Discovering the Best Province to Live in Canada in 2024

Written by

Inayat Sharma

Fact check by

Afreen Abbasi

Updated on

Oct 08,2024

Discovering the Best Province to Live in Canada in 2024- TerraTern

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Canada is such a melting pot, and there are so many immigrants that it's amazing how diverse the people are; their economy is very stable and their standard of living is also high. Living in different provinces can also give varied experiences, so choosing which one to settle down in is more important than some might assume. Each province has its employment opportunities, standard of living and quality of life. So read here to get your perfect home in the best province to live in Canada, which can be an ultimate guide for you for the best province to live in Canada.

Top Place to Reside in Canada in 2024

Over 49% of all immigrants in 2022 landed in Ontario, still the top destination for new immigrants. Quebec invents programs to attract skilled workers for these fields. Atlantic provinces experience a boost in population growth because of higher levels of immigration.

The best province to live in canada are incredibly diverse, offering many unique types of lifestyles. Whether you want urban life, natural paradise or financial freedom, this guide will help you discover your Canadian dream home.

Things to Consider While Choosing the Best Province to Live in Canada

The one thing you know while looking for best province to live in canada is that there are just many things to consider when choosing where you might want to live in Canada. These are all likely to significantly affect your overall experience and health in the country over an extended period.

1. Cost of Living

The cost of living is the most important factor when choosing  best province to live in canada.The cost of living is very different in each province in Canada. Rent GroceriesUtilities Transportation: There are different places to live and costs for each of the four basic functions in life. No one can say BC or Ontario are cheap places to live, and Nova Scotia and Quebec aren't so bad.

Comparison Table: Living Costs in best province to live in canada

Province

City

Average Monthly Rent (1BR Apt)

Average Grocery Cost (Monthly)

Utilities (Monthly)

Ontario

Toronto

CAD 2,300

CAD 350

CAD 150

British Columbia

Vancouver

CAD 2,400

CAD 330

CAD 140

Quebec

Montreal

CAD 1,400

CAD 290

CAD 120

Alberta

Calgary

CAD 1,200

CAD 300

CAD 140

Nova Scotia

Halifax

CAD 1,150

CAD 270

CAD 130

 

2. Job Market and Economic Opportunities

The best province to live in canada has a phenomenal job market and economic opportunities. Quebec and British Columbia have some of the most resilient economies in Canada, but part of that is hurting as well. Ontario leads in technology, finance and health care and Alberta with it energy sector. It can assist you with making an informed decision considering the employment rates, major industries and the average yearly pay across provinces.

  • Industries by Province: Key Industries by Province:

  • Ontario: Technology, Finance, Healthcare and Education

  • British Columbia: Tech, film, forestry, mining

  • Quebec: manufacturing, aerospace, and information technology.

  • Alberta: Oil and gas, Agriculture, Construction

  • Nova Scotia: Healthcare, education, fisheries, renewable energy

Also Read: Jobs in New Brunswick Canada: Experts Latest Guide in 2024

3. Quality of Life

Overall, the quality of life in Canada is relatively good in best province to live in canada. Lack of health care, standard of education, and many other factors are included in analyzing the livability of a province. BC always ranks well because it has so much beauty & such good outdoor stuff, but it is still as poor as Ontario and Quebec, which always have the best health care and education.

  • Notable Rankings: Top-ranked player (most recent):

  • British Columbia: Best for the Outdoors and Weather.

  • Ontario: good standards in healthcare and education.

  • Qubec: El barato y la riqueza cultural.

  • Nova Scotia: Friendly communities and work-life balance.

Top 5 Best Province to Live in Canada

We've discussed the important aspects to look at, so now let's get into the best province to live in canada and what they have to offer the new immigrant:

1. Ontario: Canada’s Economic Powerhouse

To start the list of the best province to live in Canada Ontario is the largest province in Canada and one of the most desirable destinations for immigrants because of its strong economy, ethnic diversity, and highly-acclaimed schools. Toronto, the province's capital, is a world financial centre, but even Ottawa, for example, provides a great standard of living at a much lower cost.

Key Highlights:

  • Diverse job market in technology, finance, and healthcare.

  • with its great universities, such as the University of Toronto and McMaster University.

  • Multicultural cities with rich cultural scenes.

  • Excellent public services, such as medical care and schooling.

2. British Columbia: Natural Beauty and Thriving Tech Scene

The gorgeous manifestation of British Columbia is supplemented as the weather is also quite pleasant, and the employment opportunities are pretty decent. Vancouver is the largest and most technologically advanced city of the … More » Washington State is also home to outdoor activities like skiing at Whistler or sightseeing on the Pacific coast.

Key Highlights:

  • Strengthening the tech economy expands employment demand.

  • Availability of activities outdoors in all seasons.

  • It provides a good quality of life, but its provisions are very high, especially in Vancouver.

  • People-centred policies and a commitment to eco-friendly practices.

3. Quebec: Rich Culture and Affordable Living

Third on the list of best province to live in canada comes Quebec, the sole fortified city in North America, whilst making visitors feel like they are in a European city; it is so vibrant and cultured and quite cheap to live in. Montreal, ranking top on the list of cheap big cities in Canada, has been luring many migrants as they can acquire quality education and quality jobs. At the same time, they don’t have to pay exorbitantly high rents or purchase property.

