No matter where you live, Canada’s housing market is likely a hot topic, and most conversations revolve around price. While average home prices have dropped when comparing year-over-year sales, the national average home price was $666,538 in September 2026, which is no small sum, even for high-earning families. Conversations around potentially rising interest rates and economic uncertainty make the decision on when and where to buy a home even murkier.
That said, there’s more to finding the right place to live than price. An affordable mortgage payment is great, but if you dislike the city you call home, have a long commute, or can’t find a job at all, is it worth it? In reality, many factors go into finding a community where you’ll thrive not just financially but also mentally, physically, and professionally. Keep reading to find our picks for the best places in Canada. These regions combine housing affordability with factors that contribute to a good quality of life.
Key Takeaways
- The top-rated city in Canada is Guelph, Ontario, for the second year in a row, according to our rankings
- Many of the most livable cities in Canada are large cities, thanks to good employment opportunities and household income
- Cities with low average home prices and higher than average household income make up the top 10 best places to live in Canada
Best Cities to Live in Canada
There’s much to consider when determining the best places to live in Canada. Home prices and household incomes are essential factors, but there are more nuances to consider. Many Canadians want to live in a safe community with high-quality jobs, green spaces, and access to health care providers.
To determine the most livable cities in Canada, we ranked regions according to the following factors:
- Home price
- Household income
- Population growth
- Unemployment rate
- Crime rate
- Access to a primary healthcare provider
- Sunny days per year
- Walkability
Guelph, Ontario – Historic City with Green Space
- Cost of Living: 11% higher than the national average
- Average Household Income: $119,100 per year
- Biggest Industry: Manufacturing, education, agriculture and food innovation, and environmental management technology
- Benchmark Average Home Price: $720,200
For the second year in a row, Guelph is the best place to live in Canada according to our calculations. It’s not hard to see why, as Guelph boasts a higher-than-average household income, lower-than-average unemployment rates, and a lower-than-average crime severity index – all great reasons to move to Guelph.
Guelph residents love the small-town feel while having access to big-city amenities. Green space and walkability are important factors when choosing a place to live. Fortunately, Guelph boasts over 1,000 hectares of parks and more than 70 kilometres of paths and trails. Plus, the city offers a thriving arts scene, featuring a diverse range of entertainment options, festivals, and museums.
Winnipeg, Manitoba – Friendly With a Lower-Than-Average Cost of Living
- Cost of Living: 9% lower than the national average
- Average Household Income: $99,600 per year
- Biggest Industry: Advanced manufacturing, aerospace, and agriculture
- Benchmark Average Home Price: $392,100
Winnipeg is another affordable place to live in Canada, moving up the list to second from eighth place last year. Housing prices are among the lowest in major Canadian cities, and the city boasts lower living costs overall, with a cost of living 9% lower than the national average. Moreover, Winnipeg is one of the most culturally diverse cities in Canada, with over 100 languages spoken by its residents.
While the cold, snowy winters have earned the city its nickname “Winterpeg,” it is actually one of the sunniest cities in Canada. Residents embrace the weather and spend plenty of time outdoors exploring one of the many parks, trails, or lakes.
Regina, Saskatchewan – Sunny and Budget-Friendly
- Cost of Living: 1% higher than the national average
- Average Household Income: $106,000 per year
- Biggest Industry: Agriculture, oil and gas production, and advanced manufacturing
- Benchmark Average Home Price: $343,900
Although there are numerous reasons to move to Regina, affordable housing is likely at the top of the list. Regina’s house prices are over 47% cheaper than the national average. Housing prices helped Regina move up from sixth last year to third on our 2026 list. Additionally, Saskatchewan boasts a lower-than-average income tax rate and the second-lowest sales tax rate in Canada. The combination of these factors means that your income stretches further in Regina.
But it’s not just affordability that makes Regina great. The city boasts a stable job market as of September 2026. Moreover, Regina is an excellent place to raise a family, thanks to its quiet, safe neighbourhoods that are close to elementary schools, parks, and community centres.
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan – Family-Friendly, Affordable City
- Cost of Living: 2% higher than the national average
- Average Salary (Household Income): $103,900 per year
- Biggest Industry: Agriculture, mining, health care, and education
- Benchmark Average Home Price: $439,600
Saskatoon was dubbed the second most livable city for raising kids in Canada, thanks to its affordable housing and the young population. Notably, Saskatoon enjoys one of the lowest costs of living among major cities in Canada, so your income stretches further, which is especially important for young families.
While Saskatoon is known for cold winters, the city is one of the sunniest in Canada, boasting approximately 320 days of sunshine per year – that’s nearly 89% of the year! Additionally, Saskatoon boasts entertainment venues, a diverse food scene, and numerous outdoor trails.
Kingston, Ontario – Education Opportunities with a Vibrant Arts Scene
- Cost of Living: 3% higher than the national average
- Average Household Income: $103,000 per year
- Biggest Industry: Education, health care, and manufacturing
- Benchmark Average Home Price: $542,800
Kingston stays in the number five spot, unchanged from last year. This region seamlessly blends the benefits of living in a close-knit community with the advantages of urban living. Moreover, it boasts a vibrant cultural scene, featuring 24 museums, art galleries, and historic sites to enjoy.
