Work & Settle Abroad | Permanent Resident | Best of

Best Places in Canada To Live

Dreaming of a life surrounded by maple trees, friendly faces, and a mix of urban charm and natural beauty?

Look no further than Canada, a rising star in the global rankings for the most liveable cities. While European and Scandinavian destinations often dominate headlines, Canada has stealthily climbed the ranks, making it a top contender for those seeking a new home.

In the latest Economist Intelligence Unit index, Canada proudly secured three spots in the top 10, with Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto showcasing the country's commitment to providing an exceptional quality of life.

[Read More: Canada Such A Favorite Destination For Immigrants]

1. Vancouver - Natures Urban Wonderland

On the scenic west coast, Vancouver stands out as Canada's most liveable city, securing the 5th spot on the global index. Samantha Falk, a Vancouver resident, praises the city's unique combination of mountains and ocean. Vancouverites, proud of their sushi scene and outdoor lifestyle, embrace nature with spots like Stanley Park and the challenging Grouse Grind trail. Vancouver's entrepreneurial spirit and diverse community contribute to a positive environment where individuals thrive both personally and professionally.
 
Quirky Tip: Feeling adventurous? Hike the Grouse Grind, nature's "Stairmaster," for a breathtaking payoff at the top.
 
Vancouver's unique charm doesn't just lie in its natural beauty; it's a city that fosters a sense of community. Jane Stoller, another Vancouver resident and founder of Organized Jane, a life-business organizing service, notes, "Lending a hand at schools [to] supporting seniors to uplifting business owners, Canadians are known for their friendly and supportive nature." This sense of camaraderie creates an atmosphere where individuals can find fulfillment both in their personal and professional lives.
 
The city's investment in public transportation and transit systems also stands out. Falk, who has lived in Montreal, Calgary, and Toronto, didn't get her driver's license until she was 24. A friend of hers is finally getting his at 53 simply because they haven't needed a car to get around.

This emphasis on accessibility makes navigating Vancouver and its big cities a breeze, contributing to the overall high quality of life.

2. Calgary - Where Big City Amenities Meet Small-Town Charm

Nestled near the Rocky Mountains, Calgary tied for 7th place on the global index, showcasing its perfect stability score and unique charm. Lora Pope, a travel blogger and Calgary resident highlights the friendly locals, community-oriented mindset, and vibrant cultural scene. Calgary's affordability, lucrative oil and gas industry, and the annual Calgary Stampede make it an attractive destination for those seeking a high quality of life without the hefty price tag.
 
Quirky Tip: Trade your business suit for a Calgary Flames jersey during hockey season; it's a 10-day party and rodeo!
 
Calgary's allure goes beyond its economic opportunities. Pope emphasizes the city's diversity, making it the third-most diverse in Canada with more than 240 ethnic origins and 165 languages. The city's commitment to inclusivity is reflected in its cultural festivals, trendy eateries, and amazing nightlife. The Calgary Stampede, a 10-day extravaganza starting the first Friday of July, serves as a testament to the city's vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Locals and visitors from around the world come together to celebrate with Western gear, turning the city into a lively, cowboy-themed party and the best neighborhoods in Calgary.
 
Calgary's extensive paved pathway and bikeway network, spanning more than 1,000km, further enhance the quality of life. Pope shares her experience, "My bike rides along these paths have led me to discover some of the city's hidden gems, provided spectacular views and given me a daily dose of the outdoors that I crave." Even in winter, Calgary city doesn't fall short on activities, from skiing and tubing to ice biking, leveraging infrastructure from its 1988 Winter Olympics hosting.

3. Toronto - Diversity, Safety, and Winter-Proof Transit

Toronto clinched the 9th spot on the global index making it one of the best cities to live in Canada. Hoang Anh Le, a Toronto blogger, commends the city's perfect stability score and more than 1,500 parks that keep residents connected to the outdoors. Toronto's human-centered infrastructure, including the PATH, an underground walkway, makes navigating the city in winter a breeze. With a diverse community, a thriving tech scene, and respect for different ways of life, Toronto offers a vibrant hub for both work and play.
 
Quirky Tip: Take a stroll through the PATH – it's like a secret city beneath the city!
 
Toronto's success in providing a high quality of life is attributed to its unique blend of big-city vibes and outdoor accessibility. Kyra Marskell, a resident, appreciates the human-centered infrastructure that makes life easier compared to other big cities. Toronto is considerately the best city in Canada to live and work. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), though not flawless, provides integrated transit options, most of which come within four minutes. The city also offers rental bikes throughout, providing a green-friendly commuting option.

[Read More: 7 Occupations in Demand in Canada Post-Covid]
 
Toronto's diversity is a standout feature, with more than 51% of its residents born outside of Canada. Marcus Räder, CEO and co-founder of software company Hostaway, notes, "It's the only major Western city where the visible [non-white] minority is the majority." 

