Which Are the Best Provinces in Canada for Job Opportunities?

Canada, with 13 provinces and territories, is the second-largest country globally, spanning over 9.8 million square kilometres. Choosing where to live in Canada requires careful consideration, with factors such as schools, weather, lifestyle, and, most importantly, job prospects. Each province offers its unique culture, environment, and incentives for relocation.

To make an informed decision, it is essential to research the provinces, considering elements like territory, population, culture, employment, and real estate. While foreign job opportunities are abundant throughout Canada, certain provinces offer a broader range of desirable positions. For instance, Alberta provides opportunities for IT consultants, technicians, and truck drivers, while Nova Scotia requires nurses and doctors, creating more health-related roles. Every province in Canada is distinct, featuring bustling cities like Toronto and Vancouver or captivating natural landscapes. Although there are over 800,000 jobs available across the country, the top 5 provinces offer excellent job opportunities.

The 5 Best Provinces in Canada for Job Opportunities

The 5 Best Provinces in Canada for Job Opportunities

Ontario

Jobs Available: 137,080 on Indeed
34,972 on Job Bank

Ontario is one of the most popular provinces for foreigners. It's also one of the best places to find a job in Canada. With a population of over 14 Million, thanks to Toronto and the country’s capital, Ottawa, this province will surely be a great home for you. It has plenty of jobs available and many growth opportunities.

While Toronto is Canada's most well-known city, Ontario has more relaxed living options. Stratford and Timmins, both with a population of under 50,000 are well-developed economies that offer an alternative to the hustle and bustle of the big city.


Job Opportunities in Ontario by Industry
IndustryNo. Of Job Opportunities
Retail & Wholesale18,890
1,448
Healthcare18,364
Manufacturing6,466
Restaurants & Food Services15,038
Construction, Repair & Maintenance Services13,511
18,911
8,640

Ontario's Economy

The economy of Ontario is a powerhouse, contributing significantly to Canada's overall economic strength. Ontario is the largest economy in the country, accounting for approximately 38% of the Canadian GDP. While manufacturing is responsible for 12.6% of Ontario's GDP, the service sector forms the bulk, making up 77.9% of the province's economy.

Top 5 In-Demand Occupations

Job Opportunities in Ontario by Location
City/TownNo. Of Job Opportunities
Toronto25,844
Mississauga6,482
Ottawa12,587
NOC CodeOccupation
33102Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates
44101Home support workers and related occupations, excluding housekeepers
73200Residential and commercial installers and servicers
73300Transport truck drivers
73400Heavy equipment operators (except cranes)

British Columbia

Jobs Available: 76,241 on Indeed
31,089 on Job Bank

This historical province boasts beautiful lakes, so you’ll enjoy taking the ferry. Although it's the most expensive province in Canada, the salaries are relatively high in British Columbia. While Victoria is the province's capital, Vancouver is the most populated. The city has an incredibly low crime rate, and it's rated among the best places to live in the world. Newcomers from around the globe flock to Vancouver and it's surrounding smaller towns for a higher standard of living and better quality of life.

The overall population of British Columbia is just over 5 million, making it the third-most populated province in Canada. There’s no surprise why it's one of the best provinces in Canada for job opportunities.

Job Opportunities in British Columbia by Industry
IndustryNo. Of Job Opportunities
Retail & Wholesale9,456
1,014
Healthcare9,455
Restaurants & Food Services11,843
Construction, Repair & Maintenance Services11,223
11,673
Manufacturing1,681
Job Opportunities in British Columbia by Location
City/TownNo. Of Job Opportunities
Vancouver31,801
Surrey25,969
Victoria5,558

British Columbia’s Economy

British Columbia's economy has a rich history rooted in its abundant natural resources. While the forest industry has traditionally played a significant role, the province's economy has diversified. B.C.'s major economic sectors include agriculture, cannabis, clean technology, construction, film and television, fisheries and aquaculture, forestry, high technology, manufacturing, maritime, mining, technology and innovation, and tourism.

