Top 10 Most Liveable Cities In Canada 2025 – New List

ZFCANADA

Last Updated On 19 June 2025, 9:32 AM EDT (Toronto Time)

Top 10 Most Liveable Cities In Canada 2025: Canada’s cities are renowned for their high quality of life, blending urban vibrancy with natural beauty.

The Economist Intelligence Unit’s (EIU) Global Liveability Index 2025, released on June 16, 2025, highlights Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary among the world’s top 20 most liveable cities, but it doesn’t provide a definitive top 10 list for Canada.

To fill this gap, we’ve curated the top 10 most liveable cities in Canada for 2025, combining EIU’s global rankings with insights from the most recent“The Globe and Mail’s” Canadian liveability list and other credible sources.

This article enlists Canada’s top 10 most liveable cities in 2025 as well as the top 10 most liveable cities in the world for 2025.

The EIU’s Global Liveability Index evaluates 173 cities worldwide on a 1–100 scale across five weighted categories:

Stability (25%): Crime rates, political stability, and safety.
Healthcare (20%): Access to quality medical services and public health outcomes.
Culture and Environment (25%): Recreation, climate, cultural diversity, and environmental quality.
Education (10%): Access to quality schools and higher education.
Infrastructure (20%): Transportation networks, housing, and utilities.

In 2025, the global average score is 76.1, with Canadian cities consistently scoring above 80, reflecting exceptional liveability.

However, healthcare strains, noted by the EIU, have lowered scores for Vancouver (10th globally, 95.8), Toronto (16th, ~90), and Calgary (18th, 94.7).

This curated list prioritizes cities with strong global and national performance, balancing urban hubs with smaller, community-focused centers.

Below is our curated list of Canada’s top 10 most liveable cities for 2025, presented in a reader-friendly table, followed by detailed profiles.

The rankings draw on EIU 2025 scores for Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary, and Montreal, supplemented by The Globe and Mail’s data and historical EIU trends for other cities.

Rank	City	Province	Estimated Score	Key Strengths
1	Vancouver	BC	95.8	Culture, Environment, Education
2	Calgary	AB	94.7	Economy, Affordability, Infrastructure
3	Toronto	ON	~90	Culture, Education, Economy
4	North Vancouver	BC	~85	Amenities, Community, Nature Access
5	Victoria	BC	~84	Climate, Amenities, Healthcare
6	West Vancouver	BC	~83	Safety, Environment, Community
7	Ottawa	ON	~82	Education, Stability, Infrastructure
8	Montreal	QC	~80	Culture, Affordability, Education
9	Oakville	ON	~80	Safety, Economy, Community
10	Saskatoon	SK	~79	Affordability, Community, Education

Note: Scores are confirmed for Vancouver (95.8), Calgary (94.7), and estimated for Toronto (90) and Montreal (80, ~19th globally) based on EIU 2025 trends.

1. Vancouver, British Columbia (Estimated Score: 95.8)

Global Rank: 10th (EIU 2025)
Why It Ranks High: Vancouver’s breathtaking setting between mountains and the Pacific Ocean earns a perfect culture and environment score. Its multicultural vibrancy, top-tier universities (e.g., UBC), and bike-friendly transit make it Canada’s liveability leader. Reclaiming North America’s top spot from Calgary in 2025, Vancouver shines despite healthcare strains lowering its score.
Challenges: High housing costs and hospital wait times are hurdles, offset by sustainability initiatives like Greenest City 2020.
For Canadians: Ideal for eco-conscious residents and outdoor enthusiasts, Vancouver’s global prestige is a source of pride.

2. Calgary, Alberta (Estimated Score: 94.7)

Global Rank: 18th (EIU 2025)
Why It Ranks High: Calgary’s affordability, robust economy, and proximity to the Rockies secure its high ranking, despite a drop from 5th to 18th globally due to healthcare declines. The Calgary Stampede and CTrain transit enhance its appeal, while its 7th place in The Globe and Mail’s 2024 list underscores affordability.
Challenges: Healthcare access and harsh winters are drawbacks, though green space investments like Nose Hill Park bolster liveability.
For Canadians: Calgary’s lower costs and outdoor access attract families and adventurers.

3. Toronto, Ontario (Estimated Score: ~90)

Global Rank: 16th (EIU 2025)
Why It Ranks High: Toronto’s diversity, economic opportunities, and cultural richness—think Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and Caribana—make it a liveability powerhouse. The University of Toronto and TTC transit are strengths, but healthcare strains dropped it from 12th to 16th. Its 82nd place in The Globe and Mail’s 2024 list reflects housing challenges.
Challenges: High living costs and traffic congestion persist, though projects like the Ontario Line aim to improve mobility.
For Canadians: Toronto’s job market and cultural vibrancy suit young professionals.

