Nova Scotia offers a mix of urban excitement and scenic tranquility; Halifax leads in jobs and amenities, Cape Breton and Lunenburg shine for natural beauty, and smaller towns like New Glasgow and Kings County provide affordable, safe, and family-friendly living options.
Nova Scotia is one of the most beautiful provinces in Canada, home to the Bay of Fundy, delicious seafood, and charming towns and cities. As people look to escape the high prices of big-city life, more and more people are turning to Nova Scotia for their new homes. In fact, they've seen their largest increase in migration since the 1980s just this year!
One of the four Atlantic provinces to the east, you may not know a lot about the best cities in Nova Scotia. That's where we come in. Without further ado, here are the best cities to live in Nova Scotia!
1. Halifax, NS
Halifax remains the beating heart of Nova Scotia, combining the buzz of urban life with an unmistakable East Coast warmth. Its vibrant waterfront, historic landmarks, cultural institutions, and rapidly expanding job market make it a top destination for newcomers.
Lifestyle & Amenities
- Culture and Entertainment: Home to attractions like the Halifax Citadel, Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, Neptune Theatre, and the bustling Seaport Farmers’ Market. Festivals like the Halifax Jazz Festival and Atlantic Film Festival add to the city’s cultural vibrancy.
- Education: Halifax houses world-class institutions such as Dalhousie University, Saint Mary’s University, and NSCAD, attracting students from across Canada and beyond.
- Healthcare: The QEII Health Sciences Centre and IWK Health Centre provide advanced healthcare services, making Halifax a medical hub in Atlantic Canada.
Economic and Population Growth
- Population: As of 2024, Halifax Regional Municipality has an estimated population of over 530,000, showing steady growth of around 9% since 2016.
- Economy: Key industries include defense, shipbuilding, IT, education, and healthcare. Major employers are the Department of National Defence, Irving Shipbuilding, Nova Scotia Health, and various tech startups.
- Job Market: The city’s diverse economy provides opportunities in both public and private sectors, and remote work hubs are becoming increasingly popular.
Housing and Cost of Living
- Rental Market: Rents have risen sharply; average one-bedroom apartments range from $1,400 to $1,700, while two-bedrooms can exceed $2,500 in some areas.
- Homeownership: The housing market remains competitive, but suburbs like Bedford, Dartmouth, and Sackville offer more affordable options than the downtown core.
- Cost of Living: Slightly higher than the provincial average due to demand, but still below major Canadian cities like Toronto or Vancouver.
Community Insights
Despite challenges such as rising rents and traffic congestion (now ranked among the busiest in Canada), Halifax offers an unmatched mix of career opportunities, cultural richness, and a friendly maritime vibe. For those who thrive in dynamic environments, Halifax is hard to beat.
2. Cape Breton, NS
Cape Breton Island is a dream for those seeking stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a close-knit community. Sydney, the island’s largest urban area, offers a blend of urban amenities and small-town warmth.
Lifestyle & Amenities
- Outdoor Living: The Cabot Trail, Bras d’Or Lake, and Fortress of Louisbourg are just a few attractions that make Cape Breton a haven for hikers, bikers, and water enthusiasts.
- Cultural Depth: Influenced by Mi’kmaq, Gaelic, and Acadian traditions, Cape Breton hosts events like Celtic Colours International Festival, celebrating its unique heritage.
- Healthcare and Education: Cape Breton Regional Hospital and several community schools serve the area.
Economic and Population Trends
- Population: Approximately 132,000 residents, with Sydney being the fastest-growing community on the island.
- Economy: Tourism, fisheries, energy projects, and remote work have boosted the local economy. There’s also a growing interest in renewable energy and offshore wind projects.
- Job Market: Healthcare, trades, education, and service industries are mainstays, and remote opportunities are drawing younger populations.
Housing and Cost of Living
- Rental Market: Average rents hover around $1,000, making Cape Breton more affordable than Halifax.
- Homeownership: Detached homes and waterfront properties can be found at significantly lower prices compared to mainland Nova Scotia.
- Cost of Living: Lower than provincial average, making it attractive for retirees and young families.
Community Insights
Residents value the island’s slower pace and tight-knit neighborhoods. While job opportunities are fewer than in Halifax, the appeal of natural beauty and affordability draws many.
3. Lunenburg, NS
Lunenburg’s colorful waterfront, artistic vibe, and heritage buildings give it an old-world charm. It’s ideal for those craving coastal living with a creative twist.
Lifestyle & Amenities
- Culture and Arts: The Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic and art galleries make Lunenburg an artist’s haven. Local shops and restaurants thrive on tourism and local patronage.
- Outdoor Activities: Sailing, kayaking, and hiking are popular, with easy access to beaches and trails.
