Are you planning to move to the best city in Canada to live and work in and raise a family?
Some of the best and safest cities include Trois-Rivières, Quebec City, and Calgary, which have low crime rates and a high standard of living.
In this post, we will learn about the safest cities to raise a family and the best province to live in Canada for families.
Key Takeaways
- The ten safest cities to raise a family in Canada are Trois-Rivières, Quebec City, Ottawa, Charlottetown, Calgary, Sherbrooke, Montreal, Gatineau, Guelph and Kingston.
- In choosing the best place to raise a family in Canada, it is important to consider affordability, crime rates, school system and public transportation.
- The highest-ranked and the best province to live in Canada for families is Quebec due to its affordability and low crime rates.
Best Places to Raise a Family in Canada
Before we enumerate the best and safest cities to raise a family, below are a few notes regarding the data used in the list.
- Population figures are from the 2021 Census of Population from Statistics Canada.
- The Crime Severity Index (CSI) data is from Canada Crime Index. Higher figures mean a higher level of crime severity, while lower figures indicate community vitality.
- The Cost of Living, Crime Index, and Safety Index data are from Numbeo.
- Crime Index estimates the overall crime level in a city:
- Scores lower than 20 – very low
- Between 20 and 40 – low
- Between 40 and 60 – moderate
- Between 60 and 80 – high
- Higher than 80 – very high
- As for the Safety Index, if the value is 0, it means safety is perceived as very low. If the value is 100, there is a very high perception of safety.
- Crime Index estimates the overall crime level in a city:
With that, here are the 10 best cities to raise a family in Canada:
1. Trois-Rivières, Quebec
- Population: 139,163
- Crime Severity Index: 52.3
- Crime Index: 17.30
- Safety Index: 82.70
The city of Trois-Rivières (French for three rivers) in Quebec tops the list of the best cities in Canada to raise a family in. Located between Montreal and Quebec City, it is described as financially dynamic but a relatively quiet town with a low population.
Quebec is known to have the lowest cost of living in Canada, with a competitively-priced housing market and low rental rates. This makes Trois-Rivières ideal for raising a family, with its prices of consumer, rent, and groceries being significantly lower than those in Quebec City.
Trois-Rivières has 28 elementary schools and seven high schools providing public and private education. Child care in the city is subsidized. The crime rate is low and safety index is high, making the city a safe place to live for a family.
2. Quebec City, Quebec
- Population: 549,459
- Cost of Living: CA$4,973.80 for a family of 4 (without rent)
- Crime Rate: 1.72 incidents per 1,000 people in 2019
- Crime Severity Index: 48.6
- Crime Index: 18.06
- Safety Index: 81.94
The capital of Quebec province, Quebec City, is one of the most aesthetically beautiful metropolitans in Canada and among the most family-friendly cities. It has a robust economy, reasonably-priced housing, affordable cost of living and superior quality of life.
The city is also recognized for having the lowest crime rates in North America. One of the safest cities in Canada, it has a high safety index with a low CSI (48.6) and crime index. In 2019, police received only 1.72 incidents per 1,000 people.
Several neighbourhoods are known for their quiet and family-friendly environment. Excellent schools and numerous recreational options are available for the entire family. The city also has a robust healthcare system with excellent healthcare.
3. Ottawa, Ontario
- Population: 1,017,449
- Cost of Living: CA$5,329.20 for a family of 4 (without rent)
- Crime Severity Index: 50.2
- Crime Rate: 4,027 crimes per 100,000 population in 2022
- Crime Index: 30.02
- Safety Index: 69.98
Another remarkable city to raise your family in is Ottawa, with its demographic mix and a well-educated population. Young families may find it the best place to raise a family in Ontario, with its lovely parks and outdoor areas in a serene and pleasant community.
Ottawa is the best Canadian city when it comes to education, with its network of schools offering the best education from preschool to college. It is also tagged as the smartest city in Canada due to having more PhDs per capita than any other city.
