What characteristics distinguish a great small town? The places that made it onto our list of the best small towns in Canada did so by providing scenic views, unpretentious atmospheres, and unique attractions — the beauty of the ideal small town, in our opinion.
While there are many reasons to visit Canada’s major cities, visiting small towns offers a unique experience for those who want to get to know a place.
In a small town, there’s usually no need for detailed itineraries and lengthy tour guidebooks; the best adventures are generally discovered by wandering on foot or talking to the locals. Please keep reading to see our list of the 15 best small towns to live in Canada.
Table of contents
- What Make The Best Small Towns To Live In Canada Stand Out?
- What Is The Cost Of Living In Small Towns In Canada?
- What Are The Factors To Consider When Choosing A Small Town To Live In Canada?
- 15 Best Small Towns To Live In Canada
- #1. Golden, British Columbia
- #2. Baie-Saint-Paul, Quebec
- #3. Churchill, Manitoba
- #5. Tofino, British Columbia
- #6. British Columbia, Ucluelet
- #7. Alberta, Jasper
- #8. Quebec City, Saint-Sauveur
- #9. New Brunswick’s Alma
- #10. Squamish, British Columbia
- #11. Elora, Ontario
- #12. Victoria-by-the-Sea, Prince Edward Island
- #13. Banff, Alberta
- #14. Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
- #15. St. Andrews by-the-Sea, New Brunswick
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
- References
- Recommendations
What Make The Best Small Towns To Live In Canada Stand Out?
The best small towns in Canada stand out for several reasons:
Affordable Housing
Many small towns in Canada offer affordable housing options compared to larger cities, making them an attractive option for those on a budget.
Quality of Life
Small towns often have a slower pace of life and a strong sense of community, making them an excellent option for those who value a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
Safe Communities
Many small towns in Canada have low crime rates, making them safe and secure places to live.
Job Opportunities
Some small towns have a robust local economy and offer a variety of job opportunities in industries such as tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing.
Check out this article: Lyft Peak Hours: When is The Best Time to Book Lyft?
Access to City Amenities
Some small towns are within commuting distance of larger cities and offer easy access to amenities such as shopping, entertainment, and cultural events.
Natural Beauty
Many small towns in Canada are surrounded by stunning natural scenery, making them an ideal choice for those who enjoy outdoor recreation and natural beauty.
Quality Healthcare
Some small towns in Canada offer top-notch healthcare facilities, making them an excellent option for those who value access to quality medical care.
These factors, combined with a strong sense of community, a friendly atmosphere, and a high quality of life, make the best small towns in Canada stand out as great places to live.
Do you need a sugar momma? Then read: 15 Best Sugar Momma Apps in 2023 | Get them Thick and Wealthy
What Is The Cost Of Living In Small Towns In Canada?
The cost of living in small towns depend on the specific village, the size of the town, and the proximity to larger cities. Some small towns are more affordable than larger cities, while others may be more expensive due to housing prices, taxes, and goods and services.
For example, in some small towns, the cost of living is lower because of lower housing prices, while in others, it may be higher because of a higher cost of goods and services. Some small towns may also offer lower taxes, making them more affordable overall.
It is essential to research and compare the cost of living in different small towns before deciding where to live. You can find information on the cost of living in a specific city by looking at websites such as Numbeo, which provides up-to-date information on the cost of living in cities and towns worldwide.
Read on these banks: Best Banks in Massachusetts In 2023 | Rates, Account Types, Min. Deposit
What Are The Factors To Consider When Choosing A Small Town To Live In Canada?
When choosing a small town to live in Canada, there are several factors to consider:
- Cost of Living. This includes the cost of housing, taxes, groceries, transportation, and other expenses.
- Job Opportunities. Consider the local job market and the availability of job opportunities in your field.
- Climate. Consider the climate and weather conditions in the area, as well as access to outdoor recreation opportunities.
