Canada is known for its cold winters, but not all parts of the country are covered in snow year-round. In this guide, we explore the warmest cities and regions in Canada — perfect for newcomers who prefer mild winters and comfortable temperatures. Learn where to settle for the best weather and how it fits into your Canadian immigration journey.
Why Climate Matters When Immigrating to Canada
Canada is globally admired for its high quality of life, strong economy, and welcoming immigration policies. But one factor many newcomers consider before applying is the country’s diverse climate zones. From snow-covered prairies to coastal temperate zones, Canada offers a wide range of weather conditions depending on where you choose to live.
For many immigrants, especially those coming from warmer climates, mild winters in Canada can be a deciding factor. Choosing the right city or province with a warmer climate can have a big impact on your comfort, well-being, and overall settlement experience. Whether you’re planning your move through Canadian immigration pathways or just starting to explore options, understanding the warmest places in Canada is a great place to begin.
How Climate Affects Your Canadian Experience
Weather can influence everything from your daily lifestyle to employment opportunities and housing costs. For example, cities with mild winters may offer longer construction seasons, more outdoor recreational options, and lower heating bills. If you or your family are sensitive to colder climates, choosing a warmer city can also help ease the transition into your new life in Canada.
Connecting Weather to Immigration Programme Choices
Some provincial nominee programmes (PNPs) are tied to specific regions. If you’re considering settling somewhere with warmer weather, you’ll want to explore immigration options available through British Columbia, Ontario, or other provinces with temperate climates. Programs like Express Entry, Family Sponsorship, and PNPs allow you to align your immigration goals with your preferred lifestyle and climate preferences.
The Warmest Provinces in Canada
Canada stretches across six time zones and has one of the most varied climates in the world. While most people associate Canada with snow and ice, some provinces enjoy relatively temperate weather year-round. Here are the top provinces known for having the warmest places in Canada.
British Columbia: Canada’s Warmest Province
British Columbia (BC) is famous for its natural beauty, coastal cities, and relatively mild climate. Thanks to the Pacific Ocean’s influence, BC boasts some of the warmest cities in Canada — especially along the southern coast. Winters here are often rainy rather than snowy, making it an ideal destination for those seeking comfort and mild temperatures.
Victoria, BC Weather
Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is often called the warmest city in Canada. With average winter temperatures hovering around 4–6°C and rare snowfall, Victoria offers a climate similar to northern coastal cities in Europe. The city is also known for its high quality of life, strong healthcare system, and beautiful natural surroundings.
If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic place with a mild climate to start your Canadian journey, Victoria could be a great fit — especially through the BC PNP. You can determine your eligibility for immigration to British Columbia today.
Vancouver Climate
Vancouver is another top contender for best weather in Canada. Known for its stunning mountains, ocean views, and mild winters, Vancouver rarely sees temperatures below zero. The city does get a fair amount of rainfall, particularly from November to March, but it offers a very livable climate year-round.
Vancouver is a hub for tech, film, and international trade, making it attractive for skilled immigrants. If you’re applying through Express Entry or the BC PNP Tech stream, Vancouver might align perfectly with both your career and climate preferences.
Ontario: Warm Summers and Mild Winters in the South
While northern Ontario experiences harsh winters, southern Ontario is home to some of the warmest cities in Canada, especially near the Great Lakes. This region enjoys hot summers and relatively mild winters, compared to the rest of the country.
Windsor, Ontario Climate
Located right across the border from Detroit, Michigan, Windsor has one of the warmest climates in Ontario. It experiences hot, humid summers and shorter, more tolerable winters than cities further north. Winter temperatures often hover around -1 to -4°C, with less snow than other parts of Ontario.
Windsor is also known for its auto industry and growing tech sector. If you’re considering immigration to Canada via Ontario’s PNP or Express Entry, Windsor offers both career opportunities and favourable weather conditions.
The Warmest Cities in Canada to Consider for Immigration
Now that we’ve covered the warmest provinces, let’s take a closer look at specific warmest cities in Canada that are most attractive to newcomers due to their climate, job opportunities, and quality of life.
