As over 20% of Canada’s population will be over 65 or older by 2030, many will be considering where to live in retirement. Some will age in place, staying in their family homes during retirement, while others will downsize and choose another locale to live out their golden years. Moreover, retirement expenses are a major factor influencing where retirees choose to live, as costs and living expenses can vary significantly across different regions.
However, moving in retirement is a big decision, with many factors in play. Most retired Canadians want to live in an affordable, walkable community with strong healthcare, but where are the best places to retire in Canada? By comparing multiple factors, we’ve found cities and regions where a comfortable retirement is achievable.
Key Takeaways
- New Brunswick is an affordable place to retire, with Saint John, Fredericton, and Moncton taking the top spots
- Smaller Ontario cities make great places to retire, as they are often safer and more affordable than major cities and offer a more relaxed lifestyle
- Cities with large retiree populations make great retirement destinations as they boast specialized senior centres and 55+ lifestyle communities
How We Ranked the Best Places to Retire in Canada
To find the best and affordable places to retire in Canada, we analyzed 38 cities and regions across the country. Each city was scored on a scale of 1 to 38 across eight weighted factors, including affordability, health, weather, safety, and proximity to amenities. Using this data, we identified the best places to retire in Canada.
Ranking Factors and Weighting
- Age Characteristics (25%) – Percentage of the population 65 years and older, according to Statistics Canada
- Healthcare Access (20%) – Percentage of the provincial population with access to a regular health care provider, according to Statistics Canada
- Cost of Living (15%) – Cost of living index, according to areavibes.com, which includes goods and services, groceries, health care, housing, transportation, and utilities
- Home Price (10%) – Composite benchmark home prices according to the Canadian Real Estate Association in December 2025
- Crime Rate (10%) – Crime severity index according to Statistics Canada
- Walkability (10%) – Walk score according to walkscore.com. A high walk score indicates that neighbourhood amenities are close by
- Sunshine (5%) – Average number of sunny days per year, according to weatherstats.ca
- Freezing Days (5%) – Average number of days at or below 0 °C according to weatherstats.ca
The 10 Best Places to Retire in Canada in 2026
There’s a lot of research that goes into finding a new town to live out your golden years. There’s a need to live somewhere safe, but without an active income, this place needs to be affordable. With that in mind, here are the best places to retire in Canada.
Saint John, NB
- Cost of living: 16% lower than the national average
- Benchmark average home price: $341,100 (December 2025)
- Percentage of population over age 65: 20.6% (2021 Census)
All things considered, Saint John, New Brunswick, is one of the best places to retire in Canada. Saint John boasts one of the lowest benchmark average home prices on our list, and the cost of living is affordable compared to the national average, meaning you can afford to live there, even on a smaller income.
Besides affordability, Saint John boasts excellent access to natural beauty, like the world-famous Bay of Fundy, trails, and beaches. Although Saint John is a small city of over 63,000 people, the area offers two hospitals and numerous medical clinics. In addition, you’ll find all of the amenities you need for an active retirement all year round, as the Canada Games Aquatic Centre offers a pool, a gym, and low-impact fitness classes.
Moncton, NB
- Cost of living: 17% lower than the national average
- Benchmark average home price: $381,800 (December 2025)
- Percentage of population over age 65: 19.4% (2021 Census)
As the most populous city in New Brunswick, Moncton is a great choice for retirees who want access to city amenities while living in an affordable area. The city also boasts several hospitals and clinics, as well as retirement communities and assisted living facilities.
This bilingual city acts as the provincial hub for entertainment and shopping. Additionally, for retirees looking to travel, the Greater Moncton International Airport offers flights to Canadian and international destinations.
Fredericton, NB
- Cost of living: 15% lower than the national average
- Benchmark average home price: $351,200 (December 2025)
- Percentage of population over age 65: 19.4% (2021 Census)
Fredericton is often named as one of Canada’s most livable cities, and it’s not hard to see why. This small city is safe and affordable, with a benchmark home price nearly 47% below the national average in December 2025.
Fredericton is an excellent choice for creatives and music lovers, as the city is home to several festivals, events, and performance spaces, including the Fredericton Playhouse, the Harvest Music Festival, and the NB Spirits Festival. Moreover, Fredericton boasts abundant parks, trails, and green spaces for those who want to stay active.
Kingston, ON
- Cost of living: 12% lower than the national average
- Benchmark average home price: $527,600 (December 2025)
- Percentage of population over age 65: 21.4% (2021 Census)
There are many reasons to retire in Kingston, Ontario, which seamlessly blends the benefits of living in a close-knit community with the advantages of urban living. The cost of living and real estate prices in Kingston are lower than the national average, which means your dollar stretches further.