The city embraces multiculturalism, offering residents a chance to experience various cultures and languages. This diversity enriches the community through a variety of festivals, cuisines at every price point, and a respect for sharing new ideas and ways of living.
 
Toronto has also emerged as a significant tech hub, ranking as North America's third-largest, just behind New York City and Silicon Valley. Migrating to Toronto with family will be a jaw-dropping experience. The city's entrepreneurial spirit, paired with its diverse community, creates an environment where individuals gain exposure to different cultures and backgrounds.

 Jonathan Azouri, CEO and co-founder of CatchCorner, an app to book sports facilities, notes, "It's interesting getting to learn cultural habits about people's work and personal lives. It's almost as if you gain a sense of international work-life experience without needing to leave the city."

Canadas Recipe for Livability

Beyond the glittering skylines of Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto, Canada's allure lies in its progressive politics, universal healthcare, and a strong sense of community. Residents like Jane Stoller from Vancouver emphasize that Canadians are known for their friendly and supportive nature, creating a positive environment where individuals can thrive both personally and professionally.
 
Canada's commitment to public healthcare stands out as a major factor contributing to its high quality of life. Vancouver resident Samantha Falk expresses her gratitude, "Our progressive politics and universal healthcare make Canada a wonderful place to live. I cannot imagine living in a country where I have to worry about being able to afford to see a doctor or take my child to the hospital, or risk bankruptcy by having cancer." This sentiment echoes across the nation, as the focus on accessible healthcare allows residents to live with peace of mind.
 
The sense of care extends beyond politics, leading to a feeling of community that improves livability both at work and home. Jane Stoller notes, "Lending a hand at schools [to] supporting seniors to uplifting business owners, Canadians are known for their friendly and supportive nature. This sense of camaraderie fosters a positive environment where individuals can thrive and find fulfillment in both their personal and professional lives."

(Read More: How to move to Canada from USA? check out the 10 possible ways!)

The Great Outdoors: A National Passion

What truly sets Canada apart is its unwavering connection to the outdoors. From the ravine system and beaches in Toronto to Mont Royal in Montreal and Stanley Park in Vancouver, nature is seamlessly woven into the fabric of Canadian city design. Samantha Falk sums it up perfectly: "We are outdoor people!" This commitment to nature extends beyond the big cities, reflecting its significance to all residents.
 
Spread across the world's second-largest country (by landmass), each of the three Canadian cities has its unique appeal. Samantha Falk, who has also lived in Montreal, Calgary, and Toronto, attests to the country's outdoor culture. She notes, "All three [of the most liveable] cities – like so many cities in Canada – are located close to nature and have also incorporated it into their city design."

This incorporation of nature into city planning is evident in the ravine system and beaches in Toronto, Mont-Royal and tree-lined streets in Montreal, and Vancouver's iconic Stanley Park considered one of the world's best examples of urban nature.
 
This focus on nature doesn't end in the big cities; it remains a prominent feature across the vast expanse of the world's second-largest country. Samantha Falk proudly states, "We are outdoor people!" The commitment to outdoor activities, whether it's hiking, skiing, or biking, mirrors the importance of the wilderness to residents.

This national passion for the great outdoors is a testament to Canada's unique identity and adds to the overall appeal for newcomers seeking a balanced and active lifestyle.
 

Conclusion

In the vast expanse of Canada, finding your ideal spot can be an exciting adventure. Whether you opt for the urban buzz of Toronto, the nature-centric lifestyle in Vancouver or the cultural haven of Montreal, each city has its unique charm. And if you're feeling more adventurous, exploring international options like Waterloo, Edmonton, or Quebec immigration  could enrich the experience. 
So, pack your bags, bring your quirkiest winter gear, and get ready to say "sorry" like a true Canadian. Your Canadian dream awaits, eh!

FAQS - Frequently Asked Questions for Best Places in Canada

Which part of Canada is beautiful?

Banff is one of Canada's most beautiful national parks; whether you visit in summer or winter, you're sure to be dazzled by the destination's mountains, turquoise lakes (including the iconic Lake Louise), cascading waterfalls, and lush pine forests.

Which part of Canada is popular?

Vancouver, British Columbia is one of the most popular destinations for newcomers in Canada, in part because of its mild climate. Winters in British Columbia tend to be warmer (and wetter) than most other provinces in Canada.

Which city is best for PR in Canada?

Manitoba is one of the best provinces in Canada for PR for international students. It has a lot to offer in terms of education, culture, and opportunities. The province is home to many top universities, such as the University of Manitoba and the University of Winnipeg.

Where do most Indians live in Canada?

Canada contains the world's seventh-largest Indian diaspora. The highest concentrations of Indo-Canadians are found in the provinces of Ontario and British Columbia, followed by growing communities in Alberta and Quebec as well, with the majority of them being foreign-born.