Osoyoos, British Columbia
Osoyoos is not only one of the warmest places in BC — it’s considered the warmest city in the country during the summer. Located in the southern Okanagan Valley, Osoyoos boasts hot, dry summers and mild winters, thanks to its desert-like climate.
Average summer temperatures can soar above 30°C, while winter temperatures remain manageable, usually staying above freezing. This makes Osoyoos ideal for those coming from countries with hot climates who want a smoother transition to Canadian weather.
Although smaller in size, Osoyoos is part of a growing wine and tourism region, which can offer seasonal work opportunities. If you’re interested in rural or regional immigration streams, Osoyoos might be an excellent option to explore through BC’s PNP.
Kelowna, BC Temperature
Kelowna, located in the heart of the Okanagan Valley, is another city known for its mild winters and warm summers. It’s a popular destination for both tourists and immigrants due to its relaxed lifestyle, job opportunities, and beautiful lakefront scenery.
Average temperatures in winter range from -2°C to 2°C, while summer highs often exceed 28°C. The city sees less rain than Vancouver and more sunshine year-round, making it one of the best places for those who value an active, outdoor lifestyle.
Kelowna has a diversified economy covering healthcare, education, agriculture, and tech. It’s also a designated community under the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP), which can offer additional immigration pathways for skilled workers and graduates.
Abbotsford, BC
Located just east of Vancouver, Abbotsford is one of the warmest cities in Canada with a relatively affordable cost of living. Its proximity to the US border and Vancouver makes it a strategic location for professionals and families alike.
Abbotsford enjoys mild winters, with average lows around -1°C in January, and warm summers, with July temperatures averaging 25°C. It’s an agricultural hub, offering employment in farming, food processing, and logistics.
If you’re seeking a mix of job prospects, warm weather, and a family-friendly atmosphere, Abbotsford could be a top pick. You can assess your immigration options to see if BC’s PNP aligns with your profile.
What Makes a City “Warm” in Canada?
Warmth in Canada doesn’t always mean tropical heat — it means fewer snowstorms, milder temperatures, and more sunshine. Here are a few climate indicators that define the warmest places in Canada:
- Average Winter Temperature: Cities with winter highs above freezing are considered warm by Canadian standards.
- Snowfall Amount: Lower annual snowfall contributes to easier daily life and commuting.
- Rain vs. Snow: Coastal cities may have more rain but far less snow, making winters easier to manage.
- Summer Highs: Hot summers can be attractive for those who enjoy outdoor activities and sunshine.
When evaluating your new Canadian home, it’s important to consider both winter and summer conditions, especially if you’re moving from a tropical or desert region. You can get a professional immigration evaluation to help you choose the right location and immigration programme based on your personal and climate preferences.
Canadian Climate Zones: A Quick Overview
Canada is divided into several climate zones that influence local weather patterns:
- Pacific Maritime: Includes Vancouver, Victoria, and coastal BC — mild, rainy winters and warm summers.
- Interior BC: Includes Kelowna and Osoyoos — dry, hot summers and moderate winters.
- Southern Ontario: Includes Windsor and the Toronto region — warm summers, snowy but short winters.
- Prairie Provinces: Includes Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba — cold, snowy winters and hot summers.
- Atlantic Canada: Includes Nova Scotia and New Brunswick — moderate climate with variable weather.
Understanding these climate zones can help you better assess where to live and which immigration to Canada process aligns with your goals.
Warmest Place in Winter: Where to Escape the Cold
If escaping harsh winters is your top priority, cities like Victoria, Vancouver, and Abbotsford are your best bets. These cities offer mild winters in Canada that resemble the climate of northern California or western Europe. While you may trade snow for rain, the temperatures are much easier for many newcomers to adapt to.
For those seeking warm summers and dry winters, the Okanagan Valley — including Kelowna and Osoyoos — presents an excellent alternative. Southern Ontario cities like Windsor also offer a balanced climate with hot summers and manageable winters, making them attractive to many immigrants.