Top 5 In-Demand Occupations

NOC Code Occupation
30010 Managers in healthcare
20012 Computer and information systems managers
21301 Mechanical engineers
52120 Graphic designers and illustrators
42202 Early childhood educators and assistants

work

Alberta

Jobs Available: 57,116 on Indeed
25,589 on Job Bank

There are plenty of job opportunities in Canada for foreigners in Alberta. In this province, you have your choice of lifestyle. It has many towns and rural areas to enjoy and live in. It also has two major cities, Calgary and Edmonton, with strong economies, top-tier universities, and entertainment.

Families in Alberta also enjoy a higher income average and a lower cost of living compared to many other provinces. Generally, rental expenses, as well as taxes, are lower, too. Weather wise, it's the sunniest province in Canada.

Job Opportunities in Alberta by Industry
IndustryNo. Of Job Opportunities
Retail & Wholesale8,227
470
Construction, Repair & Maintenance Services 8,657
9,959
3,475
Restaurants & Food Services9,465
Health28,363
Manufacturing1,282
Job Opportunities in Alberta by Location
City/TownNo. Of Job Opportunities
Calgary18,156
Edmonton18,467
Fort McMurray 1,388

Alberta’s Economy

Alberta's economy is characterized by its vast natural resources, particularly oil, natural gas, and coal. The province is a major producer of crude oil and natural gas in Canada, contributing significantly to the country's energy sector. Additionally, Alberta's economy encompasses various industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, construction, and services. The top three sectors by total employment are mining, real estate and rental, leasing, and manufacturing. Alberta's robust economy, low unemployment rates, and favorable business environment make it an attractive destination for job seekers and entrepreneurs.

Top 5 In-Demand Occupations

NOC Code Occupation
60020 Retail and wholesale trade managers
12202 Insurance underwriters
72203 Electrical power line and cable workers
62200 Chefs
52120 Graphic designers and illustrators

Manitoba

Jobs Available: 11,639 on Indeed
3,289 on Job Bank

Manitoba has a population of over 1.3 million people. You can find its capital in the darling city of Winnipeg. Its scenery of lakes and rivers, mountains, forests, and plains range from the northern Arctic tundra in the east to Hudson Bay in the south. More than 80 provincial parks protect most of the wilderness, and hiking, bicycling, canoeing, camping, and fishing are all popular activities.

Find out how the cost of living in Manitoba compares to the Cost of Living in Canada here.

It's also incredibly affordable. Manitoba boasts one of Canada's strongest and most diverse economies, with a low cost of living and numerous chances for education, company ownership and job opportunities in Canada for foreigners.

Job Opportunities in Manitoba by Industry
IndustryNo. Of Job Opportunities
Retail & Wholesale1,618
120
Healthcare1,435
Government and Public Administration534
Manufacturing386
Restaurants & Food Services1,274
Job Opportunities in Manitoba by Location
City/TownNo. Of Job Opportunities
Winnipeg7,651
Brandon663
Thompson251

Manitoba’s Economy

Manitoba's economy is characterized by rich natural resources and thriving industries. The province's gross domestic product (GDP) reached 61.1 billion CAD in 2022, with a growth rate of -0.3% over the five years to 2022. Manitoba has various sectors, including real estate and rental and leasing, healthcare and social assistance, and manufacturing. With a population of 1,391,714, Manitoba has witnessed steady growth, ranking 8th out of 13 provinces and territories by growth rate. The province's strategic advantages, such as its central location, skilled workforce, and competitive business costs, contribute to its economic prosperity.

Top 5 In-Demand Occupations

NOC Code Occupation
10010 Financial Managers
20011 Architecture and Science Managers
33102 Nurse (Nursing jobs in Canada) Aides, Orderlies, and Patient Service Associates
94141 Industrial Butchers and Meat Cutters, Poultry Preparers, and Related Workers
72102 Sheet Metal Workers

Saskatchewan

Jobs Available: 10,161 on Indeed
6580 on Job Bank

One of the best places to find a job in Canada is Saskatchewan. The province needs to more credit. Here you’ll find grassy plains, forests, rivers, and lakes. It has a population of 1,174 million. The capital is Regina, where you can experience the history of the People of the First Nation, Canada’s indigenous population. While winters can be cold, summers are usually warm and dry.

