Given the current economic climate, it’s no surprise that many are searching for the most affordable places to live in Canada.
However, safety and lifestyle conveniences become a big concern when it comes to more affordable neighborhoods.
And that’s where the Canadian cities near the U.S. border come in. These cities offer lower housing costs and strong local economies without sacrificing security or amenities, which is perfect for homebuyers and investors alike.
With that said, let’s explore some of the best affordable and safe Canadian cities near the U.S. border!
Top 5 Affordable and Safe Canadian Cities Near US Border
While there are many big-name cities and neighborhoods near the US-Canada border, many of them come with a big bill as well. Despite that, there are always some hidden gems, where you can enjoy a high quality of life at a fraction of big-city costs.
Here’s a short list of such Canadian cities:
1. Niagara Falls, Ontario
Niagara Falls isn’t just a world-renowned tourist spot for its breathtaking waterfalls. It’s also a peaceful town on the side of Lake Ontario with wineries, historic sites, and charming streets.
What makes this area so special is its affordability, with a lower cost of living than many other Ontario cities. Perhaps such a trait is the main reason why so many Americans are choosing Niagara homes for their retirement in Canada.
And that’s not all!
The city offers a variety of housing choices, from historic homes to modern developments, catering to diverse preferences and budgets.
The average housing cost here is around $638,500, which is down by 0.5% compared to last year. (Source: niagarahomeportal.ca)
According to many local realtors, the residents here enjoy numerous parks, recreational facilities, and cultural events. Jamie Szeibert, Team Leader & Realtor® at Szeibert Realty Group, emphasizes the city’s appeal: “Niagara Falls offers a unique blend of natural beauty and community spirit.”
On top of that, the city’s lower crime rate(around 12% lower than the nation’s average) also makes it one of the most secure and affordable destinations.
2. Windsor, Ontario
Situated directly across the border from Detroit, Windsor is known for its affordable housing market and robust economy.
For the past few years, the surrounding neighborhoods have been becoming the go-to choice for many new immigrants. You can thank the multicultural environment and a diverse job market for that.
- Median Housing Cost: $558,951, up by 7.1% from last year.
- Average Household income: $74,109
And as for the real estate market in Windsor, many riverfront properties offer scenic views and recreational activities.
Despite its close proximity to Detroit, the neighborhoods in Windsor have a noticeably lower crime rate(11% lower) compared to large metropolitan areas.
3. Abbotsford, British Columbia
Abbotsford, located in British Columbia, is quite well known for its agricultural history. The city is right near the Canada–United States border, Greater Vancouver, and the Fraser River.
According to official reports, the consensus population is around 168,478. So it’s not a small city.
However, due to its less urban-oriented lifestyle, the cost of living in Abbotsford is 17% less than in Vancouver, and rent is 15.6% lower than in Toronto.
Conversely, the average home price in Abbotsford is approximately $745,000. (Source: Zolo)
Most of the properties in this area are single-family homes and condos. These can be found in various budgets to meet the buyer’s requirements.
These properties also provide a mix of urban amenities and rural charm, making it an attractive place to live.
The city offers a moderate climate and is one of the warmest places to live in Canada. Such a trait is great for both retirees and single families.
Not to mention, Abbotsford’s crime rate is 4% lower than the provincial average of British Columbia. That’s why it has a reputation as one of the relatively safe communities near the CA-US border.
4. Lethbridge, Alberta
Nestled near the stunning Canadian Rockies, the city of Lethbridge provides an affordable alternative in Alberta.
Residents here experience a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. But it also benefits from warm Chinook winds that can dramatically raise temperatures in the winter months. Hence, it’s noticeably more comfortable than other areas of Alberta.
- Average Home Price: $497,511; reflecting a 1.94% increase from last year. (Source: Houseful)
The main employment sector in this area is agriculture. But it is also a leader in the transportation, industrial, and financial sectors.
The city offers a lot of green space with over 130 parks, making it an attractive place for outdoor enthusiasts.
Although the city’s average crime rate is higher than other Alberta cities, it is still 6% lower than the nation’s average. To be frank, crimes in Lethbridge are largely localized to specific areas. As a result, many neighborhoods remain safe and family-friendly.
5. Laval, Quebec
As a suburb of Montreal, Laval offers a more affordable living option near the border. However, it still provides easy access to the amenities of a major city.
And the best part? The cost of living in Laval is 12.5% less than in Montreal, and rent is 27% lower.
The city is set on Île Jésus on the Prairies River and features waterfront trails and a Nature Center with gardens, ponds, and farm animals. Hence, it is becoming a great choice for immigrants with families.
Fortunately, the real estate market in this area also caters to such buyers. For the most part, the city also offers small apartment buildings, single detached houses, and condos. The average home price reached $416,789, marking a 14% year-over-year increase. (Source: WOWA)
Furthermore, Laval’s economy is driven by sectors such as retail, industrial, pharmaceutical, and technology.
Despite being the largest suburb of Montreal, the neighborhoods have remained some of the safest ones in Canada, with crime rates 8.2% below the nation’s average.
Final Thoughts
Buying property near the U.S.-Canada border provides a balance of affordability, convenience, and lifestyle benefits. Whether for work, investment, or a better quality of life, the above-listed cities should appeal to most people.
We hope you found this blog post on Affordable & Safe: Best Canadian Cities Near US Border, useful. Be sure to check out our post on Best Area in Canada for Millennials to Relocate to for more great tips!
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