The cost of living in the city is above average yet still affordable, despite Ottawa being the capital of Canada. It is also among the safest cities in the country, having one of the lowest crime rates and CSI.
4. Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
- Population: 38,809
- Cost of Living: CA$5,003.10 per month for a family of 4 (without rent)
- Crime Severity Index: 62.3
- Crime Index: 30.99
- Safety Index: 69.01
Charlottetown, the capital of PEI, is a relatively small town that has the vibe of a close-knit community, with parks and playgrounds throughout the city. But, it is also a bustling metropolis that boasts of high-quality city life and is one of Canada’s top places to live in.
It offers a reasonable cost of living, with housing, food and transportation all relatively cheap.
It has a moderately-priced housing market and a robust and diversified growing economy. The education system in the city is excellent, with its offerings of public and private schools.
The city is also among the safest in Canada due to its low crime levels and high safety index. All these make Charlottetown an ideal and secure place to start a family.
5. Calgary, Alberta
- Population: 1,306,784
- Cost of Living: CA$5,315.70 for a family of 4 (without rent)
- Crime Severity Index: 74.4
- Crime Index: 37.68
- Safety Index: 62.32
Calgary is one of the most livable cities in the world due to its superior quality of life, low crime rates, superior healthcare, and a strong sense of community. Plus, it has the highest earning power for families in the province.
In terms of cost of living, Calgary is much cheaper than Vancouver or Toronto. It is also ranked first in having the lowest cost of living of the five Canadian metros, which include Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto and Vancouver.
Recent data also show that Calgary is among the safest places for a family just starting due to its low crime rate and high safety index. It also offers top-rated educational institutions and family-friendly amenities like parks, playgrounds and community centres.
6. Sherbrooke, Quebec
- Population: 172,950
- Cost of Living: CA$4,198.90 per month for a family of 4 (without rent)
- Crime Severity Index: 52.6
- Crime Index: 22.96
- Safety Index: 77.04
If you want to move to Canada, one practical place to settle in would be Sherbrooke, which one can consider the best city to raise a family in the world. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, urban spirit, an impressive safety record and affordable living costs.
Referred to as the Queen of the Eastern Townships, Sherbrooke was the second most affordable city in Canada in 2021. As for safety, the city has one of the lowest crime rates and among the highest in the safety index.
Sherbrooke takes pride in its more than 40 schools attended by a vibrant student population. Some of the best educational institutions in the city include Bishop University and the University of Sherbrooke. Cultural events and art initiatives are also a staple in the community.
7. Montreal, Quebec
- Population: 1,762,949
- Cost of Living: CA$4,734.70 per month for a family of 4 (without rent)
- Crime Severity Index: 72.0
- Crime Index: 31.78
- Safety Index: 68.22
Known for its diversity and cultural heritage, Montreal is a melting pot of varied cultures that create a distinct and lively atmosphere for young people and couples who want to start a family in this vibrant city.
Montreal is a family-friendly metropolis with excellent schools and amenities and plenty of parks, outdoor areas and recreational activities that give families a high quality of life. Also, the cost of living is affordable, nearly 10% cheaper than in Toronto, and the cost of housing is low.
Regarding safety, Montreal has one of the lowest crime rates among Canada’s larger cities. Its low crime index, moderately high safety index and relatively low CSI indicate it is among the safer cities to live in.
8. Gatineau, Quebec
- Population: 291,041
- Cost of Living: CA$4,251.10 per month for a family of 4 (without rent)
- Crime Rate: 3,737 crimes reported per 100,000 people in 2022
- Crime Severity Index: 53.3
- Crime Index: 39.75
- Safety Index: 60.25
As with most places in this list, Gatineau is an affordable place for a family to move in, particularly when compared to major Canadian cities. Residents enjoy low living costs yet high standards of living.
Raising a family in Gatineau is relatively less expensive, compared to other larger cities in the region. The city presents a more affordable option, as it lets you pay cheaper fees due to the Quebec province’s offer of subsidized rates.
