Top 5 Best places to retire in Canada with the Best quality of life – 2024

• Population: 36,768
• Proportion of seniors: 18.1%
• Average property buying cost: $243,300
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $825

Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, is one of the least expensive places to live compared to Vancouver and Toronto. As of April 2023, vulnerable elders will soon have access to 11 new affordable housing units in the community of Prince Albert, in part thanks to a $3.1 million investment by the governments of Canada, Saskatchewan, and Prince Albert.

The city offers a range of friendly activities for adults aged 50 and above through Community Services Seniors Activities. These programs promote low-impact exercises such as aquacise and lane swimming at the Frank J. Dunn Pool, as well as the Senior’s Walking Program in partnership with the Seniors Walking Club. The Margo Fournier Center hosts active adult fitness classes focusing on functional exercises.

As of November 2023, the average property buying cost is $243,300, and the average 1-bedroom apartment rent is $825 as of January 2024. As of 2021, 18.1% of the population are seniors. 

CREA (Nov 2023), Zumper (Jan 2024) & Statistics Canada (2021)

• Population: 92,563
• Proportion of seniors: 21%
• Average property buying cost: $346,410
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,213

Compared to larger Canadian cities, Lethbridge offers a reasonable cost of living and housing prices. As of November 2023, the average property buying cost is $346,410, and the average 1-bedroom apartment is $1,213 as of January 2024. Locals mention that this place is affordable and quiet, with numerous amenities, and even more within a three-hour radius, benefiting 21% of the population, who are seniors based on the 2021 census. Lethbridge has the most conveniences within walking distance. Hospitals, banks, ATMs, grocery stores, and so on are all nearby.

Moving to Lethbridge is advantageous due to its proximity to various places in Alberta. Seniors can engage in outdoor activities, with Nicholas Sheran Park, Popson Park, and Bull Trail Park North all accessible. In Lethbridge, Seniors facing domestic issues can find help through the Lethbridge Elder Abuse Response Network, which offers services such as safety plans, emotional support, and housing assistance.

CREA (Nov 2023), Zumper (Jan 2024) & Statistics Canada (2021)

• Population: 222,162
• Proportion of seniors: 25.50%
• Average property buying cost: $396,284
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,978

Retirees in the Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, enjoy stunning natural beauty with vineyards, orchards, and Okanagan Lake, fostering a serene environment and a relaxed pace of life. The favorable climate encourages an active senior lifestyle.

Okanagan Valley has initiatives like Senior Centre Without Walls (SCWW) that0 connect residents aged 65 and above through telephone or virtual means, providing emotional support. Better at Home, operating in Kelowna, West Kelowna, and Lake Country, offers community-based services from volunteers, addressing the nonmedical needs of older adults.

As of November 2023, the average property buying cost is $396,284, and the average 1-bedroom apartment is $1,978 as of January 2024. As of 2021, 25.50% of the population are seniors. 

CREA (Nov 2023), Zumper (Jan 2024) & Statistics Canada (2021)

• Population: 26,273
• Proportion of seniors: 25.6%
• Average property buying cost: $514,300
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $950

Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville located on the western flank of Mont Saint-Bruno in Montérégie, Quebec, stands out as one of the best places to retire in Canada. Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville boasts The Manoir Saint-Bruno seniors’ residence, serving elderly and retired individuals since 1997 and offering accommodation for both autonomous and those with a loss of autonomy. With abundant greenery and a tranquil atmosphere, the town provides a secure and peaceful setting for retirees to enjoy their stay in Quebec.

As of November 2023, the average property buying cost is $514,300, and the average 1-bedroom apartment is $2,543 as of January 2024. As of 2021, 25.6% of the population are seniors. 

CREA (Nov 2023), Zumper (Jan 2024) & Statistics Canada (2021)

• Population: 84,793
• Proportion of seniors: 28.10%
• Average property buying cost: $644,900
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,193

Peterborough is conveniently located between Toronto and Ottawa and is home to a significant elderly population of 28.10%. The city is equipped with the state-of-the-art Peterborough Regional Health Centre, offering a comprehensive range of healthcare services, further enhancing its appeal for retirees.

Three seniors’ activity centers—Activity Haven, Maple Ridge Recreation Centre, and McDonnel St. Activity Centre—provide older adults with tailored social and recreational opportunities. Recreation programs for seniors are available at major facilities like the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre, the Balsillie Family Branch YMCA, and the Trent Athletics Centre. The Peterborough Public Library extends programs for older adults, including book clubs and computer training workshops, along with a collection of large-format print books and audiobooks.

Aside from multiple programs for seniors, Peterborough made it to the list of best places to retire in Canada because of housing affordability. As of November 2023, the average property buying cost is $644,900, and the average 1-bedroom apartment is $1,193 as of January 2024.

CREA (Nov 2023), Zumper (Jan 2024) & Statistics Canada (2021)