Hamilton is an hour from Toronto and priced like a different country. For a creator that gap is the whole business case.
Toronto clients, Hamilton costs
Agencies and brands in Toronto hire creators from anywhere within driving distance, and they pay Toronto rates. Living and filming in Hamilton means the same revenue against a fraction of the rent, which is why so many creators have made that move.
The local economy is not what people assume
Steel is still there, but health care and education are now the largest employers, alongside a growing manufacturing and food sector. Hospitals, colleges and industrial employers all buy recruitment and internal video, and almost none of it goes to creators.
The city itself is a location
Industrial waterfront, an escarpment with waterfalls, brick warehouses and residential streets that look like anywhere in southern Ontario. Productions come here precisely because it can double for several places, and a creator who knows the good spots saves a client a scouting day.
The competition is thinner than the population suggests
Half a million people and a fraction of the creator supply of Toronto. A reliable creator here gets repeat local work without the constant undercutting that defines the Toronto market.
English only, with one exception
The working language is English throughout. Federal contracts and any client selling into Quebec will need a French version, which is worth partnering for rather than turning down.
Keep reading
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- UGC for Canadian Thanksgiving in October
- The complete UGC guide for Canada
Frequently asked questions
Why base in Hamilton?
Toronto rates against Hamilton costs.
Who are the biggest employers?
Health care, education and manufacturing.
Why do productions film here?
The city doubles for many places.
Is French needed?
Only for federal or Quebec facing work.
