Canadians Are Flocking to These 8 Fastest-Growing Cities

Airplane in hand with national flag on background - Canada
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Written by Alyssa Shea

Published: August 7, 2023

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Canadians Are Flocking to These Fastest-Growing Cities

Canada has many areas that are desirable for homeowners as well as commercial projects. The economy plays a significant role in urbanization, with increased job opportunities and centralized shopping drawing in more people. Check out which Canadian cities are seeing massive growth!

House on Canada part of world map. Selective focus. Real estate in Canada concept.

The population in Canada continues to see steady growth.

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1. Kelowna, B.C.

Kelowna’s population grew by 14% between 2016 and 2021, from 194,892 to 222,162, which was found during a 2022 census. It’s always been a popular tourist destination! And the growth of this city isn’t slated to slow down any time soon. The great economy and recreational activities, as well as the safety of the area, are like a siren’s call to Canadian families. Be prepared to pay a pretty penny for a home, though, as housing prices continue to skyrocket.

sunrise over Lake Okanagan, Kelowna B.C.

Kelowna has a great climate which is very appealing to many Canadians.

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2. Moncton, N.B.

The city of Moncton is seeing massive growth thanks to immigration and building permits. According to a news release, the city plans on spending at least $22.5 million on expansion. Employment and labor are driving factors in why so many Canadians flock to the city. The population is officially up from 162,824 people in 2021 to 171,608 in 2022. A good majority of new residents are also under the age of 25, which means the city will see many new, young families!

The rivercoast in the of Moncton city

Greater Moncton’s growth is almost three times the national average at a whopping 5.4%.

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3. Halifax, N.S.

Halifax remains one of the most popular cities for immigrants and interprovincial migrants. In the past, the city had trouble retaining fresh graduates and young families. But Halifax Partnership is forecasting high growth, and the city could see a population of 650,000 fifteen years from now. The waterfront is a big selling point for many recreationists. Many people are also attracted to the lower housing costs compared to some other urban areas.

Aerial image of Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

The municipality of Halifax grew by 4.4% between July 1, 2021, and July 1, 2022.

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4. Waterloo, Ont.

Manufacturing and tech jobs are a big reason why so many people are heading to Waterloo. Job prospects aren’t slowing down anytime soon, either. Also, many growing businesses are looking to relocate thanks to its proximity to most major markets. Residents are attracted to these amenities and job prospects. Another draw is the universities, colleges, trade, and vocational schools. Thanks to the lower cost of living compared to Toronto, it is likely that Waterloo will continue to see considerable population growth!

Historic city center of Cambridge, Ontario, Canada

Tech companies like Google are flocking to Waterloo.

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5. Chilliwack, B.C.

There is plenty to do in Chilliwack, and it calls to all adventurous folks in Canada! The great outdoors calls the residents of Chilliwack, thanks to all the lakes, hiking trails, and beautiful mountain views. The revitalization of the downtown area and the makeover both malls have had has drawn a lot of interest. Housing is also considered more affordable in this area of British Columbia, so it’s very appealing to many Canadians.

Adventurous people Hiking in the Canadian Mountains during a sunny summer morning. Taken in Chilliwack, East of Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

Chilliwack’s population increased from 101,512 to 113,767 over the course of five years.

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6. Kamloops, B.C.

Many families are looking to transition from Fraser Valley, Calgary, and Lower Mainland because the balance of lifestyle and affordability is much more attractive in Kamloops. Not only that but there are strong educational opportunities and a vibrant healthcare system due to being the regional health center for the Thompson Nicola Regional District. Many mountain bikers find the extensive trail networks to be especially thrilling!

Aerial panoramic view of Kamloops City during a cloudy summer day. Located in Interior BC, Canada.

There are ten championship golf courses and three golf courses within 20 miles of Kamloops.

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7. Nanaimo, B.C.

Younger people in the range of 25 to 44-year-olds seem to be flocking to Nanaimo, B.C. But why has this Mid-Island city seen so much growth? The construction industry has answered in kind. Affordable housing is one of the biggest reasons for this boost in migration. This coastal town is off-the-beaten-path, boasting beautiful parks and a thrilling local wildlife scene in the form of whale-watching and seal-watching.

Nanaimo From the Ferry

Nanaimo is now considered a census metropolitan area (CMA) due to its high growth.

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8. Oshawa, Ont.

Building permit activity in Oshawa has far exceeded any year in recorded history! Job opportunities are soaring in this city due to General Motors Canada’s truck assembly plant creating more than 2,600 jobs. More jobs are being created as industrial tenants are drawn to the city. Healthcare, affordable housing, safety, and growth in manufacturing mean this city’s expansion isn’t set to slow down any time soon. The historic estates and museums also draw many tourists throughout the year.

Explore Oshawa, Ontario with stunning drone photography. Capture striking aerial views of Lake Ontario, Lakeview Park, and Highway 400. Highlight Durham's real estate market, featuring exquisite homes

Oshawa has seen 2.4% growth in 2021 alone.

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RankCity
1Kelowna, B.C.
2Moncton, N.B.
3Halifax, N.S.
4Waterloo, Ont.
5Chilliwack, B.C.
6Kamloops, B.C.
7Nanaimo, B.C.
8Oshawa, Ont.


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About the Author

I'm a 36-year-old mother of 2 and military wife. I have 2 dogs and a cat that I'm thoroughly obsessed with. When I'm not writing for work, I'm writing as a hobby. You can find me knee deep in a pile of books or way too invested in a video game.

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