Fastest Growing Cities in Canada

Canadian cities are growing because of high immigration, strong job markets, and affordable housing. Furthermore, government infrastructure investments and a great quality of life make cities more attractive to domestic and international residents.
 

1. Immigration: Canada has one of the highest immigration rates in the world, and in 2023, more than eight million immigrants with permanent residence were living there. Many newcomers settle in urban areas, contributing significantly to population growth.

    

2. Economic Opportunities: Cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary are major economic hubs. They offer employment in technology, finance, and natural resources, attracting domestic and international talent.
    
3. Affordable Housing: As housing in larger cities becomes increasingly expensive, many Canadians move to smaller, more affordable urban centers, driving growth in places like Kelowna and London.
    
4. Infrastructure Development: The Canadian government invests heavily in infrastructure, improving transportation, healthcare, and public services, making cities more livable and attracting more residents.
    
5. High Quality of Life: Canada's healthcare facilities, safety measures, and educational system make it a popular destination for both Canadians and immigrants.

There are many cities and small towns in Canada, and they have created history with rapid growth in recent times. Here is a list of some fastest growing cities in Canada showcasing their business scenario and outlook alongside their respective area codes:

(Methodology: The cities are ranked based on population growth rate from 2018 to 2022.)

Charlottetown is the capital of Prince Edward Island. As of 2022, its population was 86,865. Known as the “Birthplace of Confederation” for its historic role in Canada's formation, it tops Canada’s popular city with a population growth rate of 13.3%.

Economic opportunities, low-cost environment, good quality of life, education, high-skilled labor, affordable housing, and infrastructure drive its growth. Also, the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) attracts students, many of whom stay in the city, boosting immigration and contributing to the city's population rise.

Represented by 902 and 782 area codes, Charlottetown also has a Tax Incentive Strategy for redevelopment/new construction for firms in the IT, financial, and biotechnology sectors and existing commercial properties.

Moncton, located in southeastern New Brunswick, is the province’s economic engine. It is well-known for Resurgo Place, home to the Moncton Museum, which offers a rich insight into the city's history and attracts art lovers and history enthusiasts.

Moncton also appeals to residents due to its convenient access to resources, entertainment options, and easy commuting, enhancing its overall appeal. Moreover, it has a thriving local economy and an upward-progressing GDP (Gross Domestic Product), where Moncton Industrial Development (MID) constantly works for the city's economic advancement. Two area codes, 506 and 428, overlook the whole city.

With these benefits, Moncton, which saw a 12.49% increase in its population from 2018 to 2022, has become a desirable place to live and start a business.

Woodstock is a growing city in southwestern Ontario, with a population of around 48.7K as of 2021. Its 12.35% population growth rate (2018-2022) is set to be exceeded as the number of residents living there is expected to grow by over 96K in the next four decades. Its growth is driven by affordable housing, proximity to larger cities like London and Kitchener, and a good quality of life. Thankfully, Woodstock has three area codes, 519, 226, and 548, to handle its demand for communication services.

Known as the "Dairy Capital of Canada," Woodstock has a diversified economy with strong manufacturing and industrial sectors. The city's location along the 401 highway also makes it a key business hub. Moreover, the auto sector is booming in the region, with Toyota Manufacturing Canada leading the way.

Other major attractions include the city’s historic downtown, museums, and outdoor spaces like Southside Park, appealing to families and professionals.

Yukon’s capital, Whitehorse, is the largest city in Northern Canada. Its population was more than 40K in 2021, an increase from 2016’s 35K. Furthermore, it kept its rise ongoing and reflected a 10.54% growth rate from 2018 to 2022.

Whitehorse is known for its milder climate than other northern areas, with long summer days offering up to 19 hours of daylight. Additionally, the median household income is 35% higher than the Canadian average, and the city has a low unemployment rate of 4%. The area also attracts immigrants and Canadians looking for better job opportunities and a lower cost of living. Its stunning natural surroundings and outdoor activities make it appealing to families and young professionals.

So much so that there was a housing crisis in Yukon in 2022. Plus, considering its only area code is 867, the territory has a huge chance of getting an overlay in the upcoming days.

Oshawa is located on the shores of Lake Ontario. It is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). As of 2021, its population was about 175,383, with a growth rate of over 10.0% since 2016 and 10.18% from 2018 to 2022.

