10 Best Places to Live in Canada: Top Cities Ranked

Seasoned expats know too well that for a successful relocation, knowledge is the key. It’s not just about the country you are moving to; it’s where you live in that country.

Canada is celebrated for its diverse cities and stunning natural landscapes, making it a coveted destination for incomers seeking a high quality of life. From dynamic metropolitan centers to laid-back towns, the nation offers a variety of locales suited to all lifestyles and preferences.

We’ve compiled our list of Canada’s best places based on livability rankings and factors like average cost of living, house price, diversity, economic opportunities, health care, natural beauty, and outdoor activities.

Choosing Your Ideal Destination

You must consider your needs when choosing your best city or town. Some locations in Canada have better opportunities than others regarding employment, careers, housing and schooling, climate, and leisure activities.

Average wages are higher than in many other countries, although expenses can also be higher. Check how much money you need to live comfortably in Canada.

Canada ranks well globally for quality of life with good employment opportunities, healthcare, and education setting the pace.

Property costs tend to be more affordable in Canada than in the UK or the USA. However, costs can be significantly higher in the most built-up areas, such as prime areas of Toronto or Vancouver, where demand for property is high.

The Climate

Despite rumors, Canada is not covered in snow for six months of the year. There are good locations where winter isn’t so harsh, and it is easier to cope with the cold.

Two things to remember about Canada’s winters.

First, the nation is fully equipped to cope with snow and ice; infrastructure does not fail as in other countries.

Secondly, life is structured around the winter weather, so sports and community events embrace the climate. 

If you want to know more about life in Canada, check out our Lifestyle In Canada guide – you will discover sides of Canada you never knew existed!

Okay, ready to travel? Let’s explore the very best of Canada.

1. Ottawa: Yes, the nation’s capital is one of the best cities to live in Canada

For many, Ottawa is the heart of Canadian life, and it’s no surprise that it consistently ranks as one of the top locations to live in the nation.

As Canada’s capital city, Ottawa perfectly balances urban and natural beauty.

A Thriving Economy With Great Educational Facilities

Known for its rich history, diverse culture, and thriving economy, Ottawa has some of the world’s top universities and research institutions and is home to many international students.

In Ontario, Ottawa has an excellent mix of cultural institutions, numerous parks and green spaces, and a thriving local food scene.

The city’s position on the Ottawa River provides a picturesque setting to enjoy various recreational activities such as cycling, hiking, and boating.

The beautiful Rideau Canal cuts through the city and provides numerous trails, walkways, running paths, and bike lanes all the way through.

The canal freezes over in winter, presenting the world’s longest skating rink.

Housing

The median home price is marginally higher than the national average, making Ottawa a more affordable option than other major locations such as Toronto and Vancouver.

For more about the differences, see living in Ottawa vs Toronto.

The city offers abundant job options, especially in the tech, healthcare, and government sectors, which continue to draw in expats.

Education

Education is a major appeal. Ottawa is home to renowned universities and research institutions such as Carleton University, the University of Ottawa, Abbott College, and La Cité, which offer diverse education and research programs.

Ottawa is officially bilingual, and many services are offered in French and English.

Ottawa is home to Canada’s federal government, provincial government offices, and a municipal government. The public sector employs around 20% of the working population in Ottawa.

Cultural events throughout the year

With numerous cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals and theater productions, Ottawa locals have ample opportunities to immerse themselves in the arts.

The thriving local food scene is also a major draw, with various restaurants, bakeries, and markets offering diverse cuisine.

If you’re looking for the best spots for outdoor recreational activities, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better location than Ottawa.

The city boasts an extensive network of parks, trails, and green spaces that provide access to the natural beauty of living in Ontario.

Ottawa is home to several excellent recreational and sports facilities, such as the Canadian Tire Centre and the urban park at LeBreton Flats, which provide opportunities to enjoy sports and activities all year round.

Considering all of these factors, it’s clear why Ottawa is among the best cities in Canada.