- Quality of Healthcare. Access to quality medical care is essential for many people when choosing a place to live. Research the quality of healthcare facilities and services available in the area.
- Safety and Crime Rate.
- Education. Consider the quality of schools and educational opportunities available in the area, especially if you have children.
- Community Amenities. Research the availability of community amenities such as shopping, entertainment, and cultural events.
- Natural Beauty. Consider the natural beauty of the area and access to outdoor recreation opportunities.
- Proximity to Major Cities. Consider the proximity to larger cities and access to city amenities.
- Personal Preference. Consider your personal preferences and lifestyle, such as a need for a strong sense of community or access to city amenities.
By considering these factors and researching different small towns, you can find the best small town in Canada that meets your needs and fits your lifestyle.
Read this fascinating article: 15 Best Website To Watch Movies In Theaters For Free In 2023
15 Best Small Towns To Live In Canada
#1. Golden, British Columbia
Golden is an ideal base for exploring the Canadian Rockies, as it is surrounded by six national parks (Banff, Glacier, Jasper, Kootenay, Mount Revelstoke, and Yoho). This is one of the best small towns to live in Canada.
Aside from the prominent attractions, it also has Canada’s highest suspension bridge, the Golden Skybridge, whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River, a wolf sanctuary, and a thriving craft beer and food scene.
You should check out: 10 Best Places To Sell Pokemon Cards For Cash | 2023
#2. Baie-Saint-Paul, Quebec
Due to its vibrant art scene, Baie-Saint-Paul is one of Canada’s cultural capitals. Cirque du Soleil, for example, got its start in Montreal in the early 1980s.
Today, you can still find street musicians, painters, and acrobats, as well as plenty of charming restaurants and one of the nation’s highest concentrations of art galleries. This destination, about an hour’s drive from Quebec City, embodies French Canadian charm. Baie is one of the best small towns to live in Canada.
See this article right away: 15 Best Cash Advance Apps That Help You Until Payday | 2023
#3. Churchill, Manitoba
Churchill, known as the world’s polar bear capital, attracts wildlife enthusiasts worldwide. It’s also a great place to watch beluga whales and hunt for the northern lights, which can be seen up to 300 nights a year.
Churchill has no roads, so it can only be reached by plane or train, adding to its remote allure. Regardless, it is still one of the best small towns to live in Canada.
Your health is essential. Read: 7 Best Health Insurance in Texas in 2023
#4. Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia
Mahone Bay is one of the most picturesque towns in Atlantic Canada, with colorfully painted Victorian homes, artisan studios, and heritage gardens. It’s a stop on the popular driving route from Peggy’s Cove to Lunenburg, but it’s easily worth more than an afternoon.
You can also visit Amos Pewter to watch artists transform molten pewter into handcrafted pieces, bike the Dynamite Trail, or grab a craft beer with the locals at Saltbox Brewing Co.
Check out: How To Make Money With Digital Art | 13 Best Ways In 2023
#5. Tofino, British Columbia
Tofino, a coastal town on Vancouver Island, is beloved by surfers, foodies, and outdoor enthusiasts, and for a good reason. Also, Tofino, located within the traditional territory of the, is a treasured destination for surfers, foodies, and outdoor enthusiasts — and for a good reason.
Whale watching, wave riding, hiking, kayaking, biking, and other outdoor activities are available here. Travelers are spoiled for choice in more ways than one, with accommodations ranging from the harborside Tofino Resort + Marina to the beachfront Pacific Sands Beach Resort to rustic coastal campsites.
Read also: 10 Best Whiskeys in Canada in 2023 | Cost
#6. British Columbia, Ucluelet
Ucluelet, located just south of the world-famous surf destination of Tofino, is a small town with a lot to offer. Ucluelet, located on Vancouver Island’s rugged west coast, offers many of the same attractions as Tofino, including surfing, beaches, beautiful resorts and lodges, fishing, hiking, and whale watching, but with fewer crowds.
