There are many benefits to living in a small city. But, the key advantages include a better quality of life, lower cost of living, and affordable housing costs. Discover the advantages and benefits of living in a small city in Canada and questions to consider to guide your decision.
Vikram and Nutan’s Experience
Vikram and Nutan had great lives as budding professionals in India’s IT capital Bangalore. But, after a close friend immigrated to Canada, they decided to explore moving to Canada. They discovered they were eligible to move to Canada! However, they were unsure about where they wanted to live. Canada is a vast country.
Both agreed, on factors that were important to them. For example, they wanted to live in a small city that offered good jobs, affordable housing, and a nice quality of life. The Atlantic Provinces were a big draw and they settled on Fredericton, New Brunswick for its beauty, charm, and sense of community. Two years later, they had jobs, a large 5-bedroom home, and the lifestyle they wanted. But, most importantly, they became members of a welcoming community.
Why is Small City Living a Good Choice for Newcomers?
Small cities across Canada attract newcomers by providing quality jobs, and a better quality of life. A small City often lacks congestion issues, high housing costs, and the hectic pace of life that comes with living in a big city like Toronto or Vancouver.
Quality Jobs
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While large cities attract newcomers, you may find it more difficult to compete for jobs. But, smaller Cities often experience job growth when existing residents leave the community, or retire. So, many small cities look to newcomers with the right job skills to meet their labour needs.
Quality of Life
A small city can be quieter and more laid back than life in a large city. This can help newcomers looking to integrate and immerse into the community more easily.
Support for Newcomers
In Canada, smaller cities recognize the many benefits of welcoming newcomers. To attract and keep newcomers, they continue to build communities that welcome, embrace, and support newcomers.
Newcomers often move to large Canadian cities such as Toronto and Vancouver because of the social, economic, and community networks. With these networks in place, newcomers may find better access to jobs, cultural and social communities, and support services. However, newcomers often find these same services and jobs in small cities!
Population Growth in Large Cities
Population and migration growth in large cities often means:
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- More competition for quality jobs
- Higher rental prices and housing costs
- More pressure on education and social services
- Greater transit and traffic congestion (which means more time to commute to work).
The high cost of living in a big city can create stress for newcomers looking to build financial success in Canada. As a newcomer, you must decide what you prefer, living in a large or small city. You may discover that a small City can provide the lifestyle and many of the amenities you seek.
Considering Living in a Small City in Canada?
When choosing a city, research the job market, housing costs, and culture (i.e. diversity, nightlife, dining, etc) to decide if it’s right for you and your family.
1. Will I find a job in a small city?
This is a key question. If few jobs match your skill set, you will leave the community. While you may initially settle in the community, you will likely have to make a costly secondary move to another city.
Consider these Questions:
- What jobs are in high demand?
- Do my skills and experience match the available jobs?
- What are the main industries in the community?
- Who are the major employers?
- What employment services exist for newcomers?
- Are mentorship programs available for newcomers?
- What is the unemployment rate in the community?
2. What is the cost of housing in a small city?
While many cities in Canada face rising housing costs, small cities offer more affordable options. As of November 2024, the national average price for a home in Canada was $696,166. The median home price in Fredericton, New Brunswick during the same period was $452,528.
Consider these Questions:
- What does it cost to rent or buy a home? How does the cost compare to other cities in Canada?
- What is the vacancy rate for rental housing?
- How can I search for accommodation?
Related Post:
Best Fredericton Neighbourhoods for Renting
3. What cultural support does the community offer to newcomers?
Immigrants often consider the existing cultural and social network when deciding where to live. This can include services in different languages, faith-based, and nationality-based communities.
Small cities recognize that welcoming newcomers provides many economic, cultural, and social benefits. Supporting newcomers benefits the community and makes the city an attractive option.
Consider these Questions:
What groups, ethnic networks, and professional associations support newcomers?
- What cultural activities take place in the city?
- Are there groups, ethnic networks, and professional associations for newcomers?
- What is the ethnic diversity of the community?
- What’s the quality of life? (fast-paced or relaxed? Access to nature, bike trails, etc?)
4. What social support is available to newcomers living in a small city?
Newcomers benefit from services available to help them settle and find jobs in the local community. Services could include help to conduct job search activities, write a Canadian-style resume, enroll children in school, apply for government programs; and many other activities.
Consider these questions:
- What services are available to help newcomers adapt to the community?
- How do you access the services?
- What health care is available? Can I find a family doctor?
Living in a small city can be a great alternative to living in one of Canada’s large cities, especially if you seek affordability and quality of life. With many advantages, it is worth exploring!
Corinna Frattini is the content marketing strategist at Prepare for Canada. She contributes articles to help newcomers achieve their goals in key areas related to living, working, and settling in Canada. With an extensive background in human resources and leadership development, her articles focus on what Canadian employers seek and how newcomers can continue their careers in Canada.
