Best Places to Live in Northwest Territories

The Northwest Territories in Canada offers many opportunities for those seeking a new place to call home. With stunning natural landscapes, friendly communities, and a high standard of living, it's no wonder that more and more people are considering the Northwest Territories as their dream destination. In this guide, we will explore the top ten best places to live in the Northwest Territories, along with the various ways you can make a move to this beautiful part of the world.

Places in the Northwest Territories that you can visit are plentiful, especially for outdoor enthusiasts. The best places to visit in the Northwest Territories are always filled with the wonders of the surrounding natural environments. For the Northwest Territories places to visit, it is always advised that you prepare accordingly for the province's tundra climate.

Top Ten Best Places to Live in Northwest Territories

top ten best places to live in the Northwest Territories

For any interested immigrants, here is a comprehensive guide about the Top Ten Best Places to Live in Northwest Territories.

Yellowknife

Yellowknife, the capital of the Northwest Territories is a vibrant and bustling city that offers a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. With a population of over 20,000, Yellowknife is the largest community in the Northwest Territories and has a thriving arts and culture scene. The city is also known for its stunning aurora borealis displays, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.

Kakisa

Situated on the shores of beautiful Kakisa Lake, the community of Kakisa offers a tranquil and picturesque setting for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With just over 50 people, this small community is perfect for those seeking a close-knit and friendly atmosphere. Kakisa is also known for its excellent fishing and outdoor recreational opportunities, making it an ideal place for nature enthusiasts.

Fort Smith

Located on the Slave River, Fort Smith is a historic community with a rich cultural heritage. With a population of around 2,500, Fort Smith offers a mix of small-town charm and modern amenities.

The town is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including Wood Buffalo National Park, home to the world's largest free-roaming herd of wood bison. Fort Smith also offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Inuvik

Situated in the Mackenzie Delta, Inuvik is a vibrant and diverse community that offers a unique blend of traditional Inuvialuit culture and modern living. With a population of around 3,500, Inuvik is the economic and cultural hub of the Western Arctic.

The town is famous for its Midnight Sun celebrations, where residents and visitors can enjoy 24 hours of daylight during the summer months. Inuvik also offers a range of amenities, including shopping centers, schools, and healthcare facilities.

Enterprise

If you're looking for a peaceful and serene place to call home, look no further than Enterprise. This small community on the Hay River is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. With a population of around 100 people, Enterprise offers a close-knit and friendly community atmosphere. The town is surrounded by pristine wilderness, which is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and viewing wildlife.

Tuktoyaktuk

Tuktoyaktuk, also known as Tuk, is a remote and picturesque community located on the shores of the Arctic Ocean. With a population of around 900, Tuktoyaktuk offers a unique Arctic experience for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

The town is famous for its distinctive Inuvialuit culture and is home to the world-renowned Pingos - unique ice-cored hills found only in this part of the world. Tuktoyaktuk also offers a range of amenities, including schools, healthcare facilities, and recreational opportunities.

Lutselk'e

Nestled on the eastern shore of Great Slave Lake, Lutselk'e is a small and welcoming community that offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With a population of around 350 people, Lutselk'e offers a close-knit and friendly community atmosphere.

The community is known for its rich Dene culture and is home to the Thaidene Nene National Park Reserve. This stunning wilderness area offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Ulukhaktok

Ulukhaktok, formerly known as Holman, is a small and remote community located on Victoria Island in the Arctic Ocean. With a population of around 450 people, Ulukhaktok offers a unique and authentic Arctic experience for those seeking adventure and cultural immersion.

The community is known for its vibrant arts scene, with many residents producing traditional Inuvialuit arts and crafts. Ulukhaktok also offers a range of amenities, including schools, healthcare facilities, and recreational opportunities.

Whati

Situated on the shores of Lac La Martre, What is a small and friendly community that offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for those looking to connect with nature. With around 500 people, Whati offers a close-knit and welcoming community atmosphere.

The community is known for its rich Tlicho culture and is home to the Tlicho Government, which plays a key role in the governance of the Tlicho region. Whati also offers a range of amenities, including schools, healthcare facilities, and recreational opportunities.

Wrigley

Wrigley is a small and charming community located on the banks of the Mackenzie River. With a population of around 200 people, Wrigley offers a close-knit and friendly community atmosphere.

The community is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the Mackenzie River and surrounding wilderness providing ample outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and viewing wildlife. Wrigley is also home to the Wrigley Golf Course, a unique nine-hole course that offers stunning river views.

How Can I Move to the Northwest Territories?

If you've fallen in love with the Northwest Territories and are considering making it your permanent home, there are several pathways available to you.

