Recently, many Indians have relocated to Canada for better job opportunities and enhanced quality of life. Canada presents these prospects to millions of people from all over the world.
Canada has become the hub for many students to study abroad. It has also emerged as a top choice for immigrants due to its quality of life and healthcare, world-renowned education system, stable political system, and unemployment rates.
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You can find many Indian students and different communities here, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment that helps ease the transition to a new country.
Canada has a post-graduation work permit program (PGWP), which allows you to gain valuable work experience after completing your studies. This experience can lead to permanent residency opportunities, making Canada an ideal choice for those seeking a long-term future in the country.
Hence, deciding the best place to live in Canada for Indian immigrants is difficult.
Why Choose Canada?
Canada has emerged as one of the best destinations for Indian students seeking higher education abroad. This North American nation offers a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural diversity and quality of life, making it the best place to pursue your dreams.
Firstly, Canada is known for its world-class education system. Canadian universities consistently rank among the top in the world, ensuring that you receive a top-quality education recognised worldwide, such as the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia.
Another compelling reason for choosing Canada is its welcoming and inclusive society. Canadians are known for their friendliness and open-mindedness, creating a comfortable and safe environment for international students.
Moreover, it offers numerous opportunities to work during and after their studies, providing valuable practical experience and a pathway to permanent residency, making it an attractive long-term option for you.
Lastly, Canada’s immigration policies will make it easier for you to transition from temporary to permanent residents and eventually citizens. This path to Canadian citizenship is a significant advantage if you want to establish your career and live there.
Hence, moving forward, we will learn more about the best places to live in Canada.
Best place to live in Canada
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1. Toronto
Toronto, Ontario’s capital city, is Canada’s most populated city. The city is an international business, finance, sports, and culture centre.
Many international students choose to study in Toronto because of its many top-tier educational institutions and bright employment outlook. Students looking to attend a university in Canada often choose to do so in this city because of its cultural diversity and strong job market.
Toronto, the largest city in Canada, is a global powerhouse in commerce, banking, technology, entertainment, and the arts, which makes it the best place to live in Canada. It is also recognised as one of the world’s most multicultural cities because of its significant immigrant population.
In Toronto, Ontario, a one-bedroom flat will cost you an average of INR 1,49,027 as of October 2023. The overall cost of living per year is around INR 18,00,000.
2. Montreal
The city of Montreal is the best to study in Canada. Apart from offering top-class education, the town is also a popular destination for the entertainment industry. Jobs in IT, healthcare, and academia abound in this metropolitan area.
The city is home to influential sectors like aerospace, electronics, software engineering, pharmaceuticals, design, textiles, etc.
You can even easily find a part-time job or internship here while graduating. If not the best town in the world, Montreal is undoubtedly the best place to live in Canada with a family. The cost of living is significantly lower than in most other large Canadian cities. You can expect to spend an average of INR 36,000-40,000 monthly, while overall monthly costs will be around INR 60,000.
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3. Vancouver
Vancouver City has a great mix of culture, languages and people, making it lively. This is one of the best places to live in Canada to pursue digital marketing or IT courses. The technology industry in Vancouver is a significant contributor to the city’s economy.
The city has many programmers and IT experts (due to the proximity to Silicon Valley). As the country’s largest tech hub, Vancouver offers excellent software, biotech, and game development and programming job opportunities. In addition, the city also provides many opportunities for movie lovers by offering jobs in animation, broadcasting, and film production. In general, living costs are lower in Vancouver. On average, tuition fees will cost around INR 8,50,00 – 22,00,000. While monthly expenses, including accommodation, would be around INR 49,000 approx.
4. Ottawa
Ottawa is one of the most beautiful cities in Canada, popular for its scenic views and attractive backdrops. Apart from that, the city has some of the best research facilities in STEM(Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).
Multinational companies such as Nokia and IBM have offices in the city. Ottawa is home to over 1900 technology companies. The main contributors to the city’s economy are the public sector, tourism and Technology. Hence, it will be easier for you to find jobs in this city, one of Canada’s best places to live.
Ottawa is Canada’s third most expensive city to rent an apartment. A one-bedroom apartment costs around INR 1,04,236 -1,16,353 per month. Apart from rent, your monthly cost of living would be around INR 92,000.
Ottawa is well known for its vast farmers markets, restaurants, cosy cafes, and lit nightlife. The city has several national museums that you can explore for free. The city hosts annual festivals like the Canadian Tulip Festival, Blue Fest, etc., which are worth attending, and you must take advantage of the variety of local and global cuisine the city offers.
5. Quebec City
Quebec is known as the “Land of French”. You can experience both French as well as Canadian cultures here. This is one of the most affordable to study and live in.
