13 Tips to Choose The Best Place to Live in Canada
Are you wondering what the best place to live in Canada is? Or perhaps, you’re trying to decide on the best city to live in Canada? We were in the same situation a few years ago, asking ourselves these very questions. That’s why I’ve put together these 13 tips to help you find the best place to live in Canada based on your unique preferences and circumstances.
Choosing where to live in Canada can feel overwhelming, especially with so many incredible options. But don’t worry—this guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider when deciding on your new home.
What is the best place to live in Canada?
The truth is, the best place to live in Canada is the one that suits your lifestyle, goals, and needs. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it’s all about what feels right for you. While no one can decide for you, these 13 tips will help you narrow down your options and find your ideal Canadian city or town.
1. How Do You Choose the Best Place to Live in Canada If You Don’t Have Specific Preferences?
If you’re unsure about which province or territory to move to in Canada, start by doing a broad review of the information available online.
Understanding the unique characteristics of each region is a great first step in identifying the best place to live in Canada for you.
Canada is divided into 10 provinces and 3 territories, each offering something unique:
Territories: Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and Yukon.
Provinces: Ontario, Quebec, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, British Columbia, Alberta, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador.
Take the time to explore the climate, culture, job markets, and lifestyles of these areas. This exercise will give you a clearer idea of each region’s main features and help you narrow down your options based on your interests and priorities.
2. Can Your Migration Program Limit Where You Live in Canada?
When planning your move to Canada, it’s essential to manage the documentation required for your entry—whether as a student, worker, or permanent resident.
Start by checking if the migration program you’re using imposes any restrictions. Some programs may bind you to specific provinces or require a job offer, which can limit your options when choosing the best place to live in Canada.
For example:
- Working Holiday Program: This program gives you the freedom to settle in any province or territory across Canada.
- Atlantic Immigration Program: This program, however, is limited to the Atlantic provinces, such as Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador.
Understanding these requirements in advance will help you make informed decisions and align your plans with the flexibility—or limitations—of your chosen migration pathway.
3. The Role of a Job Offer in Choosing Your Location
If you’re moving to Canada for work and require a job offer, your priority should be securing employment first. You can start by researching the locations where you’d love to live and then applying to companies in those regions. Alternatively, you can apply to jobs across different areas of Canada and wait for an offer to determine where you’ll live.
That’s exactly what we did when we moved. I needed a job, and the opportunity came from Brampton, Ontario, so we relocated to accommodate living near that area.
For more detailed advice, check out our guide: How to Get a Job in Canada as a Newcomer and 11 Strategies to Improve Your Chance of Getting a Job in Canada.
If a job offer isn’t required, you’ll have the flexibility to explore other factors that influence your choice of the best place to live in Canada, such as lifestyle, weather, and proximity to attractions.
4. How Does Weather Impact Your Choice of the Place to Live in Canada?
When choosing the place to live in Canada, how much does weather matter to you? Your preference for certain climates can play a big role in deciding where to settle.
With climate change, seasons can be unpredictable—places that rarely saw snow may now experience snowstorms. That said, it’s still important to understand general weather patterns across Canada so you can be prepared.
- West Coast (e.g., British Columbia): Winters are milder, with less snow, but you’ll need to embrace the rain.
- Near the Great Lakes (e.g., Ontario, Quebec): Expect snow, though typically less than in northern regions.
- Northern Areas: Winters are harsher, with more snow and colder temperatures.
Considering your tolerance for rain, snow, and cold will help you narrow down your options and find a location that suits your lifestyle.
5. City Life vs. Small Town: What’s Best for You?
When deciding on the best place to live in Canada, one of the key factors to consider is whether you prefer the energy of a city or the tranquility of a small town.
- City Living: If you enjoy having everything close at hand—big supermarkets, shopping malls, entertainment options, and the vibrant movement of a bustling urban environment—a city might be the right choice for you. Some great examples include:
- Ontario: Toronto, Ottawa
- Quebec: Quebec City, Montreal
- Alberta: Calgary, Edmonton
- British Columbia: Victoria, Vancouver
- Saskatchewan: Saskatoon, Regina
- Nova Scotia: Halifax
- Small-Town Living: If you prefer calm, quiet surroundings, fewer people, and a slower pace, you’ll want to consider smaller towns or cities. Some examples are:
- Ontario: Niagara-on-the-Lake
- Alberta: Jasper
- British Columbia: Squamish
Your lifestyle preferences will play a big role in helping you choose the perfect balance between city convenience and small-town peace, bringing you closer to finding your best place to live in Canada.