Key Highlights: 

Lower rental and cost of living compared to the rest of the provinces.

  • There is a great emphasis on culture, the arts, and history.

  • Prominent educational institutions like McGill and Université de Montréal provide top-notch education.

  • Language requirements: For complete assimilation, it is important to know the French language.

Also Read: Apply Canada Work Visa: Types, Fees, Eligibility & More

4. Alberta: Strong Economy and Rocky Mountain Living

AlbertaView full quote: The economy in Alberta (thanks to the oil industry) and cost of living (no provincial sales tax) are the best. The geographic proximity to the Rockies is one of the most notable qualities of Calgary and Edmonton, which gives anyone living there a perfect mix of access to the outdoors while still enjoying the benefits of city life.

Key Highlights:

  • Healthy base with thousands of well-paying jobs in the energy sector.

  • Reasonable taxes and inexpensive housing.

  • Close to Banff Jasper Natural Wonders

  • Rapid development in tech and agriculture.

Also Read: Canada Ends Policy Allowing Visitors to Apply for Work

5. Nova Scotia: Atlantic Charm and Growing Opportunities

Last on the list of the best province to live in canada is Nova Scotia, which is slower, cheaper and more communal. The province has been amid a population boom due to an influx of immigrants and jobs (particularly in fields like health care, fisheries and renewable energy).

Key Highlights:

  • The cost of living and housing is very affordable.

  • Rich maritime surroundings have inspired these warm communities.

  • New Job Opportunities are in Demand in the Health, Education and Technology industries.

  • Coastal beaches, landscape, and outdoor activities.

Comparing the Best Provinces to Live in Canada

To help you make the best decision, here’s a detailed comparison of the top five best province to live in canada based on key factors such as cost of living, job opportunities, and quality of life.

Province

Cost of Living (Monthly)

Key Industries

Quality of Life (Ranking)

Population Growth

Ontario

High

Tech, finance, healthcare

High

High

British Columbia

High

Tech, film, forestry

Very High

Moderate

Quebec

Affordable

Manufacturing, aerospace, IT

High

Moderate

Alberta

Moderate

Oil & gas, agriculture, tech

Moderate

Moderate

Nova Scotia

Affordable

Healthcare, fisheries, renewable energy

High

Growing

How to Choose the Best Province for You?

Choosing the best province to live in Canada depends on your personal and professional goals. Consider the following factors to narrow down your options:

  • Career Aspirations: Or do you find the lure of technology tempting, or perhaps the natural resources industries?

  • Language Preferences: Do you prefer a primarily English-speaking province, or are you open to learning French?

  • Cost of Living: Do you not care about affordability but are willing to pay for a better life?

Decision-Making Flowchart

  • *Which do you guys focus more on jobs in tech, finance, or healthcare? → Consider Ontario or British Columbia.

  • Do you seek affordability with cultural richness? → Quebec might be your best bet.

  • Do you value proximity to nature and a strong economy? → Alberta could be ideal for you.

Want a small town and coast life? → Nova Scotia is a great option.

Immigration Programs for Different Provinces

Immigration programs exist in every province and territory (primarily under the Provincial Nominee Program or PNP). They are all programs intended to attract skilled workers, students, and entrepreneurs to boost the province's economy.

  • Provincial Immigration Programs Overview: Deep Look On Provincial Immigration Programs

  •  Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP): for skilled workers, graduates and businesses.

  •  British Columbia PNP: Targeting tech workers, entrepreneurs and healthcare professionals.

  • Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP): A program specifically designed to attract French-speaking skilled workers.

  • Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP): for workers in energy, agriculture, and tech industries

  • Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP): Healthcare, education, and options for fisheries workers.

Read More: Latest Canada PR Eligibility: Complete Experts Guide 2024

 

Conclusion

The best province to live in canada has its lifestyle, so it will depend on what type of life you aim for, your work, and the rest of your family. Whether you prefer the hustle and bustle of Ontario, the lush beauty of BC, the affordability of Quebec, a booming economy in Alberta, or even the charm of Nova Scotia — there is a province out there in Canada that will do for you as your new home. So, do your research, check out all your options, and consider all the factors and possible immigration methods as you search for your perfect Canadian home.

To learn more about the best province in Canada to live in and to find ways to immigrate to Canada, you must contact TerraTern right away. With over a hundred services and an expert team, TerraTern should be your go-to for all your immigration needs!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which province in Canada has the lowest cost of living?

New Brunswick generally has the lowest cost of living, with affordable housing and low utility costs.

What is the best province in Canada for job opportunities?

Ontario is the best province for job opportunities, especially in the finance, tech, and healthcare sectors.

Which Canadian province is best for international students?

Ontario is preferred for international students due to its top universities like the University of Toronto and its diverse job prospects.

What province in Canada has the mildest winters?

British Columbia, particularly in coastal areas like Vancouver, has the mildest winters in Canada.

Which province in Canada is easiest to immigrate to?

Nova Scotia is considered one of the easiest provinces to immigrate to due to its welcoming immigration programs.