Aug 18: BEST FROM THE BLOGOSPHERE

August 18, 2025

Saskatoon cited as the number one place to retire in Canada

“It’s no secret,” writes Sandra McGregor for Money Canada, “that Canada is considered one of the best places in the world to live.”

Factors like “incredible landscapes, universal healthcare and a multicultural society that welcomes people from all over the world” make Canada “the perfect place to call home.”

However, where in Canada is the best place to retire? McGregor’s list of the 16 top places focuses on “the cost of living… weather, quality of life and access to amenities.”

At the top of the list is the city of Saskatoon!

“Saskatoon is a vibrant city with a strong sense of community, scenic parks and a thriving arts scene. Though it’s not the capital (Regina is), it’s actually the largest city in the province. Its affordable housing makes it among the best places to retire in Canada, income wise,” she writes.

The runner-up is St. John’s.

“St. John’s has a great culture and food scene, as well as a breathtaking harbour that offers occasional whale and iceberg sightings,” reports McGregor.

Rounding out the top three is another east-coast location, Charlottetown.

“Charlottetown is an incredibly picturesque city with a strong sense of community, excellent culinary offerings and a thriving arts scene, making it one of the best places in Canada to retire,” she notes.

Goderich, Ont. is in fourth spot. “Goderich is a charming town on the shores of Lake Huron, known for its beautiful beaches and scenic parks. It’s often dubbed the `prettiest town in Canada,’” she writes.

In fifth is Parksville, B.C. “Parksville is a popular retirement destination on Vancouver Island, known for its beautiful beaches and scenic parks,” McGregor reports. In sixth place is “St. Catharines, a charming city in Ontario… a popular retirement destination known for its greenspaces, culture and affordable housing options. It’s also just next door from one of Canada’s largest and most acclaimed wine regions.”

The list continues with Penticton, B.C., which offers “an appealing blend of affordability, pleasant weather and a high quality of life.” Calgary boasts “beautiful parks and outdoor recreation opportunities.” Ontario’s Windsor is ranked next for its “cultural attractions and affordable housing options,” as well as the warmest weather in the province.

After Collingwood, Ont., Cape Breton, N.S. and Montreal comes Saint John, N.B., offering “a low cost of living, beautiful waterfront views and a growing job market.”

Kelowna, Canmore and Victoria round out the list.

Even if you don’t relocate in retirement, all of these communities are worth a visit. We are fortunate to live in such a vast, beautiful country.

Retirement, of course, requires a bit of forethought. You’ll need to set aside some money in your younger years to look after the older you.

If you don’t have a retirement program through work and are nervous about investing on your own, consider joining the Saskatchewan Pension Plan. SPP is open to any Canadian who has available registered retirement savings plan room. You decide how much to contribute to your account, and SPP does the rest, investing your savings in a low-cost, professionally managed pooled fund that has boasted steady returns since its inception in 1986. At the end of work, you can choose to convert your savings to a monthly lifetime annuity or withdraw money more flexibly with our Variable Benefit option.

Check out SPP today!

Join the Wealthcare Revolution – follow SPP on Facebook!

Money Canada

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