2. Burlington: perfect for families and chill seekers

Located near Toronto, Burlington is ideal for those who want to be close to the great outdoors.

The city is very safe, boasting one of the lowest crime rates. A strong reason why newcomers choose Burlington as their home.

An impressive range of top-ranked schools attracts families who value education. Both public and private schools in Burlington are well regarded for their high academic standards and student achievements.

Stunning waterfront and beach

Burlington’s location is a major draw. It offers stunning waterfront and beach areas at the western end of Lake Ontario.

The city is well connected to major hubs, such as Toronto and Hamilton, making it an ideal spot for those who need access to urban centers.

The local community takes pride in the city, which is evident through diverse events and initiatives organized throughout the year.

From festivals to farmers’ markets, Burlington fosters a warm and inviting atmosphere, inviting newcomers and longtime residents to feel at home.

Burlington’s parks and green spaces are ideal for families looking for a relaxed location to enjoy outdoor activities.

The famous Royal Botanical Gardens, the largest in Canada, offers a stunning display of flowers, plants, and trees, attracting visitors from home and abroad.

You can enjoy some of the best hiking in the world along the Bruce Trail and the Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO-designated World Biosphere Reserve, along with the Waterfront Trail that skirts the northern shore of Lake Ontario.

A hub for the arts

Burlington has also established itself as a hub for arts and culture with various cultural institutions, including theaters, galleries, museums, and a thriving music scene.

Consider Burlington if you’re seeking somewhere to live that balances safety, education, and natural beauty.

3. Oakville: one of the most prestigious areas to call home

Oakville is one of the most livable cities, boasting a brilliant location in the Halton Region on Lake Ontario.

It is approximately a 30-minute drive from downtown Toronto and an hour from Niagara Falls and the United States border.

With just under 200,000 people, the town has the advantages of a well-serviced urban center while successfully preserving its cozy small-town feel.

Natural Beauty

As one of Canada’s most prestigious destinations, Oakville offers a taste of the good life, from the stunning natural beauty surrounding the town to the outstanding amenities and excellent schools.

Leisure Activities

The welcoming atmosphere and vast leisure activities make Oakville an ideal place to raise a family or enjoy a rewarding lifestyle.

Oakville is well-known for its prestigious golf courses, such as Glen Abbey Golf Club, which has hosted several Canadian Opens.

With numerous parks, trails, and recreational facilities for everyone to enjoy year-round.

With a focus on the great outdoors, Oakville is a veritable paradise for nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts.

There’s plenty for those who love arts, culture, and music, from performances at the local Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts to museums and galleries to fantastic festivals, including Oakville’s annual Waterfront Festival, Festival of Classics, and Jazz Festival.

Employment

Oakville has Siemens, The Ford Motor Company and other manufacturing facilities operated by UTC Aerospace Systems and General Electric, so jobs are relatively easy to find. 

With its rich history, unique character, and outstanding commitment to balanced development, Oakville stands as a shining example of the very best that Canada has to offer.

4. St. Albert, Alberta: charming with a strong community spirit

St. Albert is one of Canada’s more charming cities. Located just outside Edmonton, St. Albert boasts many qualities that make it an ideal home location.

Great for commuters

At 30 km from Edmonton, the regional capital, St Albert is a favored location for those who choose a more relaxed pace.

This picturesque city hosts events and activities throughout the year that foster a strong sense of community.

The modern infrastructure has numerous amenities, including parks, recreational facilities, schools, and shopping centers.

St Albert takes pride in its clean and safe streets, a great location to raise a family or to enjoy a peaceful retirement.

Bikers will love exploring more than 85 km of bike trails along the Sturgeon River.

Additionally, its proximity to the province’s capital, Edmonton, provides access to amenities only a larger city can offer without sacrificing the charm of a smaller, family-oriented community.

Employment

The region is rich in oil and natural gas, giving Edmonton the unofficial title of “Oil Capital of Canada.”

Many locals of St. Albert commute to Edmonton to work in oil-related industries.

