The Globe and Mail recently unveiled a study ranking the most desirable cities in Canada for newcomers. This extensive analysis covered 439 cities across the country, each with a population exceeding 10,000. It considered 43 variables categorised into 10 key aspects, including economy, demographics, housing, safety, education, healthcare, amenities, climate, transportation, and community.
Below is the ranking of cities, based on the ten categories:
- Pitt Meadows, BC
- Victoria, BC
- Winnipeg, MN
- North Vancouver, BC
- Saanich, BC
- Wellesley, ON
- Burlington, ON
- Regina, SK
- Delta, BC
- Maple Ridge, BC
- West Vancouver, BC
- Oak Bay, BC
- Abbotsford, BC
- Colwood, BC
- Norwich, ON
- Parksville, BC
- Fort St. John, BC
- Port Coquitlam, BC
- Middlesex Centre, ON
- Coldstream, BC
The study revealed varying degrees of importance placed on different categories by individuals. Housing emerged as a more significant factor compared to climate, which was considered the least significant. Interestingly, no city attained the top ranking across all factors. For instance, even Victoria, while generally appealing, scored average in critical aspects like housing and healthcare.
An in-depth examination of the variables and categories:
The study by The Globe and Mail scrutinised several vital aspects while ranking Canadian cities. Here’s an elaboration on each category:
- Economy: The economy category focuses on economic stability and tax levels, highlighting cities like Oak Bay, Norwich, and Colwood with impressively low unemployment rates under 6%.
- Housing: The Globe evaluated housing by considering the average value of primary real estate and its accessibility for seniors, addressing crucial housing needs for different demographics.
- Demographics: The Globe analysed the city’s stability, sustainability, population growth, and cultural richness. The study employed a diversity indicator index based on three key variables: the percentage of the population with a mother tongue other than English or French, the proportion of first- or second-generation immigrants, and the percentage of visible minorities.
- Safety: A major indicator of safety is the likelihood of crimes and residents’ confidence in public safety. Wellesley stood out for its remarkably low crime rate, significantly below the national average. Other cities with lower crime rates included Pitt Meadows, Saanich, North Vancouver, and Burlington.
- Community Belongingness: Cities like West Vancouver and Coldstream have the strongest sense of belonging to the local community, as per the sources.
- Amenities: The factors considered for evaluation of amenities are shopping centres, entertainment options, and leisure opportunities available within the cities, indicating vibrant lifestyles.
- Transportation: When evaluating transportation, the Globe considered variables such as accessibility and the quality of public transit systems. We found that North Vancouver, Victoria, and Winnipeg are more walkable cities compared to the Canadian average.
- Climate: The Globe examined extreme weather conditions from the past, noting the number of days with high humidity and daytime temperatures lower than -15 degrees Celsius. Winnipeg and Regina were two cities experiencing such extreme cold conditions during the day.
In conclusion, The Globe evaluated various factors across categories to determine which cities are most suitable for newcomers, encompassing a range of individuals, including international students coming to Canada to pursue education at international universities.