Two B.C. Cities Shine in Canada’s Best Places to Live Ranking

Two cities in British Columbia, Vancouver and Victoria, have been recognized in a recent report as among the best places to live in Canada. This ranking, published by Global Citizen Solutions, identifies the top fifteen municipalities in the country. While both cities are notable contenders, they fall short of the top five rankings.

The report highlights various factors that contribute to each city’s livability, including average salaries, home prices, and the dominant industries within each municipality. Calgary takes the lead as the best place to live in Canada, boasting an average salary of $58,243 and an average home price of $653,903.

Victoria and Vancouver’s Rankings

Victoria ranks sixth, with an average salary of $54,007 and an average home price of $961,000. The report notes that the city is a hub for technology, tourism, transportation, hospitality, and healthcare. It positions Victoria as an attractive destination for young Canadians, emphasizing its blend of urban life and natural beauty.

The report states, “Victoria is the capital city of British Columbia. Its career opportunities in tech, health, and tourism, affordability, and unique blend of city life and natural beauty make Victoria one of the best places to live in Canada for young adults.” The city’s natural surroundings also received commendation, appealing to those who value outdoor experiences.

In contrast, Vancouver ranks eighth, with a higher average salary of $69,512 but a significantly higher average home price of $1,239,418. The city’s primary industries include technology, tourism, natural resources, entertainment, and construction. Despite its appeal, Vancouver’s high cost of living likely contributed to its lower ranking.

The report underscores that “Vancouver is the largest city in British Columbia, but it is also very expensive.” Despite these challenges, the city ranks among the top ten cities in the EIU Global Livability Index, a testament to its overall quality of life. Additionally, Vancouver’s transportation system, which includes buses, SkyTrain, and SeaBus, received praise for its accessibility.

Other Canadian Cities in the Ranking

Several other cities also made the list, including Quebec City, Fredericton, Charlottetown, Saskatoon, Toronto, Waterloo, Winnipeg, Halifax, Hamilton, Montreal, Edmonton, and Ottawa. Each of these cities offers unique advantages, contributing to the diverse landscape of livability across Canada.

Residents of Vancouver and Victoria may reflect on their cities’ standings in this ranking with a sense of pride. While both cities face challenges related to housing affordability, their recognition as some of the best places to live in Canada highlights their strengths and potential for growth.

As these rankings influence perceptions and decisions, it remains to be seen how they will impact the future development and livability of these vibrant communities.