If you're one of the many sharing a smaller-than-average apartment with roommates, or you're cooped up in a downtown condo (and paying a sky-high price for it), imagine an alternative: your home office perched on the coast of the Atlantic ocean with easy access to beaches, coastal trails, wineries and a thriving arts and culture scene.
If you work remotely, that dream can become reality.
In Nova Scotia, life moves a little slower, homes are almost half the price of the national average, and you're never further than 67 kilometres away from the coast. Sounds like the work-life balance many of us feel like we need right now, doesn't it?
If you're lucky enough to be able to work from anywhere and you're thinking about making a change, look no further than these reasons to move to one of Canada's most breathtaking provinces.
Life Is Better By The Sea
Nova Scotia's 13,300 kilometres of coastline are calling your name. Imagine the brisking aroma of a salty breeze as you explore sandy beaches and rugged shores; or enjoying fresh seafood while gazing at a lonesome lighthouse towering over the ocean side. Of course, the excellent access to water is perfect for those of us who take to it like fish.
Whether you want to explore this province’s gorgeous landscape via land or water, you'll have endless opportunities to get out and discover what's in your backyard.
You Can Experience All Four Seasons Comfortably
Depending on where you currently live in Canada, you may not actually experience the four seasons comfortably (we're looking at you, blisteringly cold Montreal).
In Nova Scotia, the weather can be best described as moderate, meaning there are no harsh extremes and four distinct seasons, making exploring the outdoors easy and enjoyable no matter the time of year.
You Don't Have To Go Far For Breathtaking Scenery
Nova Scotia offers world-class nature, parks and seaside towns to explore. From the Bay of Fundy to Cape Breton Island, the province’s landscape is a treasure in itself. With over 20 provincial parks, including two national parks, as well as six UNESCO-designated sites and a UNESCO-supported Starlight Reserve, Nova Scotia is an outdoor explorer's dream.
With lots of outdoor adventures waiting for you year-round, you'll have no trouble filling up your Instagram feed full of rugged coastlines, breathtaking beaches and stunning scenery.
Halifax Is All About Big-City Fun With Smalltown Vibes
Canadians love nature, but we also love to let loose and have fun in the city. Halifax, Nova Scotia's thriving capital, will have you saying "Toronto who?" with its nearby wineries, bustling downtown full of craft breweries, trendsetting restaurants and arts and culture scene.
When you've ended your WFH day, head out to Halifax's famed waterfront, stop by the Seaport Farmers' Market (the oldest continuously operating farmers' market in North America) for fresh groceries, and end your night in the downtown core with a mouthwatering donair, the city's official snack.
There's High-Speed Internet Almost Everywhere
Remote work requires an excellent internet connection, so even if you choose to live outside of Nova Scotia's capital, know that over 80% of the province has access to high-speed internet solutions.
Prefer to live far away from all the action? Develop Nova Scotia, which is leading an Internet initiative for the province, says that by 2023 there will be available internet in 99% of the province, or even more.
The Quality Of Living Is Top Notch
While many of us can agree that Canada is one of the best countries to live in, there's a lot to love about this east coast city. Halifax has a great cost of living, a welcoming vibe, and a good transportation system for when you need to get from point A to point B.
All in all, it offers the best part of urban living without some of the problems that can come with it. The quality of life in the city really does parallel the quality of the views.
The People Will Make You Feel Right At Home
Everyone knows a Maritimer — whether it's a grandparent, an uncle or an old university friend — and you can vouch that on the East Coast, the people are just really friendly.
Nova Scotia is known for its hospitable locals, and when you're starting over someplace new, it's a good idea to head to a welcoming spot.
You Can Dine On Some Of The Country's Best Food
Everyone knows Nova Scotia is famous for its lobster. From traditional classics like lobster dinner and lobster rolls to more out-there options like lobster eggs benny, lobster poutine and even lobster beer, the province is known for bountiful seafood that will satisfy any foodie's cravings.
But there's more to Nova Scotia than just seafood. In Nova Scotia, you'll find everything from superb local produce at any of the 40+ farmers' markets across the province to varied dishes from around the world at deservedly popular restaurants like The Bicycle Thief for Italian-inspired fine dining and Studio East for Asian-Nova Scotia fusion. Let’s not forget the nice variety of locally produced wine, beer and spirits.
Between its friendly people, abundant natural beauty and seriously affordable lifestyle, Nova Scotia is quickly becoming the place to be for anyone seeking a new, refreshing way of life.
The province has also done a good job of keeping COVID-19 cases low so far, so you can move there knowing you can safely set up your WFH office seaside, breathe in that ocean air and soak up everything Maritime life has to offer.
Before you start packing, be sure to check out Work from Nova Scotia for a breakdown of everything from real estate stats and information about the province's response to the pandemic.
To learn more about moving to Nova Scotia, check out Work from Nova Scotia's website or follow them on Facebook or YouTube.