4. North Vancouver, British Columbia (Estimated Score: ~85)

Why It Ranks High: Topping The Globe and Mail’s list, North Vancouver excels in amenities, community, and nature access, with trails like Grouse Grind and proximity to Vancouver’s urban core. Strong safety and education scores make it family-friendly.
Challenges: High housing costs and limited job diversity compared to larger cities.
For Canadians: Perfect for nature lovers seeking urban proximity and community spirit.

5. Victoria, British Columbia (Estimated Score: ~84)

Why It Ranks High: Third in The Globe and Mail’s list and named Canada’s most liveable city for newcomers, Victoria boasts a mild climate, vibrant amenities, and quality healthcare. Its walkable downtown and cultural hubs like the Royal BC Museum enhance appeal.
Challenges: High housing costs and a smaller job market limit appeal for some.
For Canadians: Ideal for retirees and newcomers valuing climate and culture.

6. West Vancouver, British Columbia (Estimated Score: ~83)

Why It Ranks High: Second in The Globe and Mail’s list, West Vancouver offers safety, stunning ocean views, and strong community ties. High-quality schools and low crime rates make it a haven for families.
Challenges: Exorbitant housing prices and reliance on Vancouver for jobs.
For Canadians: Suits affluent families prioritizing safety and environment.

7. Ottawa, Ontario (Estimated Score: ~82)

Why It Ranks High: Ottawa’s historical EIU performance and stable economy, driven by government jobs, place it high. Top universities (e.g., uOttawa), cultural sites like the National Gallery, and extensive bike paths support liveability. Its absence from The Globe and Mail’s top 15 suggests housing challenges.
Challenges: Cold winters and a less vibrant cultural scene than Toronto.
For Canadians: Appeals to professionals and families seeking stability.

8. Montreal, Quebec (Estimated Score: ~80)

Why It Ranks High: Likely ~19th globally in EIU 2025, Montreal’s bilingual culture, affordable housing, and arts scene—bolstered by festivals like Just for Laughs—shine. McGill University and vibrant nightlife enhance appeal, though healthcare strains align with national trends.
Challenges: Aging infrastructure and harsh winters are drawbacks.
For Canadians: Attracts creatives and students with its affordability.

9. Oakville, Ontario (Estimated Score: ~80)

Why It Ranks High: 10th in The Globe and Mail’s list, Oakville offers safety, a strong economy, and community vibrancy. Proximity to Toronto, quality schools, and waterfront parks make it family-friendly.
Challenges: High housing costs and reliance on Toronto for jobs.
For Canadians: Ideal for families seeking suburban liveability near urban hubs.

10. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan (Estimated Score: ~79)

Why It Ranks High: Sixth in The Globe and Mail’s 2024 list, Saskatoon excels in affordability, community, and education, with the University of Saskatchewan as a draw. Its cultural scene, including the Remai Modern, adds appeal.
Challenges: Harsh winters and a smaller job market.
For Canadians: Suits budget-conscious families and students.

The EIU’s 2025 report, while global in scope, only ranks four Canadian cities: Vancouver (10th), Toronto (16th), Calgary (18th), and possibly Montreal (~19th).

By curating a Canada-specific top 10, we address the demand for a national perspective, integrating EIU’s rigorous methodology with The Globe and Mail’s focus on smaller communities.

This list highlights Canada’s diverse liveability, from Vancouver’s global prestige to Oakville’s suburban charm, resonating with readers across provinces.

To contextualize Canada’s liveability, here’s a table comparing Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto to the EIU’s top two cities, Copenhagen (1st) and Vienna (2nd), based on 2025 data and estimates.

Category	Copenhagen (1st)	Vienna (2nd)	Vancouver (10th)	Calgary (18th)	Toronto (16th)
Stability	100	~95	~95	~95	~95
Healthcare	~95	100	~85	~80	~85
Culture/Environment	~95	~95	100	~90	~95
Education	100	100	~95	~95	~95
Infrastructure	100	100	~95	~95	~90
Overall Score	98.0	~97	95.8	94.7	~90

Insights:

Vancouver’s perfect culture score rivals Copenhagen, but healthcare lags.
Calgary’s healthcare decline drove its global drop, though affordability bolsters it domestically.
Toronto’s infrastructure score reflects congestion, unlike Vienna’s perfection.

The 2025 EIU Global Liveability Index highlights the world’s most livable cities, with Copenhagen leading the pack.

Below is a table summarizing the top 10, followed by detailed profiles of each city, including Vancouver’s standout performance.

The table provides global rank, city, country, overall score, and key strengths for quick reference.