- Community: Known for friendly residents and strong community spirit.
Economic and Population Trends
- Population: Around 25,000 in the area.
- Economy: Fishing, tourism, small businesses, and increasingly, remote work and creative industries.
- Job Market: Opportunities are more niche, appealing to entrepreneurs and remote professionals.
Housing and Cost of Living
- Rental Market: Average rents around $900/month.
- Real Estate: Properties range from historic homes to new builds, with a wide spectrum of pricing.
- Cost of Living: Affordable but can rise in peak tourist seasons.
Community Insights
Rainfall is higher than average, but Lunenburg’s charm is undeniable. Perfect for those seeking a quieter life enriched by culture and scenic beauty.
4. New Glasgow, NS
New Glasgow offers a blend of small-town friendliness and commercial vitality. It’s a solid choice for families and professionals who prefer quieter communities.
Lifestyle & Amenities
- Amenities: Shopping centres, parks, and cultural venues cater to residents.
- Recreation: Trails, beaches, and sports facilities keep the community active.
- Community Feel: Residents appreciate its welcoming nature and slower pace.
Economic and Population Trends
- Population: Roughly 9,000.
- Economy: Healthcare, retail, and manufacturing support the local economy.
- Job Market: Stable, with opportunities in service and trade sectors.
Housing and Cost of Living
- Rental Market: Around $900/month, with some affordable options for buyers.
- Crime Rates: Rising slightly but still lower than larger urban centres.
- Cost of Living: Reasonable and attractive for those on tighter budgets.
Community Insights
Weather can be cooler and wetter, but the affordability and close-knit feel appeal to many. For newcomers, New Glasgow offers balance without big-city stress.
5. Kings County (Subdivision B), NS
Located in the Annapolis Valley, Kings County is known for agriculture, wineries, and beautiful landscapes. Subdivision B, in particular, attracts families and retirees for its affordability and scenic charm.
Lifestyle & Amenities
- Wineries and Farms: The Valley is famous for its vineyards, apple orchards, and local produce.
- Outdoor Life: Hiking, beaches, and cycling trails abound.
- Community: Small towns with a welcoming vibe, supported by local markets and events.
Economic and Population Trends
- Population: About 12,500.
- Economy: Agriculture, tourism, and small businesses dominate.
- Job Market: Opportunities exist in farming, hospitality, and trades, with many commuting to nearby towns.
Housing and Cost of Living
- Rental Market: Among the lowest, around $745/month.
- Homeownership: Very affordable compared to provincial averages.
- Cost of Living: Lower crime and lower costs make it attractive.
Community Insights
Cooler winters and a rural setting mean fewer amenities, but the trade-off is peaceful living, stunning scenery, and a slower pace. Perfect for those seeking affordability and charm.
Honourable Mentions for 2025
- Wolfville (Annapolis Valley):
A vibrant university town offering wineries, culture, and a balance of small-town life with creativity. Population ~5,060, median earnings ~$58,400.
- Truro:
A central hub with excellent transport (rail and highway), Cobequid Trail access, and educational facilities like Dalhousie’s Agricultural Campus.
- Mahone Bay:
A quaint coastal town celebrated for its iconic “Three Churches” views, tourism, small-business growth, and fast-growing population (from 2016).
FAQs About Living in Nova Scotia
Looking to move to Nova Scotia or curious about life in the province? Here are the 10 most commonly asked questions, answered quickly to help you make informed decisions.
Halifax is the top choice for jobs, amenities, and cultural activities, while Cape Breton and Lunenburg offer scenic, affordable alternatives.
Yes, with its affordable housing, scenic landscapes, and slower pace, Nova Scotia is ideal for retirees seeking quality of life.
Lower than major Canadian cities; Halifax is higher, while rural areas like Kings County are very affordable.
Lunenburg, Kings County, and Wolfville are among the safest communities.
Halifax offers diverse opportunities; Cape Breton and smaller towns rely on healthcare, education, tourism, and trades.
Halifax: ~$1,400–$1,700 for one-bedroom; smaller towns like New Glasgow: ~$900; Kings County: ~$745.
Yes, Halifax and Truro have excellent public and private schools, and Wolfville offers university-level education.
Absolutely. Communities like New Glasgow, Kings County, and Lunenburg offer safe, family-friendly environments.
Coastal with cold winters (–10°C to –30°C) and warm summers (20–30°C); Cape Breton and northern areas are cooler.
Yes, with growing internet infrastructure and co-working spaces, remote work is viable in Halifax and smaller towns.
Conclusion: Where Are You Headed?
Now that you have an idea of the best cities to live in Nova Scotia, it's time to consider some other factors. Are you fully prepared for your move? One thing many people tend to forget about is their mortgage options for their new local.
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