10 Best Cities to Live in Canada for Quality of Life in 2025

Numbeo’s Quality of Life Index offers a comprehensive evaluation of Canadian cities.

This index assesses purchasing power, safety, healthcare quality, cost of living, property price-to-income ratio, traffic commute time, pollution levels, and climate. These metrics provide valuable insights into the living standards across the country, highlighting each city’s strengths and challenges. The data for February 2025 reveals 10 top cities and how the various factors influence their overall index.

On This Page, You Will Find:

• The 10 best cities to live in Canada for 2025
• How Numbeo’s Quality of Life Index ranks Canadian cities
• Key factors influencing quality of life, such as affordability, healthcare, and safety
• Insights into each city’s strengths and challenges
• An FAQ section answering common questions about living in Canada

Edmonton

Edmonton emerges as a leader with a Quality of Life Index score of 179.12. The city’s high purchasing power, indicated by an index of 126.18, reflects substantial income levels among residents. With a high healthcare index of 77.20, Edmonton ensures accessible and quality medical services. The property price-to-income ratio stands at 4.47, suggesting relatively affordable housing options.

Additionally, a low traffic commute time index of 28.22 enhances daily living by reducing time spent in transit. The pollution index is 28.73, indicating a cleaner environment than other urban areas.

Calgary

Close behind Edmonton is Calgary, with an overall index score of 178.4. Residents benefit from a high purchasing power index of 122.4, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle relative to the cost of living. The city boasts a safety index of 61.4, reflecting a secure environment. Healthcare services are of high quality, as evidenced by a healthcare index score 73.5. The property price-to-income ratio is 5.0, indicating that housing remains accessible for many. Commute times are relatively short, with a traffic commute time index of 29.1 and a low pollution index of 23.9, which contributes to a healthier living environment.

Ottawa

Canada’s capital ranks highly, with a Quality of Life Index score of 178.32. The city’s high purchasing power index of 122.11 reflects intense income levels among its residents. A safety index of 68.65 underscores Ottawa’s secure atmosphere. Healthcare services are accessible and of good quality, with a healthcare index score 68.34. The pollution index is low at 24.58, indicating a clean environment. Commute times are manageable, as shown by a traffic commute time index 33.84.

Ottawa’s thriving economy, walkable neighbourhoods, family-friendly environment and proximity to nature are a draw.

Vancouver

With an overall index of 176.69, Vancouver is renowned for its very high climate index of 91.15, highlighting its mild and pleasant weather conditions. A high purchasing power index of 108.90 denotes strong income levels among residents. Healthcare services are of high quality, with a healthcare index score of 71.75.

Vancouver offers its residents a unique blend of outdoor recreation and cosmopolitan living. The pollution index is low at 25.64, contributing to a healthier environment. Commute times are moderate, with a traffic commute time index of 36.71. However, Vancouver faces challenges in housing affordability, as indicated by a high property price-to-income ratio of 12.57.

The city topped the list for North America in a 2024 Mercer Quality of Living survey.

Mississauga

Mississauga achieves a Quality of Life Index score of 172.85. The city’s high purchasing power index of 122.00 reflects substantial resident incomes. Healthcare services are high quality, with a healthcare index score of 69.91. A low pollution index of 23.47 contributes to a healthier environment. However, the property price-to-income ratio is 11.48, indicating potential challenges in housing affordability.

The city’s proximity to Toronto makes it attractive to families and professionals. Its diverse communities and abundant green space add to its appeal.

Victoria

Victoria scores 173.08 on the Quality of Life Index, highlighted by a very high climate index of 92.52, reflecting favourable weather conditions. The city has a high purchasing power index of 91.42, indicating intense income levels among residents. Healthcare services are accessible and of good quality, with a healthcare index score of 65.34. A low pollution index of 22.00 suggests a clean environment. Commute times are relatively short, with a traffic commute time index of 32.63. Nonetheless, a high property price-to-income ratio of 12.32 may challenge housing affordability. Despite the high cost of living, Victoria’s mild climate offers outdoor recreational opportunities year-round.

Quebec City

Quebec City, renowned for its European charm, attains a Quality of Life Index score of 171.31. The city’s high purchasing power index of 118.84 reflects substantial resident incomes. A safety index of 77.66 underscores a secure environment. Healthcare services are of high quality, with a healthcare index score of 69.03. The pollution index is relatively low at 37.00, indicating a clean environment. Commute times are manageable, contributing positively to residents’ daily experiences. The city’s strong economy, cultural richness and excellent quality of life attract residents who enjoy affordability and a vibrant heritage.

Halifax

Halifax is prominent in the Quality of Life Index, reflecting its balanced living conditions. Residents experience favourable purchasing power, indicating that income levels are well-aligned with the cost of living. The city is moderately safe, contributing to residents’ security and well-being. Healthcare services are accessible and of good quality, as evidenced by a commendable healthcare index score. With relatively low pollution, Halifax provides a healthier environment for its inhabitants. Shorter average commute times enhance daily living, allowing residents to enjoy more personal and family time. However, it’s important to note that Halifax has a property price-to-income ratio of 8.92, suggesting that housing affordability may be challenging for some residents.

London, Ontario

London, Ontario  is recognized for its quality of life, with an index of 163.7, and several factors contribute to its ranking. The city boasts a strong purchasing power index, indicating that residents generally have substantial income levels relative to the cost of living. Groceries, transportation and utilities are lower than in larger cities, making it a more cost-effective option. London’s safety index suggests a moderate level of safety within the city. With a solid healthcare index score of 67.25, London provides accessible and quality medical services to its residents. The city enjoys relatively low pollution levels, contributing to a healthier living environment and making it an appealing option for professionals and young families. Shorter average commute times enhance daily living by reducing time spent on the road.

Canada’s top cities exhibit a high quality of life, with strong purchasing power, accessible healthcare, and relatively low pollution levels. However, challenges such as housing affordability and varying commute times persist. These insights, derived from Numbeo’s Quality of Life Index as of February 2025, offer a snapshot of urban living conditions across the country. For prospective residents and policymakers, staying informed through current data is essential for making well-informed decisions that enhance the overall living experience in these urban centers.

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