Job Opportunities in Saskatchewan by Industry
IndustryNo. Of Job Opportunities
Retail & Wholesale1,873
Manufacturing783
Education609
Construction, Repair & Maintenance Services608
Restaurants & Food Services589
Job Opportunities in Saskatchewan by Location
City/TownNo. Of Job Opportunities
Saskatoon3,478
Regina2,528
Prince Albert446

Saskatchewan's Economy

Saskatchewan's economy boasts diverse valuable resources, including agriculture, potash, uranium, critical minerals, and oil. The province has garnered international attention as it achieves groundbreaking advancements in crop science, plant protein, agricultural equipment, and renewable energy. This rich resource base has allowed Saskatchewan to navigate global economic cycles successfully. In fact, over the past decade, the province has witnessed remarkable growth in population, employment, investment, and exports.

Top 5 In-Demand Occupations

NOC Code Occupation
31301 Registered Nurse
21232 Software Developer
10019 Project Manager
64101 Sales Representative
73400 Heavy Equipment Operator

These provinces offer abundant job opportunities, making them attractive destinations for employment. Now, let's explore how to secure a visa to work in one of these provinces and embark on a fulfilling career journey.

How to Work in the Best Province in Canada

How to Work in the Best Province in Canada

Work Permits

If you are a foreign worker planning to work in the best province in Canada, you will typically need a work permit. The work permit allows you to legally work in Canada for a specific period. There are different types of work permits, such as employer-specific work permits and open work permits.

Check out our video on work permits below:

Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) is a provincial nomination program that allows the province of Ontario to nominate foreign workers and international students for permanent residency. The OINP offers several streams, including the Employer Job Offer, International Student, and Express Entry streams, providing opportunities for skilled workers to settle in Ontario.

British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP)

The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) is designed to attract and retain skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and graduates to British Columbia. The program offers various streams, such as the Skills Immigration and Express Entry BC streams, which allow eligible candidates to receive a provincial nomination and accelerate their pathway to Canadian permanent residency.

Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP)

The Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) is a provincial nomination program that targets skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs who wish to settle in Alberta. The program offers streams such as the Alberta Opportunity Stream, Alberta Express Entry Stream, and Self-Employed Farmer Stream, providing different pathways to permanent residency in Alberta.

Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)

The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) is designed to attract skilled workers and entrepreneurs to Manitoba. The program offers various streams, including the Skilled Worker Overseas, Skilled Worker in Manitoba, and International Education streams, which provide opportunities for eligible candidates to obtain a provincial nomination and pursue Canadian permanent residency.

Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) aims to attract skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates to Saskatchewan. The program offers streams such as the International Skilled Worker, Saskatchewan Experience, and Entrepreneur streams, providing avenues for eligible individuals to obtain a provincial nomination and settle in Saskatchewan.

Working in the best province in Canada can be a rewarding experience, and these provincial nominee programs and work permit options provide valuable opportunities for foreign workers to establish their careers and build a future in Canada. It is important to research and understand each program's specific requirements and processes to increase your chances of success.

FAQs

How Do I Know Which is the Best Province to Work in For Me?

Choosing the best province to work in Canada depends on your unique combination of skills, needs, and lifestyle preferences. Consider factors such as job opportunities in your field, provincial nominee programs for immigration, and the cost of living. Research each province's economy, industries, and quality of life indicators to determine which province aligns with your career goals and personal requirements.

Which Province in Canada Has More Job Opportunities?

The province in Canada with the most job opportunities can vary depending on various factors, including the current economic conditions and industry trends. Historically, provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta have offered many job opportunities due to their diverse economies and thriving industries.

However, it's important to note that job opportunities can fluctuate over time, and each province may have unique strengths and employment prospects. We advise researching the current job market, industry demand, and specific in-demand occupations to determine which province may have more job opportunities in your field of interest.