The city has numerous post-secondary education opportunities, including Queens University, which ranks among the top 200 universities in the world, according to the QS World University Rankings. Additionally, Kingston is roughly halfway between Toronto and Montreal, which is great for weekend getaways to the big city.
Calgary, Alberta – Major City With Lower Taxes
- Cost of Living: 1% higher than the national average
- Average Household Income: $129,200 per year
- Biggest Industry: Aerospace, energy, and technology
- Benchmark Average Home Price: $569,200
All things considered, Calgary is an excellent place to call home. Many Canadians have been moving to western Canada over the last several years in search of lower home prices and job opportunities. Additionally, Calgary boasts some of the highest after-tax incomes in the country. In addition, with no provincial sales tax, your dollar stretches a bit further.
Calgary is great for families and outdoor enthusiasts, as it offers plenty of recreation facilities and easy access to the Rocky Mountains. With plenty of hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing and skiing opportunities, it’s easy to get fresh air, no matter the season. Plus, Calgary is the sunniest city on our list, boasting nearly 333 sunny days per year.
Ottawa, Ontario – Safe City With Stable Jobs
- Cost of Living: 4% higher than the national average
- Average Household Income: $126,700 per year
- Biggest Industry: Public administration, technology, health care, and education
- Benchmark Average Home Price: $623,500
Canada’s capital city is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in Canada, thanks to a low crime severity index and good household income. Ottawa residents enjoy access to green spaces, museums, and educational opportunities, while lower housing costs than in Toronto or Vancouver can make homeownership more accessible. As a prominent tech hub with a historically stable economy and strong public administration and health care employment, the city only adds to its desirability for families and young professionals.
Another great perk of living in Ottawa is its proximity to other major cities in Canada. You can travel to Toronto or Montreal by train or car. Plus, the Ottawa International Airport easily connects you with many international and domestic destinations.
Tillsonburg, Ontario – Growing Small Town
- Cost of Living: 9% higher than the national average
- Average Household Income: $87,600 per year
- Biggest Industry: Manufacturing, food processing, and health care
- Benchmark Average Home Price: $566,700
As the smallest town on our list, you might be surprised to learn that Tillsonburg has grown significantly over the past 15 years. The population increased by 17.3% from 2016 to 2021, reaching 18,615, and is projected to grow to 21,220 by 2041.
Tillsonburg boasts a low unemployment rate of 5.4% and a low crime severity index of 44.9. These factors, combined with a lower-than-average benchmark home price, showcase Tillsonburg as a desirable place to live in Canada.
Barrie, Ontario – Lakeside City Within Commuter Distance to Toronto
- Cost of Living: 12% higher than the national average
- Average Household Income: $114,500
- Biggest Industry: Health care and social assistance, manufacturing, retail trade, and education
- Benchmark Average Home Price: $687,400
Barrie cracked the top 10 after placing 13th on our list last year. Barrie offers a cheaper alternative to living in Toronto, with the GO Train getting you to Union Station in less than two hours. That said, over two-thirds of Barrie’s population works in Barrie as of the last census, and the city boasts a lower-than-average unemployment rate and higher-than-average household income.
Located on the shores of Kempenfelt Bay, Barrie is known for excellent access to beaches and walking trails. With plenty of Barrie neighbourhoods to choose from, this city is an excellent choice for first-time homebuyers and investors.
Halifax, Nova Scotia – Coastal Lifestyle in Atlantic Canada
- Cost of Living: 6% higher than the national average
- Average Household Income: $98,900 per year
- Biggest Industry: Information technology and gaming, wholesale and retail, and health care
- Benchmark Average Home Price: $541,700
Last on our list of Best Places to Live in Canada, but certainly not least, Halifax, the capital city of Nova Scotia and the largest city in Atlantic Canada, has a lot to offer. Haligonians love living near the ocean and nature. You’ll often find residents strolling the boardwalk and through one of the many parks. Moreover, the downtown core is walkable, and the city is full of restaurants, museums, and tourist attractions.
Although the benchmark home price has increased sharply between late 2020 and early 2022, finding an affordable home in Halifax is getting easier in late 2026. The benchmark average home price is $541,700, the lowest it has been since December 2024. Additionally, Halifax’s economy is robust, with a lower-than-average unemployment rate of 5.9%. All of these factors make Halifax a great place to set down roots.
How to Choose a City in Canada that’s Right for You
Before you choose where to live in Canada, you’ll need to decide what factors are important to you. For instance, young adults may want to consider living costs, rent prices, unemployment rates, and walkability, while families may prioritize schools, home prices, and access to a primary care provider. Therefore, the best city depends on your priorities, including jobs, affordability, climate, community, and amenities. Here are some common considerations:
Housing Prices
Housing prices are one of the most important indicators of the best places to live in Canada because a city could be an absolute utopia, but if you can’t afford to live there, you won’t be able to call that place home (we’re looking at you, Vancouver). Consider your housing budget compared to the average housing costs before choosing the right city to call home.
