The Best Places to Live In Canada Were Ranked & A Quebec Town Made The Top 5

Think the best places to live in Canada are major cities? Think again. A recent study from MovingWaldo reveals that some of the most appealing cities to call home in Canada are far from big urban centres. A smaller Quebec town even secured its spot among the top five, challenging big city dominance in defining quality of life.

Drawing on a wealth of safety data and cost of living insights, the 2024 "Best Places to Live in Canada with the Best Quality of Life" report, offers a fresh perspective on what makes a city not just livable, but desirable. The study evaluates towns and cities across Canada on three main factors: safety, affordability, and quality of life.

Safety is gauged using the Crime Severity Index from Statistics Canada's 2022 records, providing a measure of local crime. Affordability is assessed through the latest housing and rental costs from Realtor.ca and Zumper, giving a real-time picture of the financial aspect of living in these areas. And quality of life, perhaps the most subjective yet critical criterion, was assessed through genuine feedback from residents, encompassing aspects like job opportunities, education, healthcare, public transportation, and the availability of recreational facilities.

Here are five top spots in Canada with a high living standard:

Wellington County, Ontario

The Wellington County Museum and Archives.

Elovkoff | Dreamstime

Topping the list is Wellington County, a gem in southwestern Ontario. Known for its low crime severity index of 27.80, it offers residents a feeling of safety and security. The housing market there is relatively balanced, with the average property costing $861,528, and a 1-bedroom apartment renting for $1,738.

Wellington County stands out for its strategic location near major cities like Brampton and Toronto while maintaining a community-focused atmosphere. It's appealing to outdoorsy types, with numerous parks and green spaces, including the Elora Gorge and Victoria Park.

Oak Bay, British Columbia

Oak Bay homes on the waterfront.

Fallsview | Dreamstim

Oak Bay takes the second spot with its picturesque settings and a crime severity index of 29.18. The coastal municipality offers breathtaking views and a serene environment. Housing prices here are more accessible than in many other parts of British Columbia, with the average property at $685,542 and rents for a 1-bed apartment around $2,108.

Oak Bay is not just about scenic beauty; it's also about a strong community spirit, evident in its schools, local beaches, and parks like Willow Beach and Cattle Point.

LaSalle, Ontario

Event centre by the water.

Courtesy of the Town of Lasalle.

​LaSalle, a quaint town in Essex County, ranks third, 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

View of Lévis from Québec City.

Leonid Andronov | Dreamstime

Located across the water from Québec City, Lévis is the Quebec town that charmingly made it to the top five. 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

Skyline in Burlington, Ontario.

Harold Stiver | Dreamstime

Burlington rounds out the top five, 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.​

While the top five cities in the report provide compelling options for those seeking a new home, there's an honourable 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 Edmunston 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.

Reflecting on last year's results, which included towns like Downtown Saguenay, Lévis, Deep River, Trenton, and Quebec City, it's evident that the criteria for the best places to live in Canada are ever-changing. Fortunately, Canada's landscape of living options is as vast and varied as the country itself.