Lower cost of living

Another advantage is the overall cost of living in St. Albert, which is generally lower than other cities in the province, making it an attractive option for homebuyers.

Education

Parents can feel confident in the Alberta education system, which is regarded as a top-performing city in Canada. St. Albert’s excellent schools contribute to the overall appeal of this charming city.

In conclusion, St. Albert, stands out for its community spirit, high-quality public services, and picturesque surroundings.

5. Boucherville, Quebec: A rich history

Boucherville, a gorgeous Canadian city, comes in at number five. It is known for its history and charm, making it an ideal place for newcomers to call home.

Boucherville offers a blend of modern amenities and quaint, historic charm.

Being in Quebec, Boucherville is an ideal choice for those looking for French-Canadian heritage and culture.

Parlez-vous Français?

Boucherville’s locals are mostly French-speaking – about 90% of the population speak French, while approximately 4% speak fluent English.

Therefore, knowing French is essential if you want to settle in Boucherville.

Boucherville’s history dates back to its founding in 1667 by Pierre Boucher, with well-preserved heritage buildings and attractions that offer a glimpse into life during the city’s early days.

The city has grown, with modern shopping centers, schools, and recreational facilities offering everything needed for a comfortable lifestyle.

Located along the Saint Lawrence River, you’ll enjoy various outdoor recreational activities. Numerous parks, bike trails, and water sports are available, which is great for outdoor adventurers.

Home to the beautiful Îles-de-Boucherville National Park, which offers stunning natural beauty and plenty of possibilities for wildlife watching.

Job Market

The city has several industry leaders, including Bombardier Recreational Products, Sobeys, and RONA, providing great employment opportunities for skilled workers. Residents also have commutable access to Montreal, just a short drive away.

Boucherville hosts one of the largest aerospace centers in North America; over 40,000 people are employed in Quebec’s aerospace industry at companies like Bell Helicopter Textron, Bombardier Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, Rolls-Royce, and CAE.

A low crime rate, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community make it an ideal place to raise a family.

Boucherville values sustainability and environmentally friendly living. The city’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty and resources can be seen through initiatives such as bike-share programs, green spaces, and support for sustainable development.

In conclusion, Boucherville should be somewhere you check out if you want a more French-Canadian living experience.

6. Vancouver, British Columbia: for nature lovers and urbanites 

Ranked number six, Vancouver, British Columbia.

Often featured positively in media lifestyle reports, Vancouver has consistently maintained a high position in the rankings of the best cities to live in Canada.

This city is on the western coast and offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventures and city life.

A gateway to exploration

Located between the North Shore Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, a gateway to some of the most breathtaking landscapes.

From hiking and skiing in the nearby Whistler mountains to exploring the vast wilderness on Vancouver Island, there is truly something for everyone.

With a commitment to preserving its green spaces, such as the famous Stanley Park, which showcases its dedication to balancing urban living with the beauty of nature.

Vancouver is a cultural melting pot, reflected in its diverse dining scene, with amazing culinary experiences. In recent years, Vancouver has emerged as a hub for the arts, hosting a variety of international film festivals, galleries, and avant-garde performances.

As a resident, you can enjoy a high standard of living with access to excellent healthcare, education, and public transit systems.

The excellent public transit system connects the urban core and its numerous neighborhoods, making it easy to enjoy all the city offers.

Employment

With a strong economy driven by its thriving tourism industry, film production, and technology sector, Vancouver provides ample job opportunities for those seeking career progression.

Housing

The real estate market in Vancouver is very competitive, with prices in some areas being among the highest in the country.

However, there are housing options to meet varying budgets and lifestyles.

In conclusion, it’s easy to see why Vancouver, British Columbia, ranks on our list of top cities in Canada.

Find out more in our guide to the best neighborhoods to live in Vancouver.

7. Calgary: a thriving with a balance of urban and suburban lifestyle 

Calgary, Alberta is a thriving city that perfectly balances urban and suburban lifestyles. There is something for everyone, whether looking for bustling urban life or a family-friendly neighborhood.

