Five Canadian cities earn spots among Top 100  of 2026 World’s Best Cities

Five Canadian cities earned positions on the 2026 World’s Best Cities list. Toronto led the group and reached the 17th spot. Vancouver, Montreal, Ottawa, and Calgary also appeared on the list. The report looked at cities around the world and studied where people live, visit, and invest.

A Canadian firm prepared the study and used a large set of data. The report aimed to show how cities grow, attract people, and support local life.

How the Report Ranks Cities

The research team used a scoring method called “Place Power.” The system blended facts and public opinions. It also used three simple themes: Livability, Lovability, and Prosperity.

Livability measured local spaces, parks, and buildings. Lovability focused on culture, food, and nightlife. Prosperity studied how cities support business and talent. The team also collected online data from platforms like Google and TikTok. This helped them understand real experiences and public views.

Each city needed at least one million people to qualify for the list.

Toronto Holds Strong at Number 17

Toronto reached 17th place this year. The city moved down from 15th last year but still kept a strong global position. The report praised Toronto for its growth and strong education levels. It also noted Toronto’s deep multicultural identity. The authors pointed to the city’s appeal to newcomers and compared it favourably with major cities like Melbourne, Hong Kong, and Bangkok.

Vancouver Lands at 41

Vancouver followed at 41st place. The report described it as “gorgeous and smart.” It highlighted clean air, respected universities, and new neighbourhood plans. The city’s steady growth and natural scenery also helped its ranking.

Montreal Stays a Cultural Magnet

Montreal reached 46th place. The report praised its creative energy and rise in global attention. Main streets grow more pedestrian-friendly each year. Universities help shape new ideas and research hubs. Technology and design groups grow quickly across the city.

Ottawa Strengthens Its New Image

Ottawa earned 73rd place. The report said the city “quietly but decisively” shaped a new modern identity. Ottawa’s downtown grows with new projects. AI and tech investment continues to rise. Schools and research centres add strong appeal as well. Immigration also supports growth. A quarter of residents came from outside Canada.

Calgary Builds Momentum

Calgary placed 85th. The report pointed to young residents and a rising tech scene. New plans shape future districts and attract new workers. Home prices also helped the city stand out. Many families see Calgary as a place where they can settle with less financial pressure.

Immigration Supports City Growth

The report mentioned immigration as a major force behind Toronto and Ottawa’s growth. Toronto “keeps the city among the planet’s most coveted for immigrants.” Ottawa grows through new arrivals and interest in central neighbourhoods.

Last week, the government released new plans for 2026. Canada aims to welcome 380,000 permanent residents. Sixty-four percent of those spots will go to economic programs. Provincial programs will grow by 66% compared to last year.

People who want to move to Canada can consider Express Entry. The system uses three programs to help skilled workers. Applicants need to check their eligibility, create a profile, and receive a score. Higher scores lead to better chances in upcoming draws.