Choosing a city with the best weather in Canada can reduce climate shock and help you settle more comfortably into your new life. If you’re unsure where to begin, take a free immigration assessment to match your profile with the right province and immigration pathway.
Other Notably Warm Regions in Canada
While British Columbia and Southern Ontario dominate the list of the warmest cities in Canada, there are a few other regions and towns across the country that offer relatively mild climates and are well worth exploring — especially for newcomers who want to avoid the harshest Canadian winters.
Southern Alberta: Warmer Than You Might Expect
Although Alberta is often associated with snowy winters and cold temperatures, certain areas in the southern part of the province enjoy surprisingly warm and sunny weather for much of the year. Cities like Lethbridge and Medicine Hat benefit from a unique weather phenomenon called the “Chinook winds,” which can cause rapid warm-ups in winter, sometimes increasing temperatures by 10–20°C within a few hours.
Lethbridge and Medicine Hat
Lethbridge is one of the sunniest cities in Canada, receiving over 320 days of sunshine annually. While winter temperatures can still drop below freezing, the frequent Chinooks make the cold more bearable. Medicine Hat, known for its semi-arid climate, also sees low precipitation and more sunshine than most Canadian cities.
These cities offer a good balance of affordability, employment opportunities in agriculture and energy, and a more manageable winter climate. If you’re considering immigration to Canada through Alberta’s PNP or Rural Renewal Stream, southern Alberta may be a practical choice.
Atlantic Canada: Mild Coastal Climates
Although Atlantic Canada doesn’t typically top the list of the warmest provinces, some coastal cities in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick offer relatively moderate winters and cool but pleasant summers. The ocean moderates temperatures, preventing extreme cold and heat.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, has a coastal climate influenced by the Atlantic Ocean. Winters are milder than in inland cities at similar latitudes, and summers are comfortable with average highs around 23°C. Rain and fog are common, but the overall climate is welcoming for those who prefer to avoid extreme weather.
Halifax is growing in popularity among skilled immigrants, international students, and entrepreneurs. With several post-secondary institutions and a strong healthcare sector, it’s a city with both lifestyle and career opportunities. Through the Atlantic Immigration Programme (AIP), newcomers can benefit from employer-driven immigration options.
Tips for Choosing the Best Weather City for Your Immigration Journey
When deciding where to settle in Canada, climate is just one part of the equation. Here are some expert tips to help you find the best fit for your lifestyle, career goals, and immigration pathway:
1. Match Climate with Your Career Goals
Some industries are more active in certain regions due to climate. For example, construction and agriculture thrive in cities with longer warm seasons like Kelowna or Abbotsford. Tech and film industries are booming in Vancouver, while Windsor has opportunities in automotive and manufacturing. When choosing one of the warmest cities in Canada, consider how the climate can support your professional growth.
2. Consider Cost of Living
Warmer cities like Vancouver and Victoria tend to have higher housing costs, while cities like Windsor or Abbotsford offer more affordable living. Weigh the cost of living alongside climate to ensure you can sustain your lifestyle. If you’re unsure where to begin, a free immigration assessment can help identify cities that match both your budget and settlement preferences.
3. Explore Immigration Programme Availability
Not all immigration pathways are available in every city or province. For example, the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) supports smaller communities like Vernon and West Kootenay in BC, while the Atlantic Immigration Programme (AIP) covers cities like Halifax and Moncton. Use your destination’s location and climate as a factor, but also ensure your occupation and situation align with the immigration to Canada process.
4. Think About Long-Term Lifestyle
Will you be happy with rainy winters or would you prefer sunshine? Do you enjoy gardening, hiking, or beach days? Lifestyle preferences tied to climate are important for long-term happiness and mental well-being. Cities like Osoyoos and Kelowna offer outdoor recreation most of the year, while coastal cities like Victoria have lush gardens and walkable downtowns.