With its breathtaking natural beauty and cosmopolitan flair, Calgary is fast becoming one of the most sought-after locations in the province.

Diverse economy

Calgary’s diverse and flourishing economy is outstanding, with a low unemployment rate and multiple job opportunities for skilled workers in the technology, finance, and healthcare sectors.

Plus, the province of Alberta has lower taxes compared to the province of Ontario, so you get to keep a little more of your money.

Urban fans can appreciate the thriving arts and culture scene, trendy shops, restaurants, and nightlife.

Downtown Calgary offers an array of attractions, such as the Glenbow Museum, Studio Bell, and the Arts Commons, catering to various tastes and interests.

Additionally, family-friendly attractions like the Calgary Zoo, Telus Spark Science Centre, and Heritage Park Historical Village are a big draw for those with kids.

It is located close to the picturesque Rocky Mountains and offers a range of recreational activities like hiking, skiing, and mountain biking.

Moreover, plenty of parks and green spaces, such as the beautiful Fish Creek Provincial Park and Nose Hill Park, are perfect for nature lovers.

Family Friendly

You’ll have access to numerous family-friendly suburbs with excellent schools, community amenities, and lovely parks.

Some popular suburbs in Calgary are Tuscany, McKenzie Towne, and Hidden Valley, each boasting a distinct character and charm.

Moving to the city’s outskirts allows for a slower pace and tight-knit community feel, making them a great choice for families and retirees.

The housing market is more affordable than Toronto and Vancouver, making it a great choice if you’re keen to keep costs down.

8. Halifax, Nova Scotia: an east coast gem

Halifax, a beautiful Nova Scotia coastal gem, easily makes the top 10.

Canada’s historic eastern city is a highly prized treasure many Canadians hold dear. Let’s dive into why Halifax is an excellent choice for newcomers.

First and foremost, there’s the incredible scenery that Halifax offers. It is located on the east coast with breathtaking coastal views. Halifax has it all if you’re looking for sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, or serene ocean views.

Walking along the waterfront, you’ll be met with the undeniable feeling that you’re in one of the country’s greatest and most picturesque locations.

Historic legacy

Halifax has a rich history that draws in explorers. As a founding city in Canada, Halifax has a story to tell around every corner.

While the city experiences a fair amount of snow in winter, the cold feels less intense than in other regions like Toronto.

The city bustles with activities and events that cater to everyone’s interests, from food and drink festivals to art exhibits and sporting events.

An aspect that makes Halifax stand out is its size. Far from overwhelming like other major cities, allowing for a more relaxed pace of life that the local community loves.

Employment

The city’s diverse industry offers employment opportunities for job seekers. Industries sectors such as technology, healthcare, and finance thrive in Halifax, making it an attractive location for professionals seeking career development.

Additionally, Halifax’s living cost remains relatively low compared to other major cities in Canada.

Its stunning coastal views, rich history, warm community, and strong economy make it a good choice for expats looking to plant roots in a historic destination.

9. Quebec City: a hub of culture, art, and history

It is one of the oldest cities in the entire North American continent and a great place to live.

Founded in 1833 but with an even older history, this fortified city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with some of Canada’s most beautiful architecture. 

Quebec City is a hub of culture, art, and history with cobbled streets, historical landmarks, plenty of parkland, and museums.

While it is smaller and has fewer amenities than the large cities, you’ll never struggle to find healthcare, schools, or work. 

Many expatriates love the ambiance because it’s closer to Europe than anywhere else in Canada. 

Language is the primary consideration for anyone planning to move to Quebec. Fewer than 2% of inhabitants speak English fluently, and French is the dominant language for work.

The area has several major employers, thanks to the thriving port. Many residents work in the timber, pulp, aerospace, and hydropower industries.

Unemployment is low, but there are fewer office-based jobs. 

Less Costly

Life in Quebec is generally less costly than in similar-sized cities. Rent and groceries sit below average, making emigrating less expensive. Housing prices are also generally more competitive.

