Following the pandemic, there has been a noticeable increase in people’s interest in residing in Canada’s more rural communities. These provide a respite from crowds, traffic, and noise, and they are more affordable than important centers, which continue to see housing prices rise (though small-town prices are also increasing.) The idea of retiring to a smaller town appeals to many people because they believe it will provide them with lower housing costs, a more laid-back way of life, and better access to the outdoors.
There is a change occurring in the market and among Canadians aged 50 and up. On a personal level, you might be living in a home you purchased many years ago; in the meantime, your children might be grown, and on their own, your values might have shifted, and you might be a different person.
In the following, you’ll find some well-known locations alongside some smaller, less well-known destinations that people find to be more appealing. You’ll also be able to consider locations that will suit you in our updated look at the best places to retire in Canada.
Parksville, BC
Without a doubt, Parksville is the best Canadian city to retire, and it is recognized as the symbolic city for the entire breathtaking east interior coast of Vancouver Island. Because it has the highest number of senior citizens relative to its total population, it is sometimes referred to as “Canada’s retirement capital.” The entire area is famous for its climate, similar to that of the Mediterranean, but Parksville, in particular, is known for its best sandy beaches. In January, you can play golf here, which is not something you can say about many other cities in Canada. The Strait of Georgia is a great place to spot marine mammals like whales and seals and a variety of other species. It is also a play space for other water-based activities, such as sailing and kayaking, if you can thin and any other water-based activity. Compared to Victoria and Vancouver, the real estate prices here are more reasonable.
You have arrived at a place where you can enjoy the fullest possible life. In addition to being a retirement community that developed organically over time, it is also the site of some innovative new developments that warrant your attention. Discover a wonderful location in which to retire in Parksville. Some nearby locations, such as Campbell River, Nanaimo, Qualicum Beach, Duncan, and Victoria, are all just as suitable for retirement.
Calgary, AB
The magazine, The Economist, has ranked Calgary as one of the top five most livable cities on the entire planet. It has the highest Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per Capita in Canada and is ranked among the top cities in terms of quality of life. It is the crown jewel of Wild Rose Country.
Add to this the fact that real estate developers recognize the importance of Calgary’s position as a cultural destination, a thriving metropolis, and the location of the spectacular local scenery. There are major sports teams in the area, such as the Calgary Flames and the Calgary Stampeders. There is a provincial park within the city limits and 600 kilometers of bike pathways, and there is no provincial sales tax (PST). The cost of living in Calgary is significantly lower than that in other major cities like Toronto and Vancouver.
West Vancouver, BC
The entire majestic province of British Columbia is a popular retirement location for people worldwide. This District is in the ideal location to experience all that the province offers. Although it is removed from the bustle and expensive real estate of Vancouver proper, everything that you love about West Vancouver is just across the Lion’s Gate Bridge. It should be no surprise that Stanley Park, Cypress Provincial Park, and many other mountain landscapes are located nearby. It is against the law to have any industry in the city. However, the question that truly matters is, how do people feel about living here? West Vancouver has a high ranking due to statistics such as low taxes and low crime, but the real test is, how do citizens feel about living here?
Niagra Falls, ON
The city itself is quite lovely, as it is replete with parkland and offers a wide variety of vantage points of the breathtaking waterfalls. In addition to many museums and other attractions, there is a casino here. Your grandchildren are going to adore coming to see you here. Who among those who have a genuine appreciation for the natural world wouldn’t want to live near this genuine wonder of the world and the breathtaking Niagara Gorge? You are also located close to not one but two of the Great Lakes, each of which can be reached in precisely half an hour. One route will take you to the breathtaking Crystal Beach on Lake Erie, and the other will take you to the wine country of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Shopping across the border is also available, and downtown Toronto can be reached in just over an hour by car.
Canmore, AB
Canmore will likely be your first stop in the Rocky Mountains if you take the Trans-Canada Highway westward from Calgary. It’s possible that you won’t ever want to leave this place. The serenity of the local scenery is, of course, breathtaking, with its views of The Three Sisters and Ha Ling Peak, but the local artisan, shopping, and architecture might also catch your eye. This city is considered the best Canadian city to retire to live in Canada. The experts have singled out Canmore for its thriving arts community and its healthy local economy. Activities available in the immediate area include climbing, fishing, hiking in the Kananaskis Valley, cross-country skiing, and even simply taking in the area’s natural splendor. There are also six different golf courses in the surrounding area for you to choose from.