If you still have the means to retire, here are the top 10 cities in Canada for you. Waiting until retirement to enjoy life is no longer a milestone that Millennials and Gen Z in Canada aspire to.
A recent Leger survey revealed that nearly 3/4 (74%) of Canadians aged 25 to 44 feel that the traditional approach to retirement—stopping work at 65 to enjoy travel, leisure, and time with family and friends—is an outdated concept. Essentially, the path to retirement has become a blend of work, travel, volunteering, and pursuing business ventures. However, if you do want to (and most importantly, can afford to) retire, there are many standout cities in Canada to consider.
Luxury real estate company Sotheby’s International Realty recently published a report listing the top 10 cities in Canada for retirement. While Canada is ranked as one of the most expensive countries for retirement, some of the cities listed below are also known for their lower retirement costs. Let’s explore which Canadian cities might be the best fit for your retirement lifestyle:
Victoria, B.C.
With a mild climate, picturesque beaches and ocean views, and a vibrant community, Victoria is one of the most popular retirement destinations in Canada. For those seeking an active lifestyle, the city boasts numerous beautiful golf courses and dozens of parks and gardens. Victoria also has top-notch healthcare facilities and a large number of doctors.
Parksville, B.C.
With the highest concentration of seniors per capita in Canada, Parksville is known as the ‘retirement capital of Canada.’ It enjoys a mild climate year-round, stunning golf courses and parks, and numerous opportunities for boating, kayaking, and other activities on the Georgia Strait.
Okanagan Valley, B.C.
Located in the Interior of BC, Okanagan is the province’s wine country, with many award-winning wineries alongside farms, orchards, and more. This area offers year-round outdoor recreational activities, from boating on Okanagan Lake to skiing at nearby resorts.
Calgary, Alberta
Alberta’s most populous city is frequently ranked among the world’s most livable cities. With a vibrant culture, access to top healthcare facilities, and more sunshine throughout the year than any other part of Canada, Calgary is a popular choice for those looking to retire in a lively and bustling city.
Canmore, Alberta
Located in Canada’s Rocky Mountains, Canmore features some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. With six local golf courses and close proximity to seven national parks, Canmore offers year-round outdoor recreation along with an artistic community and friendly atmosphere.
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Ontario, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming town with a rich history and vibrant culture, featuring many galleries, museums, award-winning restaurants, and year-round events. The town is also at the heart of Ontario’s wine country, with over 50 wineries across the Niagara region.
Ottawa, Ontario
Canada’s capital boasts some of the country’s best healthcare facilities, beautiful parks, and a rich cultural scene with numerous museums, galleries, and entertainment venues. Ottawa is an ideal choice for those who want to retire in an urban setting with historical charm.
Quebec City, Quebec
As one of North America’s oldest cities, Quebec City offers a rich history with European charm. Quebec also has the highest number of doctors per capita in the country, low crime rates, and Quebec City is known for its more affordable cost of living compared to many other areas.
Fredericton, New Brunswick
The capital of New Brunswick is a cultural hub with many museums, historic sites, and year-round theater and music festivals. Located along the picturesque St. John River, Fredericton features quiet, tree-lined streets, charming Victorian architecture, and all the amenities of a larger city.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
This coastal city is known for its stunning natural scenery and a friendly, welcoming community. With a diverse population and numerous amenities, including top healthcare facilities and vibrant music and arts scenes, Halifax is one of the most popular retirement destinations in the Maritimes.