Quebec City is the hub for many industries, including technology, finance and healthcare. The city has plenty of opportunities if you want to pursue graduation there. Apart from this, the city has a growing startup culture, which makes it one of the best places to live in Canada if you want to pursue your dream jobs and businesses. The city is considered the ideal place to study as it mixes cost-effective education, rich culture and natural beauty.
Quebec City has a reputation for being the most affordable city compared to the other major cities in Canada. The cost of rent for a 1 room bedroom is approx. INR 99,000, while the overall monthly living cost is around INR 1,53,000.
The city has some of the best universities, like University Laval, which ranks in the top 300 institutions worldwide. You can explore the city’s rich heritage, including the Old Town and Montmorency Falls, 272 feet taller than Niagara Falls. Apart from these, the city has a lot of UNESCO World Heritage to explore.
| CITIES | AVERAGE COST OF LIVING (Monthly) |
| Toronto | INR 229,802 |
| Montreal | INR 158,119 |
| Vancouver | INR 228,522 |
| Ottawa | INR 151,914 |
| Quebec City | INR 109,378 |
Top Universities to study in Canada
Canada’s education system is highly regarded worldwide for its exceptional quality and accessibility. It is an excellent choice for students seeking a well-rounded education that will prepare them for success in today’s global economy. It is home to prestigious universities like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia.
The QS World University Rankings in 2024 included 31 Canadian universities in their rankings based on their academic and employer reputation, research impact and more.
| Canada Rank | Global Rank | Universities |
| 1 | 21 | University of Toronto |
| 2 | 30 | McGill University |
| 3 | 34 | University of British Columbia |
| 4 | 111 | University of Alberta |
| 5 | 112 | University of Waterloo |
| 6 | 114 | Western University |
| 7 | 141 | University of Montreal |
| 8 | 182 | University of Calgary |
| 9 | 189 | McMaster University |
| 10 | 203 | University of Ottawa |
Top 5 Best Professions in Canada
Let’s have a look at some of the highest-paying jobs across various industries in Canada:
1. Business Intelligence Analysts
The BI Analyst’s job is to analyse the data and develop valuable insights to help the industries make better decisions and bridge the gap between the data and strategy planning. They have to be expert in data visualisation and analysis to identify current trends and patterns to enhance the understanding of their business.
They require a 4-year bachelor’s degree in computer science, data science or business administration. Some of Canada’s best colleges to become a business analyst are the University of Toronto, the University of Alberta, and McGill University.
2. Cloud Architect
Cloud Architects frame and implement secure cloud infrastructure to ensure smooth cloud service integration with the industries. They must be proficient in providing organisations with cost-effective and robust cloud solutions to fulfil their needs.
An undergraduate degree in relevant cloud computing and certifications in relevant cloud computing courses are required. Some of the best colleges in Canada are the University of Toronto and the University of Waterloo. One can do certifications from the Ontario Graduate Certificate Program(Humber College).
Cloud architects can expect an average salary of INR 83,36,000 per year.
3. IT Project Manager
IT Project Managers lead the teams by maintaining effective communication with stakeholders to ensure the successful execution of the technology projects within the stipulated timeline and budget. Their strong skills help mitigate the risk associated with the tasks and ensure successful delivery.
They require a three-year Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, IT or IT Project Management. Vancouver Island University and Humber College are some of the best colleges in Canada to pursue the course.
The average annual salary of an IT project manager in Canada is INR 6,45,000.
4. Cardiologist
A cardiologist is a doctor who specialises in the heart and cardiovascular system. They diagnose and treat cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, coronary heart disease, high blood pressure and atrial fibrillation.
Becoming a cardiologist requires a 3-4 year MBBS degree and a PG in Cardiology. One of the best colleges in Canada to pursue this degree is The Montreal Heart Institute.
It is one of the highest-paying jobs worldwide. Cardiologists in Canada can expect a salary of INR 170,76,865 per year.
5. Lawyers
A lawyer is trained and licensed to defend or prosecute a court action as a defender for someone and also aids advice on legal issues that may or may not require the court’s involvement.
They require a 4-year UG degree in BA, LLB, or Bcom. LLB or BSc. LLB. Some of the best colleges in Canada are The University of Ottawa and the University of Toronto.
They can expect a salary of INR 80,00,000-1,30,00,000 per year.
Comparing India vs. Canada
India and Canada have huge differences in living standards, quality of education and PR benefits. Canada seems a promising study-abroad destination for students.
Here are a few benefits that give Canada an edge over India:
Quality of Living
A person’s standard of living is measured based on his physical wealth. High employment opportunities and high income indicate a high living standard. It is easier to find a job in Canada with a generous salary.
Hence, the standard of living is much more affluent in Canada than in India. The average salary of a skilled employee in Canada is around INR 46,00,000 per year, while in India, it is only around INR 3,50,000 per year. This depicts the strong purchasing power Canadians possess. One can even avail basic amenities here and corrupt free services, making Canada the best place to live.
