Moving to Nova Scotia: Everything You Need to Know

If you dream of a coastal lifestyle full of charm and adventure on the Atlantic, then Nova Scotia is calling your name. In fact, more people than ever are moving to Nova Scotia - Halifax, in particular - with the capital city charting record-high population growth in recent years.

People from all corners of the globe have found a home here in Nova Scotia. It’s a place full of abundant outdoor exploration, friendly waterfront communities, a rich culture, a thriving economy, and a more relaxed lifestyle compared to the other major Canadian cities. What more could you wish for in your dream destination?

Moving out east can offer the much-needed change of pace and scenery you’ve been craving. But there are plenty of considerations to make before you relocate. In this guide, we’ll cover the most important things you should know before moving to Nova Scotia, Canada.

Why Move to Nova Scotia?

Nova Scotia is a place with the rhythm of the ocean, energy of thriving communities, and a wealth of growth and opportunities. Whether you're looking for fresh air or fresh opportunities, it could be the home you have been dreaming about. Let’s take a look at some of the many reasons why you might consider moving to Nova Scotia.

Natural Beauty and Lifestyle

Whether you’re a casual nature lover or a thrill-seeking adventurer, there’s no shortage of wilderness to explore in Nova Scotia. With over 13,000 kilometers of breathtaking coastline, you’re only a short trip away from the water, no matter where you live in the province.

From riding the waves on the warm-water beaches of the Northumberland Shore to paddling through the Halifax Harbour, as you soak in the city’s iconic skyline, unforgettable water adventures await at every corner.

If you prefer land-based activities, you’re also in luck. You can visit one of the province’s dozens of parks for hiking, biking, and sightseeing right in your backyard. Or, take a day trip to Cape Breton Island for year-round outdoor fun, including world-class golfing, hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing.

Communities and Housing

Experience the best of Nova Scotia’s dream coastal lifestyle, where vibrant communities are attracting young professionals and families. From the quaint tranquility of inland towns like Kentville to the charm of historic waterfront villages like Lunenburg or the bustling energy of metropolitan Halifax, Nova Scotia is home to a range of diverse communities to suit any lifestyle. With a population of over one million, community is at the heart of life in Nova Scotia. Whether you're a longtime resident or a newcomer, you'll experience the warmth of East Coast hospitality, where neighbours feel like family and support is always close by.

Despite rising in recent years, home prices in Nova Scotia remain significantly more affordable than in many other provinces. According to the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), the benchmark home price in Nova Scotia was $405,300 as of December 2024 — far lower than British Columbia’s $955,500 and Ontario’s $849,600. Even in Halifax, the province’s capital city, the benchmark price stood at $533,500 last December, making homeownership more accessible compared to other urban centers.

Employment and Economy

Moving to Nova Scotia offers more than prime access to its breathtaking rugged coastline and warm, welcoming culture. It’s also a growing hub for economic development, where key sectors such as financial services, ocean sciences, tech, and transportation and logistics compete globally, thanks to the province’s strategic location, highly talented labour pool, favorable business incentives, and vibrant innovation scene.

Nova Scotia’s diverse economy provides ample career opportunities for its over one million residents, about half of whom live in Halifax. Job growth in Nova Scotia is steadily climbing at an average annual rate of 2.4% over the past five years, with Halifax leading the way with an impressive growth rate of 3.6% - 50% faster than the provincial average.

Recent graduates, job seekers, and immigrants looking to land their next position can explore Nova Scotia Works for career options in the province and get one-on-one help finding a job. The Halifax Partnership’s Connector Program is also a valuable resource for networking and connecting with local industry leaders who help post-secondary graduates and newcomers build their professional network and discover opportunities in their field.

Planning Your Move to Nova Scotia

If you’re ready to call Nova Scotia home, there are a few important details and logistics to coordinate to ensure a smooth transition. Our expert guide to making a smart career move can help with planning.

Finding a Place to Live

There are a variety of housing options in Nova Scotia - from renting, to home ownership, to co-operative housing. Housing will likely be your largest monthly expense, whether you rent or buy, and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation offers helpful resources to help you decide which option is right for you. In Halifax, you can compare housing prices in various neighbourhoods to help make a decision that’s right for your lifestyle and budget. You’ll also need to consider other factors which might impact your overall budget and quality of life - like your potential commute, property taxes, utility costs, crime rates, and access to amenities.

Transportation and Getting Around

If you reside in a rural area, owning a vehicle is almost essential for getting to and from work and accessing local services and amenities. Even if you do live in the city, owning a car can be an added convenience and an enjoyable part of the Nova Scotia experience. It allows you to explore the region and take in the scenic beauty while driving along the Cabot Trail or Lighthouse Route.

