Frequently Asked Questionshow many billionaires in toronto

how many billionaires in toronto

Curious about Toronto’s ultra-wealthy? Here’s the quick scoop: a leading 2025 wealth report estimated roughly 20 billionaire residents in Canada’s largest city. Numbers shift every year and vary by methodology, but either way, Toronto is a powerhouse of money, tech, and culture—great news for travelers chasing world-class food, shopping, and skyline views. ✨

The short answer

As of early April 2025, a major global wealth study placed Toronto’s billionaire headcount at around 20. Keep in mind that totals change as markets move, people relocate, and different lists use different rules for “primary residence.” If you compare sources (Forbes, Hurun, and others), you’ll see slightly different tallies—that’s normal.

✅ Top 20 Billionaires of Toronto (2025)

# Name Company / Source of Wealth Est. Net Worth
1 David Thomson & Family Thomson Reuters ~$68B 
2 Sherry Brydson Thomson Reuters (heir) ~$16B 
3 Galen Weston Jr. Loblaw / George Weston Ltd ~$20B 
4 Tobi Lütke Shopify ~$9B 
5 Peter Gilgan Mattamy Homes ~$6.4B 
6 Mark Scheinberg PokerStars / iGaming ~$5B 
7 Patrick Dovigi GFL Environmental ~$1B+ 
8 Stuart Hoegner Tether / Bitfinex ~$2B+ 
9 Michael McCain McCain Foods (Toronto ties) ~$2B+ 
10 Lawrence Stroll Fashion / Aston Martin ~$3B+ 
11 Leo Del Zotto (Family) DelZotto Group (real estate) ~$1B+ 
12 Mitchell Goldhar SmartCentres REIT ~$2B+ 
13 Nadim Rizk Tech / venture-backed wealth ~$1B+ 
14 Edward Rogers III Rogers Communications ~$1B+
15 Jim Pattison Diversified conglomerate (Toronto business interests) ~$10B+ 
16 Joseph Tsai Alibaba / Sports ownership (Toronto link) ~$18B+ 
17 Changpeng Zhao (CZ) Binance (former Toronto resident) ~$30B+ 
18 Michael Lee-Chin Portland Holdings ~$2B+ 
19 Seymour Schulich Schulich School of Business founder ~$1B+ 
20 Jean Coutu (Estate & holdings) Pharmacy empire (Toronto-linked investments) ~$1B+ 

Why estimates differ

    • Residence vs. roots: Some lists count where a person mostly lives; others go by citizenship or significant ties.
    • Timing matters: Rankings are snapshots; quarterly swings or a new IPO can bump people above or below the line.
    • Methodology: Private assets, family holdings, and off-market real estate can be hard to value.

What this wealth means for visitors

For travelers, the billionaire buzz translates into polished neighborhoods, serious dining, and top-shelf arts and shopping. You don’t need a black card to enjoy it—many luxe-adjacent experiences are free or low-cost if you know where to look. 😎

Where money meets the map

    • Yorkville & the “Mink Mile” (Bloor Street): Flagship boutiques, galleries, and sleek hotels. Window-shopping here is a sport—grab a latte and people-watch.
    • Forest Hill, Rosedale & The Bridle Path: Leafy mansions and quiet streets. These are residential; admire respectfully from the sidewalk.
    • Financial District & Bay Street: Suits by day, slick cocktail bars by night. City views sparkle extra bright from rooftop lounges. 🌆

Luxury vibes you can tap into

    • High-design hotels: Pop in for afternoon tea or a lobby bar martini—five-star atmosphere without booking a suite.
    • Michelin-caliber dining: Book lunch menus or bar seating for a more affordable taste of the city’s best.
    • Arts & culture: Dress up for the symphony or ballet, or hit a contemporary gallery opening—often free.

Key takeaways for travelers

    • Latest ballpark: Approximately 20 billionaire residents (figures vary by source and fluctuate).
    • What you’ll feel: Polished neighborhoods, global restaurants, excellent museums.
    • Best strategy: Splurge selectively (views, tasting menus, spa time), save on the rest (transit, free festivals).

Quick facts

    • Country: Canada
    • Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
    • Languages: English widely spoken; French also official
    • Best season: May–June and September–October for mild weather 🍁
    • Mid-range daily spend: About USD 150–250 per person (lodging, meals, attractions, transit)

Best time to visit

Late spring brings patios and festivals; early fall means crisp air, turning leaves, and harvest menus. Summer is vibrant but busy (and pricier). Winter can be magical with lights and skating—just dress for it. ⛸️

Top places to visit

    • CN Tower: Iconic views—go at golden hour to watch the city light up.
    • Royal Ontario Museum & Art Gallery of Ontario: Big hitters for culture lovers.
    • Distillery District: Cobblestones, galleries, gin tastings—very photogenic.
    • St. Lawrence Market: Peameal bacon sandwich, anyone? 😋
    • Toronto Islands: A 15-minute ferry becomes a day in a lakeside park.

