Choosing the right place to live in Canada can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re moving from another country or planning to retire abroad. Canada is huge, and each province has its own climate, cost of living, and lifestyle. After analyzing the latest trends, housing updates, expat preferences, and retirement benefits, here are the ten best places to live in Canada in 2026 — explained in a simple, honest way that people actually want to read.
Victoria is one of those cities where life just feels calmer. Located on Vancouver Island, it offers a mild climate (by Canadian standards), coastal scenery, walkable neighbourhoods, and a strong healthcare system — making it especially popular with retirees.
Why people love living here:
The warmest winters in Canada
Easy-access healthcare and plenty of senior-friendly services
Stunning nature: beaches, gardens, hiking trails
Smaller, quieter city compared to Vancouver
Cost of living:
Victoria is not cheap, but still more affordable than Vancouver. Many retirees choose condo living or smaller suburban neighbourhoods to manage housing expenses.
Best areas to live:
Oak Bay – upscale, quiet, beautiful waterfront homes
James Bay – walkable, close to the inner harbour
Saanich – suburban, greener, and family-friendly
- Best for: Mild weather, peaceful lifestyle, relaxed retirement living
- Helpful link: Tourism Victoria – official site (great for learning about neighbourhoods, events, city vibes)
2. Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver is one of the most multicultural and livable cities in the world. If you love the idea of being close to mountains and the ocean — while still having access to urban life — Vancouver is unbeatable.
Why expats choose Vancouver:
Huge global expat community
Outdoor lifestyle: beaches, skiing, hiking, biking
Top-tier healthcare facilities
More mild weather than most of Canada
Cost of living:
Let’s be honest — Vancouver is expensive. Housing prices are high, and rent can be challenging for newcomers. Many expats choose nearby areas like Burnaby, Coquitlam, or North Vancouver for better affordability.
Best areas to live:
Kitsilano – youthful, beachside lifestyle
Mount Pleasant – artsy, trendy, walkable
North Vancouver – quieter, nature-oriented
- Helpful link: Destination Vancouver – official visitors and residents guide
3. Toronto, Ontario
Toronto is Canada’s largest and most diverse city — home to people from 200+ nationalities. If you want strong job opportunities, big-city convenience, global cuisine, and endless cultural events, Toronto is the place to be.
Why Toronto stands out:
Strong job market (finance, tech, healthcare, education)
Excellent healthcare and specialist treatment options
Huge range of communities — easy to find cultural comfort
Fantastic transit, airports, and services
Cost of living:
Toronto is expensive, especially downtown. Many newcomers choose Scarborough, Etobicoke, or North York for more budget-friendly options.
Best areas to live:
The Annex – student-friendly, cultural, vibrant
Danforth – safe, family-friendly, great restaurants
Etobicoke – quieter suburban feel with city access
- Best for: Career-driven expats, diverse communities, world-class services
- Helpful link: City of Toronto – Newcomer Resources
4. Calgary, Alberta
Calgary offers one of the best quality-of-life balances in Canada. It’s cleaner, more affordable, and more spacious than Vancouver or Toronto — plus it’s just an hour from the Rocky Mountains.
Why people move to Calgary:
Lower housing costs compared to big cities
Very clean, safe, and well-planned
Strong job market in energy, tech, engineering, and healthcare
Lots of sunshine (over 300 days per year!)
Cost of living:
Your money stretches further in Calgary. Houses are larger, cheaper, and easier to buy or rent. Utilities can be higher in winter, but overall expenses stay manageable.
Best areas to live:
Beltline – great for young professionals
Signal Hill – established, family-friendly
Aspen Woods – upscale suburban living
- Best for: Affordable living, job opportunities, and access to the Rocky Mountains
- Helpful link: City of Calgary – Living in Calgary Guide
5. Halifax, Nova Scotia
If you want ocean views, a slower pace, and a community-driven lifestyle, Halifax is a beautiful choice. It’s growing quickly and has become a favourite among retirees and relaxed-lifestyle expats.
Why Halifax is popular in 2025:
More affordable than Vancouver/Toronto
Coastal climate and ocean views
Strong healthcare system for a smaller city
Warm, welcoming community atmosphere
Cost of living:
Not as cheap as it used to be, but still significantly more affordable than major Canadian cities. Rent and home prices are reasonable, especially in suburban areas.
Best areas to live:
South End – historic, walkable, universities
Bedford – quiet, family-friendly
Downtown Halifax – waterfront, lively, scenic
- Best for: Coastal living, friendly communities, more affordable lifestyle
- Helpful link: Halifax Regional Municipality – Official Website
6. Ottawa, Ontario
Ottawa often gets overshadowed by Toronto and Montreal, but it’s one of the most balanced cities to live in. As Canada’s capital, it offers clean streets, safe neighbourhoods, bilingual communities, and strong public services.
Why Ottawa is great:
One of the safest major cities in Canada
Excellent healthcare and government services
Good for families and retirees
Beautiful rivers, parks, and bike paths
More affordable than Toronto
Cost of living:
Housing is still high, but you generally get more space for your money. Suburb areas like Kanata or Barrhaven offer modern homes at reasonable prices.