One reason for the lower costs is a harsher winter season. 

Connections in and out of the city in the depths of winter aren’t fantastic, and the long, cold winters do take some adjusting to.

Most winter days sit at around -7, with plenty of snow and short days. But if you can cope in winter, summers are warm and bright. 

10. Saskatoon: a small city with big city potential

If you’re looking for a city that feels like a giant village, Saskatoon is well worth your consideration.

Home to around 275,000 people, Saskatoon in Saskatchewan doesn’t feel like a city.

The downtown area and surrounding suburbs are community-based and welcoming to anyone moving in. 

There are huge numbers of public parks, playgrounds, and public sports grounds.

There’s a hugely successful weekly farmers market for local produce. There are public swimming pools and many festivals in summer, including comedy, Shakespeare, music, and agricultural events. 

Agriculture is a major employer in the area, including livestock and mineral mining. However, the job market has expanded into IT, biotech, and manufacturing.

Thanks to local agriculture and the wide-open plains, Saskatoon’s cost of living is fairly low compared to the rest of the nation.

House prices increase as the area becomes more popular but are generally lower than average, making it easier to find more affordable housing.

Everything from houses to cars to public transport is lower than the rest of the country, and even commute time sits below average at just 20 minutes. 

Weather can be a downside

The winter is so extreme that Saskatoon is one of the few cities where life can grind to a halt during storms. 

You need to consider that before adding Saskatoon to your favorites.

Saskatoon completes our list. However, there is another destination we would like to mention. It’s growing rapidly in popularity and could very soon climb into our top ten:

Charlottetown – A fresh arrival into the best cities to live in Canada

Looking to get ahead of the trend and move to someone on the rise?

Charlottetown on Prince Edward Island is fast-growing, attracting many new expatriates, and has massive redevelopment projects with low prices.

Bang for the buck, it’s one of the most affordable locations to live in Canada without compromising facilities and amenities. 

Charlottetown consists of several distinct, vibrant neighborhoods with considerable history.

The entire Canadian nation was founded in Charlottetown in 1864.

It is a relatively low-population city, with just 35,000 citizens, but this gives it the feeling of a large market town.

The old town is stunning, while newer, built-up neighborhoods with all the modern facilities are popping up everywhere. 

Real estate in Charlottetown remains some of the cheapest in the country, with a good family home on the market for around CA$220,000, making life more affordable.

Local farmers mean grocery bills are low, and you’ll only notice high costs when importing items during the winter months.

Although the busy port means prices aren’t exorbitant, most items can be easily located and shipped. 

Economically, the job market is dominated by the public sector.

The educational sectors, healthcare, social workers, and government roles offer plenty of work. 

The manufacturing and tech companies set up in the area in recent years are growing in popularity thanks to a range of new roles with good salaries. 

Charlottetown is the island’s economic and cultural hub, meaning there is everything from local sports events to cultural festivals, museums, art shows, and more all year round, with a steady stream of visitors.

As more people discover the city’s delights, it is growing steadily and is set to become one of Canada’s nicest places to live in Canada.

Find your perfect place to call home

It’s not difficult to see why Canada is such an exceptionally popular choice with would-be expatriates.

The country is ripe with opportunities, and it offers the chance for a rewarding lifestyle if a little cold at times! 

There’s no better way to discover the best of Canada than getting on a plane and traveling over to explore yourself; go ahead, book those flights, and come to see what Canada has to offer.

You might find useful:

• Best Provinces To Live In Canada
• Canada Visa – How To Move To Canada As A Skilled Person
• Living In Canada As An Expat Guide

Helpful external links:

• Find out how safe various Canadian cities and towns are using Statista’s crime severity index in Canada.
• Discover Canadian cities’ livability and cost of living data on the LivingCost.org site.
• Find the best schools in Canada – canadaedu.in
• Check out the immigration guidance and opportunities on the Prince Edward Island government immigration page.
• Considering moving to Quebec? Éducaloi is an excellent resource for all legal information about Quebec, including this guide for new arrivals.