I am pretty sure that you can still afford a nice big house with two cars in Canada too. IT market is pretty hot in Canada especially around the Toronto (GTA). You could easily make around 95k to 105k Canadian Dollars if you are well qualified and get a job as a senior engineer or consultant. I have noticed that Canada is slighly different from the US, I have seen people putting a little more stress on your Communication skills etc.
If you make 95K to 105K in Canadian dollars, you can afford a car and a good home. Better than Paying $1300 to $1500 USD for a 2 bedroom apartment in Virginia or San Jose...
The point I am trying to make is it does not matter. There are several millionaries and Billionaires (rich people) in Canada too. It entirely depends on how smart you are.
My advice.. If you are planning or even exploring canada, do it with a open heart... Don't look for someone else to make the decision for you.. Everyone is different and you have to make your own decision based on your circumstances.
Thanks,
NC