Transportation and weather are important factors in deciding where to live in Nova Scotia. This article takes an in-depth look at the best places to live in the province.

The Canadian Federation consists of ten primary provinces and three territories. From British Columbia to Newfoundland and Labrador. Whether it be immigrants or citizens who are relocating, deciding in which of these areas to live can be a significant decision. 

While most people opt to move to cheap areas in Ontario in Canada, considering it is the most populous province and also contains the nation's capital, Nova Scotia is an often overlooked option. Learn everything there is to know about this gorgeous part of the country to determine whether moving to Nova Scotia is the right choice for you or your family. 

Where is Nova Scotia?

While Canadian residents may be familiar with the geography of the land, those considering immigrating to Canada might be unaware. Located in the far Southeast corner of Canada, Nova Scotia is almost entirely surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island border this province, the latter of which is the smallest of the Canadian lands. Nova Scotia is only connected to continental Canada through the Chignecto Isthmus, the only road and rail connection between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. 

How to Choose a Region of Nova Scotia to Live

First and foremost, it's important to consider that Nova Scotia is a maritime province, meaning that anyone with a fear of water should probably stay away from this province. However, for those interested, there are a few main factors to look at when picking a region of Nova Scotia to consider moving to:

• The budget you have for a home, apartment, or other dwelling when deciding on a city
• The weather you hope to experience throughout the year
• The ability to get around from one location in the province to another
• The scenery you wish to be surrounded by
• The type of community you wish to become a part of
• Which are the safest places to live in Canada

As you consider each of the following seven areas within this province on the east coast of Canada, keep the above factors in mind. 

The Top Seven Places to Live in Nova Scotia

Choosing a new home is incredibly difficult, regardless of whether a person is moving to Canada or if they have been a resident of the country all their life. Many students from around Canada and the globe are searching Canada to find some of the best universities in the world, but sometimes unfortunately the worst universities in Canada. However, each of the following seven cities, in no particular order, has something unique to offer, ranging from beautiful scenery to friendly community vibes, making each of these attractions perfect for different people:

1. Halifax, Nova Scotia

First and foremost, Halifax is the most populous city in Nova Scotia. Serving as a bustling economic hub for the entire province, Halifax has a population of over 450,000. This municipality is smack in the middle of the heart of Nova Scotia and to the far east on a map, with its main economic drivers being real estate, business activity, and service-based activities. The average cost of living in Halifax is higher than most of Nova Scotia at an average of just above $2,000 per month. 

2. Queens, Nova Scotia

Located in Southwestern Nova Scotia, Queens municipality has a low crime rate that is on par with all of Nova Scotia, making this an excellent place to consider living. In particular, a low property tax rate coupled with affordable housing costs make this an ideal place for those on a budget. The median household income in Queens is just shy of $5,000 per month, driven by jobs in the forestry and wood products, seafood, and agriculture industries.

3. Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

Lunenburg is a quiet and small town within the South Shore region of Nova Scotia. It is an ideal place for those looking to kick their feet up and enjoy recreation rather than the hustle and bustle of a city. With an average rent cost of just around $1,200 per month, it is also one of the most affordable areas in Nova Scotia. Housing prices are also low at an average of $280,000, so those on a budget seeking a city by the sea should consider this area.

4. Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

Located on the eastern end of this Canadian province, Cape Breton Island has a small-town feel despite having a population of over 100,000 across a number of smaller urban areas. Cape Breton is best for those seeking the natural beauty of the land, as this area is constantly among the top islands in the entire world. Additionally, the culture of this area is rich, with those in the area enjoying beaches, culinary experiences, hiking trails, and a warm neighbourhood feel. 

5. Truro, Nova Scotia

Commonly seen as the hub of Nova Scotia, Truro has a historic downtown area that tourists from around the world visit. This town has a small population of just over 10,000 but a slightly higher cost of living than other areas at just under $2,000 per month. Despite being a smaller city, Truro features an industrial park with many major commercial industries that provide a solid regional economy, making this town an excellent place for work and play.

6. New Glasgow, Nova Scotia

Situated in Pictou County on the banks of the East River of Pictou, New Glasgow is a small town with plenty of green space and access to the rest of the province. Known for its rich Scottish heritage, New Glasgow has been the industrial hub for all of Nova Scotia. With activities ranging from fantastic dining locations to easy access to beaches, coupled with an average cost of living of around $1,500 per month, New Glasgow is an excellent option. 

7. North Shore, Nova Scotia

Finally, the entire North Shore region of Nova Scotia, featuring a population of over 150,000, is an excellent area to consider. Almost entirely surrounded by the sea yet still featuring the rolling hills and fertile valleys Nova Scotia is known for, the North Shore offers mid-tier yet affordable cities.

The Bottom Line

Regardless of where you are coming from, whether that be another country or one of Canada's thirteen provinces and territories, Nova Scotia has something to offer you. From gorgeous trails to ocean views, residents of this destination enjoy a unique lifestyle compared to other areas of Canada. Consider how you will choose a region of Nova Scotia and then begin shopping for your dream home to hasten your move. 

FAQs

What is the Most Expensive Area in Nova Scotia?

Generally speaking, Halifax typically comes in as being the most expensive city in all of Nova Scotia. Not only that, but Halifax is also one of the most expensive cities in all of Canada. This means that anyone looking for a cheap place to live in Canada considering moving to this city should have enough saved up to afford a home in the area. 

What is the Cheapest Area in Nova Scotia?

As a whole, Nova Scotia is still a relatively expensive, albeit affordable, province despite its smaller size, given that it is a maritime province. Therefore, the cheapest city tends to ebb and flow depending on the year. With that said, some of this province's consistently more affordable parts include Trenton, Amherst, and Yarmouth.

What is the Average Cost of Living in Nova Scotia?

Nova Scotia may be Canada's second smallest province and territory, but that doesn't mean it is cheap to live here. The average monthly cost of living in Nova Scotia hovers around $1,826, with the average person having a salary just shy of $3,000. This means that the average monthly salary in Nova Scotia is enough to cover only one and a half months' living expenses. The average cost of living in Nova Scotia is also around 1.07 times higher than the average cost in Canada. 

What is the Most Populous Part of Nova Scotia?

Halifax is, without a doubt, the most populous city in Nova Scotia. With a population well over 450,000, as of the latest data, Halifax has grown over the last few years, with more than 20,000 new people in 2022 alone. Halifax is proving to be a popular place to visit, live and work, or live and start a business in Canada.

Which Part of Nova Scotia Has the Best Climate?

Given that Nova Scotia is only a meagre 21,345 square miles in size, the climate doesn't differ drastically depending on your area. With that said, the South Shore region is generally known for having more stable weather conditions and less rainfall than other parts of the province. As a whole, Nova Scotia lies in a mid-temperate zone, so any city will have decent weather.