Migration consultancy firm Global Citizen Solutions has published a 2025 ranking of Canada’s most livable cities using key metrics like salaries, home prices, healthcare access, safety, job prospects, to determine overall quality of life. Surprisingly, Calgary, Ottawa and Edmonton outshone traditional heavyweights like Toronto and Vancouver in terms of their level of appeal for individuals looking to relocate to Canada. These findings suggest a shift in what renters and buyers value most in 2025—affordability, lifestyle balance, and economic opportunity.

The top five most livable cities, according to the report, include:

1. Calgary –  favoured for its high average salary of $58,243 and relatively affordable housing, with the average home price around $653,903. The city benefits from low taxes and crime rates, a strong job market in energy, technology, and finance, and easy access to nature thanks to its proximity to the Rocky Mountains.
2. Ottawa – ranks first on Numbeo’s Quality of Life Index, offering a balanced lifestyle with affordable rent averaging $1,479 per month. It boasts strong public services, excellent hospitals, low crime, and mild traffic. The city is also rich in culture, with iconic landmarks like Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and a wealth of museums.
3. Edmonton – stands out for its major industries in energy, education, and healthcare. It offers more affordable housing and a lower cost of living compared to Canada’s larger cities. Residents enjoy access to numerous festivals, a thriving arts scene, and abundant green spaces throughout the city.
4. Montreal – provides an affordable urban lifestyle relative to other major Canadian cities. It features strong infrastructure, excellent public transit, and rich cultural accessibility. The city has also seen improvements in healthcare and education systems, making it an increasingly attractive place to live.
5. Hamilton – offers affordable rent, averaging around $1,405 per month, and a thriving local economy driven by healthcare and manufacturing. Its vibrant arts scene and close proximity to Toronto allow residents to enjoy big-city benefits without the high costs typically associated with the GTA.

Victoria, Halifax, Vancouver, Winnipeg and Waterloo comprise the remaining top ten cities, with Toronto coming in eleventh place for overall livability.

For the complete list, visit: Top 15 Best Places to Live in Canada for Every Lifestyle