Best Places to Live in Canada (2026)
Canada is filled with beautiful places to live and work from coast to coast, yet there’s no doubt that affordability varies considerably between cities and even provinces.
The Globe and Mail recently published its list of the 100 most liveable cities. This list was compiled to help Canadians find communities that offer what they value most, including safety, housing costs, and other economic factors.
Of course, there are other important things to consider when choosing a place to call home, so we’ve also included some extra information on the top 10 cities below to help you decide where to move if you’re considering relocating in the new year.
Key Takeaways
- British Columbia dominates the top 10, with 6 cities making the list.
- The rankings are based on factors such as the local economy, housing costs, and community safety.
- The most affordable cities on the list for buying a home are Regina, Saskatchewan, and Quispamsis, New Brunswick.
#1 North Vancouver, British Columbia
Located on the north shore of Burrard Inlet, North Vancouver is known for its many hiking and skiing trails. It is close to top attractions, including Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and Grouse Mountain, which received the 2023 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice awards.
Best City for: Those who love the outdoors
Worst City for: Those who hate traffic
| Population | 166,867 |
| Median household income | $128,360 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.0% |
| Average home price | $1,534,509 |
| Average monthly rent | $2,366 |
| Estimated cost of living per month (single person, with rent) | $4,369 |
| Crime rate (incidents per 100,000) | 2,561 |
| Median age | 44 |
| Temperature high and low | 23c to 2c |
#2 West Vancouver, British Columbia
Located on the northern shore of English Bay, West Vancouver is one of the main ports serving the connection between mainland British Columbia and Vancouver Island. The area is great for those who love the outdoors, with Cypress Mountain nearby, yet still want the perks of urban living.
Best City for: Outdoor enthusiasts
Worst City for: Transportation and traffic
| Population | 48,031 |
| Median household income | $131,947 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.0% |
| Average home price | $3,126,810 |
| Average monthly rent | $2,366 |
| Estimated cost of living per month (single person, with rent) | $4,431 |
| Crime rate (incidents per 100,000) | 3,518 |
| Median age | 50.6 |
| Temperature high and low | 23c to 0c |
#3 Pitt Meadows, British Columbia
Between the Fraser River and the Golden Ears Mountains, Pitt Meadows is a growing, safe, and quiet area with a small-community feel that’s great for raising a family. The area has easy access to wilderness, parks, and markets and is a 40km drive from Vancouver.
Best City for: Rural living
Worst City for: Those who enjoy nightlife
| Population | 21,584 |
| Median household income | $126,408 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.0% |
| Average home price | $946,722 |
| Average monthly rent | $2,366 |
| Estimated cost of living per month (single person, with rent) | $4,184 |
| Crime rate (incidents per 100,000) | 4,262 |
| Median age | 42 |
| Temperature high and low | 26c to 0c |
#4 Ottawa, Ontario
Canada’s capital offers a stable job market anchored by the federal government, with arelatively affordable housing market compared to Toronto and Vancouver. Ottawa consistently ranks well for safety, education, and quality of life, making it especially appealing to families and professionals. Ottawa is a bit quieter than other major cities, but its long, cold winters are not for everyone.
Best City for: Public-sector careers and family life
Worst City for: Those seeking milder winters
| Population | 1,162,077 |
| Median household income | $119,990 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.0% |
| Average home price | $654,106 |
| Average monthly rent | $1,755 |
| Estimated cost of living per month (single person, with rent) | $3,709 |
| Crime rate (incidents per 100,000) | 2,698 |
| Median age | 39.2 |
| Temperature high and low | 26c to -14c |
#5 New Westminster, British Columbia
New Westminster is one of Metro Vancouver’s most historic cities, combining waterfront living with excellent transit access to downtown Vancouver. It offers a more urban feel than many nearby suburbs, with walkable neighbourhoods, local shops, and growing density. While more affordable than Vancouver, housing costs remain high, and congestion is a growing issue as the city continues to densify.
Best City for: Commuters and urban living
Worst City for: Affordable space and quiet living
| Population | 92,155 |
| Median household income | $99,573 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.0% |
| Average home price | $944,862 |
| Average monthly rent | $2,366 |
| Estimated cost of living per month (single person, with rent) | $4,003 |
| Crime rate (incidents per 100,000) | 4,786 |
| Median age | 41 |
| Temperature high and low | 23c to 1c |
#6 Oakville, Ontario
Oakville is part of the Greater Toronto Area, located between Toronto and Hamilton. This city is rapidly growing due to its proximity to other major commuter cities. The area has a low crime rate relative to its population, making it a great place to raise a family.