There are galleries, spas, and restaurants that are true hidden gems (though not for long, we suspect). Ucluelet is one of the best small towns to live in Canada.
The estimated 1,717 residents of Ucluelet understand how wonderful it is to live there, and tourists are only now discovering the same. If you’re going to Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, spend some time exploring “Ukee” (as the locals call it).
See also: 10 Best Clothing Brands in Canada in 2023 | Address
#7. Alberta, Jasper
Jasper is an adventurer’s dream destination, whether you’re hiking the Rockies in the summer or skiing them in the winter.
The top activities in Jasper read like a bucket list for an avid explorer:
- Hiking to alpine lakes
- Taking a wildlife tour
- Chasing waterfalls
- Exploring ice canyons
- Dog sledding
- Ice skating on a frozen lake
The list could go on and on.
Around 4,590 people have made Jasper their permanent home, and we’re sure every tourist who visits wishes they could, too. This is a must-see destination for anyone planning a tour of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. It is quieter than Banff but just as beautiful.
You should check out: How To Earn Money From Google At Home |10 Best Ways
#8. Quebec City, Saint-Sauveur
Saint-Sauveur (population 9,881), located in the heart of the Laurentian Mountains, is one of the best small towns to live in Canada.
Despite being less than an hour from Montreal, Saint-Sauveur feels like a remote mountain town, especially after a fresh snowfall. In the surrounding area, there are six ski resorts. We’ll do the math: you could spend a week here and ski somewhere new almost daily.
When the snow melts, there will be plenty of opportunities to explore by bike or on foot. There are eight golf courses in the area, so bring your clubs.
The outlet mall in Saint-Sauveur attracts bargain hunters, but the walkable downtown is an even better bet for cute boutiques, bakeries, specialty food shops, and magnificent restaurants. Skiing, shopping, and dining — sound like the ideal vacation to us!
You should check out: the 10 Best Banks For Mortgages In Canada In 2023
#9. New Brunswick’s Alma
Alma, a tiny fishing village with only 232 people, is located just outside Fundy National Park. Alma is the gateway to the world-famous high tides of the Bay of Fundy; it’s also a great place to eat after a hike in the park (try the sticky buns — everyone in town raves about them for a good reason).
The nearby Cape Enrage Nature Preserve, towering cliffs, rocky beaches, and an iconic lighthouse are unique natural attractions. It’s the place you could easily spend hours exploring — you can even add a ziplining adventure to up the adrenaline.
Alma is a great place to stay while exploring Fundy National Park if you don’t want to rough it. Even if you’re not camping, stop by this small town on your way in or out of the park.
Read this fascinating article: 10 Best Used SUVs To Buy In Canada In 2023
#10. Squamish, British Columbia
Squamish, BC’s motto, “Hardwired for Adventure,” says everything you need to know about this small but rapidly growing town (population 19,512 and counting) nestled between Vancouver and Whistler.
With its roots in the logging industry, Squamish is now known for its high-adrenaline activities, with mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking, kiteboarding, and trail running as the most popular.
Its charming downtown is easily walkable, with various eclectic boutiques selling locally made goods and treats. There is always a festival or special event, especially in the summer, when you can attend events such as the Squamish Loggers Sports Festival, the Wind Festival for the Arts, and several well-known bikes and running races.
Squamish used to be the kind of place you’d stop for a bite to eat or to fill up your gas tank on your way to Whistler. It’s now a destination in and of itself. Squamish is one of the best small towns to live in Canada.
You should check out: 10 Best Beaches In Canada For Fun In 2023
#11. Elora, Ontario
Despite being only a 90-minute drive from Toronto, Elora feels like a world away. A vibrant community of artists, chefs, and entrepreneurs keeps this idyllic town alive with historical 19th-century buildings.
While it’s easy to lose track of time wandering through the charming shops, the star attraction here is the Elora Gorge Conservation Area, which attracts hikers, swimmers, and anyone brave enough to go tubing down the Grand River rapids.
