15 Best Places to Live in Canada in 2025

Looking for the best places to live in Canada? Here are the top picks! Picture yourself standing on the edge of a shimmering lake surrounded by tall, snow-capped mountains. The air is clear, and the sight is breathtaking. Maybe you’re strolling down a charming cobblestone street with charming shops and hospitable cafes, where you keep meeting nice people.

If you are relocating to Canada, you will undoubtedly have a great time, but are you still unsure about where to reside in Canada? The best places to live in Canada are listed below. The best places to live in Canada for students will be discussed in this blog. Let’s start with some information regarding why choosing Canada is essential!

Table of Contents

Why Choose Canada?

For several reasons, Canada is a top location and is, therefore, a popular choice. The following important elements will assist you in determining where in Canada would be the ideal place for you to live:

High-quality Education: Students from all over the world are guaranteed a top-notch education in Canada because of its internationally recognized universities and colleges. All of the best places to live in Canada share this characteristic. Canada was ranked as the sixth most peaceful nation in the world in 2018 by the Global Peace Index.
An Inclusive and Diverse Society: Canada’s hospitable and cosmopolitan atmosphere promotes inclusivity for both locals and visitors by embracing difference.
Successful Employment Prospects: Booming industries draw people looking for security and career advancement because they provide a wealth of employment opportunities.
Excellent Life Quality: Cities in Canada are known for having some of the highest quality of life in the world, and this reputation is influenced by things like healthcare and safety.
Gorgeous Natural Sceneries: Canada provides a wide variety of settings that suit different tastes, from charming landscapes to energetic cities.
Low Living Expenses: Canada is a desirable destination for both residents and students due to its affordable cost of living and excellent standard of living.

Best Places to Live in Canada for International Students and Newcomers

The greatest places to live in Canada, as well as the best-kept secrets and undiscovered treasures of the country’s most sought-after areas, will all be covered in this article. Every place offers a different way of living, from the calm splendor of Prince Edward Island to the vibrant city life of Vancouver. Whether your vision is one of big-city excitement or small-town charm, we’ll help you find the perfect place to settle down and follow your Canadian dream. Let’s get started and find out where students find the best places to live in Canada.

1. Toronto

Best for: Job opportunities
Cost of Living: CA$1,674 to CA$1,931 monthly
Tourist Attractions: St. Lawrence Market, the Art Gallery of Ontario, the CN Tower, the Lake Ontario Waterfront, Toronto Island Park, the Hockey Hall of Fame, and the Royal Ontario Museum.
Famous Universities: York University, Toronto Metropolitan University, and the University of Toronto
Crime Index: 43.2

The largest city in Canada and the capital of the province of Ontario, Toronto is a vibrant, culturally diverse center that provides a wealth of options for students. One of the best places to live in Canada, the city is home to a thriving arts scene, diverse neighborhoods, and a robust job market. When relocating to Toronto, expect to be delighted by its top-notch theaters, malls, museums, art galleries, cafes, and natural scenery. Fun is always guaranteed, whether it’s through excursions, adventures, or even music festivals, making it the perfect place to live. So don’t hesitate; reserve your inexpensive flights from India to Toronto well in advance to secure the greatest offers!

2. Ottawa

Best for: Capital
Cost of Living: CA$3,000 to CA$3,900 monthly
Tourist Attractions: Humanics Sanctuary & Sculpture Park, Domaine Perrault Vineyard, Notre Dame Basilica, the Canadian Museum of Nature, the Canadian War Museum, and the Rideau Canal National Historic Site.
Famous Universities: Carleton University, Saint Paul University, and Ottawa University
Crime Index: 30.4

Ottawa comes in second and is among the best places to live in Canada. You’ll love living in Ottawa since it has a lot of cultural attractions, beautiful parks, outdoor activities all year round, and vibrant neighborhoods. Your visit will be enhanced by the charming local markets, vibrant food scene, exhilarating mountain bike routes, hiking across a variety of landscapes, intriguing history, and yearly festivals and celebrations. In Ottawa, you can also locate first-rate student housing with first-rate amenities. Yes, these are the best places to live in Canada! Students would also like to know which institutions in Canada offer the best education as they prepare to relocate abroad.

3. Montreal

Best for: Food and drink
Cost of Living: CA$2,157 to CA$2,653 monthly
Tourist Attractions: Bell Centre, the Old Port of Montreal, Jean-Talon Market, Mount Royal Park, the Montreal Botanical Garden, and Notre-Dame Basilica.
Famous Universities: Universite de Montréal, Concordia University, and McGill University
Crime Index: 32.3

Discover the largest city in Canada’s Quebec province, Montreal, which boasts breathtaking architecture, breathtaking art, a vibrant nightlife, and a rich gastronomic culture! The best places to live in Canada include it. In Canada, there are many people who speak French and English. Since you can adequately explore Montreal’s vibrant and colorful neighborhoods, which are teeming with markets, boutiques, quaint cafes, and clubs, we advise visiting the city on foot. The residents of Montreal are hospitable and multilingual. Thousands of students and tourists are drawn to the city by its friendly atmosphere.

