15 Most Affordable Places to Live in Canada

Two Ontario cities have been named among the most affordable places to live in Canada.

Thunder Bay ranked third among 15 cities, slipping from the top spot in 2024, while Windsor-Essex placed 11th on the list compiled by Royal LePage.

Home prices in Thunder Bay have steadily increased in recent years, with limited inventory and strong buyer demand continuing to support a seller’s market. Despite these gains, the city remains relatively affordable thanks to its diversified economy, strong employment opportunities, access to post-secondary education and healthcare, and a quality of life that offers a slower pace than larger urban centres.

Thunder Bay attracts a diverse mix of buyers, including young families, retirees, former residents returning to the region, and investors seeking stable recreational or rental properties.

The Royal LePage ranking is based on each city’s “affordability factor,” which measures the percentage of income needed to cover a monthly mortgage payment. The lower the percentage, the more affordable the city.

The top 15 cities for 2026 are:

1. Lethbridge, Alta.
2. Saint John, N.B.
3. Thunder Bay, Ont.
4. Red Deer, Alta.
5. Regina, Sask.
6. St. John’s, Nfld.
7. Edmonton, Alta.
8. Trois- Rivières, Que.
9. Fredericton, N.B.
10. Winnipeg, Man.
11. Windsor-Essex, Ont.
12. Saskatoon, Sask.
13. Sherbrooke, Que.
14. Moncton, N.B.
15. Charlottetown, P.E.I.