The Best Places to Retire in Canada, by Province

Best Places to Retire in Ontario

Ontario is home to some of the most sought-after recreational destinations, especially for those looking to retire near or within their province. While cities like the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) remain popular for work, retirees are increasingly looking outside the urban core for more relaxed living.

Wasaga Beach & Rideau Lakes
Ontario’s cottage country has seen a growing trend of retirees seeking a quieter, more affordable lifestyle. Wasaga Beach, known for its stunning freshwater beach along Georgian Bay, offers plenty of outdoor activities like swimming, biking, hiking, and volleyball. It also has great amenities such as golf courses, country clubs, and yoga studios. Just a short drive from Blue Mountain, retirees can enjoy mountain resort activities year-round. Rideau Lakes, with its historic trails and scenic access to the Rideau Canal, also offers a picturesque setting with a strong sense of community and opportunities to socialize.

Best Place to Retire in British Columbia

For retirees who prefer the natural beauty and mild climate of British Columbia, the South Okanagan is a popular choice.

South Okanagan
The South Okanagan Valley is an ideal place for those seeking a retirement lifestyle that blends outdoor activities with a slower pace of life. Known for its sunny climate and the stunning Okanagan Lake, this area is perfect for retirees who love boating, hiking, or wine tasting. The region is increasingly becoming a retirement-based economy, attracting those looking for affordability without sacrificing quality of life.

Best Places to Retire in Atlantic Canada

The Atlantic provinces have seen a significant influx of retirees from across the country, driven by the affordability and natural beauty that these regions offer. Whether it’s a coastal retreat or rural charm, Atlantic Canada has many options for those looking to downsize and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle.

Miramichi & Miramichi Rural, New Brunswick
Miramichi has become a popular retirement destination due to its affordable housing and welcoming atmosphere. The region offers access to the Miramichi River, known for world-class salmon fishing, and a variety of recreational activities like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Miramichi’s "Retirement Miramichi" community caters specifically to seniors with amenities like fitness rooms, walking trails, and community spaces, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a well-balanced lifestyle.

Annapolis Valley & Yarmouth, Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley is famous for its stunning landscapes, vineyards, and relaxed atmosphere, making it an attractive place for retirees. Yarmouth, on the other hand, offers a thriving waterfront with parks, trails, festivals, and heritage sites that appeal to retirees looking for natural beauty and a slower pace of life. Both regions offer affordable housing options and a welcoming community for seniors.

Kings County, Nova Scotia
Known for its sunny climate and picturesque landscapes, Kings County is a prime location for retirees, especially those coming from Ontario or Western Canada. The region’s wineries, microbreweries, and agricultural opportunities allow retirees to remain active and engaged. The natural beauty of the area, with its views of the Bay of Fundy and the Minas Basin, is unparalleled, making it an ideal choice for those seeking tranquility and adventure.

Summerside, Prince Edward Island
Summerside, PEI, has become increasingly sought after by retirees looking to escape high property prices in other provinces. Known for its charm and affordability, Summerside offers a lively downtown with cultural events, parks, and beautiful outdoor spaces for retirees to explore. While winters can be cold, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy year-round, from snowshoeing to swimming.

Best Places to Retire in the Prairies

The Prairies offer a more budget-friendly alternative for retirees who prefer wide-open spaces and natural beauty without the high cost of living often found in metropolitan areas.

Sylvan Lake & Lake Winnipeg
Sylvan Lake, located in Alberta, draws over a million visitors annually, making it a vibrant location for retirees seeking an active lifestyle. With its parks, campgrounds, and waterfront activities, Sylvan Lake offers plenty of opportunities to stay busy while enjoying stunning views. Similarly, Lake Winnipeg, with its white sandy beaches and diverse communities along its shores, is a great choice for those looking to settle into a more relaxed environment while still having easy access to nearby cities like Winnipeg.

The Growing Demand for Recreational Properties

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many young workers embraced remote work, and this has significantly impacted the recreational housing market. According to the RE/MAX 2024 Recreational Market Outlook & Insights Report, younger buyers and families now represent a larger portion of recreational property activity, changing the landscape of what was once predominantly a retiree-driven market.

This shift means that retirees may face more competition for recreational properties than in the past, especially as more Canadians seek out secondary homes in rural and recreational markets.

Finding the Perfect Retirement Home

Whether you’re looking for a cottage by the lake, a quiet rural community, or a place surrounded by vineyards, Canada offers a range of fantastic places for retirement. From Ontario’s Wasaga Beach to Nova Scotia’s Kings County, and the Okanagan’s sunny valley, there’s a perfect retirement spot for everyone.

As you start planning your retirement and searching for your dream home, consider all the factors that are important to you—climate, community, outdoor activities, and affordability. With the right research and guidance, your retirement years can be spent enjoying all that Canada’s beautiful regions have to offer. For expert advice and assistance in finding your ideal retirement property, Diane Walker is here to help. Reach out today to explore the best places to retire in Canada and start planning your next chapter.