Top 10 Canadian Cities for Retiring
With breathtaking naturescapes, top healthcare facilities, and diverse and welcoming communities, Canada attracts retirees from all over the world. Here are ten of the best Canadian cities to retire in.
1750 Patly Place, Victoria, BC
Victoria, BC
With a mild climate, picturesque beaches and ocean views, and a vibrant community, Victoria is one of Canada’s most popular retirement destinations. For those looking for an active lifestyle, the city boasts several scenic golf courses, along with dozens of parks and gardens. Victoria also has top healthcare facilities and a high population of doctors.
1080 Matuka Drive, Nanoose Bay, BC
Parksville, BC
With Canada’s highest concentration of seniors per capita, Parksville has been referred to as “Canada’s retirement capital”. Parksville boasts a mild climate year round, scenic golf courses and parks, and plenty of opportunities for boating, kayaking, and more on the Strait of Georgia.
414 Herbert Heights, Kelowna, BC
Okanagan Valley, BC
Located in BC’s interior, the Okanagan is the provinces wine country, with plenty of award-winning wineries along with farms, orchards, and more. The region offers year-round outdoor recreation from boating on the Okanagan Lake to skiing at the nearby ski resorts.
1609 42 Avenue SW, Calgary, AB
Calgary, Alberta
Alberta’s most populated city, Calgary has been ranked as one of the top five most livable cities in the world. With a vibrant culture, access to top healthcare facilities, and more sunshine year-round than any other part of Canada, Calgary is a popular spot for those looking to retire in a vibrant and bustling city.
825 14th Street, Canmore, AB
Canmore, Alberta
Located in Canada’s Rocky Mountains, Canmore has some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery. With six local golf courses and close proximity to seven national parks, Canmore offers year-round outdoor recreation along with a thriving arts scene and a welcoming community.
14650 Niagara Parkway, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Ontario, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming city with a rich history and vibrant culture with plenty of galleries, museums, award-winning restaurants, and events throughout the year. The city is also in the heart of Ontario’s wine country, with over 50 wineries throughout the Niagara region.
444 Rock Forest Road, Ottawa, ON
Ottawa, Ontario
Canada’s capital city has some of the country’s best healthcare facilities, scenic parks, and a rich culture with plenty of museums, galleries, and entertainment venues. Ottawa is an ideal choice for those looking to retire in an urban environment with historic charm.
1497 Av. Roger-Lemelin, Apt. 506, Sainte-Foy-Sillery, QC
Quebec City, Quebec
As one of North America’s oldest cities, Quebec City boasts a rich history with European charm. The province has the most doctors per capita in the country, a low crime rate, and the city has a more affordable cost of living than many others.
Fredericton, New Brunswick
New Brunswick’s capital city is a cultural hub with plenty of museums, historic sites, and theatre and music festivals throughout the year. Situated along the picturesque St. John River, Fredericton offers tranquil tree-lined streets, charming Victorian architecture, and all the amenities found in larger cities.
8 Dickson Avenue, Halifax, NS
Halifax, Nova Scotia
This coastal city is known for breathtaking natural scenery and a welcoming and friendly community. With a diverse population and plenty of amenities including top healthcare facilities, and music and theatre venues, Halifax is one of the most popular retirement destinations in the Maritimes.
This article was originally published in Sotheby’s International Realty Canada Insight The Art of Living Blog in February 2024.
