Maple News reports that Ontario continues to be a prime destination for immigrants to Canada. In 2022, the province welcomed 42.2% of all new permanent residents—highlighting its standing as the country’s top choice among newcomers. While Toronto remains the major draw, receiving over 128,000 permanent residents last year, Ontario’s appeal extends well beyond its largest city.
Toronto, Canada’s most populous urban center, remains the landing spot for over double the number of immigrants compared to Montreal. However, many newcomers are now turning their attention to Ontario’s other vibrant cities, which offer a different set of advantages—such as more affordable living, lower competition in the job market, and a strong sense of community.
Ottawa, the national capital, stands out as a top alternative. With a population of over 1.4 million, it’s Ontario’s second-most popular destination for immigrants. A hub for government employment, Ottawa also offers careers in high-tech, healthcare, and education. Known for its inclusive and diverse population, Ottawa is especially attractive to Francophone newcomers. Residents enjoy a high quality of life, bolstered by green spaces, rivers, recreational facilities, and a well-regarded cultural scene. According to rankings cited by the city, Ottawa has been listed as Canada’s best place to live due to strong incomes, low unemployment, affordable housing, and lifestyle factors.
Another emerging destination is Kingston, strategically located midway between Montreal and Toronto. With a population nearing 150,000, Kingston offers a balanced urban experience—big enough to provide amenities but small enough to maintain a strong community feel. Cost-conscious immigrants may find Kingston particularly appealing: living expenses there are estimated to be over 50% lower than in Toronto. The city is known for its excellent educational institutions and growing healthcare and public administration sectors.
Many of these cities also have access to settlement services and thriving cultural communities that can support a smoother transition for newcomers. With Ontario’s smaller cities offering such a favorable mix of affordability, career potential, and quality of life, they present compelling alternatives to the fast-paced lifestyle of Toronto.
As Ontario faces continued growth in immigration, a broader distribution of newcomers across its cities could play a key role in sustaining balanced economic development while delivering a high living standard for residents.