saskatchewan campus;
City Hospital is located just north of the downtown area;
St. Paul’s Hospital is located on Saskatoon’s west side; and
Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital is located on the University of Saskatchewan campus.

If you need medical care right away (broken bone, chest pains, difficulty breathing, etc.), all of the hospitals have emergency wards; please check each hospital’s website to learn what hours the emergency wards are open. If you need medical care, but it is not an emergency, there are a number of walk-in clinics in Saskatoon you can visit. You do not need to have a family doctor to use a walk-in clinic.

Education in Saskatoon is marked by a commitment to excellence and a focus on fostering a learning environment that is both inclusive and innovative. At the heart of the city’s educational landscape is the University of Saskatchewan, a renowned institution known for its academic research, diverse programs, and vibrant campus life. The university contributes significantly to Saskatoon’s intellectual and cultural vibrancy, drawing students from across Canada and around the world. The city’s commitment to education extends beyond higher learning institutions, with a well-established network of primary and secondary schools that strive to provide quality education to students.

Saskatoon has two publicly funded institutions for people who want to pursue education beyond a Grade 12 level:

• The University of Saskatchewan grants degrees and certificates in a wide variety of subject areas. Usually, you would need to study for at least three years.
• Saskatchewan Polytechnic Saskatoon grants diplomas and certificates a number of subjects. For these, you would need to study for about two years.
• Saskatoon is also home to a number of private career colleges, specializing in such areas as office administration, massage therapy, hair styling and aesthetics, and many others.

Saskatoon Public Schools and Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools, among others, work diligently to create engaging learning experiences for students at various levels. The city’s education system also places a strong emphasis on Indigenous education, recognizing and honoring the cultural heritage of the First Nations peoples in the region. Saskatoon’s educators, students, and educational institutions collectively contribute to a community that values knowledge, innovation, and lifelong learning.

Saskatoon has three different publicly-funded school systems:

Saskatoon Public Schools
Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools
Conseil des écoles Fransaskoises – Francophone Schools