Thinking about buying a home or investing in real estate this year? You’re not alone — and 2025 might just be the right time to make your move. With evolving market conditions, growing demand outside the big cities, and a wave of government support, knowing where to buy is more important than ever.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, an investor looking for rental income, or relocating for work or lifestyle, this guide highlights the top Canadian cities offering strong value, growth potential, and great quality of life.
What Makes a City a Great Place to Buy Property?
Before we dive into the list, here are the key factors we used to evaluate Canada’s top cities:
- Affordability: Home prices compared to local income levels
- Growth Potential: Job creation, population trends, and new development
- Rental Yields: For investors focused on cash flow
- Livability: Safety, schools, healthcare, transit, and lifestyle
- Market Stability: Long-term appreciation and resistance to market swings
Top 7 Cities to Buy Property in Canada (2025)
1. Calgary, Alberta
- Why Buy: Affordable prices, low property taxes, and a booming job market in energy and tech
- Bonus: No provincial sales tax
- Average Price: ~$580,000
2. Moncton, New Brunswick
- Why Buy: Low entry prices, rising population, and one of the best rental yields in Canada
- Bonus: High demand from remote workers and students
- Average Price: ~$325,000
3. London, Ontario
- Why Buy: Strong healthcare and education sectors, rapid development
- Bonus: Close to Toronto without the Toronto price tag
- Average Price: ~$640,000
4. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
- Why Buy: Affordable real estate, a growing local economy, and a family-friendly lifestyle
- Bonus: Lower cost of living and property taxes
- Average Price: ~$380,000
5. Halifax, Nova Scotia
- Why Buy: Coastal living, immigration-driven growth, and a diversifying economy
- Bonus: Popular with retirees and remote workers
- Average Price: ~$470,000
6. Edmonton, Alberta
- Why Buy: Consistently affordable, with major infrastructure investments underway
- Bonus: Great potential for long-term rental investments
- Average Price: ~$400,000
7. Ottawa, Ontario
- Why Buy: Strong job stability due to government employment, excellent public services
- Bonus: Less volatile than Toronto or Vancouver
- Average Price: ~$720,000
Quick City Comparison
| City | Avg. Price | Rental Yield | Economic Outlook | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calgary | $580,000 | High | Strong | First-time buyers, investors |
| Moncton | $325,000 | Very High | Growing | Budget buyers, landlords |
| London | $640,000 | Medium-High | Stable | Families, commuters |
| Saskatoon | $380,000 | High | Developing | New investors, families |
| Halifax | $470,000 | Medium-High | Strong | Retirees, remote professionals |
| Edmonton | $400,000 | High | Stable | Long-term investors |
| Ottawa | $720,000 | Medium | Strong | Families, government employees |
Prices and insights based on mid-2025 market data; may vary by neighborhood.
Smart Tips for Buying Property in 2025
- Get Pre-Approved Early: Lock in a mortgage rate before further changes
- Do Local Research: Understand each city’s unique taxes, bylaws, and market quirks
- Know Your Goal: Are you buying to live, rent, or hold long term? Let that guide your city choice
- Budget for More Than the Mortgage: Don’t forget land transfer tax, maintenance, and property taxes
- Work With a Local Realtor: A pro with neighborhood knowledge can help you find better value
FAQ: Buying Real Estate in Canada (2025)
Q1: What’s the most affordable city to buy a home in 2025?
A: Moncton, NB and Saskatoon, SK offer some of the lowest home prices among growing cities.
Q2: Which city has the best rental income potential?
A: Moncton, Calgary, and Edmonton top the list for high rental yields due to affordable prices and strong demand.
Q3: Is it better to buy in a big or small city right now?
A: It depends on your goals. Smaller cities often provide better cash flow; larger cities offer higher appreciation over time.
Q4: Which provinces have lower property taxes?
A: Alberta and Saskatchewan are known for lower property tax rates compared to Ontario and BC.
Q5: Are there still government incentives in 2025?
A: Yes. Programs like the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive, FHSA, and green home rebates are active across many provinces.
Final Thoughts
The best places to buy real estate in Canada this year aren’t always the biggest or trendiest cities — they’re the ones that offer a strong mix of value, growth, and livability. Whether you’re eyeing Calgary for its job market, Halifax for its lifestyle, or Moncton for its unbeatable affordability, 2025 is shaping up to be a smart time to invest.
Buy with intention. Invest with clarity. Choose the city that fits your future.