However, public transit options in Nova Scotia are expanding, especially in Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM), where Halifax Transit is the primary service. Bus and ferry fares start at $2.25 per ride, and key routes connect the city’s major areas, such as downtown Halifax and Dartmouth, and outlying communities like Bedford and Cole Harbour.

Taxis, ride-sharing, and micro-mobility services like e-scooters are also available if you don’t own a car, though their availability may be limited outside of the HRM. There’s also an expanding network of bike lanes and walking trails, particularly in the city, for those who prefer to get around town on bike or foot.

What to Expect as a Newcomer Moving to Nova Scotia

As you settle in, you’ll be welcomed by friendly locals and fellow newcomers who can offer pointers and suggestions to help you get to know and connect to your community. \Residents in Nova Scotia represent over 200 ethnicities and 100 languages, so you’ll have no trouble finding a community of people who make you feel at home.

If you want to start living like a local, immerse yourself in Nova Scotian cuisine, like savouring fresh-caught Digby scallops off the Bay of Fundy or adding wild blueberries from Oxford to your favorite beverages and salads or picking fresh fruit and vegetables and enjoying Nova Scotia wine and fare at one of the province’s many wineries in the Annapolis Valley. Taking part in local festivals and cultural traditions that make Nova Scotia unique can also help you get connected into the lifestyle and with people who have similar interests, including the Halifax Jazz Festival and Lunenburg Folk Harbour Festival in the summer or the Celtic Colours International Festival in Cape Breton Island later in the fall.

Weather and Seasonal Changes

Keep in mind that the distinct geography that makes Nova Scotia so unique also influences the local climate, so it may take some time to acclimate, depending on where you’re from. If you’re moving from within Canada, you’ll be pleased to know the winters and seasonal temperature swings are much milder than most other provinces while still enjoying all four seasons.

However, living in a coastal region does come with its own challenges, particularly fog, winds, humidity, and more precipitation than you might be used to. If you don’t already, you may want to consider purchasing more windproof, waterproof, and warm apparel like boots, jackets, and umbrellas to ensure you’re well-equipped for the elements as you start your new life in Nova Scotia.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

With a thriving job market, world-class outdoor recreation, and a welcoming atmosphere, there’s no better time to move to the East Coast for a fresh start. No matter what brings you to Nova Scotia, the following tips can help you enjoy a smooth transition to your new home:

• Join local groups to get involved in your new community and connect with like-minded individuals.
  
  

• Attend community events like festivals, cultural happenings, and markets to support local businesses and learn more about the uniqueness of the region.
  
  

• Network with other professionals in your region and industry to get informed about and connected to opportunities in your field.
  
  

• Research and visit your preferred community beforehand to make sure it’s the right fit for your lifestyle preferences and aspirations.

Plan your visit today to see what your new home has to offer. A life full of community, adventure, and professional opportunity awaits you in Nova Scotia.

Are you considering moving to Halifax? Download our 5 Reasons to Consider Living in Halifax guide with information on our unique East Coast lifestyle and diverse career opportunities in Halifax's growing economy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is moving to Nova Scotia worth it?

Each person has their own preferences, but if you’re interested in the East Coast lifestyle and want to live in a growing region with a booming economy, then moving to Nova Scotia is worth it. The province has a rich history, easy access to nature, a diverse economy with many growing sectors, and a network of tightly knit communities, helping residents live a fulfilling and well-rounded lifestyle.

What are the job prospects like in Nova Scotia?

Job prospects are promising in Nova Scotia, particularly in Halifax, which has experienced significant job growth over the past five years in its key sectors: cleantech, IT, gaming, and digital media (ICT), financial services, ocean sciences, life sciences, and transportation and logistics.

What is the cost of living in Nova Scotia?

The cost of living in Nova Scotia is estimated at around $2,137 for a single individual or $4,921 for a family of four, including housing, utilities, groceries, and other typical monthly expenses. A recent report from the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives states that, on average, a person needs to earn $28.30 per hour to live comfortably in Halifax, or at least $24.00 to $26.20 per hour elsewhere in Nova Scotia.

Do I need a car to live and work in Halifax, Nova Scotia?

Owning a car in the province’s capital city of Halifax can be convenient for getting around, especially if you live in one of the rural or suburban neighbourhoods surrounding the metro area. But, it’s not a necessity. Halifax Transit offers a wide network of buses and ferries that connect communities across Halifax Regional Municipality. HRM is also home to an expanding network of pedestrian-friendly streets, cycling routes, and e-scooters that make getting around easy.