The 12 Best Cities to Retire in Canada

People have different preferences, priorities, likes, and dislikes about everything. It extends to everything from a favourite coffee to important decisions such as choosing a career path. As a result, it’s normal for each person to have different plans about how and where they want to spend retirement.
Perhaps you even have a retirement dream checklist, or you would like to get involved with a hobby that you could not do in your working life. But let me tell you that if you plan to move and find the best cities to retire in Canada, your personal preferences alone are not enough to shape your decision. If you are preparing to retire soon, you’ll want to find an area that’s affordable, safe, convenient, and has plenty of activities you’ll enjoy. With three territories, ten provinces, and 289 cities in Canada, you may feel confused about where to retire. However, don’t worry, in this article, we will go over the cities considered most suitable for hosting retirees.

What Factors Influence Where We Choose to Live?

Generally speaking, where you live after you retire is entirely up to you and your lifestyle. You need to find the place that covers your needs and provides the services you appreciate. Where does the place suit you regarding finances, comfort, and health? What is your ideal location for retirement? Where is the place you can relax and use your free time to explore top hobbies for retirees? If you think about it clearly, it is evident that the right place to retire is different for every individual. However, some general factors make some places and cities in Canada stand out when choosing the best for living. Some of the most critical factors you should consider for selecting the right home for your retirement are listed below:

Cost of Living

Research the housing prices, tax rates, and everyday costs to make sure you can live on your pension in the city of your choice.

Special Services for Retirees

As a retiree, you should consider living in a place that gives you the highest comfort level. It is essential to make sure the area you want to live in provides the right services for you.

The Climate

Nobody wants to live in a place freezing in winters or melting in summers. Climate has a significant effect on your health. So you must pay attention to the weather in the area you want to live in.

The Crime Rate and Safety

Living in a place with high crime rates and regular safety violations disturbs your mental health and peace of mind. Retirement is supposed to be the period of your life in which you can relax. And that is not possible if your home is also the home to thieves and gangsters.

Healthcare Services

How many doctors and clinics are in the city? How many hospitals and pharmacies can you find near your house? These are so significant when choosing your living place because your health is your number one priority as a retiree and a senior.

Best Cities in Canada for Retirees

We have already gone through the state of retirement in Canada and picked the best provinces in Canada for seniors. Now it is time to take a deeper look at the cities where retirees love to live. Each city has a specific chart so you can compare them better.

1. Ottawa, Ontario

In terms of convenience, no city can beat the country’s capital. Ottawa is one of the most desirable places to live, nationally and internationally. This is because it provides easy access to various activities, sightseeing opportunities, reasonable prices, and a proper health care system. Ottawa is one of the ideal cities for anyone who wants to enjoy a relaxing, safe retirement.

2. Kingston, Ontario

In 2016, Kingston was ranked the ninth-best city for retired citizens. Kingston is recognized for its abundance of natural and historical attractions and a strong sense of safety throughout the entire city, so it is a lovely place for retirees.

3. Collingwood, Ontario

If you enjoy spending your time at the beach or want to enjoy the outdoors, Collingwood is the right place for you. Collingwood is a favourite place for retirees and the general public since it allows you to relax and take advantage of the nice weather and the most pleasant sailing waters in Canada.

4. Calgary, Alberta

You need to get the most out of the sun when you live in Canada since you often don’t see it. Calgary is considered to be the sunniest city in the entire country. It is also one of the cities with the highest quality of life in Canada and worldwide.

5. Victoria, British Colombia

Low tax rates and the number of doctors per capita make Victoria a perfect destination for retirees. Furthermore, this area has a fantastic climate. Many sources consider Victoria the most pleasant city in Canada regarding the weather. Living here is healthier than in many other colder, drier climates due to the benefits of sea air and moderate temperatures.

6. Oakville, Ontario

When it comes to picking the perfect place for living, usually the major cities steal all the attention. But the truth is, small cities can be just as appealing to retirees as the major cities. Oakville is a perfect example of this, as it was named one of Canada’s best cities to live in 2018.

7. Quebec City, Quebec

It would be best to be concerned about spending time in Quebec City because most locals speak French. Many of the residents in Quebec City are fluent in both French and English, but if you decide to make a living there, you better start taking your French lessons seriously. Living in an almost bilingual city is a fun experience and can be the perfect excuse for learning a new language as a senior. Many retirees are attracted to this city because of its originality and high quality of life.

8. Saguenay, Quebec

The land of the famous Fjord National Park is considered to be a popular home for retirees. Saguenay is a safe and affordable place for seniors. It is evident from the high life satisfaction rate (77.8%) according to the locals.

9. Saint John, New Brunswick

In terms of financial issues, Saint John is one of the most reliable cities you can find. Although the average monthly costs may seem higher, rent and other expenses are relatively low. So, in 2020, it was ranked as the sixth most affordable city globally. Overall, Saint John has gained popularity in recent years. Naturally, retirees are starting to find this place more and more attractive.

10. Vancouver, British Colombia

Vancouver is the third largest city in Canada. It is also one of the, if not the most, expensive cities. In terms of safety, it also seems less safe than other cities. However, it is still considered one of the most desirable cities for senior Canadian citizens since it is famous for its low tax property rate and has a high number of doctors. Vancouver is also one of the warmest cities in Canada.

11. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Over 72 percent of the residents in Saskatoon are satisfied with their lives. Although this city is famous for its college life, it also provides a joyful environment for retired people. There are many reasons Canadians retire to Saskatoon, including the low tax rates, the historical and natural attractions.

12. Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax is a relaxing destination for retirees. And although the monthly living costs may not seem very different from other cities, including rent and other expenses, Halifax is considered one of the most affordable cities in Canada. Also, the climate is suitable for retirees and seniors since it is not too hot in summers and not too cold in winters. However, it might not be the safest city in Canada. But overall, the natural environment and friendly locals make Halifax an excellent place to spend retirement.

Final Words

Regarding Canada’s programs and services for seniors, this country is generally considered an excellent place to retire. Many surveys show that senior retirees in Canada highly appreciate their safety and the quality of their local environment. It means most retirees are satisfied with the quality of their lives, especially in the cities we named in this article. In conclusion, where you live is directly related to making old age happy and healthy. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to all the details and choose wisely.

Are you retired? Where is your perfect place in Canada to spend your retirement? Tell us in the comments.