Best areas to live:
The Glebe – charming, walkable
Kanata – tech hub, family-friendly
Orleans – suburban, quiet
- Best for: Safe neighbourhoods, family-friendly living, stable jobs, peaceful retirement
- Helpful link: City of Ottawa – Official Website
7. Kelowna, British Columbia
Kelowna feels like a small, sunny paradise. Located in BC’s Okanagan Valley, it’s perfect for retirees who want warmer summers, lake living, vineyards, and a peaceful community.
Why people love Kelowna:
Excellent weather — hot summers, mild winters
Beautiful lake views and wineries
Strong healthcare and senior-friendly services
More affordable than Vancouver (but rising)
Cost of living:
Kelowna is more expensive than most small cities but cheaper than Vancouver or Victoria. Condos and townhouses are popular among expats and retirees.
Best areas to live:
Upper Mission – upscale and scenic
Glenmore – convenient, family-friendly
Downtown Kelowna – modern condos, walkable
- Best for: Retirees, warm weather, lakes, wine country, relaxed lifestyle
- Helpful link: Tourism Kelowna – Official Site
8. Québec City, Québec
Québec City feels like a slice of Europe in North America. With cobblestone streets, French-speaking communities, and a historic old town, it’s a unique place to live.
Why it’s ideal for expats & retirees:
Affordable cost of living compared to major Canadian cities
Extremely safe and community-focused
Beautiful architecture and culture
Excellent healthcare system
Slower, relaxed pace of life
Cost of living:
One of the most affordable major cities in Canada. Rent, groceries, and general expenses are significantly lower than in Vancouver or Toronto.
Best areas to live:
Old Québec – historic, charming
Sainte-Foy – modern, convenient
Limoilou – artistic, up-and-coming
- Best for: European charm, very affordable living, culture, peaceful retirement
- Helpful link: Québec City Tourism – Official Site
9. Winnipeg, Manitoba
Winnipeg is one of the most affordable big cities in Canada. If budget matters and you want an easier lifestyle with friendly neighbourhoods, this is a solid choice.
Why people move to Winnipeg:
Very affordable housing
Strong arts and cultural scene
Good job opportunities in healthcare, education, and manufacturing
Quiet, family-friendly communities
Easy flights to major Canadian cities
Cost of living:
One of the lowest in Canada — housing prices are especially attractive for new immigrants.
Best areas to live:
River Heights – safe, central
Tuxedo – upscale, quiet
St. Boniface – historic French area
- Best for: Affordability, stable jobs, central location, friendly communities
- Helpful link: Tourism Winnipeg – Official Site
10. St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador
If you dream of colourful houses, ocean cliffs, friendly neighbours, and slow-paced living, St. John’s is a hidden gem. It’s one of the most underrated places to live in Canada.
Why St. John’s stands out:
Unique coastal charm
Very friendly, tight-knit community
Affordable homes and rent
Great for retirees who want a quieter, scenic life
Cool, ocean-influenced climate
Cost of living:
Generally affordable — housing, utilities, and daily expenses are lower than in most Canadian cities.
Best areas to live:
Downtown St. John’s – colourful, historic
Mount Pearl – suburban, convenient
Paradise – modern and family-friendly
- Best for: Affordable coastal living, retirees, easy-going lifestyle, strong community
- Helpful link: Destination St. John’s – Official Tourism Site
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best place to live in Canada really comes down to what kind of lifestyle you want. Some people prefer the calm, ocean-filled days of Victoria or Halifax, while others want the big-city energy of Toronto or the mountain views in Vancouver and Calgary. What makes Canada special is that it offers something for everyone — from peaceful retirement destinations to lively multicultural hubs perfect for expats starting a new chapter.
If you take the time to understand the local cost of living, healthcare options, climate, and community vibe, it becomes much easier to find a place that truly feels like home. Whether you’re looking for affordability, career opportunities, coastal scenery, or quiet neighbourhoods, the cities listed in this guide are some of the most welcoming and comfortable places to settle in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the most affordable city in Canada for expats and retirees?
Winnipeg, Halifax, and St. John’s are among the most affordable choices. They offer lower housing costs, cheaper daily expenses, and a slower, more relaxed lifestyle — perfect for retirees or anyone moving on a budget.
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2. Which city has the mildest weather in Canada?
Victoria and parts of Vancouver have the mildest winters in the country. These cities rarely see extreme cold, making them popular with retirees who prefer a gentler climate.
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3. Is healthcare free for newcomers?
Canada’s public healthcare system is free for residents, but newcomers may face a waiting period depending on the province. Many expats use private insurance for the first few months until provincial coverage begins.
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4. What is the best city for career opportunities?
Toronto remains the top city for jobs, especially in tech, finance, healthcare, and business. Vancouver and Calgary are also strong options, depending on your field.
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5. Is Canada a good place to retire long-term?
Yes. Canada offers excellent healthcare, safe communities, clean cities, and a very high quality of life. Retirees especially love Victoria, Kelowna, Halifax, and Vancouver Island for their peaceful environment and nature-filled lifestyle.
