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Which is the Best Province to Live in Canada?

Published on: May 16th, 2025

By: Mariam Baher

A question we’re often asked is what we would consider to be the best province to live in for immigrants. With Canada being the second-largest country in the world, this is a great question but it’s not always easy to answer. As living costs rise and the immigration process becomes more complex, the decision of where to settle is more important than ever.

Discover your options for Canadian immigration

Canada has 10 provinces and 3 territories, and while some popular destinations like Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia, come to mind, there are plenty of beautiful provinces beyond these well-known regions that have a lot to offer. While Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia offer great opportunities, these places are great for skilled workers due to the current tightening of immigration policies. However, as Canada’s economic focus shifts, immigrants can find greater opportunities in other provinces, where the chances of success in securing permanent residency may be higher.

Choosing the Right Canadian Province for You: Factors to Consider

Choosing the best province to live in Canada is a decision that should be based on a variety of factors to ensure it aligns with your individual preferences and priorities.

1. Assess cost of living, healthcare, education, and housing options.
2. Next, consider your career prospects, as different provinces may offer varying job opportunities and industries.
3. Next, think about your lifestyle preferences. Do you prefer the vibrant city life of Toronto or Vancouver, the cultural richness of Quebec, or the tranquility of the Maritimes?
4. Climate plays a significant role, with certain provinces offering mild winters and others experiencing more extreme weather.
5. Additionally, consider your cultural and language preferences, as well as proximity to family and friends. It’s crucial to conduct thorough research and potentially visit the provinces to get a firsthand feel for what suits you best.
6. Ultimately, the ideal province for one person may not be the same for another, so choose the one that aligns with your unique needs and aspirations.

To help you get started, moving waldo released a list of the top Canadian provinces with the best quality of life and affordability:

1. Newfoundland and Labrador

Let’s get straight to the numbers. As of 2025, Newfoundland and Labrador ranks highest for affordability, making it a top choice for newcomers in 2025. The cost of living in the province is $2,411.87 per month, with an average rent of just $845 for a one-bedroom apartment. For those interested in purchasing property, the average cost is $297,000, which is less than a quarter of what you’d pay in major Canadian cities like Toronto, Vancouver, or other popular Canadian immigration hubs.

 

Newfoundland and Labrador also offers a rich cultural history, with St. John’s being the oldest city in North America. The province boasts a stunning coastline that could wrap around Canada four times, ensuring that ocean views come standard with every corner of this beautiful region. All these factors make Newfoundland and Labrador one of the most affordable provinces in Canada, offering newcomers an opportunity to build a new life without compromising on quality of life.

 

Newfoundland and Labrador Immigration Programs:

1. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
2. International Graduate Category
3. NL Express Entry Skilled Worker
4. Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)
5. Skilled Worker Category

2. New Brunswick

New Brunswick offers a balanced lifestyle, combining affordability with a relaxed pace of living, making it a great destination for newcomers. The cost of living in New Brunswick is $2,341.21 per month, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment being $1,274. The average cost of buying property is $308,800, making it an affordable option for many.

As the largest of Canada’s three Maritime provinces, New Brunswick is home to a rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes and scenery, including the famous Bay of Fundy, which is renowned worldwide for the highest tides in the world- perfect for those who love surfing in the warmer months. In addition to a growing job market, the province has a growing tech industry and a strong seafood sector.

 

New Brunswick Immigration Programs:

1. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
2. Entrepreneurial Immigration Stream
3. Express Entry
4. New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot
5. New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)
6. Skilled Workers Stream

3. Saskatchewan

As Canada’s seventh-largest province, Saskatchewan has quickly become an increasingly popular choice for immigrants. It is hard to pinpoint whether this is because Saskatchewan sees more sunshine than any other province in Canada, or if it is because the cost of Living in Saskatchewan is $2,531.25, with the rent of an average 1-bed apartment being $1,228, and average property buying cost of $344,800.

 

Saskatchewan’s breathtaking landscapes are hard to beat, with two national parks, 36 provincial parks, and roughly 80 regional parks, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The province is also a global leader in agriculture, making it an ideal destination for those with a background in farming or agriculture.

 

Saskatchewan Immigration Programs:

1. Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
2. Entrepreneur and Farm Category
3. International Skilled Worker Category
4. Saskatchewan Experience Category

4. Manitoba

Manitoba offers affordability, high quality of life, and endless opportunities, making it one of the top provinces for immigrants. The cost of living in Manitoba is $2,696.70 per month, with one-bedroom apartment rents averaging $1,381. The average property price is $376,770 which is still significantly lower than what you’d find in major Canadian cities.

 

Known as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World” for its large polar bear population, Manitoba offers an abundance of wildlife, over 100,000 lakes and waterways, and the sunniest winter season in Canada with over 358 hours of sunshine. In addition to its natural beauty, Manitoba is one of the country’s most prosperous provinces, with over 200 languages spoken. The province also offers great job prospects along with a great education system, making it a welcoming place to live for families.

 

Manitoba Immigration Programs:

1. Business Investor Stream
2. International Education Stream
3. Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
4. Skilled Worker Stream

Now is the time to move to Canada

While many newcomers consider relocating to major cities in provinces like Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia, these regions are increasingly competitive due to tighter immigration policies. With a range of new immigration programs and more efficient processes in place, now is a great time to make the move to Canada and explore immigration options beyond Canada’s most popular cities.

 

Interested in learning more about your options to immigrate to Canada? Complete our free online assessment form today!

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