9 Reasons You Should Move To Nova Scotia If You’re Tired Of Big-City Living
Whether you're fed up with unaffordable rent prices, tired of the fast-paced lifestyle or simply itching to try something new, there are many valid reasons for wanting to leave a big city.
And as the trend towards remote work continues with no sign of stopping, people are being given more choice and flexibility than ever before in deciding where they want to live.
More and more, Canadians are swapping bustling downtown living and expensive inner-city rent for smaller, more affordable towns and fresh air. And it's no wonder; when your home also becomes your office, it should be as comfortable as possible.
If proximity to the ocean, quaint towns, endless coastline and incredible food sounds like the lifestyle change you're looking for, you might want to look to the east coast.
Nova Scotia — with its pristine nature, a bustling capital and affordable real estate prices — is quickly becoming one of the best work-from-home destinations in Canada.
If you're able to take your office anywhere, these nine reasons might just give you the push you need to move out of the city.
It's Easier To Pay The Bills
Big-city living often means big-city prices. Toronto and Vancouver, for example, are two of the most expensive places to live in the entire country, where one-bedroom apartments currently rent for about $1,770 and $1,940 respectively.
Compare that with Halifax, Nova Scotia's capital, where prices average around $1,250 (and are significantly cheaper outside of the city).
Nova Scotia Is An Ocean Lover's Paradise
Affectionately nicknamed "Canada's ocean playground," Nova Scotia is a coastal dream. The province's coastline stretches 13,300 kilometres and includes several islands and inlets along the shoreline.
From water activities like kayaking and surfing to swimming and sunbathing, there are plenty of things to keep you busy along the coast. And no matter where you are in the province, you're never far from a visit to the shore.
You'll Have More Freedom & Fewer Restrictions
While vaccines are starting to circulate, there's still a long road ahead before the COVID-19 pandemic ends. Nova Scotia has maintained consistently low cases (they've kept per capita infection rates among the lowest in the country) and enforces a mask mandate to protect their most vulnerable population.
Plus the wider spaces and vast expanses of nature mean that Nova Scotians get to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes hidden in their own backyard.
There Are Endless Outdoor Activities
Itching to get outside? Wanting closer proximity to nature is a major reason to leave a large city, and living in Nova Scotia can definitely fulfill that need all year round.
The province offers ample opportunities for outdoor adventures — like learning to surf in the fall, snowshoeing in the winter and hiking along the coast in the spring when the flowers start to bloom — so you'll have no shortage of access to mother nature.
As for summer, the warm weather opens up a whole new world of possibilities and fun under the sunshine. Where else can you casually decide to embark on a whale-watching expedition for the day or go for a picnic surrounded by a picturesque coastal landscape?
You Could Live In One Of Canada's Most Colourful Towns
Architecture in Halifax is both vibrant and rich in historical value, but the houses in Nova Scotia's Lunenburg are an entirely different story.
A UNESCO-listed fishing town, Lunenburg boasts picture-perfect pink, yellow, green and red houses along its coast. Legend has it that in the past, people would paint their houses vivid colours so that they were visible to sailors at sea.
Foodies Will Eat To Their Heart's Content
From friendly neighbourhood pubs to stunning vineyards, Nova Scotia offers an incredible array of options for food and drink for every palette.
Enjoy a charcuterie board and a glass of Tidal Bay at a winery in the Annapolis Valley, nibble on world-class seafood at any of Halifax's trendsetting restaurants or stop at an organic brewery on Cape Breton Island to sample some of the province's local beer.
You'll Constantly Be Planning Your Next Adventure
Nova Scotia has tons of destinations that attract both locals and tourists year-round.
For views you can't get in the city, head to the Cape Breton Highlands for breathtaking hiking trails and scenic drives, the South Shore for picturesque beaches, as well as Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site for incredible camping.
There's Nothing Like East Coast Hospitality
East Coasters have a reputation for being friendly, and it's one of the reasons that Nova Scotia is a great place to live. If you're looking to have a better relationship with your community and get to know your neighbours, this diverse and vibrant maritime province is a great place to start.
You Can Finally Get Some R&R
Anyone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of big-city living will undoubtedly find a more low-key lifestyle on the east coast. Think easily accessible farmers markets, relaxing beaches, breezy ocean air and a small, welcoming population.
Whether you want to trade in your downtown condo for ocean views, abundant natural beauty or seriously affordable rent (or all of the above), Nova Scotia might just be the refreshing change you've been looking for.