Population Growth
When a city grows, it’s usually a good indicator that Canadians find it a desirable place to live. Growing cities can support a larger residential population and usually have good employment opportunities.
Population Density
Living in an urban centre close to employment, professional services, health care centres, and universities can be a real benefit for some Canadians. However, city life is not for everyone, and those seeking more space may prefer a small town with lower population density.
Unemployment Rates
Some cities have very low home prices, but if local job markets are struggling, it may not be sensible to move there. Therefore, it’s essential to consider the key industries and unemployment rates before you choose to set down roots, keeping in mind that some smaller centres may have fewer specialist roles, even if lower costs make them appealing.
Crime Rates
Among the most important factors when choosing a place to live is whether you’ll feel safe in your community. Consider the crime rate for the city as a whole, as well as the neighbourhood you plan to live in.
Walkability
It’s well documented that walkable neighbourhoods are associated with better health outcomes and a general increase in happiness. In addition, reliable public transport also makes car-free living more realistic in major cities than in many smaller communities. Homes in urban, walkable areas tend to be more expensive, reflecting their high demand and popularity.
Access to a Primary Care Provider
More than 6.5 million people lack access to a family doctor in Canada. This may not be a problem for everyone – for example, a healthy 20-something may not value access to a family doctor. Other Canadians, such as those over 65 or those with young families, may find this lack of access problematic. Before moving, research regional differences, since healthcare access and healthcare wait times can vary by province.
Number of Sunny Days
Sunshine increases the release of serotonin in the human brain. This chemical release is associated with better mood and helps people feel calm and focused. For these reasons, it’s no surprise that regions with more sunny days are considered desirable for many Canadians.
How to Buy a Home in Canada
After you’ve chosen the best place to live in Canada according to your criteria, you may want to buy a home. The first step should be to determine how much you can afford to spend on a home. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is a great way to narrow down your budget.
Next, talk to a local real estate agent who specializes in the area where you wish to buy a home. They will assist you in finding a property that meets your needs and help you make an offer. Once you’ve made an offer on a home and it’s been accepted by the seller, you will work with a real estate lawyer and a mortgage provider to secure financing approval and remove conditions laid out in the purchase agreement. Finally, on closing day, your lawyer will close the sale and hand you the keys to your new home.
Bottom Line
While everyone has their own preferences when it comes to choosing a place to live in Canada, most of us can agree that we want a safe city with manageable living expenses, affordability, and good job opportunities. 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 places to live in Canada.
How We Calculated the Best Places to Live in Canada (Methodology)
In this data report, we chose 36 cities and regions in Canada and used data from various sources, including Statistics Canada and the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA).
- Home prices – We gathered the benchmark home prices for all types of residential properties in September 2026 and ranked each city and region. We ranked areas with lower home prices better in our calculations
- Population growth – We compared the population of each city and region in 2016 and 2021 and ranked them according to their growth in that time span
- Household income – We used the average household incomes for each area from Statistics Canada in our calculations
- Unemployment rate – We examined the unemployment rates for the cities and regions on this list and ranked them accordingly. Lower unemployment indicates better economic opportunities and a higher corresponding ranking
- Crime rate – We used the 2025 crime severity index to determine the safety of each city or region
- Walkability – We gathered the Walk Score for each city and region. A higher walk score is more desirable
- Access to primary care provider – We gathered provincial data from the Canadian Institute for Health Information and used it to rank each city or region
- Number of sunny days – We looked at the number of sunny days per year in each city or region according to WeatherStats.ca, and used this data when calculating the best places to live
We then assigned a ranking to each city, ranging from 1 to 36, in each data category. These rankings were then applied to a weighted calculation system, resulting in an overall score for each city or region. The highest-scoring cities rank at the top of the list, and the lowest-scoring cities rank at the bottom.
Best Places to Live in Canada FAQ
Which Canadian city has the highest quality of life?
Vancouver, British Columbia, boasts the highest quality of life index score of any city in North America, according to the Mercer 2024 Quality of Living Survey. Access to nature and recreation opportunities, combined with Canada’s political and economic stability, are just a few of the factors that influenced Vancouver’s high rating. Mild winters and natural beauty make Vancouver enticing to many Canadians; however, the average home price of $1,075,900 makes it unaffordable for the average homebuyer.
What is the safest city in Canada to live in?
According to the crime severity index, the safest cities in Canada with a population over 250,000 are located in the Halton, Durham, and York regions of Ontario, as well as Ottawa. These cities boast an overall low crime severity index, with both violent and non-violent crime rates lower than the national average.
What factors determine the best places to live in Canada?
The factors we used to determine the best places to live in Canada include housing prices, average household income, unemployment rates, population growth, crime rates, access to a primary care provider, number of sunny days per year, and walkability.
What city in Canada has the lowest cost of living?
Regina, Saskatchewan, has the lowest housing price-to-income ratio (HPI) of the cities we examined. With a benchmark average house price of 343,900 and an average household income of $106,000, Regina boasts an HPI of 3.24.
