A recent report has identified four Ontario cities as top contenders for the best places to live in Canada. While Toronto made the list, it fell just short of the top 10 rankings.
The rankings, unveiled by Global Citizen Solutions, showcase the “Best Places to Live in Canada 2025,” taking into account factors such as job opportunities, housing affordability, and overall living costs.
Leading the pack in Ontario is Ottawa, securing the #2 spot for its exceptional quality of life, affordable living expenses, and accessibility to homeownership. The average monthly cost for a single person hovers around $1,479. Notable attractions in the capital include Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and the vibrant ByWard Market.
Hamilton claimed the #5 position, lauded for its robust healthcare, education, and manufacturing sectors, as well as its thriving arts community. With an average monthly living expense of approximately $1,405, Hamilton emerges as a budget-friendly choice within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
Following closely behind, Waterloo clinched the final spot in the top 10, praised for its prestigious universities and burgeoning tech landscape. However, the report highlighted the city’s chilly winters and heavy snowfall as potential drawbacks.
Toronto, landing at #11 among the Ontario cities, stands out as a hub for newcomers and professionals in finance, technology, and healthcare. Despite its allure, the city’s steep cost of living remains a significant challenge, with average monthly expenses estimated at $1,547 for individuals and $5,652 for a family of four.
Explore the full list of the best places to live in Canada for 2025, as ranked by Global Citizen Solutions: