Is Halifax a Good Place to Live in 2025?
Yes — Halifax is one of Canada’s top mid-sized cities for families, professionals, and newcomers. It offers a strong job market, coastal lifestyle, and more affordable real estate compared to larger cities. However, rising housing costs and healthcare access are challenges to be aware of.
Whether you’re relocating for work, seeking a better quality of life, or simply curious about what it’s like to live here, this guide covers everything you need to know. From the cost of living to job opportunities, weather, safety, and lifestyle, we’ll help you decide if Halifax is the right place for you.
Why Move to Halifax?
Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, is the economic, educational, and cultural hub of Atlantic Canada. It combines small-city charm with growing big-city potential. With a population nearing 500,000 (StatsCan 2024), Halifax is expanding fast — and for good reason. It offers an oceanfront lifestyle, strong job sectors, and a supportive community vibe.
Whether you’re moving for work, family, retirement, or remote life by the sea, Halifax has something to offer.
Pros of Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia
✅ Family-Friendly Communities
Halifax is known for its safe, welcoming neighbourhoods like Fall River, Bedford, and Hammonds Plains — perfect for raising kids.
✅ Still-Affordable Real Estate (Compared to Big Cities)
While no longer a “hidden gem,” Halifax housing prices remain below the national average.
✅ Oceanfront & Nature Access
Minutes to beaches, lakes, trails, and parks — a dream for outdoor lovers.
✅ Top Universities & Education
Dalhousie, Saint Mary’s, and several others make Halifax a major student hub.
✅ Growing Job Market
Tech, healthcare, and government sectors are hiring in 2025.
✅ Tight-Knit Community Feel
People often say it’s easy to make friends and feel part of something here.
Cons of Living in Halifax
❌ Higher Taxes
Nova Scotia has one of Canada’s highest tax rates.
❌ Healthcare Shortages
As of January 2025, over 10,456 people are still waiting for a family doctor. Long wait time for doctors and hospital appointments too.
❌ Cold, Windy and Long Winters
Snow, ice, and Atlantic gusts can be tough if you’re used to milder climates.
Cost of Living in Halifax (2025)
In 2025, Halifax remains one of Canada’s more affordable cities — especially compared to Toronto or Vancouver — but prices are rising fast as demand increases.
Housing Market
- Average home price (Halifax-Dartmouth, March 2025): $639,646 (Source NSAR 2025)
- Average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment: $2,600/month Source: Rentals.ca
Halifax is no longer the “cheap” option — but it’s still more attainable than many major Canadian cities. For the latest Halifax real estate market trends, check out our monthly housing updates and neighbourhood breakdowns.
Salaries & Minimum Wage
- Minimum wage (April 2025): $15.70/hour
- Living wage required for comfort: $22.85 – $26.53/hour
Utilities & Groceries
- Basic utilities: $150 – $350/month (varies by home size)
- Internet: $80 – $120/month
- Groceries: Higher than national average; local markets and smart shopping can help save money
Is Halifax Still One of the Most Affordable Cities in Canada in 2025?
When people search for affordable cities in Canada in 2025, Halifax still makes the list — but it’s changing. While it used to be a hidden gem with low housing prices, rising demand and population growth have driven up costs. That said, compared to cities like Toronto or Vancouver, Halifax continues to offer a more affordable lifestyle with better access to nature, smaller communities, and lower overall living expenses for families and retirees alike.
Job Market & Employment in Halifax
Working in Halifax, Nova Scotia offers promising opportunities across tech, healthcare, and government sectors. While not as competitive as larger cities such as Toronto or Vancouver Halifax’s job market is growing.
Key industries include:
- Technology & IT – Companies like IBM and Cognizant are expanding.
- Healthcare – Demand for medical professionals remains high.
- Government & Public Sector – A major employer in the city.
- Tourism & Hospitality – A seasonal industry but strong in summer.
Pro Tip: If you’re moving without a job, researching Nova Scotia’s top sectors is a great place to start.
Best Neighbourhoods in Halifax for Families, Retirees & Remote Workers
- Families: Fall River, Bedford, Hammonds Plains, Middle Sackville, Upper Tantallon
- Young professionals: North End Halifax, Downtown, Clayton Park
- Retirees: Dartmouth, Clayton Park, Bedford, Downtown Halifax
- Remote workers: Anywhere with strong WiFi — Halifax suburbs offer space and peace
Is Halifax Safe? Crime & Safety Overview
Halifax is one of the safer cities in Canada, but like any growing urban area, crime does exist.
- Crime rate: Moderate, with some areas undergoing gentrification
- Safest neighbourhoods: Bedford, Clayton Park, Fall River, Hammonds Plains
- Areas with higher crime: Gottingen Street (under development but improving), parts of Dartmouth and North end Halifax
Pro tip: Use this crime map to check the latest stats before choosing a neighbourhood.
