British Columbia (Rajeev Sharma): British Columbia remains Canada’s leading destination for new immigrants, holding its appeal even as parts of the province face heightened concern over organised extortion rackets. Recent livability rankings indicate that newcomers continue to prioritise employment prospects, lifestyle advantages and community support over fears related to crime.
An assessment referenced by the Asian Pacific Post shows British Columbia securing a dominant presence in the Globe and Mail’s Most Livable Cities for Newcomers Index 2026. The province accounted for 12 of the top 20 cities, underscoring its popularity among immigrants who have arrived in Canada within the last five years.
The index examined 454 cities with populations above 10,000, evaluating them through 58 indicators spread across 10 categories. These ranged from job availability and housing costs to healthcare access, education quality, public transportation, safety, and social inclusion. The newcomer index forms part of the Globe and Mail’s broader national livability rankings.
High-ranking cities and what draws newcomers
North Vancouver claimed the top spot, earning praise for its balance of career access and residential calm. Close to downtown Vancouver yet surrounded by natural landscapes, the city offers strong public transit, reputed schools and outdoor amenities that appeal to families settling in Canada.
Pitt Meadows ranked second, benefiting from its small-town atmosphere, relatively more affordable housing and connectivity to Metro Vancouver’s employment centres. Its open spaces and community-focused living continue to attract young families, even as many residents commute for work.
Ottawa placed third, emerging as the highest-ranked city outside British Columbia. The national capital’s stable job market — driven by government, technology and education — along with its safety record and cultural life, makes it an attractive alternative to larger, costlier urban centres.
West Vancouver secured fourth place, continuing to draw well-off immigrant households. Despite some of the country’s highest real estate prices, the area’s safety, elite schools and coastal-meets-mountain setting remain key selling points.
Regina completed the top five, with its low housing expenses, shorter travel times and steady public-sector and resource-based employment helping newcomers integrate quickly and establish financial stability.
British Columbia’s presence extended well beyond the top five, with cities such as Cranbrook, Parksville, Victoria, New Westminster, Fort St. John, Vancouver, Oak Bay, White Rock, Terrace and Kamloops also featuring in the top 20. Other provinces were represented by cities including Winnipeg, Québec City, Oakville, Quispamsis and Whitehorse.
Crime concerns persist, but attraction endures
The rankings arrive as police continue to investigate a rise in extortion cases in areas such as Surrey, Abbotsford and Vancouver. Law enforcement agencies have linked some incidents to Punjab-based criminal networks, with threats allegedly delivered through social media calls originating outside Canada. RCMP figures indicate that more than 100 extortion-related cases were reported in 2025.
Even so, analysts say immigration decisions are rarely shaped by a single issue. British Columbia’s mild climate, natural beauty, economic diversity and long-established immigrant communities continue to outweigh safety concerns for many newcomers. Familiar cultural networks and long-term opportunities remain decisive factors.
For many immigrants, British Columbia still offers a rare mix of economic promise and lifestyle comfort — a combination that keeps the province at the forefront of settlement choices, even as authorities work to confront emerging security challenges.
