The Best Canadian Cities to Live in As a New Immigrant
Summary of Key Points:
Considerations for choosing a Canadian city include job opportunities, cost of living, immigrant-friendly services, and community support.
Our top cities for immigrants are Toronto (cosmopolitan with cultural neighborhoods), Vancouver (natural beauty and urban mix), Calgary (Western spirit and urban landscapes), Halifax (coastal with maritime history), and Ottawa (national capital with vibrant culture). Each city offers distinct job sectors, varying costs of living, and specific organizations for immigrant support.
Important resources for immigrants include Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC), Settlement.Org, and the Canadian Immigrant magazine.
Research is crucial when choosing a city to start your new life in. Find the city that best fits your individual needs and those of your loved ones, and make sure to schedule your Immigration Medical Exam if you haven’t already done so in order to submit a complete application when you’re getting ready to make your journey.
The Best Canadian Cities to Live in As a New Immigrant
Canada, renowned for its striking landscapes and cultural diversity, offers a warm welcome to immigrants. As a prospective newcomer, selecting the right city for your new chapter can make all the difference.
We’re here to help—in addition to providing Immigration Medical Exams for prospective newcomers, our team at Panel Physician offers a range of guides and other resources to help you make this important journey with confidence. Below, we’ll guide you through the most important considerations to bear in mind when choosing a new city and recommend five examples that stand out for their friendliness towards immigrants.
What to Consider When Choosing a City
Cost of Living: Consider how much it would cost to rent or buy housing, utilities, transportation, and groceries.
Job Opportunities: Ensure the city has a robust job market in your field of expertise or desired profession.
Immigrant-Friendly Services: Access to services such as language classes, employment centers, and legal assistance can significantly ease your transition.
Community: Having a support system of people from your home country or those who speak your language can offer emotional and practical support.
The Top 5 Cities to Live in As a New Canadian Immigrant
Toronto, Ontario
Toronto, often dubbed "The Six" due to its area code, is a bustling cosmopolitan metropolis where skyscrapers and historic buildings coexist harmoniously. As Canada's largest city, its vibrant arts scene—spanning music, theatre, and visual arts—entices visitors and residents alike.
The city’s waterfront along Lake Ontario offers scenic beauty amidst the urban sprawl, making it ideal for weekend getaways. Every corner of Toronto has a story, and its diverse population ensures a dynamic mix of cultural festivals, world-class dining, and unique neighbourhoods to explore.
Average Cost of Living: While Toronto is one of Canada's more expensive cities, it also offers a wide range of amenities and opportunities. Rent averages around CAD$2,000 - $2,500 for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center.
Job Opportunities: Finance, tech, media, and health care are dominant industries.
Immigrant Communities & Organizations: With its Chinatown, Little Italy, Koreatown, and many other cultural neighbourhoods, Toronto is truly diverse. Organizations like the Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council (TRIEC) assist newcomers in their professional journey.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, Vancouver is breathtakingly picturesque. Known for its unparalleled natural beauty, it offers a blend of outdoor activities and urban sophistication.
You can start your day skiing on the slopes and end it with a sunset beach stroll. With its mild coastal climate, the city is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The Granville Island Public Market, Stanley Park, and the historic Gastown district are just a few of the many spots that make life in Vancouver enchanting.
Average Cost of Living: The most expensive city on this list, rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages around CAD$2,200 - $2,800.
Job Opportunities: Strong sectors include tech, film production, tourism, and natural resources.
Immigrant Communities & Organizations: The Immigrant Services Society of BC (ISSofBC) offers a wide range of services for immigrants and refugees.
Calgary, Alberta
Calgary is where the pristine beauty of the Rockies meets modern urban landscapes. Known for its famous Calgary Stampede—an annual rodeo, exhibition, and festival—it carries a proud Western spirit.
Beyond its rodeo fame, the city offers a robust arts scene, with theatres and galleries upholding its cultural appeal. Stephen Avenue, a central pedestrian mall, is dotted with historic buildings, shops, and restaurants, making it a bustling hub for residents.
Average Cost of Living: Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically ranges from CAD$1,100 - $1,500.
Job Opportunities: The energy sector leads here, with growing opportunities in tech, finance, and health care.
Immigrant Communities & Organizations: The Calgary Immigrant Educational Society (CIES) provides education, training, and employment support for newcomers.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Perched on the eastern edge of Canada, Halifax is a coastal city with deep maritime roots. Its rich history is evident in places like Citadel Hill—a historic fort offering panoramic views of the city.
The waterfront boardwalk is alive with music, food stalls, and ships, making it a favourite spot for both locals and tourists. The fresh sea breeze, combined with the city's laid-back charm, makes Halifax an idyllic haven for those looking to balance city life with a touch of nature.
Average Cost of Living: One of the more affordable cities in Canada, rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages CAD$1,000 - $1,400.
Job Opportunities: The public sector, health care, education, and fisheries dominate the employment landscape.
Immigrant Communities & Organizations: The Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS) offers various resources and support for immigrants.
Ottawa, Ontario
As the nation's capital, Ottawa exudes a stately elegance. The majestic Parliament Hill, with its gothic revival architecture, stands as a testament to Canada's history and governance.
But Ottawa is not just about politics. It also hosts the famous Winterlude festival, where the Rideau Canal becomes the world's largest skating rink. Meanwhile, the city's ByWard Market is a hive of activity, where artisans, chefs, and farmers showcase their craft, offering a colourful and delightful experience for residents and visitors alike.
Average Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages from CAD$1,500 - $1,900.
Job Opportunities: Being the national capital, opportunities abound in the public sector, tech industry, and health care.
Immigrant Communities & Organizations: The Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization (OCISO) supports immigrants through integration services.
Additional Resources For Further Research
Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC): The official government site offering a comprehensive guide for prospective immigrants.
Settlement.Org: Information and resources to help immigrants settle in Ontario.
Canadian Immigrant: A magazine dedicated to stories, advice, and resources for immigrants.
We’ve also written extensively in other articles about adapting to life in Canada. Explore the following posts to set yourself and your family up for success:
Remember, each city has its own unique charm, culture, and opportunities. It's essential to research thoroughly and find the one that fits most closely with your aspirations, needs, and lifestyle preferences. We’re looking forward to helping you on your journey to Canada—book your Immigration Medical Exam here if you still need to complete it, and take one step closer to your new life.