Additionally, Oshawa's housing is affordable compared to other GTA regions. The city is known as the "Automotive Capital of Canada" due to its history with General Motors. However, people also find job opportunities in education, healthcare, and manufacturing. Significantly, Oshawa has launched a 10-year Economic Development Strategy to increase economic investment and job growth. So, it won’t be surprising to see an increase in the number of inhabitants in the coming days as well.

Oshawa is also well-prepared to fulfill people’s communication needs with its 905 phone area code and three overlays, 289, 365, and 742.

Kelowna is known for its vineyards, tourism, and burgeoning tech scene. Due to its natural beauty and lifestyle amenities, it's a popular destination for retirees and remote workers.

One of British Columbia’s prominent sections, Kelowna, is also one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada, with a 10.12% increment in its population from 2018 to 2022. It is located in the scenic Okanagan Valley. Many people are moving to Kelowna for its mild weather, great quality of life, fun activities, and good job opportunities. All of its inhabitants operate with the 250 and 778 area codes.

The Canadian Federation of Business named it Canada’s most entrepreneurial-friendly large city, with thriving industries, such as manufacturing, wineries, aviation, health care, and agriculture.

Kitchener, Ontario, is known for its booming tech industry, strong manufacturing sector, and affordable housing compared to larger cities like Toronto. As of the 2021 census, Kitchener’s population stood at approximately 256,885. Similarly, the city’s total number of residents had a 9.62% growth rate from 2018 to 2022.

Kitchener offers a great quality of life with access to green spaces, parks, and a vibrant arts and culture scene. The cost of living is also low, making it an attractive option for youth, families, and students.

Overall, Kitchener offers a mix of urban and suburban lifestyles and a median after-tax household income of $76,500. Since the city is in Ontario, it shares its area codes, 519, 226, 548, and 382, with Woodstock.

Winkler, Manitoba, is a small but popular city in the southern part of the province. Its population has been increasing steadily, driven by affordable housing, job opportunities, and a strong sense of community. From 2018 to 2022, Winkler had a 9.01 increment rate.

The prospering area’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, manufacturing, and retail, making it a hub for businesses and workers. The city also offers a high quality of life, with access to parks and recreational activities, making it an attractive option for those settling in a quieter yet developing area.

With an area of 6.571 mi², Winkler uses two phone number codes, 204 and 431, and is appealing with its $70,500 median household income.

Barrie, Ontario, is a rapidly growing city located north of Toronto. Its population growth rate was 8.99% between 2018 and 2022. The city's main income sources are manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and a growing tech industry.

Covered by 705, 249, and 683 area codes, Barrie offers a high quality of life, with access to the scenic Lake Simcoe, parks, and plenty of recreational activities. Its blend of urban amenities and outdoor spaces make it an attractive option for settlement for families, young professionals, and retirees. Moreover, Barrie's growing infrastructure and ongoing development are some of the prime reasons for it being one of Ontario's fastest-growing cities.

Calgary, Alberta, is the last city on our list of Canada’s fastest-growing cities, with a population growth rate of 8.41%. Thanks to its oil industries, it is one of the top cosmopolitan regions in the nation. Aerospace, energy and environment, digital media and entertainment, and creative industries are other progressing sectors.

Compared to other top regions in Canada, people can earn more in Calgary since it has a median household income of $98,000. Not just that, the Stampede City also has four area codes, 403, 587, 825, and 368, to manage communication needs.

Canada’s fastest-growing cities reflect the country’s dynamic economic and social landscape. Charlottetown, Moncton, Kelowna, and the other cities mentioned above have seen remarkable growth due to their attractive quality of life, job opportunities, and affordability. They have also become hubs for immigration and economic development thanks to their growing industries, such as retail trade, manufacturing, aerospace, oil, financial services, and more, which contribute to their rapid population increase.

Furthermore, factors like high immigration rates and government investment in infrastructure contribute to such urban growth. Understanding which cities are expanding the fastest gives insight into where future opportunities for businesses and individuals may lie.

So, if you are planning to move there or establish/relocate a business, it is better to learn about the cities and get Canada’s phone number beforehand to connect with the locals. For that, register with Calilio and get your desired digits from the comfort of your home without needing to stay in line or fill out multiple forms.