From Vancouver's coastal living to Ontario's city pace and Nova Scotia’s maritime calm, this guide will help you create a shortlist of where to live in Canada based on lifestyle, affordability, connectivity... and weather. It also has a a handy checklist to help you choose the right province or city.
For many people, the idea of moving to Canada starts as a dream, snow-capped mountains, clean cities, friendly people and massive-wide-open spaces. Taking the next step and deciding where to live in Canada takes far more than a dream or a enjoyable getaway.
A short visit in summer might show Canada at its best, but winters can transform the experience completely especially to those who haven’t experiences the extremes of the climate throughout the year.
Cities like Toronto or Calgary feel very different when temperatures fall below –20°C and daylight hours are short. Similarly, that quiet coastal town in Nova Scotia might feel peaceful in June but incredibly isolated in February (or maybe that’s what you’re looking for!).
If you’re serious about relocating, plan several visits at different times of year. Explore cities, suburbs and smaller towns. Talk to locals about daily life, not just tourist highlights. Learn what the commute feels like, what heating bills are like in winter, and how accessible healthcare, schools, and transport really are.
Choosing the right region or city can make the difference between a smooth transition and a difficult adjustment. Canada is vast and varied, and the lifestyle, cost of living and climate can change dramatically from one province to the next and from one season to the next.
An additional factor is how to get around and how much you’ll need to get around Canada. Canada’s transport network is extensive but uneven, reflecting the country’s vast geography.
Major cities such as Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver have well-developed public transport systems, including metros, buses and commuter rail, making car-free living possible in urban cores.
Beyond these centres, however, public transport becomes limited. Smaller towns often rely on local bus routes or private vehicles for daily commuting. Intercity travel is dominated by air and road links rather than rail, as distances between regions can be enormous.
The national train network offers scenic journeys but limited coverage and slower travel times compared to flying.
Highways are well maintained and connect most cities and provinces, but winter driving demands preparation, with snow tyres, emergency supplies and awareness of weather alerts essential for safe travel.
The sections below highlight what to expect in Canada’s main regions and cities helping you narrow your search before you create your shortlist and schedule those crucial fact-finding trips.
Ontario is Canada’s most populous province and the country’s economic engine. Toronto is a global business and finance centre, while cities like Ottawa and Waterloo offer family-friendly living with strong job markets and excellent education systems.
Condos and townhouses in major cities; detached homes in suburbs and smaller towns like Kingston or London.
British Columbia combines natural beauty with modern city living. Vancouver, Victoria, and Kelowna attract professionals drawn to outdoor lifestyles and mild coastal weather. The trade-off is cost, ‘BC’ is one of Canada’s most expensive provinces.
Condos and apartments in urban centres; detached homes in suburban or island communities.
Famous for its wide skies and proximity to the Rockies, Alberta offers strong career opportunities, lower living costs and family-friendly cities. Calgary and Edmonton are thriving hubs with excellent transport links and a welcoming attitude toward newcomers.
Detached family homes and new-build communities offering space and value for money.
Distinctly different from the rest of Canada, Quebec has a strong French influence and a vibrant cultural scene. Montreal blends affordability and creativity, while Quebec City offers historic charm and a slower pace of life.
Historic apartments and townhouses in the city; detached homes in smaller communities.
Nova Scotia, part of Atlantic Canada, offers a coastal lifestyle and strong sense of community. Halifax provides a growing job market in healthcare, education, and technology, while smaller towns attract retirees and remote workers seeking tranquillity.
Detached homes, waterfront cottages, and period houses at modest prices compared to larger provinces.
Located in the heart of Canada, Manitoba offers affordability, stability, and a strong community spirit. Winnipeg provides access to culture, education, and outdoor living, all within a manageable size and budget.
Spacious detached homes and bungalows, often with large gardens and family-oriented layouts.
Decide what you want most from your move, whether that’s better career opportunities, lower living costs, access to nature or a specific community lifestyle. Your reasons will help narrow down the right provinces and cities for you.
Each province has its own strengths and challenges. Compare job markets, property prices, tax systems and healthcare access. Look at long-term growth, not just current popularity or incentives. Do not ignore the impact of the weather in different seasons…
Visit at different times of year before making a decision. Many newcomers underestimate how winter conditions, especially snow, ice and limited daylight can affect daily routines.
Canada’s scale means accessibility varies dramatically. Public transport is reliable in major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, but car ownership is almost essential elsewhere.
Intercity travel often means long drives or short flights, as rail networks are limited outside the main corridors. Before choosing an area, think about how easily you’ll reach work, schools, healthcare and airports.
Don’t focus solely on housing or weather. Consider utilities, insurance, groceries, fuel, and winter heating, all of which vary by region. Provinces also set their own income and sales tax rates, so a salary that looks attractive in one city might stretch further in another.
Speak to people who already live in your shortlisted areas. They can offer honest insights into commuting, community spirit and how it feels to settle in long term. Online expat groups and community forums can be invaluable sources of practical advice.
Spend at least a few weeks living like a local. Try public transport, visit supermarkets, explore neighbourhoods and see how easy it is to reach everyday essentials. A short-term rental is often the best way to test whether a place truly feels right.