4. Vancouver

Best for: Nature
Cost of Living: CA$1,673 to CA$2,673 monthly
Tourist Attractions: The Vancouver Public Library, Queen Elizabeth Park, Granville Island Public Market, Stanley Park, Granville Island, and the Museum of Anthropology.
Famous Universities: Vancouver Film School, University of British Columbia, and University Canada West
Crime Index: 42.2

The best places to live in Canada include Vancouver. For outdoor lovers and urban explorers, Vancouver, which lies between the Coast Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, provides a distinctive way of life. Students can enjoy year-round access to lush, green parks, hiking in the summer, and skiing in the winter. The city is also home to a large number of theaters, art galleries, museums, historical buildings, parks, forests, and beaches. Students that relocate to the city will discover a range of student accommodations in Vancouver, which is home to some of the greatest hangouts, clubs, shopping malls, and gardens. Thus, the best location to reside in Canada.

5. Halifax

Best for: Affordable property
Cost of Living: CA$2,500 to CA$2,900 monthly
Tourist Attractions: The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, the Discovery Center, the Harbourside Market, the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, Point Pleasant Park, and Halifax Central Library.
Famous Universities: Saint Mary’s University, Dalhousie University, and the University of Bradford
Crime Index: 41.2

Halifax, the provincial capital and largest municipality of Nova Scotia, is a seaside gem on Canada’s east coast. Halifax is a beautiful city that will captivate you with its breathtaking surroundings and beaches. Being a historic port city with a long maritime history, Halifax is one of the best places to live in Canada for college students. The beautiful city of Halifax offers a multitude of attractions, including public gardens, historic sites, libraries, culinary options, live theaters, pubs, and bars. Is it not the best city in Canada?

6. Quebec City

Best for: Rural escapes
Cost of Living: CA$1,000 and CA$1,500 monthly
Tourist Attractions: Battlefields Park, La Citadelle, the Château Frontenac, the Musée de la Civilisation, the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec, and Old Quebec.
Famous Universities: Champlain College, Université du Québec à Montréal, Laval University, and St. Lawrence University
Crime Index: 22.3

With its rich history, welcoming residents, and plenty of activities, Quebec City, which is located in the province of Quebec in Canada, is among the best places to live in the country. As you stroll through Old Quebec’s cobblestone streets, you may experience the atmosphere of a European village. With its friendly culture, colonial architecture, quaint shops, quaint cafes, exciting nightlife, gorgeous green areas, and a variety of student housing options, it is the greatest location to live in Canada. It can also be the most economical city to live in if you plan your lifestyle properly and take advantage of student discounts on student services! Without a question, one of the best places to live in Canada.

7. Hamilton

Best for: Steel
Cost of Living: CA$1,908 to CA$2,455 monthly
Tourist Attractions: The Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, Bayfront Park, Tiffany Falls, Dundurn Castle, Albion Falls, and the Art Gallery of Hamilton.
Famous Universities: Both Redeemer University and McMaster University
Crime Index: 55

On the western shore of Lake Ontario is the port city of Hamilton in Canada. With its stunning scenery and jaw-dropping waterfalls, this city is also among the greatest places to live in Canada. We can guarantee that your time as a student in Hamilton will be fantastic. It features some of the best student housing in Canada, making it one of the best places to live in Canada, so you don’t need to worry about accommodation.

8. Calgary

Best for: Energy
Cost of Living: CA$1,820 to CA$2,411 monthly
Tourist Attractions: The Heritage Park Historical Village, the Gasoline Alley Museum, the Calgary Zoo, Fish Creek Provincial Park, Prince’s Island Park, Studio Bell, the National Music Centre, and the Calgary Farmers’ Market.
Famous Universities: The University of Calgary, Mount Royal University, and St. Mary’s University Calgary
Crime Index: 38.2

Calgary is the pinnacle of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and contemporary city life. It is situated in the province of Alberta, Canada. The city is hospitable to all kinds of people and is multicultural, making it one of the best places to live in Canada. The city is well known for its top-notch music, art galleries, sports facilities, and theaters. One of the best places to live in Canada for students is the city, which provides a wide range of convenient, modern housing options. Finding excellent student housing won’t be a concern for you either. Investigate wise choices such as reasonably priced universities in Canada together with that.

9. British Columbia

Best for: Wilderness
Cost of Living: CA$3,500 to CA$4,000 monthly
Tourist Attractions: Beacon Hill Park, Whistler Blackcomb, Stanley Park, The Butchart Gardens, and the Royal BC Museum
Famous Universities: British Columbia University, Victoria University, and Simon Fraser University
Crime Index: 45.2

Province British Columbia is situated in Canada’s westernmost region. One of the best places to live in Canada, it provides an unmatched quality of life. Its natural scenery has earned it fame. There is breathtaking beauty all around, from the rocky peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the rocky shores of Vancouver Island. The climate there is always the best, aside from that. Going for a walk in the morning would be a good idea. It seems like the ideal environment because of its consistently nice summers and mild winters. It is one of the best places to live in Canada because of this, nevertheless.

