Best Places for Digital Nomads to Live in Canada
Welcome digital nomads! If you're considering your next move and have Canada on your radar, you're in for a treat. Canada is known for its welcoming culture, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant cities. In this article, we'll explore seven fantastic Canadian locales that are perfect for remote workers. Let's get started!
Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver offers an ideal blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. The city boasts an impressive array of restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it a culinary paradise. Granville Island Public Market is a must-visit for its local and artisanal produce, and Stanley Park is a beautiful green space with walking and biking trails. The cost of living in Vancouver is relatively high, but worth it for the unparalleled quality of life.
Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $1,800 per month, and a week's worth of groceries for one person is around $60. A moderate dinner for one, including a drink, costs around $25.
Nomad Tip: Don't miss the Hapa Umi Sushi in Gastown – the sushi rolls are fresh and delicious!
Toronto, Ontario
Toronto is Canada's largest city and a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and attractions. The city is home to the iconic CN Tower, Ripley's Aquarium, and the Art Gallery of Ontario. Kensington Market is a must-visit for its eclectic mix of food stalls, vintage shops, and live music venues. The cost of living in Toronto is high, but the city's energy and opportunities make it worth it.
Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $2,100 per month, and a week's worth of groceries for one person is around $65. A moderate dinner for one, including a drink, costs around $30.
Nomad Tip: Be sure to check out the Toronto International Film Festival if you're in town in September – it's an amazing experience!
Montreal, Quebec
Montreal is a charming and affordable city with a rich cultural heritage. The city is famous for its European-style architecture, delicious food, and vibrant arts scene. Mont-Royal Park is a must-visit for its stunning views and hiking trails. The cost of living in Montreal is lower than in Vancouver and Toronto, making it an attractive option for digital nomads.
Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $1,300 per month, and a week's worth of groceries for one person is around $50. A moderate dinner for one, including a drink, costs around $20.
Nomad Tip: Don't miss the Jean-Talon Market for its fresh produce and delicious Montreal-style bagels!
Fredericton, New Brunswick
Fredericton is a small, friendly city with a rich history and a vibrant arts scene. The city is home to the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, the New Brunswick Museum, and the Fredericton Boyce Farmers Market. The cost of living in Fredericton is lower than in the larger cities, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious digital nomads.
Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $900 per month, and a week's worth of groceries for one person is around $40. A moderate dinner for one, including a drink, costs around $15.
Nomad Tip: Be sure to check out the Fredericton Boyce Farmers Market on Saturdays – it's a great place to try local food and meet friendly locals!
Squamish, British Columbia
Squamish is a small town nestled between the ocean and the mountains. The town is famous for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities, and friendly locals. The Stawamus Chief is a must-visit for its hiking trails and breathtaking views. The cost of living in Squamish is lower than in Vancouver, making it an attractive option for digital nomads who love the outdoors.
Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $1,200 per month, and a week's worth of groceries for one person is around $55. A moderate dinner for one, including a drink, costs around $20.
Nomad Tip: Don't miss the Squamish Farmers Market on Sundays – it's a great place to try local produce and meet friendly locals!
Banff, Alberta
Banff is a small town located in the stunning Banff National Park. The town is famous for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and friendly locals. The Banff Gondola and Lake Louise are must-visit attractions, and the town itself offers a range of restaurants and cafes. The cost of living in Banff is higher than in some other Canadian towns, but the natural beauty and opportunities for adventure make it worth it.
Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $1,600 per month, and a week's worth of groceries for one person is around $70. A moderate dinner for one, including a drink, costs around $35.
Nomad Tip: Don't miss the Banff Film Festival – it's an amazing celebration of adventure and the outdoors!
Nanaimo, British Columbia
Nanaimo is a small, friendly city located on the east coast of Vancouver Island. The city is famous for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and delicious local food. The Old City Quarter is a must-visit for its historic buildings and vibrant arts scene. The cost of living in Nanaimo is lower than in Vancouver, making it an attractive option for digital nomads.
Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $1,100 per month, and a week's worth of groceries for one person is around $55. A moderate dinner for one, including a drink, costs around $20.
Nomad Tip: Don't miss the Nanaimo Bar – it's a local delicacy made of layers of chocolate, coconut, and custard!
These seven Canadian cities and towns offer a range of experiences, from bustling metropolises to quaint small towns. We hope this guide helps you find the perfect Canadian destination for your next digital nomad adventure!
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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