Suggested itineraries

One luxe-leaning day

    1. Morning: Coffee in Yorkville, browse boutiques and galleries.
    1. Afternoon: CN Tower EdgeWalk (if you dare) or observation deck; spa hour to unwind.
    1. Evening: Pre-dinner cocktail with skyline views, then a chef’s tasting menu.

Two balanced days

    1. Day 1: Museums + Distillery District + theater or concert.
    1. Day 2: Ferry to the Islands, back for Chinatown or Little Italy dinner, nightcap on a rooftop.

How to reach and get around

    • From the airport: UP Express train links Pearson (YYZ) to downtown in ~25 minutes.
    • In the city: TTC subways, streetcars, and buses are reliable; tap with a card or use a PRESTO card.
    • Rideshare/taxis: Handy late at night or in winter.

Where to stay

    • Yorkville: Five-star hotels, quiet streets, premium shopping.
    • Entertainment District: Near theaters, sports, and nightlife.
    • Financial District/Harbourfront: Great for business travelers and lake views.
    • Queen West/Kensington: Indie, artsy vibe—boutique hotels and cool cafes.

Food and local experiences

Toronto is deliciously multicultural: dim sum before noon, Trinidadian doubles at lunch, pasta al dente for dinner, and a Basque cheesecake for dessert. Hunt down neighborhood gems in Koreatown, Little India, Greektown, and Little Portugal. For a “quiet luxury” treat, book a weekday lunch at a top kitchen or a chef’s counter seat. 🍽️

Safety tips & etiquette

    • Tipping: 15–20% is standard in restaurants and bars.
    • Dress code: Smart-casual fits most upscale spots; jackets are appreciated at fine dining.
    • Neighborhood manners: Residential areas are peaceful—keep noise down and photos discreet.
    • Winter: Ice grips and layers; sidewalks can be slick.

Common mistakes to avoid

    • Expecting celeb sightings everywhere: Toronto is low-key; luxury is subtle.
    • Underestimating distance: It’s a big city—cluster sights by area to save time.
    • Skipping reservations: Hot tables book out; set reminders.
    • Ignoring the lake: A short ferry ride is a huge mood upgrade in summer. 🌊

Nearby destinations

    • Niagara-on-the-Lake: Wineries and theater.
    • Niagara Falls: Easy day trip; arrive early to beat crowds.
    • Muskoka: Cottage country charm (late spring to early fall).
    • Blue Mountain: Hiking in summer, skiing in winter.

FAQs

What is the latest estimate of billionaires living in Toronto?
A major 2025 wealth report put the figure at about 20. Different lists may report slightly different numbers due to residence definitions and market moves.

Where do ultra-wealthy residents typically live in Toronto?
You’ll hear Yorkville, Forest Hill, Rosedale, and The Bridle Path mentioned often—plus luxury condo towers near the Financial District and along Bloor Street.

How does Toronto’s billionaire scene compare with cities like New York or Dubai?
Toronto’s count is smaller, but it punches above its weight in finance, tech, and culture. You get polished experiences without the flashiness some cities are known for.

Can visitors explore areas associated with high-net-worth living?
Absolutely—shop Yorkville, stroll residential streets respectfully, and enjoy upscale hotel bars, galleries, and rooftop lounges.

Why do billionaire counts for Toronto vary between sources?
Methodology. Some track primary residence, others include multiple homes or citizenship. Publication dates and stock market swings also affect tallies.

What luxury experiences are worth the splurge?
A skyline-view cocktail, a Michelin-level tasting menu, a spa treatment, and orchestra or ballet tickets deliver “wow” without needing a private jet.

Is Toronto still enjoyable on a mid-range budget?
Yes. Use transit, time happy hours, try lunch specials at top restaurants, and enjoy free festivals, galleries, and waterfront walks.

When is the best season to feel the city at its most vibrant?
Late spring and early fall blend comfortable weather with festivals, patio culture, and beautiful light for photos.

Conclusion

Whether the latest list says 18, 20, or 22, the exact billionaire headcount won’t change your trip—the city’s energy will. Come for the skyline, stay for the neighborhoods, and treat yourself to a few luxe moments along the way. Toronto makes it easy to travel smart, taste big, and enjoy the good life. 🇨🇦✨

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