Healthcare in Halifax, Nova Scotia (2025): What to Expect
Nova Scotia, like much of Canada, faces a shortage of family doctors. As of January 2025, over 10,456 residents are without a family physician.
Healthcare Options in Halifax
- Register with Need a Family Practice Registry
- Walk-in clinics and pharmacy-led care offer alternatives
- Virtual options like Maple and VirtualCareNS are available
Despite the challenges, emergency care and specialists are still accessible, and new government initiatives are underway to recruit more healthcare professionals.
Halifax Weather – What’s It Really Like?
Halifax experiences all four seasons:
- Spring: Cool and rainy, usually starts late April
- Summer: Warm (20–28°C), with low humidity and long daylight hours
- Fall: Crisp, colourful, and beautiful
- Winter: Snowy, icy, and very windy from December to March/early April
Hurricanes & storms? Yes, Halifax sometimes sees hurricane remnants, but solid infrastructure keeps things in check.
Things to Do in Halifax – Lifestyle & Entertainment
Halifax is a vibrant city with plenty to offer:
Food & Drink Scene
- Craft breweries, wine and beer festivals, seafood, and international cuisine
Outdoor Activities
- Beaches, lakes, hiking, sailing, and winter sports
Arts & Festivals
- Year-round events like Buskers Festival, Halifax Jazz Fest, and Rib Fest
Nightlife & Culture
- A mix of historic pubs, live music, and modern bars
Halifax for Families
- Access to top rated public schools, safe neighbourhoods and supportive communities.
- Plenty of outdoor spaces, lakes, and family-friendly events make Halifax a great place to raise kids
Want to see what’s happening now? Check out upcoming Halifax events.
Halifax vs Other Canadian Cities – How Does It Stack Up?
- vs Toronto/Vancouver: Lower cost of living, less traffic, better work-life balance
- vs Ottawa: Similar weather, but with ocean access and more relaxed pace
- vs Moncton or St. John’s: Bigger job market and more amenities
📌 If you want big-city features with a small-city feel, Halifax is your sweet spot.
While job opportunities may be more niche, the cost of living and strong sense of community often outweigh the hustle and high prices of bigger cities. You can find out more information about life in Halifax here
Moving to Halifax – Is It Right for You?
Wondering if Halifax is a good place to live in 2025?
Halifax is an amazing place to live for those who love a balanced lifestyle, but it isn’t for everyone. Consider:
✅ Do you enjoy a slower pace of life?
✅ Are you comfortable with longer, messy winters?
✅ Do you have a job lined up or savings to transition?
If you answered YES to most of these, Halifax could be your perfect home.
📩 Got questions about moving to Halifax?
👉 Thinking about relocating to Halifax in 2025? Get in touch for expert advice, personalized home searches, and a smooth move.
👉 Let’s connect and create your ideal move.
📲 Call, text, email—or book a time that works for you:
🗓️ Book a 60-Min Discovery Call → https://calendly.com/richardpayne/60-minute
📞 Schedule a 30-Min Phone Chat → https://bit.ly/30-minute-rp
📨 Email me → richard@thehalifaxhometeam.ca
🔍 Start your home search → https://bit.ly/Halifax-search
Free Resources to Help You Relocate
🚚 Nova Scotia Home Buyer Guide
📚 Nova Scotia School System Guide
📺 YouTube Channel: @halifaxhomesandlifestyles
Watch out latest Living in Halifax video here:
✅ Halifax in 2025 – Quick Summary
- Population: ~500,000
- Avg Home Price: $639,646 (March 2025)
- Avg Rent (2-bed): $2,600/month
- Top Sectors: Tech, Healthcare, Government
- Healthcare Challenge: 10,456+ residents without a doctor
- Best Areas for Families: Fall River, Bedford, Hammonds Plains
- Best for Remote Work: Suburbs with good Wi-Fi (Middle Sackville, Bedford, Tantallon)
- Climate: Windy, cold winters, beautiful summers and fall
- Lifestyle: Oceanfront, outdoorsy, community-driven
🙋♂️ FAQ
Is Halifax still affordable in 2025?
Compared to Toronto or Vancouver, yes — but it’s catching up.
Can I find a job easily in Halifax?
Depends on your field — tech, healthcare, and government offer the best opportunities.
Is it easy to make friends in Halifax?
Yes! Many newcomers say Halifax has a warm, welcoming vibe. We found it very easy to make great friends!
Lifestyle: Oceanfront, outdoorsy, community-driven
Population: ~500,000
Avg Home Price: $639,646
Avg Rent (2-bed): $2,600/month
Top Sectors: Tech, Healthcare, Government
Healthcare Challenge: 10,456+ residents without a doctor
Best Areas for Families: Fall River, Bedford, Hammonds Plains
Best for Remote Work: Suburbs with good Wi-Fi (Middle Sackville, Tantallon)
Climate: Windy winters, beautiful summers
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Want expert help relocating to Halifax?
Let’s connect and find your perfect fit in this beautiful coastal city.
