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The East Coast is the best coast! We love life in Halifax and you will too. Here are just a few reasons why living in Halifax is the greatest.

It’s literally #1 in Canada

As the world shifted to more remote work, Macleans listed Halifax as #1 in its best communities in Canada ranking in 2021! This ranking involved many factors such as affordable housing, excellent health care, internet access, bars and restaurants -- some of which we cover in more detail below.

Natural beauty

When you live in Halifax, you’re surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes and seascapes. You’ll love being able to stroll along the city’s boardwalk, taking in sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and Halifax Harbour. You may even see some whales! There are also many beautiful parks and hiking trails across the city including Point Pleasant Park. This special spot in the city is a 75-hectare wooded park boasting 39 km of easy trails and wide paths -- many of which are wheelchair-accessible. It’s even home to some preserved ruins of early fortifications, coastal ecosystems, and cultural resources. Another stunning city highlight is the Halifax Public Gardens where visitors can stroll through amazing floral displays. In the warmer months, you’ll dig the city’s surf spots and public beaches.

Affordable housing

Despite its beauty and high quality of life, Halifax housing is surprisingly affordable compared to other Canadian cities. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Halifax is only about $1,465 per month. Toronto is a steep $1,900 for comparison!

Great education

Whether you’re relocating for school, work in academia, or have kids, Halifax has no shortage of great educational institutions. In fact, Nova Scotia as a province is home to some of the most academic institutions per capita anywhere in Canada. The Halifax Regional Centre for Education is the largest school system in Atlantic Canada and has 135 schools. Notable post secondary institutions in Halifax include Dalhousie, Saint Mary’s University, NSCAD, Mount Saint Vincent, NSCC Institute of Technology, King’s College, Atlantic School of Theology, Academy of Learning Career College and NSCECE. 

Incredible food and drink

Halifax is home to incredible restaurants, bars, gastro pubs, food markets and shops, and institutions. If you like to eat and drink, you are covered! This is especially true if you enjoy seafood. Being adjacent to the Atlantic Ocean has some serious advantages when it comes to fresh fish and shellfish. Buy some at one of the city’s many fish markets to prepare at home or enjoy it prepared out and about around town at one of the city’s many fabulous restaurants. From fresh lobster to scallop risotto, there’s something for everyone! If you imbibe, you’ll love the bar scene in Halifax! If you’re not a seafood lover, Halifax is also home to some unique and delicious eats like the Nova Scotian Donair. There are also many wonderful bars, breweries, wineries and pubs to explore where you can find craft beers and even fine wines from local Nova Scotia wineries! It’s also a great place to live if you love to pack up gourmet fare for scenic picnics. Visit a local market, like the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market, to pick up ready to eat nibbles or things you can assemble into a fabulous sandwich and hit the beach or a park to enjoy your food al fresco.

Easy to get around town

Halifax is not a huge or densely populated city, so it’s relatively easy to get around town on foot, by car, by bike or by bus. It’s such a beautiful place that you’ll appreciate being out and about while you’re in transit -- rather than stuck underground on a subway in rush hour in a bigger city.

Friendliness

Halifax, and the Maritimes in general, is known to be home to some of the friendliest Canadians. It’s easy to strike up conversations with locals while out and about in nature or while enjoying a pint and/or bite at a pub, bar or restaurant.

We hope these tidbits inspire you to relocate to Halifax, Nova Scotia! It’s a fabulous Canadian city to live in that you’re sure to love.

Looking for a high-quality apartment in Halifax? Panoramic Properties would love to welcome you home. Please visit our website to browse our available apartments.