A recent report has identified four cities in Ontario as some of the best places to live in Canada. While Toronto is included in the list, it has not placed within the top 10.

The list titled "Best Places to Live in Canada 2025" has been released by Global Citizen Solutions. This ranking takes into consideration factors such as job and investment opportunities, housing costs, and general living expenses. Overall, it serves as a comprehensive guide for people looking to relocate or settle in Canada.

Leading the Ontario cities is Ottawa, which ranks at an impressive #2. The capital city is praised for its high quality of life, reasonable cost of living, and accessible homeownership options. Residents can expect average monthly expenses of around $1,479. The report highlights numerous attractions in Ottawa, including landmarks such as Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and the ByWard Market, contributing to its desirability as a living destination.

Following Ottawa is Hamilton, which secured the #5 position. Hamilton is recognized particularly for its strong healthcare system, quality education, and robust manufacturing sector. The arts scene in the city also adds to its appeal. With average monthly living costs pegged at approximately $1,405, Hamilton stands out as one of the more affordable cities within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

Waterloo is another Ontario city that features in the rankings, albeit at the #10 spot. It earns recognition for its world-class universities and the burgeoning technology sector that has been taking root in the region. However, the report does point out cold winters and heavy snowfall as potential disadvantages for prospective residents.

Toronto, often seen as the face of Canada, comes in slightly lower at #11. While it remains a top destination for newcomers, especially in fields such as finance, technology, and healthcare, the report highlights the city's high living expenses as a significant drawback. The average monthly costs for a single person in Toronto are estimated to be about $1,547, with a family of four facing expenses upward of $5,652.

The top 15 best places to live in Canada for 2025, according to the report, is as follows:

1. Calgary, Alberta
2. Ottawa, Ontario
3. Edmonton, Alberta
4. Montreal, Quebec
5. Hamilton, Ontario
6. Victoria, B.C.
7. Halifax, Nova Scotia
8. Vancouver, B.C.
9. Winnipeg, Manitoba
10. Waterloo, Ontario
11. Toronto, Ontario
12. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
13. Charlottetown, P.E.I.
14. Fredericton, New Brunswick
15. Quebec City, Quebec

This comprehensive overview not only highlights the cities making a mark in Ontario but also emphasizes the varied aspects of urban living across Canada. As prospective residents weigh their options, this report serves as a valuable resource in evaluating where they might want to plant their roots.