Canadian Provinces with the Best Quality of Life in 2025

MovingWaldo has compiled a list of all the Canadian provinces in terms of quality of life and affordability. The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows Canadian provinces to nominate candidates who wish to immigrate to Canada.

In this, we will look at the list of the provinces according to factors such as safety, housing, cost of living, and rental cost. The details of the affordability of the provinces are mentioned along with the immigration pathways.

The table below shows the average monthly cost of living, monthly rent, and the average property buying cost of the provinces:

Immigrants who wish to settle in a province (other than Quebec) can get Permanent Residence through Canada’s Federal Immigration system.

Newfoundland and Labrador PNP

The top spot goes to Newfoundland and Labrador due to its unbeatable cost of living. Housing and rental prices here are the lowest in the country. The province has a strong infrastructure, a rich cultural scene, and various employment opportunities.

Immigration Pathways:

Newfoundland and Labrador welcomes newcomers through its Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP), which includes:

• Skilled Worker Category
• International Graduate Category
• International Entrepreneur Category
• International Graduate Entrepreneur Category

New Brunswick PNP

New Brunswick has an exceptionally low cost of living. It is due to factors such as affordable housing, rental rates, and essential services such as water, gas, and electricity. However, the lower cost of housing is partly due to fewer job opportunities.

Immigration Pathways:

New Brunswick offers several immigration streams through its Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP):

• Express Entry Stream
• Skilled Workers Stream
• Business Immigration Stream
• Strategic Initiative Stream
• Critical Worker Pilot

Saskatchewan PNP

With a relatively low cost of living and an abundance of sunshine, Saskatchewan PNP offers a great balance between affordability and outdoor activities. It is known to be the sunniest province of Canada, thereby being one of the best places to live.

Immigration Pathways:

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) provides several streams:

• International Skilled Worker Category
• Saskatchewan Experience Category
• Entrepreneur and Farm Category
• International Graduate Entrepreneur Category

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Manitoba PNP

Manitoba is known for its extremely low hydroelectricity rates and vibrant summer festivals. However, prospective residents should be prepared for its harsh winters. The Manitoba PNP offers various pathways for skilled workers.

Immigration Pathways:

The province offers several immigration pathways such as:

• Skilled Worker Stream
• International Education Stream
• Business Investor Stream

Prince Edward Island PNP

Prince Edward Island is the smallest province of Canada and has affordable housing, scenic beauty, and a lot of outdoor activities such as cycling and swimming. The province is also famous for its fresh seafood, particularly lobster.

Immigration Pathways:

The PEI Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) includes:

• PEI PNP Express Entry Category
• Labour Impact Category
• Business Impact Category

Quebec PNP

Quebec is more affordable than Ontario and British Columbia. Lower costs for groceries, transportation, and utilities add to its appeal. Quebec PNP also has a distinct immigration system, prioritizing French-speaking candidates.

Immigration Pathways:

• Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) (paused until June 20, 2025)
• Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), with two streams, namely Temporary foreign workers, and Quebec Graduates

Applicants must obtain a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) before applying for permanent residency through the federal government.

Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia offers a mix of affordability and natural beauty. While housing costs are higher than in some provinces on this list, they remain lower than in Ontario PNP and British Columbia PNP. The province’s stunning beaches, scenic trails, and vibrant culture make it a great place to live.

Immigration Pathways:

The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) provides various immigration streams:

• Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry
• Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities
• Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities for Physicians
• Occupations in Demand
• Critical Construction Worker Pilot
• International Graduates in Demand
• International Graduate Entrepreneur
• Entrepreneur
• Physician
• Healthcare Professionals Immigration Pilot

Conclusion

The rankings were determined based on an analysis by MovingWaldo, which factored in property prices, rental rates, and the overall cost of living using data from sources like the Canadian Real Estate Association and Numbeo.

Additionally, feedback from individuals who recently moved to these provinces was considered. For those considering a move to Canada, these provinces offer a mix of affordability, career opportunities, and strong immigration pathways.

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Source: canada.ca

Tags: Best provinces for work Canada cost of living Best places to live Canada Canada provinces Best provinces Canada 2025 Ontario PNP Quebec PNP British Columbia PNP Alberta PNP Nova Scotia PNP Manitoba PNP Canada Immigration News