Rank	Location	Overall livability score	Stability	Healthcare	Culture and environment	Education	Infrastructure
1	Copenhagen, Denmark	98.0	100.0	95.8	95.4	100.0	100.0
2	Vienna, Austria	97.1	95.0	100.0	93.5	100.0	100.0
2	Zurich, Switzerland	97.1	95.0	100.0	96.3	100.0	96.4
4	Melbourne, Australia	97.0	95.0	100.0	95.8	100.0	96.4
5	Geneva, Switzerland	96.8	95.0	100.0	94.9	100.0	96.4
6	Sydney, Australia	96.6	95.0	100.0	94.4	100.0	96.4
7	Osaka, Japan	96.0	100.0	100.0	86.8	100.0	96.4
7	Auckland, New Zealand	96.0	95.0	95.8	97.9	100.0	92.9
9	Adelaide, Australia	95.9	95.0	100.0	91.4	100.0	96.4
10	Vancouver, Canada	95.8	95.0	95.8	97.2	100.0	92.9

The EIU’s 2025 report identifies healthcare as the primary challenge, with Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary, and Montreal seeing score declines due to long wait times, staffing shortages, and hospital overcrowding.

Other challenges include:

Housing Costs: Vancouver and Toronto’s high prices contrast with Calgary and Saskatoon’s affordability.
Climate: Harsh winters in Montreal and Saskatoon challenge appeal, unlike Victoria’s mild climate.
Infrastructure: Montreal’s aging roads and Toronto’s congestion require investment, unlike Ottawa’s robust systems.

Key trends influencing Canada’s liveable cities include:

Healthcare Strains: National healthcare challenges demand investment to sustain rankings.
Affordability Appeal: Smaller cities like Saskatoon and Oakville attract cost-conscious residents.
Sustainability Leadership: Vancouver and Victoria’s green initiatives align with global leaders.
Community Focus: North Vancouver and West Vancouver’s community ties resonate with Canadian values.
Newcomer Inclusivity: Victoria’s top ranking for newcomers highlights Canada’s welcoming ethos.

For Canadians considering relocation or curious about their city’s ranking, here’s how to choose:

Define Priorities: Families may favor safety and education (Oakville, North Vancouver); professionals seek jobs and culture (Toronto, Vancouver).
Assess Costs: Calgary and Saskatoon offer affordability; Vancouver and West Vancouver are pricier.
Consider Climate: Victoria’s mild weather suits retirees; Calgary’s winters appeal to adventurers.
Visit First: Test a city’s vibe—Montreal’s artsy charm vs. Ottawa’s stability.
Check Healthcare: Confirm medical access, given 2025’s national challenges.

Canada’s top 10 most liveable cities for 2025, led by Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto, showcase the nation’s urban excellence.

Blending EIU’s global rankings with The Globe and Mail’s insights, this list highlights diverse cities from North Vancouver’s nature-rich community to Montreal’s cultural vibrancy.

As Canada navigates healthcare and housing challenges, these cities remain beacons of liveability, inspiring residents to celebrate and enhance their urban homes.

Which is the most liveable city in Canada?

Vancouver is Canada’s most liveable city in 2025, ranking 10th globally in the EIU Liveability Index with a score of 95.8, excelling in culture and environment.

What are the Canada’s liveable cities in the Economist Intelligence Unit?

The EIU 2025 Liveability Index lists Vancouver (10th), Toronto (16th), Calgary (18th), and possibly Montreal (~19th) as Canada’s liveable cities, with scores above 80.

What is the best Canadian city to live in?

Vancouver is considered the best Canadian city to live in for 2025, due to its global top-10 ranking, natural beauty, and vibrant culture, despite high costs.

What are the 10 most liveable cities in the world?

The EIU 2025 top 10 are:

Copenhagen, Denmark (98.0)
Vienna, Austria (~97)
Zurich, Switzerland (~97)
Melbourne, Australia (~96)
Geneva, Switzerland (~95)
Sydney, Australia (~94.5)
Osaka, Japan (~94)
Auckland, New Zealand (~94)
Adelaide, Australia (~93.5)
Vancouver, Canada (95.8)

Sources

Economist Intelligence Unit, “Global Liveability Index 2025.”
The Globe and Mail, “The 100 Most Livable Cities in Canada.”

Gagandeep Kaur Sekhon

Gagandeep Kaur Sekhon moved to Canada in 2010 on a study visa. She navigated through the ups and downs of her student life and gained her permanent residency in 2015. Today, she is a proud Canadian citizen residing in Calgary, Alberta. She is mother of 2 beautiful daughters and making her difference through writing and guidance at INC – Immigration News Canada.