Education System
Canada and India provide free elementary-level education to children aged 6 to 14. However, regarding quality education, Canada is way ahead of India. The Canadian government also subsidises tuition fees and offers scholarships to Indian students.
Apart from this, the country has some of the best universities, like McGill University, the University of Toronto, and the University of British Columbia, among the top 50 universities around the globe.
Employment Opportunities
The employment market in Canada for international students is ahead of any other English-speaking country because of its various facilities, including high-income jobs, work-life balance, and a hybrid working model.
Also, one can access multiple avenues to find a job quickly, like Job Fairs, Talent Engg, socialising events, and websites. The average salary in Canada is between INR 33,50,000 and 60,86,035, much higher than the average salary of 4-15 lakhs in India.
Besides, an employee in Canada can enjoy benefits such as vacation leave, pension contribution, health insurance, paid leave, and survivor benefits.
Future Opportunities in Canada
Canada’s employment, lifestyle, and living level prospects are still bright. The nation’s economy is solid and well-diversified, focusing on natural resources, technology, and healthcare. This puts Canada in a good position for employment prospects, particularly in industries like AI and green energy.
It welcomes skilled immigrants as part of its commitment to immigration, fostering a thriving multicultural community. The social safety net, readily available healthcare, and high-quality education raise Canadians’ living standards.
Canada is appealing if you are looking for a wealthy future because of the country’s breathtaking landscapes and dedication to sustainability, which also provide an amazing quality of life.
Final Thoughts
In this blog, we learned more about the best places to live in Canada. It covers all the details, from the best cities you can reside in to the best colleges and professions you can pursue in Canada.
It is the dreamland for many people, from working professionals to students who wish to pursue higher education and land their dream jobs. It has become among the best places to pursue higher education due to its world-class education system, good healthcare and quality of life.
Also Read: Part-Time Jobs in Canada for Indian Graduates 2024
8 Best Cities to live in Canada in 2024
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What is the best part of living in Canada?
A. Canada offers a lot for its residents, which motivates those considering moving to the country. Some factors are a high life quality, enormous job opportunities, government-funded health insurance, work permits for international students, free public schooling, subsidies and scholarships, and safe and beautiful surroundings.
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Q. Which city in Canada is best for PR?
A. There are a lot of cities in Canada where you can apply to be a PR. However, Manitoba in Canada is one of the best cities for PR for international students. The city has many academic institutes like the University of Manitoba and Winnipeg. Along with that, the city has a rich, diverse culture and plenty of job opportunities, too.
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Q. Is Canada a good place to live for Indians?
A. A. Canada is considered one of the best places to live and work. It is ranked the 2nd best country after Germany for its sustainability, cultural diversity, economic stability, job opportunities and higher quality of life.
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Q. Which city in Canada has the best education system?
A. Montreal ranks among Canada’s academic centres. Its rich culture and energetic surroundings make learning fun. Montreal has many higher education options. You will benefit from the city’s lower cost of living than other big cities.
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Q. Which Canadian cities have the best work-life balance?
A. Ottawa’s low unemployment rate and proximity to parks made it Canada’s best city for work-life balance. Vancouver, Toronto, and Ottawa scored well for openness and tolerance but poorly for affordability.
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Q. What is Canada’s safest city?
A. Quebec City in Quebec, Canada, has one of the lowest crime rates, and the residents here can enjoy a good quality of life.
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Q. Which city has more international students in Canada?
A. International students are particularly drawn to Ontario since it is home to the nation’s two largest cities, Toronto and Ottawa, and the often-overlooked Kitchener and the Niagara Falls region. It is home to little less than half of Canada’s international student population.
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Q. Are there a lot of Indians in Toronto?
A. Canada has more than a million Indian citizens as permanent or temporary residents, of which almost half the Indians are based in the GTA (Greater Toronto Area).
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Q. Which is the cheapest month to fly from India to Toronto?
A. One can book flights to Toronto throughout the year. However, you can book a flight in November, December and January cheaper than in summer.
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Q. How many Indians are there in Toronto?
A. The Indian population in Canada is approximately 1.85 million, which equals 5.1% of the people in Canada. 40% of Indians live in the GTA(Greater Toronto Area).
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Q. Is life better in Canada or India?
A. Canada has a better standard of living, a low crime rate, a sound healthcare system, high-paying jobs, quality education, etc. As per the 2022 Human Development Index, Canada is 15th, and India is in the 132nd position
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Q. Why do most Indian people settle in Canada?
A. Canada has an easy immigration process for skilled workers and students. This makes it easier for Indians to reside in Canada and become permanent residents. Moreover, Canada is a multicultural country with a large Indian population.
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