10. St. Albert

Best for: Community
Cost of Living: CA$1,200 to CA$1,800 monthly
Tourist Attractions: Father Lacombe Chapel, Red Willow Trail System, Enjoy Centre, St. Albert Botanic Park.
Famous Universities: Campbell College and University of MacEwan
Crime Index: 46.1

St. Albert is one of the loveliest places to live in Canada due of its peaceful charm and strong sense of community, making it one of the best places to live in Canada. With a blend of contemporary conveniences and a gorgeous location along the Sturgeon River, it provides a high standard of living. The perfect balance of contemporary amenities and a strong sense of community can be found in this vibrant city. St. Albert is a terrific city for people with a variety of lifestyles because of its excellent schools, vibrant arts scene, abundance of green space, and outdoor activities like bicycling, skiing, and hiking.

11. Manitoba

Best for: Prairies
Cost of Living: CA$1,892 to CA$2,240 monthly
Tourist Attractions:The Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Assiniboine Park, Manitoba Museum, Leo Mol Sculpture Garden, and The Forks National Historic Site
Famous Universities: University of Manitoba and Brandon University

Being one of the best places to live in Canada, Manitoba boasts a varied economy that is booming, with businesses like manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture all contributing to its strong economy. Due to affordable housing costs, it is now simpler for both individuals and families to acquire homes without going over budget. It also serves a variety of cultural groups. This city is one of the most livable in Canada because it welcomes cultural diversity and has thriving communities of people from all backgrounds and ethnicities.

12. Burlington

Best for: Climate
Cost of Living: CA$1,500 to CA$2,000 monthly
Tourist Attractions:Lake Ontario, Spencer Smith Park, the Royal Botanical Gardens, the Art Gallery of Burlington, and the Ireland House Museum.
Famous Universities: Champlain College and Burlington College
Crime Index: 42.2

Burlington, hidden away in Ontario, is one of the best places to live in Canada. It routinely ranks well on the list of the top ten cities to live in Canada, thanks to its stunning scenery and thriving neighborhoods. It is a popular option for locals looking for a good standard of living because of its lovely fusion of urban conveniences and scenic beauty. The city’s appeal is increased by its closeness to Lake Ontario, which provides a lifestyle in addition to a location to live. Burlington is one of the most attractive and desirable places to call home in Canada because of its friendly attitude and thoughtfully designed communities.

13. Saskatchewan

Best for: Agriculture
Cost of Living: CA$1,800 to CA$2,300 monthly
Tourist Attractions: The Legislative Building in Regina, Waskesiu Lake, Grasslands National Park, Wanuskewin Heritage Park, and the River Landing in Saskatoon
Famous Universities: University of Saskatchewan and University of Regina
Crime Index: 42.8

There are several reasons why Saskatchewan is one of the best places to live in Canada. Some of the most reasonably priced universities in Canada are located there as well. Its affordable cost of living ensures a great quality of life, and its welcoming neighborhoods foster a strong sense of community and belonging. A bright future and safe employment prospects are also provided to residents by the province’s booming economy, which is driven by several industries like mining, technology, and agriculture. With excellent healthcare and educational systems, as well as a peaceful and secure environment, Saskatchewan truly embodies what it means to be the ideal place to call home in Canada.

14. Atlantic Province

Best for: Coastal
Cost of Living: CA$2,800 to CA$3,000 monthly
Tourist Attractions: Fundy National Park of Canada, Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park, and Point Pleasant Park
Famous Universities: Dalhousie University and Cape Breton University
Crime Index: 42.5

The Atlantic Provinces of Canada are among the best places to live in Canada due to their distinct combination of natural beauty, welcoming towns, and excellent standards of life. Residents can enjoy hiking, fishing, and touring quaint coastal towns as part of a well-rounded lifestyle, thanks to the area’s stunning coastline, beautiful surroundings, and abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities. The Atlantic Provinces offer the ideal fusion of reasonably priced housing options, excellent healthcare, and a strong feeling of community for individuals and families seeking a peaceful and comfortable life in Canada.

15. Edmonton

Best for: Families
Cost of Living: CA$1,300 to $1,500 monthly
Tourist Attractions: Fort Edmonton Park, the Edmonton River Valley, the Edmonton Valley Zoo, and Elk Island National Park
Famous Universities: Concordia University and University of Alberta
Crime Index: 46.4

One of the best places to live in Canada is Edmonton, which is situated in the center of Alberta. Stable jobs and plenty of financial opportunities are available in its thriving economy, which is bolstered by industries like technology, healthcare, and oil and gas. Its arts and culture sector is flourishing, and there are many festivals, art galleries, and theaters to visit. Nature lovers greatly value the closeness to the stunning Canadian Rockies, as well as the range of parks and outdoor recreational options inside the city limits.

In conclusion, After exploring the best places to live in Canada, we can conclude that it is a huge and varied nation with a wide range of incredible places to call home. The best places to live in Canada are the cities, each of which has its distinct beauty and attractions. For international students, the nation is the best option due to its friendly towns, excellent educational system, high standard of living, and job prospects. When planning your move, don’t forget to research the best types of student accommodation to ensure a comfortable stay. Are you ready to start your search for one of the best places to live in Canada?