Read this fascinating article: 10 Best Universities For Psychology In Canada | 2023
#12. Victoria-by-the-Sea, Prince Edward Island
Victoria-by-the-Sea, Prince Edward Island The best way to soak it all in is to walk along the coast, lined with historical relics, including the famous red-and-white lighthouse.
Daytime activities include clam digging and kayaking hybrid tours. At the same time, evenings are best spent eating oysters and lobster or seeing a play at the historic Victoria Playhouse, PEI’s longest-running small theater.
See this article right away: 15 Best Cash Advance Apps That Help You Until Payday | 2023
#13. Banff, Alberta
This historical town within Banff National Park ticks all the boxes for a great mountain town: friendly locals, postcard views, and après-adventure restaurants and bars like Park Distillery.
Whether you’re here for a quick hike up Mount Rundle, a full day of skiing, or a paddle on one of the many nearby glacial lakes, adventure is available all year. Banff is one of the best small towns to live in Canada.
Read this fascinating article: 10 Best National Parks in Canada in 2023
#14. Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
Niagara-on-the-Lake, known for its sun-drenched vineyards and charming heritage homes, gives visitors to Niagara Falls a reason to stay, sip, and savor the countryside. If more than the award-winning wineries and restaurants are needed, events like the theater-focused Shaw Festival keep the town alive.
You don’t even need a car to explore everything it has to offer, thanks to its well-connected shuttle system, WEGO, and numerous bike rental shops. It is one of the best small towns to live in Canada.
You should check out: 10 Best Places To Sell Pokemon Cards For Cash | 2023
#15. St. Andrews by-the-Sea, New Brunswick
A 30-minute drive from the border crossing in Calais, Maine, to St. Stephen, New Brunswick, and St. Andrews by the Sea is a great place to stop on your way to Canada’s famous Fundy National Park. This is one of the best small towns to live in Canada.
Char and Chowder and The Clam Digger are lovely restaurants that serve delicious fried clams, burgers, and seafood. Drive your car to the historic Ministers Island, which is only accessible at low tide via the sandbar that appears.
You should check out: 15 Best Raw Dog Food In Canada | 2023
Frequently Asked Questions
An excellent small town in Canada offers a balance of affordability, safety, job opportunities, quality of life, and a sense of community.
Some of the best small towns to live in Canada include Golden, British Columbia, and Baie-Saint-Paul, Quebec.
When choosing a small town to live in, factors include the cost of living, crime rate, job market, climate, healthcare, and community amenities.
Yes, many small towns in Canada are within commuting distance of larger cities and offer easy access to city amenities such as shopping, entertainment, and cultural events.
The cost of living in a small town compared to a big city in Canada can vary depending on the specific town and city. Some small towns are more affordable than nearby cities, while others may be more expensive due to housing prices and taxes. It is essential to research and compare the cost of living in different areas before deciding on where to live.
Conclusion
Many small towns in Canada offer a high quality of life and a sense of community, making them great places to live. Whether you’re looking for affordable housing, a strong job market, or access to city amenities, a small town can meet your needs.
With factors such as cost of living, crime rate, job market, climate, healthcare, and community amenities, it’s essential to research. It compares different towns before deciding on where to live.
The best small town for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences, but with so many great options available, you’re sure to find the perfect place to call home in Canada.
Your health is essential. Read: 7 Best Health Insurance in Texas in 2023
References
Recommendations
- 15 Best Resorts in Canada in 2023 | IMAGES
- 10 Best Red Wine In Canada For Adults | 2023
- Get Paid To Hunt Hogs: 10 Best Ways For You In 2023
- What Are The Highest-Paid Physician Specialties In 2023? | Best Careers
- Best Banks In Kentucky In 2023 | Rates, Account Types, Min. Deposit
- Highest Paid Bartenders In 2023 | 10 Best Countries
- 12 Best Cars with Self-Driving Features in 2023