Permanent Residency Programs

Permanent residency programs

One option is to apply for permanent residency through various programs offered by the Canadian government. The two most prominent programs include Express Entry and

Express Entry System

The Express Entry system is an online application management system that allows skilled workers to apply for permanent residency in Canada. It is a points-based system that evaluates applicants based on factors such as:

  • Age
  • Education
  • Work experience
  • Language proficiency
  • Adaptability to life in Canada

The Express Entry immigration pathways include:

The FSWP is designed to attract and retain highly skilled workers and professionals working in important and specialized occupations. If you are skilled in a particular trade such as plumbing, then you can use the FSTP to apply. If you are fortunate enough to have prior working experience in Canada, then apply using the CEC.

Find out more about the Express Entry system.

Northwest Territories PNP

The Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP) is a provincial nominee program allowing the territory to nominate individuals with the skills and experience needed in the local labor market. The NTNP offers various streams, including the:

Learn more about what you need to be eligible for and how to apply for Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP).

Homecare Provider Pilots (HCPP)

The Home and Community Care Program (HCCP) is a program that provides care and support to individuals who have health conditions or disabilities that require assistance with daily activities. The program is available to residents of the Northwest Territories and can provide valuable support for those who need it.

Find out more about the Homecare and Community Program (HCCP).

Work Permits

You can apply for a work permit if you're not ready to commit to permanent residency but still want to experience life in the Northwest Territories. Work permits authorize eligible foreign recipients to work in Canada for a period specified on the permit.

Additionally, they show how long the recipient can work in Canada, ranging up to several years depending on the work permit issued and extensions granted.

There are two types of Canadian work permits.

  • Employer-specific work permit
  • Open work permit

Find out how to apply for a work permit.

Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

The TFWP allows employers in Canada to hire foreign workers to fill temporary labor shortages.

Find out more about the eligibility requirements and how to apply for TFWP.

IEC Working Holiday

The International Experience Canada (IEC) program also offers opportunities for young people to work and travel in Canada through working holiday visas. You need to apply for an open work permit in order to obtain a working holiday visa.

Learn more about Working Holiday Visa (WHV) program eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Life in the Northwest Territories: What Does it Offer You?

life in the northwest territories: What does it offer you?

The Northwest Territories' many unique factors make it an excellent province. Here are five reasons to make the Northwest Territories your new home.

Beautiful Natural Environments

One of the biggest draws of living in the Northwest Territories is the stunning natural beauty surrounding you. With vast wilderness areas, pristine lakes, and breathtaking mountain ranges, the Northwest Territories offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Whether you enjoy:

  • Hiking
  • Fishing
  • Kayaking
  • Wildlife viewing

You'll find plenty of opportunities to connect with nature in this beautiful part of the world. Among the most stunning natural phenomena that you can observe in the Northwest Territories is the Aurora Borealis or the Northern Lights.

Find out more about the interesting and fun things you can do in the Northwest Territories.

Rich Indigenous Culture

The Northwest Territories is home to a rich and diverse Indigenous culture, with several distinct Indigenous groups calling this region home. From the Inuvialuit in the Western Arctic to the Tlicho in the central region, each group has its unique traditions, languages, and way of life.

Living in the Northwest Territories allows you to learn about and experience these rich cultural traditions firsthand, whether through attending traditional events, visiting cultural centers, or participating in community activities.

Find out more about the demographics of the Northwest Territories.

Close-Knit Communities

One of the defining characteristics of the Northwest Territories is its close-knit and friendly communities. Whether you live in a small town or a larger city, you'll find that people are welcoming and supportive.

The sense of community is strong, and neighbors often become like family. This tight-knit community atmosphere creates a sense of belonging and makes it easier to forge meaningful connections with others.

Economic Opportunities for Low-Skilled Workers

The Northwest Territories has a strong economy, with many economic opportunities for low-skilled workers in sectors such as:

  • Mining oil and gas
  • Nature and wildlife tourism
  • Government administrative services

Many Northwest Territories' in-demand occupations do not require a degree or tertiary qualification.

Learn more about the economic life of the Northwest Territories.

FAQs

What is the Best Place to Live in Northwest Territories?

The best place to live in the Northwest Territories depends on your preferences and lifestyle. Each community offers its unique charm and amenities. Yellowknife may be the best choice if you're looking for a balance between urban living and natural beauty.

If you prefer a close-knit community and a tranquil lifestyle, Kakisa or Lutselk'e may be the perfect destinations. It's important to visit different communities and explore their offerings before making a decision.

What is the Northwest Territories Most Affordable City or Town?

The affordability of cities and towns in the Northwest Territories can vary depending on factors such as housing costs, transportation, and the cost of living. Generally, smaller communities tend to have lower living costs than larger cities.

However, determining affordability's important to consider factors such as job opportunities and access to amenities. Fort Smith and Wrigley are known for their relatively lower living costs compared to larger cities like Yellowknife.