The crime rate in the city and the CSI are low and moderately low, respectively. In 2022, 3,737 crimes were reported per 100,000 people. The safety index is high, so Gatineau is a safe place for a family to move in and raise kids.
9. Guelph, Ontario
- Population: 144,356
- Cost of Living: CA$4,670.90 per month for a family of 4 (without rent)
- Crime Severity Index: 58.2
- Crime Index: 34.52
- Safety Index: 65.48
Guelph is a top-ranked city for a family to live in due to its low crime rate, vibrant business prospects and affordability. Its small-town feel with diverse people and a welcoming community make it an ideal place for children.
Also called the Royal City, Guelph is also consistently ranked among the best places to live because of the quality education it offers and excellent schools. Moreover, the cost of living is less expensive than the Canadian average.
Other reasons many families are moving to this city are the safety and security the city offers. The low prevalence and severity of crime help contribute to the better quality of life that the community enjoys.
10. Kingston, Ontario
- Population: 132,485
- Cost of Living: CA$4,724.10 for a family of 4 (without rent)
- Crime Severity Index: 84.1
- Crime Index: 38.77
- Safety Index: 61.23
Another ideal city to raise a family in is Kingston, a safe, clean and interesting city located just a short drive from Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto. Compared with other major cities to live in overall in Canada, Kingston is relatively more affordable, with costs lower than in other provinces.
Kingston is also a desirable location for families looking for a spacious property without the hefty price. This is because housing is generally affordable, specifically in comparison to larger cities.
While Kingston has a crime rate of 5,214 incidents per 100,000 population, it is vital to note that the city is still considered safe. It has a very high CSI, a low crime index, and a high safety index. These all contribute to Kingston being one of the safest places for families and their children.
What is the Best Province to Live in Canada for Families?
Quebec ranks high as the best province to live in Canada for families, given that several of its cities are also highly ranked as ideal cities for parents to raise their children in.
Trois-Rivières is the top city in Quebec that is perfect for raising a family because of its low living cost yet high living standard. Quebec City comes in second, with the lowest crime rates in North America.
How to Choose the Best City in Canada to Raise a Family
From affordability to safety, there are several factors to consider when deciding on the best city in Canada to raise a family. Below are some of the things to take into account when choosing a place to live:
- Affordability. This is an essential factor when choosing where to live with your family. To determine affordability, consider your utilities, groceries, property taxes, home maintenance and repairs and all anticipated expenses.
- School System. Since you are starting or raising a family, check the quality and reputation of local schools and the quality of their education. Remember that cities with highly-rated schools can significantly influence property value.
- Public Transportation. This is a critical factor when choosing where to live. Many places do not have public transportation, meaning you will have to walk or drive. Ask about the public transport system and its schedule, fees and other information.
- Crime Rates. Before deciding on a city, you must feel safe and secure in its community since it can impact your overall health and the value of your property.
FAQs
Quebec is the safest province in Canada to raise a family. Its capital, Quebec City, ranks as the safest city to live in Canada. Its other cities – Trois-Rivieres, Sherbrooke, and Gatineau – are also ranked as the safest, aside from having the lowest crime rates in the country.
Ontario is the most immigrant-friendly Canadian province, having received approximately half of all new Canadian permanent residents. Labour Minister Monte McNaughton has requested the federal government to double the number of immigrants allowed in the province from 9,000 to 18,000 a year to address Ontario’s labour shortage.
Barrie, Ontario, has the lowest crime rate in the country. Overall, it was ranked first as the safest city in Canada, scoring 7.3 out of 10 in the safety index, according to a report by rental website Rentola.
While Canada is one of the nicest places in the world, living here means paying expensive taxes, education, cost of living, housing, and transportation. Also, winters in this country are long and harsh, with temperatures sometimes dipping below zero degrees, and cause the country to be covered in ice for several months each year.
