Calgary is Canada’s best in 2013 --- from MoneySense magazine

Those living here probably know it already, but its great to have some validation. Calgary is the best place to live in Canada, according to the 2013 survey by MoneySense magazine.

The survey ranks 200 Canadian cities, and the magazine said “high incomes and an abundance of jobs fuelled by the boom in the energy sector” are among the reasons Calgary jumped from No. 14 last year to No. 1 this year.

“When we were determining our 8th annual list of Best Places to Live in Canada, we looked at all the data we could find to name the communities that offer the best overall quality of life,” MoneySense says. “We started with incomes and employment. After all, most people’s experience in a city is more positive when they have a high-paying job — and the ability to get a new one if they so choose. We looked at the price of housing, giving high scores to cities where home prices are affordable when compared with local salaries.” Weather, crime and access to hospitals were also factors.

“Quality of life isn’t only about practical concerns. The ability to take part in cultural activities adds richness to our lives, so we gave points to communities with high numbers of people working in the arts or sports,” it adds.

In a list of the top large cities in Canada, Calgary was first, followed by Ottawa and Edmonton. In a list of top small cities in Canada, Alberta cornered the Top Three with St. Albert first, followed by Strathcona County as second and Lacombe third.

Top 10 Large Cities:
1. Calgary
2. Ottawa
3. Edmonton
4. London
5. Winnipeg
6. Halifax
7. Toronto
8. Mississauga
9. Quebec
10. Vancouver