Choosing where to live used to be all about rent prices. But for today’s young Canadians, lifestyle matters just as much as affordability. With housing costs climbing and evolving job markets, many are rethinking what makes a great city. Beyond price tags, they’re looking for walkable streets, good public transit, job opportunities, nightlife, culture, and a sense of community.
That’s especially important when you consider income. According to Statistics Canada, the average after-tax income for Canadians aged 25 to 29 is about $38,600, rising to $47,520 for those aged 30 to 34. That makes it crucial to find cities where your earnings can realistically cover rent, transit, and a bit of fun.
Here is a list covering the best places to live in Canada for young adults, based on livability factors. Whether you’re a renter or ready to plant roots somewhere new, these cities deliver standout value.
Edmonton, AB
Edmonton is quickly becoming one of the best places to live in Canada for young adults, thanks to its booming tech scene and relatively low cost of living. With a median age of 36.7, the city attracts recent graduates and early-career professionals looking to build their future without breaking the bank. Edmonton has an impressive walk score of 99 and a strong transit score of 87, which makes commuting and car-free living entirely possible.
The city is a rising star in Canada’s tech sector, with opportunities also in government, education, and healthcare. Edmonton’s river valley trails and creative spaces add to its vibrant energy. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $1,334, while the average after-tax income for residents aged 25 to 34 is $45,720—a strong figure that makes the city’s affordability even more appealing.
Guelph, ON
If sustainability, innovation, and a tight-knit community appeal to you, Guelph might be your perfect match. The city has a median age of 39.6, due to its strong university presence and growing population of early-career professionals. While its walk score and transit score are both 40, Guelph’s compact layout and dependable bus system make it easy to navigate without a car.
It’s a hub for agri-tech, life sciences, and environmental innovation. Anchored by the University of Guelph, the downtown core is lively with tons of shops, restaurants and cultural events. Rent for a one-bedroom averages around $1,987—on the higher side—but still within reach for many young adults earning an average after-tax income of $42,620.
Halifax, NS
Halifax combines coastal charm with real career opportunities. The average age in the city is 40.4, reflecting a healthy mix of young professionals and established residents. Halifax stands out for its excellent walkability, boasting a walk score of 97, and a strong transit score of 75, making it easy to live car-free.
It’s a city on the rise, with expanding job markets in healthcare, education, and ocean tech, along with several major universities. From the waterfront boardwalk and historic pubs to indie music venues and green spaces, the city has a laid-back, creative vibe. Rent for a one-bedroom averages $2,059, which can stretch the budget for many, especially considering the average after-tax income for 25–34-year-olds is $39,940.
Ottawa, ON
As Canada’s capital, Ottawa offers a rare mix of stable public sector jobs and a surprisingly vibrant cultural scene. The city has a median age of 40.0 and supports a bilingual workforce, ideal for anyone fluent in both English and French. While the walk score is 45, Ottawa’s efficient bus and light rail systems push its transit score up to 50.
Jobs in government, security, tech, and healthcare draw young talent, while the presence of universities gives the city a youthful edge. Think museums, cozy neighbourhoods, weekend farmers markets, and skating on the Rideau Canal. Average rent for a one-bedroom sits around $1,986, which remains relatively affordable when paired with an average after-tax income of $47,025 for residents in their late 20s and early 30s.
Victoria, BC
Victoria is a gem on the West Coast for those seeking a nature-focused lifestyle without sacrificing urban convenience. While its median age is higher at 42.8, it has seen an influx of remote workers and young entrepreneurs drawn to its high walk score of 78 and a transit score of 59.
The city is easy to navigate, with oceanside coworking spaces, boutiques, and fresh food markets around every corner. Career-wise, there’s growing demand in government, tech, and tourism. Rent for a one-bedroom averages $2,035, and the average after-tax income of $43,060 for young adults helps make it manageable.
Montreal, QC
Montreal continues to shine as one of the best places to live in Canada for young adults, thanks to its blend of creative energy and cultural depth. The city’s median age of 38.8 keeps things lively, and its walk score of 65 and transit score of 67 make car-free living a breeze.
Montreal’s economy is driven by industries like tech, aerospace, design, and digital media, alongside its world-renowned universities. The nightlife is legendary, the festivals are nonstop, and the food scene is unmatched. Rent for a one-bedroom averages $1,728, and with an average after-tax income of $40,840 for 25–34-year-olds. If you want a city that won’t empty your wallet, Montreal is hard to beat.
Kitchener-Waterloo, ON
The twin cities of Kitchener–Waterloo have evolved into one of Canada’s most exciting tech hubs, making them a prime spot for those looking to break into industries like AI, fintech, and engineering. With a median age of 38.0 and a strong university presence, there’s always something happening. While the walk score is 45 and the transit score is 47, recent investments in light rail and cycling infrastructure are making it increasingly easy to get around without a car.
The area is full of coworking spaces, startup incubators, and community events tailored for young adults. Rent averages around $1,836 to $2,020, and first-time buyers can still find condos or townhomes for under $600K. With an average after-tax income of $43,260, young professionals in K-W have room to grow in career and lifestyle.
Winnipeg, MB
Winnipeg is often overlooked, but it has quietly become one of the most affordable cities for young adults in Canada. With a median age of 38.8, it offers a mix of youth and family-friendly stability. The downtown core has seen a resurgence in recent years, with loft conversions and new spaces helping to energize the scene.
A walk score of 48 and transit score of 51 make it moderately accessible, and the low cost of living is a major draw—one-bedrooms rent for about $1,450, and homes are still attainable under $400,000. Winnipeg’s job market is steady, with opportunities in healthcare, aerospace, and the creative sector. And with an average after-tax income of $38,480 for residents aged 25 to 34, the city offers one of the most attainable income-to-living-cost ratios in Canada.
What Makes a City Great for Young Adults?
The best places to live in Canada for young adults all share a few essential traits. First, walkability and reliable transit matter a lot. Next, you want strong job prospects, and affordability is key. Balancing rent or a mortgage with a starting salary isn’t easy, and the cities on this list give you a better shot at financial freedom. On top of that, amenities like coworking spaces, nightlife, cultural festivals, and outdoor access help you feel connected and inspired.
Whether you’re drawn to walkable cities in Canada, a strong job market, or community vibes, there’s a great place out there waiting for you.
*Average 1-bedroom home prices were sourced from July 2025 Rentals.ca Rent Report.
Considering a move? Explore listings or connect with a local Zoocasa agent. Start your search today.