5. Evaluate City Size and Community Support
Larger cities usually have more settlement services, cultural diversity, and job opportunities, while smaller towns may offer a quieter lifestyle and closer-knit communities. If you prefer a city with established newcomer support, Vancouver, Toronto, and Halifax are good choices. For those looking to contribute to smaller regional economies, consider RNIP-participating communities with milder climates.
How Weather Affects Immigration Planning
Weather isn’t just about comfort — it can influence your timeline, documentation, and even settlement success. Here are a few ways climate ties into your Canadian immigration journey:
Document Preparation and Travel Timing
If you’re planning to land in Canada during winter, harsh weather can make travel and moving logistics more complicated. Snowstorms can delay flights and moving trucks, and cold temperatures may pose challenges if you’re arriving with children or elderly family members. Settling in a city like Victoria or Abbotsford during winter can ease this transition considerably.
Settlement Services and Community Integration
In warmer cities, community events, outdoor festivals, and public gatherings are more common throughout the year, making it easier for newcomers to meet people and integrate. Cities with mild climates generally offer more opportunities for outdoor activities, which can help reduce isolation and improve mental health during the settlement phase.
Housing and Heating Costs
Living in one of the warmest cities in Canada can also lower your heating bills. In colder regions, heating costs can be a significant part of your monthly expenses. Cities like Vancouver and Victoria experience lower heating demands due to their mild winters, helping you save money in the long run.
Employment Sectors Influenced by Climate
Some jobs are more seasonal in colder areas due to harsh weather. Warmer cities with longer growing or construction seasons — like Kelowna or Lethbridge — may offer more consistent employment throughout the year. If your skills align with agriculture, tourism, or construction, choosing a warmer location can provide better job security.
To make the best choice for your future, assess your immigration options with a professional who understands how climate, employment, and immigration pathways intersect.
Top Recommendations: Best Weather Cities for Newcomers
Based on weather, cost of living, employment opportunities, and immigration programme availability, here’s a quick summary of ideal Canadian cities for newcomers who want to avoid cold winters:
- Victoria, BC: Best overall for mild winters, coastal beauty, and high quality of life.
- Vancouver, BC: Mild temperatures, rainier climate, but excellent for tech jobs and international communities.
- Kelowna, BC: Hot summers, mild winters, ideal for those who enjoy outdoor recreation and wine country living.
- Osoyoos, BC: Warmest summer city in Canada — great for those from dry, hot countries.
- Windsor, Ontario: Affordable housing, warm summers, and a growing job market in manufacturing and tech.
- Abbotsford, BC: Family-friendly, agricultural economy, and relatively mild winters.
- Halifax, Nova Scotia: Balanced coastal climate, growing economy, and options through the Atlantic Immigration Programme.
- Lethbridge and Medicine Hat, Alberta: Affordable, sunny, and less snowy than other parts of Alberta thanks to Chinook winds.
All these cities offer different immigration options and lifestyle benefits. You can explore your Canadian immigration options based on the city or province that appeals to you most.
Conclusion: Climate Can Shape Your Canadian Immigration Success
Choosing the right place to settle in Canada goes beyond job markets and housing — your comfort in Canada’s climate can significantly affect your overall happiness and ability to adapt. Whether you’re drawn to the Pacific coast, the sunny Okanagan Valley, or the warmest parts of Southern Ontario, Canada offers a variety of regions with mild winters and pleasant summers that suit all types of newcomers.
By considering factors like temperature, snowfall, rainfall, and sunshine, you can find a city that not only supports your immigration goals but also enhances your quality of life. Warmer cities in Canada offer better outdoor opportunities year-round, lower heating costs, and smoother transitions for immigrants from tropical or dry climates.
If you’re ready to begin your journey, determine your eligibility through our free assessment tool. At EverNorth, we help you navigate Canadian immigration pathways tailored to your needs — from Express Entry to Provincial Nominee Programmes and everything in between.
Start planning your future in one of Canada’s warmest and most welcoming cities today. Let climate comfort be the first step to a successful and fulfilling life in Canada.