6. How Your Work Experience Influences Your Decision
When deciding on the best place to live in Canada, how does your career or type of work factor into your choice? If you don’t need a job offer to move but have experience in certain industries, it’s wise to focus on provinces where finding work in your field is easier.
For example:
- Hospitality and Ski Jobs: Consider destinations like Banff in Alberta, known for its thriving tourism and ski industries.
- Finance: Cities with strong financial sectors, such as Toronto or Vancouver, might be ideal.
- Marine-Related Work: If your expertise is linked to the sea, explore opportunities in the Atlantic provinces like Nova Scotia or Newfoundland and Labrador.
Your career preferences and job opportunities can significantly impact where you choose to settle in Canada.
7. How Can Your Study Plans Help You Choose the Best Place to Live in Canada?
If you’re moving to Canada to study, choosing the best place to live in Canada becomes a lot easier. The key is to find a location close to your university or institution. Living nearby will save you time, reduce commuting costs, and make your transition to student life in Canada much smoother.
By focusing on proximity to your school, you can simplify your decision and start your journey with convenience and ease.
8. Living Near Tourist Attractions: Is It Right for You?
If you love taking pictures, traveling, or simply want to feel like you’re always on vacation, consider settling near the tourist attractions you’ve always dreamed of visiting. Choosing a location close to these spots can make your experiences more accessible without requiring a big travel budget.
For example, we absolutely love Niagara Falls. It’s one of the places we’ve visited the most since moving to Canada. Living just a two-hour bus ride (or even less by car) from this iconic site has made it easy for us to enjoy frequent trips there.
Proximity to tourist attractions can add a touch of adventure to your daily life and might just help you find the best place to live in Canada that aligns with your love for exploration.
9. How Can Permanent Residence Plans Help You Choose the Best Place to Live in Canada?
Are you planning to migrate permanently to a specific province in Canada? If so, it’s important to explore the available immigration programs. By aligning your initial move with your long-term goals, you can settle in a region that fits your plans for permanent residence.
For example, you might consider applying for Express Entry—a popular program for skilled workers. To learn more, check out our guide on How to Create an Express Entry Profile.
Choosing a location that aligns with your permanent residence pathway can make a big difference in finding the best place to live in Canada for your future.
10. Choosing a Location Based on Your Lifestyle
Are you someone who enjoys peace and quiet, or do you thrive in busy, crowded places filled with events and activities? Your lifestyle preferences can be a major factor in deciding the best place to live in Canada.
For example, quieter towns may suit those seeking a more relaxed pace, while larger cities are ideal for people who love a vibrant, bustling atmosphere. Reflecting on what makes you most comfortable will help you find the perfect match for your new home.
11. How Do Outdoor Activities Influence Your Choice of the Best Place to Live in Canada?
Do you enjoy running daily or have a dog that needs regular outdoor time? If so, choosing a city with plenty of parks and green spaces is an important factor when deciding on the best place to live in Canada.
In my experience, most places I’ve visited in Ontario offer lots of parks and outdoor activities, especially in the summer. One of my favorite cities for green spaces is Mississauga. We love it there because every day we can visit a different park, and the city is safe and family-friendly, with activities for everyone.
If you’re considering Mississauga, check out this collection of 14 parks and trails to visit with your family in Mississauga to explore what it has to offer and also 14 reasons to live in Mississauga.
12. How Language Impacts Where You Should Live
Did you know that Canada has two official languages: English and French? However, they’re not equally prevalent across all provinces, and this could influence your decision when choosing the best place to live in Canada.
If you’re more comfortable with French, I recommend focusing on the province of Quebec, where French is predominantly spoken. In contrast, English is more commonly used in most of the other provinces, making them a better fit for English speakers.
Considering your language preferences can help you feel more at home and connected to your new community.
13. How Does Your Budget Influence Your Choice of the Best Place to Live in Canada?
When deciding on the best place to live in Canada, your budget is a critical factor to consider. Housing costs can vary greatly depending on location—for example, whether you’re in the city center, near main streets, or close to public transportation like the subway.
Before making your decision, assess how much you can afford to spend on housing, whether it’s for a house, apartment, or even a basement suite. Let your budget guide your choice to ensure you find a place that meets your financial needs.
Conclusion: Finding the Best Place to Live in Canada
As I mentioned earlier, there’s no universal right or wrong answer to finding the best place to live in Canada—it all comes down to personal preferences, priorities, and circumstances. Whether it’s the weather, job opportunities, lifestyle, or budget, each factor plays a role in shaping your decision.
I hope this article has provided you with valuable insights and practical tips to guide your journey. Remember, Canada is a vast and diverse country, so take your time to explore and find the place that feels just right for you. Wherever you choose to settle, it’s the start of an exciting new chapter!