For lifelong learners, Kingston is home to Queen’s University, and its Ever Scholar program offers a series of free courses taught by subject-matter experts. Additionally, the region boasts a vibrant arts scene, featuring 24 museums, art galleries, and historic sites to enjoy.
Simcoe, ON
- Cost of living: 8% lower than the national average
- Benchmark average home price: $565,800 (December 2025)
- Percentage of population over age 65: 19.9% (2021 Census)
For retirees looking for a rural place to retire, Simcoe and District offers affordable homes and a lower-than-average cost of living. As the largest town in Norfolk County, Simcoe offers plenty of recreation opportunities, including the Simcoe Seniors’ Centre. In the warm months, residents head to nearby beaches like Port Dover Beach and Turkey Point Beach.
Tillsonburg, ON
- Cost of living: 10% lower than the national average
- Benchmark average home price: $578,300 (December 2025)
- Percentage of population over age 65: 28.8% (2021 Census)
Tillsonburg is an excellent option for retirees looking for a quiet, affordable spot just 45 minutes outside London, Ontario. With close to one-third of the population over the age of 65, you’ll likely have plenty of opportunities to meet new people with similar interests. For instance, the Tillsonburg Senior Centre offers fitness classes, games, art and craft groups, bingo, and more for members aged 50 or older.
Tillsonburg boasts established 55+ communities like Hickory Hills and Baldwin Place. The population is expected to grow by 24.6% by 2035, as more people choose to make Tillsonburg their home.
Cobourg, ON
- Cost of living: 6% lower than the national average
- Benchmark average home price: $647,700 (December 2025)
- Percentage of population over age 65: 29.1 (2021 Census)
Cobourg and Northumberland County are another excellent choice for retirees in Canada. Traditionally known as a vacation destination, located on the shores of Lake Ontario, Cobourg boasts a popular sandy beach at Victoria Park, as well as local restaurants and shops. However, retirees can enjoy all the community has to offer year-round, as this area boasts the fewest freezing days on our top 10 list.
Belleville & Quinte, ON
- Cost of living: 11% lower than the national average
- Benchmark average home price: $490,500 (December 2025)
- Percentage of population over age 65: 22.7% (2021 Census)
As one of the cheapest areas in southern Ontario, Belleville and Quinte are affordable places to retire in Ontario. This area boasts retirement residences, seniors’ centres, and activities especially for 50+ residents.
Belleville offers a blend of small-town charm and urban amenities. For instance, residents have easy access to amazing beaches and trails, as well as a state-of-the-art recreation facility and the opportunity to cheer on the Belleville Senators AHL team.
Peterborough, ON
- Cost of living: 8% lower than the national average
- Benchmark average home price: $565,900 (December 2025)
- Percentage of population over age 65: 25.7% (2021 Census)
Known as the gateway to the Kawarthas cottage country, it’s no surprise that many Canadians retire to the Peterborough area. Here, homes, or year-round cottages, can be found for an average price of $565,900, 40% cheaper than nearby Toronto.
Moving out of Toronto doesn’t have to mean missing out on fun things to do. Peterborough boasts museums and galleries, festivals and events, parks, restaurants, and live performances. Moreover, there are two facilities devoted solely to seniors: Activity Haven and Maple Ridge Recreation, which provide opportunities to socialize, stay active, and learn new things.
Sudbury, ON
- Cost of living: 11% lower than the national average
- Benchmark average home price: $494,000 (December 2025)
- Percentage of population over age 65: 21.2% (2021 Census)
Sudbury is the 10th best place to retire in Canada, thanks to its affordable real estate and low cost of living. This small city is considered very walkable and offers extensive trails and boardwalks for staying active, not to mention its beautiful scenery and 330 lakes. Moreover, the Parkside Centre is an excellent place for people over 50 to meet new people and learn new skills.
As the hub for health care and wellness in Northern Ontario, Sudbury residents have excellent access to a network of health care professionals.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Ideal Retirement City
Affordability and Cost of Living
Cost of living for retirees is an essential factor to consider when choosing where to live out your retirement years. After all, a city may have great amenities and weather, but if you can’t afford to live there, that won’t matter. Not only should you consider housing prices, property taxes, and rent, but also daily living costs like groceries.
Access to Healthcare and Senior Services
Many seniors require more access to healthcare services than younger Canadians, so it makes sense to prioritize access to doctors when considering the best places to retire. In addition, access to comprehensive health services, including long-term care facilities, is a key consideration for retirees.
