Top 10 Canadian Cities for Immigrant Job Seekers in 2025

Finding a job as a newcomer to Canada can be daunting, but selecting the right city can significantly boost your employment prospects. The 2025 BMO Labour Market Report Card ranks 33 Canadian cities based on employment growth, unemployment rates, and population trends, identifying the top 10 labor markets offering the best opportunities for skilled immigrants. Below, we explore these cities, highlighting their key industries, employment statistics, and appeal for newcomers.

1. Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria Harbour

• Employment Rate: 64.1%

• Unemployment Rate: 3.6%

  
  

  Victoria leads the rankings with consistent job growth and a low unemployment rate. Its thriving public sector, technology, and hospitality industries provide diverse opportunities for immigrants. The city’s mild climate and manageable size make it an attractive destination for newcomers seeking a balanced lifestyle.

  
  
  
  

2. Moncton, New Brunswick

Moncton

• Employment Rate: 62.1%

• Unemployment Rate: 5.3%

  
  

  Moncton has climbed the rankings due to strong employment and population growth. Affordable housing and increasing demand in healthcare, customer service, and transportation make it a standout choice. The city is particularly welcoming to Francophone immigrants, with robust support services.

  
  

3. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Saskatoon

• Employment Rate: 66.2%

• Unemployment Rate: 4.5%

  
  

  Saskatoon boasts one of Canada’s highest employment rates, driven by its mining, agriculture, and construction sectors. Growing needs in healthcare and education, combined with immigrant-friendly policies and lower living costs, make it ideal for newcomers.

  
  

4. Calgary, Alberta

Downtown Calgary

• Employment Rate: 66.1%

• Unemployment Rate: 5.2%

  
  

  Calgary’s economy is rebounding, with job growth in energy, technology, and engineering. Its young population and strong infrastructure support long-term career prospects for skilled tradespeople and professionals.

  
  

5. Kingston, Ontario

Kingston

• Employment Rate: 63.7%

• Unemployment Rate: 4.8%

  
  

  Kingston offers stable job growth in education, healthcare, and government sectors. Its smaller size provides accessibility for newcomers, with clear career pathways in a balanced economy.

6. St. Catharines, Ontario

St. Catharines

• Employment Rate: 57.8%

• Unemployment Rate: 3.9%

  
  

  Located in the Niagara region, St. Catharines has seen the country’s strongest employment growth at 7.3%. Opportunities in logistics, tourism, food processing, and healthcare, along with proximity to Toronto and the U.S. border, make it a compelling choice.

  
  

7. Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax

• Employment Rate: 61.2%

• Unemployment Rate: 5.5%

  
  

  Halifax is a top destination in Atlantic Canada, with a growing tech sector, healthcare opportunities, and strong support for newcomers, including Francophone and international student pathways.

  
  

8. Saguenay, Quebec

Saguenay

• Employment Rate: 60.5%

• Unemployment Rate: 4.6%

  
  

  Saguenay’s economy thrives on manufacturing, forestry, and mining, with consistent employment and low unemployment rates. French language skills are crucial, making it ideal for Francophone immigrants.

  
  

9. London, Ontario

London

• Employment Rate: 61.2%

• Unemployment Rate: 5.5%

  
  

  London is ranked ninth overall, propelled by robust job creation and population growth. Its key sectors are manufacturing, health care, and finance. Additionally, it is a favored destination for international students and their families.

  
  

10. Regina, Saskatchewan

Regina

• Employment Rate: 64.3%

• Unemployment Rate: 6.3%

  
  

  Regina completes the top 10 with a strong labor market and increasing job demand in trades, public services, and agriculture. The city provides a lower cost of living and welcoming provincial immigration programs that support settlement.

  
  

Why These Cities Matter for Immigrants

These cities were selected based on the BMO Labour Market Report Card’s analysis of employment growth, low unemployment rates, and population trends, which indicate economic vitality and job availability. For immigrants, these factors are critical for securing stable employment and integrating into Canadian society. Cities like Moncton, Halifax, and Saguenay also offer tailored support for Francophone immigrants, while others, like Calgary and Saskatoon, provide opportunities in high-demand sectors like technology and healthcare.

Tips for Immigrant Job Seekers

• Research In-Demand Roles: Align your skills with high-demand industries like healthcare, technology, and trades, which are prioritized in Canada’s Express Entry system.

• Leverage Settlement Services: Many of these cities offer immigrant support programs, including language training and job search assistance.

• Tailor Your Resume: Follow Canadian CV guidelines, as outlined in resources like immigration.ca’s True North newsletter, to increase your chances of landing interviews.

• Explore Immigration Pathways: Programs like Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) can fast-track your permanent residency if you target in-demand jobs in these cities.

Conclusion

Choosing the right city is a pivotal step for immigrants seeking to build a successful career in Canada. Victoria, Moncton, and Saskatoon lead the pack with strong employment rates and diverse opportunities, while cities like Calgary and Halifax offer growing industries and robust support for newcomers. By targeting these labor markets and leveraging Canada’s immigration programs, skilled immigrants can find rewarding careers and thriving communities in 2025.

---