Top 7 Best places to live in Canada with the Best quality of life – 2024

• Population: 1,306,784
• CSI: 72.47
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,841
• Average property buying cost: $588,600 

Calgary is more affordable compared to other major Canadian cities. It’s also just a 1-hour and 20-minute drive from Banff, often regarded as one of the most beautiful places on earth, offering breathtaking scenery. With a CSI of 72.47, Calgary is safer than many other large cities in the country. Housing is also reasonably priced, with homes averaging around $588,600, and condos offering an even more affordable option.

Known as the center of Canada’s oil industry, Calgary offers ample job opportunities in that sector. There is also a high demand for professionals such as nurses, food counter attendants, retail managers, and administrative officers. Many people are relocating from Toronto to Calgary for better job prospects and more affordable living.

Calgary has plenty to offer, from cheering on the Calgary Flames (the city’s popular hockey team) to exploring its numerous nature trails. While air quality can be a concern at times due to ongoing wildfires in Alberta, the city’s many advantages make it a top choice, securing this spot on our list.

Statcan population (2021), Statcan CSI (2022 & 2023), Zumper (Aug 2024) & CREA (July 2024)

• Population: 241,026
• CSI: 27.37
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $2,115 (Centre)
• Average property buying cost: $586,400 (North)

Wellington County is located in the southwestern part of the province of Ontario and is part of the greater Golden Horseshoe region. What makes Wellington County unique, as noted by many locals, is its strategic location, providing easy accessibility to Brampton, Mississauga, Kitchener, and Downtown Toronto. In this case, owning a car is necessary, as there is limited public transportation in Wellington.

The city’s public safety services are dedicated to building and maintaining a community healthy, dynamic and safe. In fact, Wellington County excels in all 3 categories: low crime, low unemployment rate, and healthy population growth. Wellington County also has a low crime severity index of 27.80 making it a safe environment. The region is home to a variety of parks and green spaces, like Elora Gorge and Victoria Park. Many of the residents of Wellington County enjoy cycling and hiking, so be prepared to get outside!

Statcan population (2021), Statcan CSI (2022 & 2023), Zumper (Aug 2024) & Realtor (Aug 2024)

• Population: 32,721
• CSI: 29.10
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,424
• Median property buying cost: $983,855

LaSalle, Ontario, is a small town in Essex County. With 40 km of paved biking trails and over 100 acres of parkland, you can walk, jog or ride your bicycle through LaSalle without worrying about your safety, with a low crime severity index of 29.10. The town also hosts Night Markets featuring music, vendors and food at the Civic Centre on the last Sunday in May, June, July and August.

As noted by many residents, LaSalle has accessibility to amenities due to its easy access to Windsor – an 18-minute drive by car. The town also has sporting facilities like the Essex Golf and Country Club or the Seven Lakes Golf Course. LaSalle is known to be a great place to raise a family, as it is a tight-knit community with well-maintained infrastructures.

Statcan population (2021), Statcan CSI (2022 & 2023), Zumper (Aug 2024) & Houseful (Aug 2024)

• Population: 149,683 
• CSI: 29.52
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,388
• Average property buying cost: $533,100

Lévis is located in Canada’s second most populated province, Quebec and sits right across Quebec City. Be prepared to experience all the seasons when living in Lévis, as winters can be rough and summers can be very warm. If you love spending time outside, Lévis is the perfect area for you, as it is located in the heart of three national parks with camping sites, wildlife, and hiking.

If you are thinking of moving to Lévis, it is important to note that most of the population is french speaking, and not everyone will understand English. It is strongly recommended to know basic French when going to Quebec in general. Nonetheless, Lévis is a great place to live with a low crime severity index of 29.52.

Statcan population (2021), Statcan CSI (2022 & 2023), Zumper (Aug 2024) & Realtor (Aug 2024)

• Population: 17,990
• CSI: 29.64
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $2,244
• Average property buying cost: $872,600

Oak Bay is a unique municipality located in British Columbia, filled with local beaches and parks. This region is known for its stunning views overlooking the Oak Bay Islands Ecological Reserve, where residents can enjoy whale watching. Oak Bay is also renowned for its Edwardian architecture, which can be found throughout the municipality.

Locals love relaxing at Willow Beach, hiking at Cattle Point or playing golf at the Victoria Golf Club. It offers a serene natural beauty setting with a bike score of 67. Home to many schools, a few being Oak Bay High School and St. Patrick’s Elementary School, and a crime severity index of 29.64, the area provides a strong sense of security.

Statcan population (2021), Statcan CSI (2022 & 2023), Zumper (Aug 2024) & Realtor (Aug 2024)

• Population: 63,116
• CSI: 101.5
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,250
• Average property buying cost: $308,300

Fredericton, the capital of New Brunswick, is a charming East Coast city in Canada with a rich history. The city is known for its beautiful old buildings, many of which are over 100 years old—a rarity in Canada. Fredericton offers a variety of outdoor activities, including picturesque waterfalls and scenic hiking trails. It’s also a popular spot for biking, relaxing, and enjoying performances at The Playhouse.

The city is home to many local farmers who sell fresh produce and fish, and it boasts stunning views of the Saint John River. In the summer, Fredericton comes alive with music events and festivals, making it a vibrant place to be. Housing in Fredericton is very affordable compared to the rest of Canada. 

The community is known for its strong volunteer initiatives and a thriving craft beer scene. While a good portion of the population speaks French, most daily conversations are in English, so French is not necessary unless you work in a government job.

Statcan population (2021), Statcan CSI (2022 & 2023), Zumper (Aug 2024) & Realtor (Aug 2024)

• Population: 696,992 
• CSI: 44.44
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,707 
• Average property buying cost: $1,097,300

Durham Region (Oshawa/Whitby/Ajax) offers a fantastic quality of life with its picturesque waterfront views, parks, and beaches contributing to a great general vibe. With a Crime Severity Index (CSI) of 44.44, it’s a safe place to call home. Although housing prices can be high due to steep property taxes, rent is relatively affordable compared to other areas. 

This mix of safety and space is a big draw for people moving from Toronto. In Ajax, residents benefit from the Appjax app, which makes it easy to report maintenance issues like potholes or missed trash pickups, often with quick fixes the next day. The region also has a good selection of major chain stores and restaurants, ensuring you’re never far from what you need. Overall, Durham Region blends safety, convenience, and a relaxed lifestyle, making it an attractive place to live.

Statcan population (2021), Statcan CSI (2022 & 2023), Local rent websites (Aug 2024) & Realtor (Aug 2024)