Many newcomers initially set their sights on Canada’s well-known metropolitan hubs—Toronto, Montréal, and Vancouver—thanks to their abundant job opportunities, top-tier schools, and established immigrant communities. But while these ‘gateway cities’ are undoubtedly popular, Canada’s vast landscape offers many other cities that combine quality of life, affordability, and accessibility for immigrants.
According to Maple News, The Globe and Mail recently published its third annual livability rankings, identifying the top Canadian cities for newcomers. The rankings evaluated several key factors including housing affordability, healthcare access, job opportunities, community demographics, and inclusivity. These rankings provide valuable insights for aspiring immigrants looking for the best places to study, work, and build a future in Canada.
Each of the top-ranked cities supports pathways for immigration through work permits, study permits, and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Among these, several cities stand out not just for their scenic beauty and economic potential, but also for the immigration access they offer.
One of these cities is North Vancouver, British Columbia. Nestled beside downtown Vancouver yet offering a calmer, residential atmosphere, North Vancouver is perfect for newcomers with families or those who enjoy the great outdoors. The city provides quick access to the stunning North Shore Mountains, highly rated schools, and a multicultural environment. However, it’s important to note that the cost of living here, particularly for housing, is relatively high. This city is best suited for skilled foreign workers or international students with strong financial plans.
As of January 2026, the Vancouver Census Metropolitan Area, which includes North Vancouver, is eligible for low-wage Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) processing—making it easier for employers to hire foreign workers and supporting more accessible work permits for newcomers.
North Vancouver also boasts eight Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)-eligible Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs), including Capilano University and British Columbia Institute of Technology. These offer pathways for international students to gain Canadian education credentials and work experience.
For those looking to settle permanently, most streams of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)—excluding the Regional Entrepreneur stream—allow for immigration to North Vancouver.
Just east of Vancouver, the city of Pitt Meadows offers a quieter, more family-oriented alternative with ample green space, while still providing access to the Metro Vancouver job market. It’s ideal for those seeking the benefits of proximity to a large city without the fast-paced environment or the housing price tags typically associated with central Vancouver.
As Maple News continues to follow immigration trends, it’s clear that Canada’s smaller but highly livable cities are becoming increasingly attractive to newcomers. For immigrants with flexible plans, exploring options outside of the big three may lead to better work-life balance, stronger community integration, and long-term success.