If you’re thinking of moving to Canada, you’re not alone. With a strong economy, high quality of life, world-class healthcare and pro-immigration policies, Canada attracts expats from all over the world. But in such an expansive and diverse country, the question has to be asked: What are the best places to move to in Canada?
If you’re relocating for work, seeking a better work-life balance, or simply looking for a new adventure, choosing the right location can make all the difference. As global mobility specialists, we’ve supported countless professionals and businesses making strategic and smooth moves across the whole country of Canada. In this guide, we’ll break down the top cities and regions that combine a fantastic lifestyle with career opportunities.
Consider living in these Canadian cities
Canada is vast and diverse, with each city and province offering something different. One area might appeal to you more than others, depending on your career, family needs, lifestyle and so on. From exciting and fast-paced business hubs like Vancouver and Toronto to laid-back and charming coastal cities like Halifax, there is more than one life on offer in Canada.
So, whether you’re relocating alone, with a partner, or with the whole family in tow, there’s bound to be somewhere new and fantastic for you to relocate to in Canada. Let’s explore.
Toronto, Ontario
Toronto is the largest city in Canada, as well as a global centre for media, tech, business services and finance. Thanks to its highly diverse population, thriving job market and vibrant appeal, Toronto is a top destination for professionals coming to Canada.
The city offers fantastic infrastructure, strong public transport and plenty of cultural and entertainment experiences. While the cost of living tends to be on the higher side, salaries are competitive and there’s plenty of support for newcomers through community programmes and professional networks.
Ideal for: Ambitious professionals, international assignments, families seeking diversity and top schools.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver is consistently placed in lists of the most livable cities in the world, thanks to a blend of access to nature and urban conveniences. The city is a major hub for a variety of industries, including tech, film, tourism and green energy. As such, it’s constantly attracting new talent.
There is much to love about Vancouver, including a milder climate than many other regions of Canada, as well as beautiful mountain and coastal views, alongside an inclusive, modern culture. Housing costs are high, but many expats and relocating professionals value the lifestyle balance and the clean living on offer in the city.
Ideal for: Tech professionals, creatives, remote workers, and nature lovers.
Calgary, Alberta
Calgary is known globally for its affordable lifestyle and entrepreneurial spirit. The city also offers fantastic career opportunities within the finance, energy and engineering sectors. Quality of life in the area is high, with Calgary boasting one of the highest average household incomes in Canada, combined with lower provincial taxes as well as more affordable housing than in other cities.
The city is perfect for those after career growth and a family-friendly atmosphere. There’s a strong public school system, plenty of outdoor green spaces to enjoy, as well as brilliant proximity to the Rockies for some weekend exploring.
Ideal for: Skilled tradespeople, engineers, families, and professionals in the energy sector.
Ottawa, Ontario
Welcome to the capital of Canada! More than just a government town, Ottawa offers a stable economy, world-class healthcare and a high quality of life. The city is home to an emerging tech scene, as well as international embassies and some of Canada’s best education and research institutions.
Ottawa is proud of its bilingual culture, favouring both English and French. There are also clean streets and a gentle pace of living when you compare it to other major cities. This makes it a great city for families and those seeking a safe, community-focused environment.
Ideal for: Public sector professionals, researchers, families, and bilingual workers.
Montreal, Quebec
If you’re looking for a culturally rich and dynamic city known for buzzing nightlife, creativity and European vibes, look no further than Montreal. The city is a major hub for growing industries, like AI, gaming, academia and aerospace, meaning it attracts brilliant minds from across the globe.
Montreal offers lower living costs in comparison to other large cities in Canada, however, newcomers should be aware of Quebec’s French language laws. These can impact workplace integration, depending on the sector. With that in mind, there are plenty of available roles for bilingual individuals, and expats who settle here tend to thrive.
Ideal for: Bilingual professionals, creatives, researchers, and tech workers.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Halifax is quickly growing in popularity as a relocation destination, especially for remote workers and families looking for a peaceful and relaxed lifestyle. As a coastal city with a strong sense of community, there are growing opportunities in sectors including finance, tech and ocean-related industries. Halifax appeals to many, thanks to its significantly lower housing costs compared to other areas of Canada.
While the pace of life on offer in Halifax is much slower and more laid-back, the city is modern and well-connected through direct flights to major airports and offers families fantastic local schools.
Ideal for: Remote professionals, families, and those seeking affordability and coastal living.
Quebec City, Quebec
Oozing with history and European charm, Quebec City offers a high standard of living with the perk of a much lower cost than most other urban hubs in Canada. There is a strong economy, especially within healthcare, public administration, and manufacturing. It’s ideal for those keen to immerse themselves in a rich and dynamic French-speaking culture.
While Quebec City is most suited to French speakers or those open to learning the language, the city’s work-life balance and vibrant lifestyle make it a strong and appealing option for those seeking long-term relocation.
Ideal for: French-speaking professionals, public sector employees, and families seeking cultural immersion.
Waterloo, Ontario
Sometimes known as Canada’s Silicon Valley, Waterloo is a hot destination for tech talent, start-up founders and researchers. It hosts world-class institutions, including the University of Waterloo, alongside a booming innovation ecosystem, with plenty of companies in the software, robotics and fintech sectors.
Waterloo offers a more affordable lifestyle than Toronto, all the while maintaining access to a strong job market. It’s also only a 90-minute drive away from Toronto, so some people do choose to commute. There’s a lively student population and an exciting business environment, making Waterloo popular with those looking to find growth and opportunity outside of big-city noise.
Ideal for: STEM professionals, young professionals, start-up entrepreneurs, and recent graduates.
If a relocation to Canada is on the horizon for you, there’s still plenty of research to do. Discover the cost of living in Canada and speak to our team of experts to help start planning your big move.
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