When it comes to livability, Canada consistently ranks high on the global stage, but the landscape is evolving. Traditionally, cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary have dominated both national and international rankings. However, recent data reveals a shift in Canada’s urban hierarchy, particularly for newcomers.
In 2025, the conversation around Canada’s most livable cities is more nuanced than ever. While major metropolitan areas are slipping in global standings, smaller and mid-sized cities are rising to the forefront, offering a unique blend of affordability, opportunity, and quality of life.
This year’s rankings, based on insights from recent immigrants, paint a detailed picture of where newcomers can thrive. The analysis spans 448 cities, evaluating 50 variables across ten critical categories, from economy and housing to healthcare and community support. The result is a list that reflects the diverse needs of those starting a new life in Canada.
British Columbia emerges as the clear winner, with six cities in the top ten. Manitoba and Saskatchewan follow, each claiming two spots, while the Yukon makes a strong appearance with Whitehorse. These cities stand out for their balance of economic opportunity, cultural diversity, and access to essential services.
What sets these cities apart? Affordability plays a significant role, especially in the Prairies and Yukon, where housing costs are lower than in major urban centers. Additionally, robust community amenities, ease of integration, and a high quality of life make these destinations attractive to newcomers.
Despite a dip in global rankings, Canada’s smaller cities are proving that livability is not just about size. For those considering a move, the top ten list offers a roadmap to cities that prioritize well-being, safety, and community, making them ideal for building a new life in Canada.
Methodology for Rankings
The rankings for the most livable cities in Canada are based on an extensive analysis of 448 cities across the country, all with populations greater than 10,000. The evaluation focused specifically on insights from individuals who immigrated to Canada in the past five years, ensuring relevance for those considering a move.
Fifty distinct variables were assessed across ten critical categories:
- Economy
- Housing
- Demographics
- Healthcare
- Safety
- Education
- Community
- Amenities
- Transportation
- Climate
This approach ensures that the top cities offer a holistic balance across affordability, access to services, integration opportunities, and overall quality of life.
2025: Top 10 Most Livable Cities in Canada
| Rank | City | Province |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Victoria | British Columbia |
| 2 | North Vancouver | British Columbia |
| 3 | Penticton | British Columbia |
| 4 | Winnipeg | Manitoba |
| 5 | Saskatoon | Saskatchewan |
| 6 | Regina | Saskatchewan |
| 7 | West Vancouver | British Columbia |
| 8 | Pitt Meadows | British Columbia |
| 9 | Whitehorse | Yukon |
| 10 | Kamloops | British Columbia |
British Columbia dominates the rankings, with six cities in the top ten. The province stands out for its scenic beauty, robust amenities, and opportunities for newcomers to integrate into supportive communities. Manitoba and Saskatchewan each have two cities in the top ten, offering affordability and strong social infrastructure. Yukon also makes an appearance with Whitehorse, highlighting the appeal of northern living.
Key Features of Top Cities
Victoria, North Vancouver, Penticton, West Vancouver, Pitt Meadows, Kamloops (BC): West Coast cities are celebrated for their mild climate, high quality of life, access to nature, and welcoming environments for immigrants.
Winnipeg (Manitoba), Saskatoon and Regina (Saskatchewan): These prairie cities boast strong economies, affordable housing, and growing multicultural communities.
Whitehorse (Yukon): Offers unique opportunities for those seeking a quieter lifestyle with access to northern landscapes and community-based living.
What Makes These Cities Stand Out?
- Affordability: While some West Coast cities are well-known for high housing prices, others on the list, particularly in the Prairies and Yukon, offer a more affordable entry point.
- Community Amenities: The top cities generally provide ample amenities, including recreational facilities, public transportation, and robust healthcare systems.
- Ease of Integration: Support networks, multicultural communities, and services specifically geared toward newcomers help with integration.
- Quality of Life: Safety, education options, and access to nature contribute to overall well-being for residents.
Contextual Trends
Recent international rankings, such as those by The Economist, show that Canadian cities have slipped globally, with some dropping several places in the world’s most livable cities list. Despite this, within Canada, many cities remain attractive places to live, especially for newcomers seeking a blend of opportunity, safety, and community.
By considering a blend of economic prospects, affordability, and community support, the cities listed above are well-positioned as the best choices for newcomers to Canada in 2025.
Conclusion
In 2025, the landscape of Canada’s most livable cities for newcomers has evolved significantly, with smaller and mid-sized cities rising to prominence. British Columbia leads the way, with six cities in the top ten, while Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and the Yukon also make strong showings. These cities excel in offering a balance of affordability, economic opportunity, and community support, making them ideal destinations for those starting a new life in Canada.
While major metropolitan areas may have slipped in global rankings, Canada’s smaller cities are proving that livability is not just about size. By prioritizing well-being, safety, and community integration, these cities provide a roadmap for newcomers seeking a high quality of life. As the country continues to evolve, these emerging urban centers are set to remain attractive options for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors determine the rankings of Canada’s most livable cities for newcomers?
The rankings are based on 50 variables across ten categories, including economy, housing, healthcare, safety, education, community, amenities, transportation, climate, and demographics. These factors are evaluated to ensure a holistic assessment of affordability, access to services, and overall quality of life.
Why are British Columbia cities so dominant in the rankings?
British Columbia’s dominance is due to its scenic beauty, robust amenities, and supportive communities for immigrants. Cities like Victoria and North Vancouver offer a mild climate, access to nature, and a high quality of life, making them particularly attractive to newcomers.
What makes Prairie cities like Winnipeg, Saskatoon, and Regina stand out?
These Prairie cities are known for their strong economies, affordable housing, and growing multicultural communities. They provide a balance of economic opportunity and social infrastructure, making them appealing for newcomers.
What is unique about Whitehorse in the Yukon?
Whitehorse offers a unique blend of a quieter lifestyle, access to northern landscapes, and strong community-based living. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a more tranquil environment with ample outdoor opportunities.
What does the future hold for these cities?
These cities are well-positioned to remain attractive to newcomers in the future. By focusing on economic growth, affordability, and community support, they are likely to continue offering a high quality of life for years to come.
