Thinking about making a move to Canada for work? Whether you’re just starting out, chasing a new career goal or ready for a new beginning, choosing the right city is a big step and it can really shape your future.
To make that choice a little easier, Western Union’s Where Ambition Lands report compiled the numbers on Canada’s top cities. It looks at things like average pay, job openings and unemployment rates to find out where your chances of landing a great job are the highest. The result? A helpful list of cities where opportunity is waiting.
Top 5 Canadian cities to find a job
1. Quebec City
Average salary: 66,336 CAD
Unemployment rate: 4.5%
Job vacancies per 10,000 residents: 1,664
Quebec City isn’t just beautiful, it’s also full of job opportunities. With one of the highest vacancy rates and lowest unemployment levels, it’s a great place to start or grow your career. The local economy is strong in public services, education and tech. When you’re not working, you can enjoy the charm of Old Quebec or relax in the scenic Plains of Abraham. The city offers a unique blend of culture, heritage and green space.
2.Hamilton
Average salary: 75,649 CAD
Unemployment rate: 6.3%
Job vacancies per 10,000 residents: 255
Hamilton has transformed into a growing hotspot just outside Toronto. It offers great salaries, lots of jobs and a welcoming vibe. The city is known for its healthcare, education, and arts sectors. With the Royal Botanical Gardens and dozens of waterfalls along the Bruce Trail, you’ll never run out of places to recharge and unwind after work.
4.Laval
Average salary: 69,056 CAD
Unemployment rate: 7.0%
Job vacancies per 10,000 residents: 1,282
Located on the north of Montreal, Laval is full of energetic vibes and opportunities. It’s especially strong in construction, logistics and services. With more than 1,200 job openings per 10,000 people, it’s one of Canada’s most active job markets. Residents enjoy cultural spaces like the Cosmodôme science center and family-friendly parks such as Centre de la nature, ideal for work-life balance.
5.Winnipeg
Average salary: 75,649 CAD
Unemployment rate: 6.3%
Job vacancies per 10,000 residents: 120
Known for its central location and strong transportation links, Winnipeg plays a key role in Canada’s logistics and manufacturing sectors. The city’s job availability and competitive salaries make it a practical choice for professionals in a wide range of industries. From the historic Exchange District to the striking Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Winnipeg offers a rich mix of career and cultural life.
5.Ottawa
Average salary: 73,617 CAD
Unemployment rate: 5.9%
Job vacancies per 10,000 residents: 154
Canada’s capital is more than just politics it’s a great place to live and work. Alongside government roles, Ottawa has a growing tech scene and bilingual workforce. With career options in both the public and private sectors, it’s a city that appeals to a broad range of workers. It’s easy to enjoy your weekends here, whether you’re biking along the Rideau Canal or exploring Parliament Hill. There’s a little something for everyone.
Moving for Work? Stay Connected with the Western Union app
Starting over in a new city or country can be exciting, but also expensive. Need to support family back home or manage your money while settling in? The Western Union app makes it simple. You can send money quickly and securely giving you one less thing to worry about while you get ready for your next big step.
Full ranking: Best Canadian cities for jobs in 2025
A quick guide to help you choose! Here are the top 15 cities in Canada based on salary, unemployment and job availability:
| Rank | City | Average Salary | Unemployment Rate (%) | Vacancies per 10k |
| 1 | Quebec | 66,336 CAD | 4.5 | 1,664 |
| 2 | Hamilton | 75,649 CAD | 6.3 | 255 |
| 3 | Laval | 69,056 CAD | 7.0 | 1,282 |
| 4 | Winnipeg | 75,649 CAD | 6.3 | 120 |
| 5 | Ottawa | 73,617 CAD | 5.9 | 154 |
| 6 | Surrey | 63,761 CAD | 5.1 | 1,019 |
| 7 | Okanagan | 68,372 CAD | 4.8 | 143 |
| 8 | Edmonton | 74,709 CAD | 7.4 | 228 |
| 9 | Calgary | 76,430 CAD | 7.8 | 174 |
| 10 | Vancouver | 73,126 CAD | 8.4 | 627 |
| 11 | London | 68,747 CAD | 5.9 | 119 |
| 12 | Montreal | 69,532 CAD | 6.7 | 300 |
| 13 | Toronto | 74,976 CAD | 8.4 | 245 |
| 14 | Victoria | 68,109 CAD | 6.7 | 184 |
| 15 | Halifax | 73,126 CAD | 8.4 | 151 |
Moving for work? Make money transfers easy
No matter what you’re looking for career growth, work-life balance or a brand-new start, these Canadian cities are full of opportunity. As you take the next step, Western Union is here to support your journey every step of the way.
Send money online, download our app or visit an agent location near you, so you can focus on settling in and building your future.
