Invest in Kitchener
A City Evolving in Technology and Infrastructure
Make it kitchener 2.0
Launched in October 2020, Make it Kitchener 2.0 is an ambitious plan to support economic recovery and to propel our community and economy forward by investing in catalytic growth opportunities and creating a resilient future where everyone can make a difference. It is informed by engagement with community members, stakeholders, business owners, community leaders, social service providers and housing providers, who were challenged to explore and ideate on what’s next for Kitchener from 2020 to 2030.
The strategy lays out a roadmap for City investments, balancing immediate support for businesses and long-term investments in areas that most directly impact residents’ lives.
Establish New Partnerships
Investments from Partners & Governments
Invest In Long-Term
Public Assets
Business Case Based Investments
Go line investments
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INNOVATION IN TRANSPORTATION
In today’s world, time is of the essence. Kitchener is seeing massive investments in transit expansion, service and infrastructure to bring regular rapid GO Transit between Kitchener and Toronto.
Map is an artist’s concept based on infrastructure plans as of 2021. Go service to London, Ontario in pilot program. All future station locations and names are subject to change.
Over $2 billion has already been invested to improve the Go Transit service between Toronto and Kitchener with more upgrades slated for the future.
In The News:
Google setting up new Kitchener office
Google is expanding in Kitchener. On Thursday afternoon, the company announced plans for a new office in the Innovation District
Google to expand its Kitchener office and launches new startup accelerator
KITCHENER — Google is expanding its Canadian operations with three new offices in Kitchener, Toronto and Montreal. Currently the company’s
$2.8 billion was invested in local startups during 2021, more than the previous 10 years combined
‘We are the world’s fastest growing innovation hub’ More than $2.8 billion was invested in local startups during 2021, more
A City On The Grow
Phase one of the LRT cost $818 million, and was completed in 2019. The Region plans to spend an additional $1.5 billion on the Stage 2 expansion has been approved.
A City On The Grow
Phase one of the LRT cost $818 million, and was completed in 2019. The Region plans to spend an additional $1.5 billion on the Stage 2 expansion
local transit
At TEK Tower you can commute, explore and connect with ease having transportation at your doorstep. Enjoy the convenience of the ION rapid LRT with Central Station just a 4 minute walk from your door.
Airport Expansion
A $44 million expansion that doubled the size of the terminal at the Waterloo International Airport was completed in 2023. This included expanded parking and domestic and international flights. Further expansion into 2026 is awaiting city approval.
LRT Stage 2 Is Underway
The Region is working on extending the ION system an additional 18 km to Downtown Cambridge, creating a continuous LRT service across the Region’s three urban centres.
New Regional Transit Hub
Work will begin in 2026 on the Transit Hub after receiving provincial support and funding. Located at King and Victoria St. (just a 4 minute walk from TEK Tower) it will connect the ION, GRT, GO and VIA services.
Kitchener's investment Housing Market
Kitchener’s real estate market has been exploding since 2016. It’s been a reliable investment market offering investors better cash flow and long-term growth vs Toronto based investments.
According to CMHC’s 2025 Rental Market Report, the vacancy rate for condominium apartments in the Kitchener‑Cambridge‑Waterloo CMA was 0.8 % — meaning there were very few condo units available for rent relative to demand.
KW Average Rental price of Condo Apartments vs Private Apartments
In the Kitchener–Waterloo region, condominium rental apartments achieve
rental income levels that are 20% higher than those of private apartments.
October 2025 CMHC Data
People are migrating to Kitchener from the GTA
Key Reasons for the Move:
- Affordability: Significantly lower housing costs (rent/purchase) and overall cost of living compared to Toronto.
- Job Opportunities: A booming tech sector (Canada’s Silicon Valley) with companies like Google, Shopify, and strong manufacturing/finance, plus university talent, providing good careers.
- Quality of Life: A blend of urban amenities (restaurants, arts) and nature (Grand River, trails), with less traffic and a more relaxed pace than Toronto.
High cost of living in the GTA
The cost of living in Toronto versus Kitchener, including rent is 11.5% higher in Toronto. Because of this many are choosing to relocate from Toronto to Kitchener.
Source: Numbeo Cost of Living Report