The Best Places to Retire in Canada, by Province

As Baby Boomers and Gen Xers move closer to retirement, many Canadians are asking the same question: Where are the best places to retire in Canada?

While some retirees prefer “aging in place,” others are cashing in on home equity and moving to recreational or affordable regions. Below, we highlight the best retirement destinations in Canada, starting with Durham Region in Ontario.

Best Place to Retire in Ontario: Durham Region

Located just east of Toronto, Durham Region offers a mix of affordability, lifestyle, and access to essential services—making it one of the best places to retire in Ontario.

Why Retire in Durham Region?

Proximity to Toronto: Close enough to access big-city amenities while enjoying a quieter suburban or semi-rural lifestyle.
Affordable Housing Options: More affordable compared to downtown Toronto, with power of sale properties offering unique opportunities.
Healthcare Access: Home to Lakeridge Health Network, with hospitals in Oshawa, Ajax, Bowmanville, and Port Perry.
Recreation: Waterfront trails along Lake Ontario, golf courses, parks, and community centres.
Community Lifestyle: Strong senior communities, cultural events, and active social groups.

Other Top Places to Retire in Ontario

Wasaga Beach

World’s second-longest freshwater beach.
Active lifestyle: swimming, biking, golf, and yoga.
Nearby Blue Mountain resort for year-round activities.

Rideau Lakes

Scenic retirement living with lakes, trails, and access to the Rideau Canal.
Offers adult clubs and strong community engagement.

👉 Related: 10 House Hunting Tips in Canada

Best Place to Retire in British Columbia: South Okanagan

Popular with retirees downsizing from Vancouver.
Sunny climate with vineyards, lakes, and hiking trails.
Year-round outdoor lifestyle and cultural activities.

Best Places to Retire in Atlantic Canada

Miramichi, New Brunswick

Affordable housing compared to Ontario & BC.
Famous for salmon fishing and waterfront lifestyle.
“Retirement Miramichi” offers senior housing and community programs.

Annapolis Valley & Yarmouth, Nova Scotia

Known for vineyards, farms, and seaside living.
Vibrant festivals, parks, and historic sites.

Kings County, Nova Scotia

Picturesque with wineries, microbreweries, orchards, and farmlands.
One in five residents is retired.
Strong opportunities for seniors to start small lifestyle businesses.

Summerside, Prince Edward Island (PEI)

Affordable and peaceful retirement city.
Outdoor activities: snowshoeing, skating, beach walks.
Active downtown with cultural events and community hubs.

Best Places to Retire in the Prairies

Sylvan Lake, Alberta

Popular resort town attracting over 1 million visitors yearly.
Perfect for retirees seeking active living by the lake.

Lake Winnipeg, Manitoba

Thousands of miles of shoreline communities.
Sandy beaches, fishing, and cultural experiences.
Proximity to Winnipeg for big-city amenities.

Why Retire in Canada?

World-class healthcare system.
Diverse recreational lifestyles (beaches, mountains, lakes, vineyards).
Strong sense of community across provinces.
Real estate options ranging from affordable homes to luxury lakefront properties.

Final Thoughts

Retirement is the perfect time to downsize and choose a lifestyle-first community. Whether you prefer Durham’s suburban comfort, Ontario’s cottage country, BC’s sunny valleys, Atlantic Canada’s friendly coastal towns, or the Prairies’ lakeside retreats—you’ll find a place in Canada that fits your retirement dreams.

Looking for the right home? Explore Durham Power of Sale listings and connect with our trusted real estate professionals to start planning your future.