Relocating to Canada, Where and Why?

Question

I'm thinking very strongly about relocating to Canada from my average rural existence on the Coastal area of Mississippi- Although I know very well that it will be a tremendous change for me I'm willing to take the chance for political & economic reasons. Where are the best places to live and work in Canada and why? I prefer a rural "Slowed down" area. So I think any large City areas are out of the question.

Thanks!

Answer 1

For slowed down, try the provinces of Prince Edward Island or Newfoundland, or the Cape Breton Island region of Nova Scotia. All three are quiet rural islands with all the amenities of modern life, but with a real small-town quaint charm that I'm sure would be reminiscent of small-town life in coastal Mississippi. Except it's Canadian.

Keep in mind that there are immigration hurdles to overcome to move to Canada. If you have skills needed in Canada, or advanced education, then it's easier to immigrate. I'm probably the biggest advocate of Atlantic Canada out there, but for quality of life, I find that few other places in Canada can compete for tranquility, frendliness, open space and convenience without big-city problems. Easiest place to do some reading up on the provinces is on Wikipedia. Have a look at 'em.

PS: Hope by a political and economic change, you're aware of Canada's higher taxes and gas prices, borderline socialism and pretty liberal politics ... if you're looking for a conservative oasis, try Alberta - it's Texas lite.

Answer 2

rural Prince Edward island is gorgeous.

But I would have to agree with the Okanogan (interior BC). I have family that owns a vineyard up there and it is pretty, although the temperature is pretty hot/cold. tis not exactly rural but its definetly slow paced, and Kelowna is getting pretty big so thats convenient...its not totally in the middle of nowhere lol.

Vancouver Island is nice too, except be prepared for A LOT of rain.

Answer 3

Every province in Canada will have small towns and rural areas fairly close to larger cities which gives you the best of both worlds. This matters a bit more in Canada than in the US because with our relatively small population, many small places don't have many stores and services available so it's convenient to be within reach of a larger centre for medical care and shopping. Right now, it seems that Alberta and BC are doing best in terms of jobs, but in a smaller place you may have to be creative and flexible to stay in work. BC has the mildest overall climate if that matters to you. I live in BC and think it's the best province. Great scenery everywhere, lots of open space and a large choice of kinds of places to live.

Answer 4

the okanagan area in BC is wonderful. If you're looking for small town (populations around 20,000 - 50,000) check out Salmon Arm (right on Shuswap Lake, so pretty) or Peachland. Both are relatively close to Kelowna which is a medium sized city so that's pretty convenient. Both are on the water and pretty quiet and relaxing. Salmon Arm is absolutely beautiful though. Housing prices are going up but are still relatively affordable. Not sure about working, depends what you do. If you need somewhere bigger I would suggest Kelowna, BC but I wouldn't say it's a slower pace of life so it might not be ideal.

Good luck with your search though. Canada has some really beautiful areas.

Answer 5

I agree that the Okanagan or PEI would be wonderful, laid-back places to live, but I'd also suggest Vancouver Island or the Gulf Islands, especially if you're looking for a milder climate (year-round). Smaller towns near Victoria (not that Victoria is that large, either) like Mill Bay have cheaper housing prices than the very expensive Victoria. Also, islands like Salt Spring, Gabriola (off of Nanaimo), Maine, and Galiano are just gorgeous--people have really relaxed attitudes, and the scenery is about as beautiful as you can find anywhere in the world. Huge tropical-like rainforests surrounded by stunning oceans and beaches. At the northwestern end of Vancouver Island, you've got some other lovely towns, like Tofino.

Good luck with your decision and... welcome to Canada (if and when you get here)!

Answer 6

Live outside of Toronto. You can visit the city any time you want but you can still have a 'slowed down' suburban existence. Toronto is an awesome place, excellent choice moving to Canada. The people are friendlier and more relaxed. Great place! :)