Climate, Weather, and Year-Round Comfort
Weather can affect your quality of life, especially in your retirement years. Many retirees seek out locations with a mild or moderate climate for year-round comfort. You can compare different cities by average temperature, snowfall and precipitation, sunshine, or other factors.
Safety, Crime Rates, and Community Well-Being
Many retirees are looking for safe places to retire. After all, you want to feel safe going for a walk or running errands. Consider the crime rates in each city and neighbourhood before you choose a place to live. Moreover, a strong sense of community and well-being is also essential, as it can greatly enhance your quality of life and help you feel connected in your new home.
Lifestyle, Culture, and Social Opportunities
Another aspect to consider when choosing a retirement city is the culture and social opportunities. For many, this means living close to friends and family. Access to cultural activities and events can greatly enhance your retirement experience by offering opportunities to enjoy the arts, entertainment, and community gatherings. For retirees seeking an active retirement lifestyle, choosing a walkable city with access to nature can be a great option.
How Much Money Do You Need to Retire in Canada?
Retirement income in Canada is generally made up of personal savings and government benefits. There are multiple working theories created by investment advisors on how much money you should save to retire comfortably. While some advisors will say you should have 70% of your working income saved, others recommend saving a minimum of 10 times your final salary.
The reality is that how much money you need to retire depends entirely on your lifestyle. Someone getting ready for a mortgage-free retirement won’t need to save as much as a person looking for something a bit more lavish. To help you plan for your retirement, consider:
- At what age you plan to retire
- If you need to support family members financially
- Whether you’ll have a mortgage or loan payments
- Your lifestyle, travel plans, etc.
The Government of Canada provides a few different income sources for retirees:
- Canada Pension Plan (CPP) – The average CPP pension at age 65 is $803.76 per month, while the maximum is $1,507.65 per month. However, it’s essential to note that these amounts are not guaranteed and depend on your contribution history and when you start collecting.
- Old Age Security (OAS) – The maximum monthly OAS payment is $742.31 for those aged 65 to 74 and $816.54 for those aged 75 and older. However, the actual amount you receive is based on your age, income, and the number of years you’ve lived in Canada.
- Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) – This monthly payment is available to Old Age Security pensioners aged 65 and older with low income. The maximum monthly payments range from $667.41 to $1,108.74, depending on your personal circumstances.
You can use the Canadian Retirement Income Calculator to estimate how much money you might have when you retire. However, for the most accurate advice, consider consulting with a financial expert.
Tips for Choosing the Best Place to Retire in Canada
There are many factors to consider before you choose where to retire in Canada; therefore, it’s essential that you weigh all of your options. Here are some tips to choose the best retirement city for you:
- Family and friends – Most retirees want to live close to their loved ones
- Visit before committing – Test-drive living in the city. Consider staying in your ideal neighbourhood
- Test winter living – Consider visiting in the winter to get a sense of the weather
- Consider long-term healthcare needs – Note the nearest hospitals, long-term care facilities, and wait times for medical appointments
- Review property taxes and municipal services – Property taxes and hydro can add hundreds to your monthly expenses
Bottom Line
Choosing where to live in retirement is a big decision. Whether you choose to downsize, live in an apartment, or buy a retirement fixer-upper, there are many great places to live in Canada. By narrowing down what’s important to you–cost, weather, safety, health care, or culture–you can find the best place to retire in Canada. A local real estate agent can help you find the right neighbourhood in the city you choose. Search Zolo.ca for homes for sale in the best retirement cities in Canada.
Retire in Canada FAQs
Is it better to rent or own a home in retirement?
There are pros and cons to both renting and owning a home in retirement, and the best choice comes down to personal circumstances. Selling your home and renting in retirement can offer more freedom and less responsibility. On the other hand, owning a home can offer stability and independence.
How important is public transit for retirees choosing a city?
Accessible public transportation can be an important factor to consider when choosing a place to retire. For instance, public transit allows people to remain independent, social, and active without driving. .
Do property taxes vary significantly between retirement cities?
Property taxes in Canada range from about 0.3% to over 2%. Additionally, home values range significantly. Therefore, the amount you’ll pay in property taxes will depend on your municipal tax rate and the value of your home.
Can retirees access healthcare immediately after moving to a new province?
When retiring and moving to a new province or territory, you must first inform your current provincial or territorial health insurance plan of your move. You will remain covered by your previous plan for the first three months after relocating. After notifying your old plan, you must register with the health insurance plan of your new province or territory.
