Essential Resources for Moving to Newfoundland
What to Organize Before Moving to Newfoundland
Every year, thousands of Canadians make the move to Newfoundland and Labrador — and the numbers are growing. As Realtors based in St. John's who have personally relocated here and helped over 125 buyers and sellers navigate the province's housing market, we've seen firsthand what the transition looks like and what people wish they'd known sooner. This page covers the practical side of getting here: your travel options, ferry logistics, moving company resources, and what to expect if you're driving cross-country. If you're still researching whether Newfoundland is right for you, start with our cost of living guide or pros and cons page. If you're ready to plan the move itself, you're in the right place.
Need Help Finding a Home in Newfoundland?
If you’re planning a move and want guidance on neighbourhoods, housing prices, or the buying process in Newfoundland, our real estate team is here to help. We regularly assist newcomers relocating to the St. John’s region and can provide local insight to help you find the right home and community.
Your Newfoundland Relocation Checklist
Arrange Housing
Before arriving in Newfoundland, many newcomers choose to arrange temporary accommodation, secure a rental, or begin exploring homes for purchase if they plan to buy. Deciding whether renting or buying is the right option for your situation can depend on your timeline, job location, and long-term plans. Researching neighbourhoods near St. John’s and surrounding communities can help you find an area that best fits your lifestyle, budget, and commute needs.
Arrange Your Move
If you're relocating to Newfoundland from another province, there are several options for transporting your belongings. Some people choose full-service long-distance moving companies, while others ship items using services like Canada Post, moving containers, or U-Haul U-Box style shipping solutions. Comparing options early can help you find the most cost-effective approach and ensure your belongings arrive around the same time you do.
Set Up Electricity & Utilities
Once you have secured housing, you’ll want to arrange electricity and any heating services before moving in. In most areas of Newfoundland, residential electricity is provided by Newfoundland Power. Heating systems can vary by property and may include electric heat, oil, propane, or heat pumps. Homes that use oil or propane will typically require delivery from a local fuel provider such as Harvey's Oil or other regional suppliers, so it’s a good idea to confirm the heating type and set up service before moving day.
Set Up Internet & Mobile Service
Reliable internet service is widely available throughout the St. John’s region and surrounding communities, making it easy for residents to stay connected for work, school, and everyday life. Major providers include Bell, Rogers, and Eastlink, which offer a range of internet, television, and mobile service packages. Available speeds and service options can vary depending on the neighbourhood or rural location, so it’s a good idea to check coverage for your specific address before setting up service. Many newcomers arrange internet installation shortly before moving in to ensure everything is ready when they arrive.
Update Your Driver’s License
If you’re moving to Newfoundland from another province, you will need to exchange your driver’s license and register your vehicle in Newfoundland and Labrador after establishing residency. These services are handled through Motor Registration Division (MRD) offices located throughout the province, where you can update your license, register your vehicle, and obtain Newfoundland license plates.
Register for Healthcare (MCP)
New residents should apply for the Medical Care Plan (MCP), which provides provincial healthcare coverage in Newfoundland and Labrador. If you are currently seeing specialists, it’s a good idea to ask your existing doctor for referrals or copies of your medical records before moving so your care can continue smoothly. Family doctors in Newfoundland often have waitlists, so many newcomers register with the provincial patient connect system while using walk-in clinics or other services until a permanent physician becomes available. Learn more about Patient Connect NL
Explore Local Schools & Childcare
Families moving to Newfoundland may want to research schools and childcare options early, as availability can vary by community. Spaces in the province’s $10-a-day childcare program can have waitlists of two years or more in some areas, particularly in the St. John’s region. Many families also explore private day homes advertised on places like Facebook Groups, or independent childcare providers, which typically range from $50–$75 per day depending on location and availability. Planning ahead can help ensure a smoother transition for children when your family arrives.
Secure Home & Auto Insurance
Before moving to Newfoundland, it’s a good idea to arrange home and auto insurance so coverage is in place when you arrive. If you are relocating from another province, many insurance providers recommend requesting a claims experience or insurance history letter from your current insurer before your move. This document confirms your insurance history and any past claims, and can help your new insurance provider offer more accurate quotes when setting up coverage in Newfoundland.
Connect With Your Community
Getting connected before or shortly after you arrive can make your move to Newfoundland much easier. Many newcomers join local online communities to ask questions, learn about neighbourhoods, and hear firsthand experiences from people who already live in the area. These groups are a great way to find recommendations, stay informed about local events, and feel more at home as you settle into your new community.
Rent a House in Newfoundland
Want to find a home to rent in Newfoundland? Start here.
Many people relocating to Newfoundland choose to rent temporarily before buying a home, especially if they are moving from another province and want time to explore neighbourhoods around St. John’s and surrounding communities.
Facebook Groups for Rental Listings
Local Facebook groups are one of the most common places where rental listings are shared in Newfoundland. These communities allow landlords, property managers, and tenants to post available apartments, rooms for rent, and short-term housing options.
• Newfoundland & Labrador Rentals
• Moving Back Home (Newfoundland Housing Group)
• NL Tenant & Landlord Support
These groups can also be helpful for asking questions about neighbourhoods, rental pricing, and the local housing market.
Property Management Companies in St. John's
Several property management companies operate in the St. John’s region and may have rental listings available on their websites.
• Metro Property Management
• Signal Property Management
• Pillar Property Management
• Krown Property Management
• Northview Residential Rentals
• Killam Apartment REIT
These companies typically manage apartment buildings, condo rentals, and long-term residential leases throughout the St. John’s region.
