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September 9, 2026Sources cited
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Toronto

Toronto is the capital city of Ontario and Canada’s most populous city.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated September 9, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Toronto is the capital city of Ontario and Canada’s most populous city. Located on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario, it is a major centre for business, finance, culture, and immigration. The city is also the core of the Greater Toronto Area and one of North America’s largest urban areas.

History

Toronto was founded in 1793 as York and renamed Toronto in 1834. It became the capital of Ontario in 1867, and the modern city was formed in 1998 through the amalgamation of several municipalities.

Geography and population

Toronto lies on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario in southeastern Ontario. It is Canada’s largest city by population, with a 2021 census population of 2,794,356 and a much larger metropolitan area.

Economy and culture

Toronto is widely described as a national centre for finance, business, technology, entertainment, and culture. It is also known for its multicultural population and for hosting major institutions and events.

Landmarks and institutions

Toronto is home to major landmarks such as the CN Tower and institutions including the University of Toronto. It also hosts prominent cultural and sporting venues and events.

Key facts

  • Toronto is the most populous city in Canada.
  • It is the capital of Ontario.
  • The city is located on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario.
  • Toronto is a major Canadian centre for finance, business, culture, and immigration.
  • The modern City of Toronto was created in 1998 through amalgamation.
  • The city is part of the larger Greater Toronto Area and the Golden Horseshoe urban region.
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Canadian context

Toronto is Canada’s largest city and one of the country’s most important economic and cultural centres, making it highly relevant to Canadian readers.

Frequently asked questions

What is Toronto?
Toronto is the capital city of Ontario and the most populous city in Canada.
Where is Toronto located?
Toronto is on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario in southeastern Canada.
When was Toronto founded?
It was founded in 1793 as York and renamed Toronto in 1834.
What is Toronto’s population?
Toronto’s city population was 2,794,356 in the 2021 census.
Is Toronto the capital of Canada?
No. Toronto is the capital of Ontario, while Ottawa is the capital of Canada.
What is Toronto known for?
Toronto is known for its size, multicultural population, and its role as a centre for finance, business, culture, and immigration.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/place/Toronto
    Supports: Toronto as Ontario’s capital, Canada’s most populous city, location on Lake Ontario, and historical overview.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/summary/Toronto
    Supports: Founding as York in 1793, renaming in 1834, becoming Ontario’s capital in 1867, and 1998 amalgamation.
  3. Statistics Canada — https://www.statcan.gc.ca/
    Supports: 2021 census population figures for Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area.
  4. City of Toronto — https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/moving-to-toronto/about-toronto/
    Supports: Toronto as Canada’s largest city and a centre for business, finance, technology, entertainment, culture, and multiculturalism.