In the search for top Canadian towns to call home, a Quebec town has impressively made its way into the top 5. Known for its rich culture, vibrant community, and high quality of life, this town exemplifies the best of what Canada has to offer. Whether you’re seeking a dynamic urban environment or a charming small-town feel, this Quebec gem stands out as a prime destination for new residents.
Think Beyond Major Cities
If you believe the best places to live in Canada are dominated by its major cities, it’s time to reconsider. A new study by MovingWaldo highlights that some of the most desirable cities to call home are far removed from bustling urban centers. Intriguingly, a smaller town in Quebec has made it into the top five, challenging the notion that big city life equates to higher quality living.
The Study Behind the Rankings
The 2024 “Best Places to Live in Canada with the Best Quality of Life” report sheds light on what makes a city not just livable but highly desirable. The study evaluates locations across Canada based on three main factors: safety, affordability, and quality of life.
Safety
Safety is gauged through the Crime Severity Index from Statistics Canada’s 2022 records, providing an accurate measure of local crime rates.
Affordability
Affordability is evaluated using current housing and rental prices from Realtor.ca and Zumper, offering a real-time snapshot of living costs.
Quality of Life
Quality of life is perhaps the most subjective metric but is critical nonetheless. This criterion was measured via genuine resident feedback that considered aspects like job opportunities, education, healthcare, public transportation, and recreational facilities.
Top 5 Places to Live in Canada
Wellington County, Ontario
A Great Mix of Safety and Affordability
Leading the list is Wellington County in southwestern Ontario. Known for its low crime severity index of 27.80, it offers residents a sense of security. The housing market here is relatively balanced with an average property price of $861,528 and a one-bedroom apartment rent at $1,738.
Wellington County’s strategic location near major cities like Brampton and Toronto provides urban convenience without sacrificing a community-focused atmosphere. The county also offers numerous parks and green spaces like Elora Gorge and Victoria Park for those who love outdoor activities.
Oak Bay, British Columbia
Coastal Beauty with Community Spirit
In second place is Oak Bay with its picturesque settings and a crime severity index of 29.18. This coastal municipality offers stunning views along with a peaceful environment. Housing prices are relatively more affordable compared to other parts of British Columbia, with average property costs at $685,542 and rents for a one-bedroom apartment around $2,108.
Oak Bay isn’t just about natural beauty; it also boasts a robust community spirit evident in its local schools, beaches like Willow Beach, and parks such as Cattle Point.
LaSalle, Ontario: Event Centre by the Water
LaSalle, a quaint town in Essex County, ranks third among the best places to live in Canada, particularly noted for its family-friendly vibe. With a low crime severity index of 30.18, it assures safety and calm.
The town is also an affordable choice, with the average property price at about $879,017 and a 1-bed apartment rents around $1,342. Its appeal is boosted by over 40 km of biking trails, 100 acres of parkland, and proximity to urban amenities in Windsor, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Lévis, Quebec: A Francophone Gem
Located across the water from Québec City, Lévis is the Quebec town that charmingly made it to the top Canadian towns list. The Francophone community of over 149,000 is situated between three national parks with ample outdoor activities.
With a crime severity index of 30.17, it promises a safe living environment. Housing is also affordable, with an average property price of $402,480 and rent for a 1-bed apartment at approximately $1,568.
Burlington, Ontario: Blending Charm with Perks
Burlington rounds out the top five best places to live in Canada, blending small-town charm with big-city perks. It has a low crime severity index of 31.04. The housing market is on par with other top-ranking cities, with an average property price of $861,528 and 1-bed apartment rent at $1,834.
Located between Toronto and Niagara Falls, Burlington is perfect for those seeking professional opportunities without sacrificing a community feel. It’s known for its welcoming community, excellent amenities, and a variety of outdoor activities like the Niagara Escarpment and the Waterfront Trail along Lake Ontario.
Honourable Mention: Edmundston, New Brunswick
While the top five cities in the report provide compelling options for those seeking a new home among top Canadian towns there’s an honorable mention: Edmundston, New Brunswick.
With a Crime Severity Index of 64.78, the sixth town on the list offers security. But what truly sets Edmundston apart is its affordability. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is just $875 while the average property price stands at an accessible $234,834.
Over 90% of Edmundston speak French as their first language, making it an excellent choice for those seeking Francophone culture outside of Quebec. The city is not only an academic centre but also has a business heart in Madawaska. The town’s strategic location near the United States border allows easy access to Maine and proximity to Quebec offering residents cross-border perks.
In conclusion these locations certainly stand out as some of the best places to live in Canada whether you’re looking for affordability outdoor activities or professional opportunities these top Canadian towns have something unique to offer.
