Why More Newcomers Are Choosing Smaller Canadian Cities in 2025

Canada is known for major hubs like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montréal—but recent trends show a big shift: newcomers are increasingly choosing smaller cities and less-known regions. Here's why this shift matters and what it means for you.

📌 What’s Driving the Trend?

According to recent studies, many immigrants are opting for smaller cities due to lower living costs, a better quality of life, and easier access to jobs and housing. This shift is reshaping newcomer settlement patterns across Canada. VisaVerge

💸 Affordability & Quality of Life

• Lower rent and housing costs compared to big cities
• Shorter commutes, less traffic, more green spaces
• Better housing availability for newcomers

In cities like Halifax, Ottawa, and Edmonton, newcomers find lower competition in rental markets and more welcoming communities.

Try our Cost of Living Tool to compare cities across Canada.

🏗️ Job Opportunities & Community Support

Smaller cities are growing their job markets—especially in tech, healthcare, and skilled trades—and many newcomers receive support through provincial nominee programs (PNPs). () They also make it easier to network, join newcomer groups, and integrate into local life faster.

🌍 Feeling at Home Faster

It’s easier to build trust and community connections in smaller places. With vacancies in community centers, newcomer events, and local programs, settling in feels smoother and more personal. ()

🧭 Should You Consider a Smaller City?

• Want more affordable rent and space? ✅
• Prefer stronger newcomer support networks? ✅
• Interested in growing cities with less competition? ✅

Thinking about Ottawa, Halifax, Saskatchewan towns, Calgary, or Winnipeg? They offer good job prospects, settlement resources, and lower stress compared to the fast-paced life of Toronto or Vancouver. ()