Best City for: Crime rates
Worst City for: Affordability
| Population | 241,921 |
| Median household income | $154,901 |
| Unemployment rate | 8.0% |
| Average home price | $1,439,744 |
| Average monthly rent | $2,051 |
| Estimated cost of living per month (single person, with rent) | $4,157 |
| Crime rate (incidents per 100,000) | 1,838 |
| Median age | 41.2 |
| Temperature high and low | 26c to -7c |
#7 Regina, Saskatchewan
Regina, the capital of Saskatchewan, is the province’s second-largest city. The city is one of the fastest-growing in Canadian, thanks to its relatively low cost of living and higher incomes. The city is known as the sunniest capital city in Canada, with an average of 322 days of sunshine a year.
Best City for: Affordable living
Worst City for: Those who love to travel
| Population | 256,847 |
| Median household income | $102,255 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% |
| Average home price | $341,746 |
| Average monthly rent | $1,480 |
| Estimated cost of living per month (single person, with rent) | $3,277 |
| Crime rate (incidents per 100,000) | 5,257 |
| Median age | 36.2 |
| Temperature high and low | 26c to -19c |
Red hot rates impacting your housing market experience?
With nesto, you can get a low rate with a 150-day hold.
#8 Quispamsis, New Brunswick
Located just outside Saint John, Quispamsis offers small-town living with some of the most affordable housing among Canada’s top-ranked cities. The community is known for its safety, family-friendly neighbourhoods, and access to nature. Career opportunities can be more limited, however, especially for specialized or corporate roles, making it better suited to remote workers or those employed locally.
Best City for: Affordable homeownership
Worst City for: Urban nightlife and entertainment
| Population | 20,430 |
| Median household income | $132,248 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.0% |
| Average home price | $412,029 |
| Average monthly rent | $1,320 |
| Estimated cost of living per month (single person, with rent) | $3,143 |
| Crime rate (incidents per 100,000) | 2,374 |
| Median age | 42.1 |
| Temperature high and low | 21c to -11c |
#9 Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver remains one of Canada’s most desirable cities thanks to its mild climate and natural beauty. It consistently ranks high for lifestyle, outdoor access, and amenities, but these benefits come at a steep cost. Housing affordability remains a major challenge, and high living expenses can make long-term ownership difficult without sufficient income or equity.
Best City for: Lifestyle and amenities
Worst City for: Housing affordability
| Population | 769,947 |
| Median household income | $97,844 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.0% |
| Average home price | $1,722,755 |
| Average monthly rent | $2,366 |
| Estimated cost of living per month (single person, with rent) | $4,341 |
| Crime rate (incidents per 100,000) | 5,289 |
| Median age | 39.3 |
| Temperature high and low | 22c to 2c |
#10 White Rock, British Columbia
White Rock is a coastal community known for its ocean views, relaxed pace, and walkable waterfront. It attracts retirees and downsizers seeking a quieter living without sacrificing access to big-city life, thanks to its proximity to Vancouver. While scenic and charming, the city has a higher median age and rising housing costs relative to local incomes.
Best City for: Retirement and coastal living
Worst City for: Young professionals
| Population | 24,782 |
| Median household income | $90,587 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.0% |
| Average home price | $1,245,433 |
| Average monthly rent | $2,366 |
| Estimated cost of living per month (single person, with rent) | $3,910 |
| Crime rate (incidents per 100,000) | 6,124 |
| Median age | 57.2 |
| Temperature high and low | 22c to 2c |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city has the lowest home prices for first-time buyers?
Among the top 10 cities, Quispamsis and Regina are the most affordable for first-time buyers looking to enter the housing market.
How can I determine how much mortgage I can afford?
An online mortgage affordability calculator is the easiest way to determine how much of a mortgage you can afford. You can use nesto’s affordability calculator and input your financial details, including your income, any co-applicant income, down payment, and any debts you may have, to give you an estimate of how much home you can afford.
When is the best time to look for a home?
If you’re looking for the best deal or want more negotiating power, the best time to look for a home is in the fall and winter months, once the traditional spring and summer housing frenzy finishes. However, if you want more inventory, spring and summer are typically peak seasons for home buying.
Final Thoughts
Canada, with its diverse landscapes and communities, offers something for everyone. However, the cost of living varies significantly across the country. The best Canadian city for you will depend on your lifestyle, preferences, and budget.
If you’re ready to start your homeownership journey, reach out to a nesto mortgage expert today.
Why Choose nesto
At nesto, our commission-free mortgage experts, certified in multiple provinces, provide exceptional advice and service that exceeds industry standards. Our mortgage experts are salaried employees who provide impartial guidance on mortgage options tailored to your needs and are evaluated based on client satisfaction and the quality of their advice. nesto aims to transform the mortgage industry by providing honest advice and competitive rates through a 100% digital, transparent, and seamless process.
nesto is on a mission to offer a positive, empowering and transparent property financing experience – simplified from start to finish.
Contact our licensed and knowledgeable mortgage experts to find your best mortgage rate in Canada.
Ready to get started?
In just a few clicks, you can see our current rates. Then apply for your mortgage online in minutes!
