Your Canadian cities guide for quality of life

LIVING
Your Canadian cities guide for quality of life

Canada’s cities each offer their own unique lifestyle, and as a newcomer, it can be tough to figure out which one feels right for you.

The good news? A little research before you arrive can make your transition much smoother—and help you find a city that truly suits your needs.

Here’s our guide on the top 5 cities in Canada for quality of life!

🇨🇦 Edmonton
• High Quality of Life Index: 179.12
• Strong purchasing power (126.18)
• Affordable housing (price-to-income ratio: 4.47)
• Low commute time (28.22)

🏔️ Calgary
• Quality of Life Index: 178.4
• High income levels (122.4)
• Safe environments (61.4)
• Low pollution (23.9)

🏛️ Ottawa
• Quality of Life Index: 178.32
• Secure & family-friendly (safety: 68.65)
• Walkable & close to nature
• Low pollution (24.58)

🌆 Vancouver
• Quality of Life Index: 176.69
• Best climate (91.15)
• High cost of housing (12.57)
• Top in Mercer’s 2024 ranking

🏡 Mississauga
• Quality of Life Index: 172.85
• High income potential (122.00)
• Green spaces but expensive housing

🌤️ Victoria
• Quality of Life Index: 173.08
• Best climate in Canada (92.52)
• High cost of housing (12.32)

CANADA EH?
Things To Do Around You:

Montréal en Lumière lights up downtown with free outdoor activities, dazzling light installations, and lively DJ sets. Enjoy the Loto-Québec Skating Loop, the CN School Break, and the famous Nuit Blanche. February 27–March 9, 2025, with gastronomic events starting February 20.

In Winnipeg, Festival du Voyageur transforms Saint-Boniface into a winter wonderland celebrating French-Canadian, Métis, and First Nations cultures. Enjoy historical reenactments, snow sculptures, traditional music, and lively performances at Western Canada’s largest winter festival. February 14–23, 2025.

In Winnipeg, Winter Park at The Forks offers a magical outdoor experience with over a kilometre of groomed skating trails, twinkling lights, and tobogganing hills. Glide under The Canopy, take in scenic winter views, and enjoy curated music at the CN Stage. Free admission from December 1, 2024, to March 9, 2025.

Across Manitoba, the Jack Frost Challenge invites teams of up to five to complete 130 kilometres of outdoor activities like skating, skiing, snowshoeing, and more. Stay active and embrace winter fun—just register and log your kilometres! Free to join from February 9–22, 2025.

In Newmarket, just 45 minutes north of Toronto, the Ice Lounge on Main transforms Main Street into a winter wonderland with ice sculptures, live music, and cozy fire tables. Enjoy a fully licensed street, complimentary winter treats, and the Snow Valley Mini Tube Slide. February 21–23, 2025.

Kincora Community Winter Festival in Calgary offers a cozy winter celebration with sleigh rides, live music, skating, and firepits. Enjoy free skate rentals, refreshments, and a fun afternoon outdoors. February 23, 2025, from 1–3 PM at Kincora Fields and Rink.

Just for Laughs Vancouver brings 12 days of comedy with star-studded stand-up, podcasts, improv, film, and sketch performances! From arena shows to underground comedy, there’s something for everyone. February 13–23, 2025, at various venues in Vancouver.

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TRAVEL
Bucket list destinations in Canada

Sahil Kumar, aka @Travelmowgly on Instagram, knows a thing or two about exploring Canada. With 152k followers, he’s always capturing stunning shots of his adventures. He recently shared his must-see spots—here are his top Canadian bucket list destinations!

🌷 Harrison Tulip Festival, BC – A stunning display of tulips in full bloom each spring.

🏙️ Toronto, ON – Canada’s biggest city, home to the CN Tower, diverse food, and vibrant neighbourhoods.

🌊 Niagara Falls, ON – One of the world's most famous waterfalls, known for its breathtaking power.

🏔️ Banff, AB – A mountain town surrounded by turquoise lakes, wildlife, and endless outdoor adventures.

🏝️ Grand Manan Island, NB – A quiet retreat with rugged cliffs, lighthouses, and whale watching.

🏞️ Jasper, AB – A paradise for hiking, stargazing, and spotting glaciers.

🌉 Capilano Suspension Bridge, BC – A thrilling walk through the treetops in a rainforest setting.

🏰 Quebec City, QC – A European-style city with cobblestone streets, historic sites, and French charm.

⛰️ Sainte-Rose-du-Nord, QC – A peaceful village with stunning fjord views and outdoor activities.

🎻 Cape Breton Island, NS – Known for scenic coastal drives, Celtic culture, and live music.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Michael Bublé calls Whistler the most beautiful place on Earth

Narcity recently shared Michael Bublé and his wife’s stunning photos of their visit to Whistler.

Bublé called Whistler "one of the most beautiful places on Earth" and raved about its charm.

Why Whistler?
🎿 World-class ski terrain
🏔️ Incredible mountain views
🍽️ Lively atmosphere
🚗 Just 90 minutes from Vancouver

OUR PICKS & FAVS

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