15 Best Medium-Sized Cities to Live in Canada (2025–2026 Rankings)
The 15 Best Medium-Sized Cities to Live in Canada in 2025–2026
Canada is known for its high quality of life, natural beauty, and multicultural charm. While major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal often steal the spotlight, many Canadians and newcomers are setting their sights on medium-sized cities that offer a balanced lifestyle—affordable housing, excellent amenities, and tight-knit communities without the chaos of a major metropolis.
If you're planning a move or an investment in the coming year, here are the 15 best medium-sized cities to live in Canada in 2025–2026, based on affordability, real estate trends, job opportunities, family-friendliness, safety, and overall quality of life.
1. Kingston, Ontario
Population: ~136,000
Why it’s great: A historic waterfront city, Kingston is home to Queen’s University, a growing tech sector, and a beautiful downtown core. It offers a perfect blend of culture, education, and outdoor recreation.
Real Estate Insight: Still more affordable than GTA markets, Kingston’s real estate continues to grow steadily, attracting both retirees and young professionals.
2. Kelowna, British Columbia
Population: ~160,000
Why it’s great: Nestled in the Okanagan Valley, Kelowna boasts wineries, mountain views, and access to Lake Okanagan. It’s a hot spot for both adventure seekers and remote workers.
Real Estate Insight: Prices are higher than average, but lifestyle perks and growth potential continue to draw buyers.
3. Lethbridge, Alberta
Population: ~104,000
Why it’s great: With a thriving agricultural and education sector, Lethbridge offers a low cost of living, stunning prairie landscapes, and family-friendly amenities.
Real Estate Insight: Affordable home prices and consistent demand make it ideal for first-time buyers and investors.
4. St. Catharines, Ontario
Population: ~140,000
Why it’s great: Located in the Niagara Region, it’s close to the U.S. border, wineries, and the famous falls. St. Catharines is booming with culture and economic opportunity.
Real Estate Insight: Offers more affordable housing options than the GTA, with growing appeal for young families.
5. Red Deer, Alberta
Population: ~105,000
Why it’s great: Situated between Calgary and Edmonton, Red Deer offers access to both cities with a lower cost of living and great job prospects in oil, agriculture, and healthcare.
Real Estate Insight: Stable pricing and a growing rental market make it attractive for long-term planning.
6. Nanaimo, British Columbia
Population: ~100,000
Why it’s great: A coastal gem on Vancouver Island, Nanaimo provides outdoor living, good healthcare, and proximity to Victoria and Vancouver via ferry.
Real Estate Insight: Increasing interest from retirees and remote workers is driving demand, but options remain for buyers looking for value.
7. Sherbrooke, Quebec
Population: ~170,000
Why it’s great: A bilingual city rich in culture and natural beauty, Sherbrooke is affordable, peaceful, and home to multiple educational institutions.
Real Estate Insight: One of the most affordable cities in Quebec with strong rental demand.
8. Guelph, Ontario
Population: ~143,000
Why it’s great: Guelph consistently ranks high for safety, education, and green space. It's ideal for families and professionals who want GTA access without GTA prices.
Real Estate Insight: Slightly higher prices, but strong appreciation and low vacancy rates.
9. Moncton, New Brunswick
Population: ~85,000
Why it’s great: A leader in population growth, Moncton offers a strong job market, bilingual culture, and East Coast charm.
Real Estate Insight: One of Canada's most affordable markets with high investment potential.
10. Peterborough, Ontario
Population: ~83,000
Why it’s great: Close to the Kawartha Lakes and just 90 minutes from Toronto, Peterborough blends nature with growing urban development.
Real Estate Insight: Prices have increased in recent years but remain within reach for most buyers.
11. Trois-Rivières, Quebec
Population: ~137,000
Why it’s great: A vibrant cultural hub midway between Montreal and Quebec City, known for its festivals, architecture, and low cost of living.
Real Estate Insight: A stable and affordable option for francophone families and investors alike.
12. Thunder Bay, Ontario
Population: ~110,000
Why it’s great: A hub for healthcare, education, and outdoor recreation. Thunder Bay is ideal for those seeking space and affordability.
Real Estate Insight: One of Ontario’s most affordable cities with great upside for future growth.
13. Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
Population: ~72,000
Why it’s great: This northern Ontario city boasts rich history, friendly people, and access to natural wonders like Lake Superior and the Agawa Canyon.
Real Estate Insight: Very affordable housing with significant opportunities for investors and first-time buyers.
14. Prince George, British Columbia
Population: ~77,000
Why it’s great: Northern BC’s urban hub offers jobs in forestry, education, and healthcare with a rugged outdoor lifestyle.
Real Estate Insight: Reasonable prices and increasing demand from families seeking value in BC.
15. Medicine Hat, Alberta
Population: ~63,000
Why it’s great: Known as one of Canada’s sunniest cities, Medicine Hat offers affordability, a relaxed lifestyle, and great amenities for its size.
Real Estate Insight: Extremely affordable market that still offers modern housing and steady appreciation.
Final Thoughts: Choosing a Medium-Sized City in Canada for 2025–2026
As remote work continues to reshape where Canadians live, medium-sized cities are rising stars—offering a better work-life balance, lower housing costs, and vibrant local economies.
When choosing your next home, consider what matters most to you: career growth, cost of living, nature access, or community life. The cities on this list offer something for everyone—and are well-positioned for long-term growth and stability.
Are You Planning a Move to One of These Cities?
If you're considering relocating to one of Canada’s best medium-sized cities, Ana Bastas Realty is here to help you find the right home, whether you're buying, renting, or investing. Contact us today at 647.938.8814 or explore more on our blog for local insights and real estate tips.
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