Which Province in Canada is the Happiest? A New Survey Reveals

According to a recent survey conducted by the Angus Reid Institute, Quebec is the happiest province in Canada. The non-profit organization carried out an online survey between July 31 and August 2, 2024, with responses from 1,609 Canadians over the age of 18.

Survey Results

The survey looked at different provinces, including Ontario, British Columbia, Quebec, Manitoba, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and a group combining the Atlantic provinces (New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island). Here are the results:

• Quebec ranked highest, with 75% of people describing themselves as happy—16% said they were "very happy," and 59% described themselves as "pretty happy."
• Manitoba followed, with 65% of respondents feeling happy.
• The Atlantic Provinces showed 63% happiness.
• British Columbia came in at 61%.
• Alberta had a 60% happiness rate.
• Ontario and Saskatchewan were at the bottom, with happiness levels of 55% and 53%, respectively.
  
  

Why Are Some Canadians Happier?

Respondents rated their happiness and satisfaction based on factors like:

• Health
• Life outlook
• Family relationships
• Community ties
• Housing
• Free time
• Personal finances
• Love life
• Stress levels
• Support systems
• Social perception
• Overall quality of life
  
  

In general, Canadians expressed high satisfaction with their relationships and community involvement. The survey highlighted strong satisfaction rates for relationships with family (85%), friends (77%), and community ties (77%). Support systems (80%) and social perception (how others think of them) also scored high.

However, the study revealed that Canadians are least satisfied with stress levels (56%) and personal finances (53%).

Shifting Trends in Canadian Happiness

Interestingly, 36% of respondents described their emotional state as “not too happy” or “not happy at all,” a figure that has doubled since 2015. The survey suggested several reasons for this decline, including the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, rising inflation, housing affordability issues, and increasing polarization in society.

Despite these challenges, the data still shows that 61% of Canadians consider themselves happy, with 76% satisfied with their overall quality of life.

Thinking About Moving to Canada?

If you're planning to relocate to Canada, you may want to consider the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). This program helps provinces and territories select skilled workers from around the world. With more than 80 PNP streams available, it’s a great pathway for individuals considering making Canada their new home.