Nova Scotia (meaning New Scotland in Latin) is a Canadian Maritime province and has its location along the eastern coastline, almost precisely halfway between the equator and the North Pole.

Starting a New Life in Nova ScotiaThe area being only 55,283 km², it is the second-smallest province in Canada. Even though it has a small area, the population here is close to 1 million people establishing this province as the second-most densely populated in Canada. Below we have tried to summarize almost everything you need to know about life in Nova Scotia.  

The capital city of Nova Scotia is Halifax and it is technically an island, or we can rather call it a series of more than 3800 coastal islands, with a blend of Continental and Maritime climates, resulting in cold wet winters, and warm summers.  

Firstly, the entire place has an amazing feel to it. It might sound cliche, but kids there seem to have the kind of freedom as people did in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s. The crime rate here is very low as compared to other major places like the UK, life is pretty laid back here and their concept of rush hour traffic might seem something entirely different than what you’re used to.

The price of living here when compared to wages might also be pretty different from the other places, it is decent enough that one of the spouses can relax at home with the kids while the other goes to work. There is a huge emphasis on a real work-life balance here, rather than just making it an aspiration for one.

Halifax has all the necessary factors and energy of a regional capital as it is a great little city. As a bonus point, you only need to drive 30 minutes and you’ll be able to find yourself lost in an endless wilderness. You’ll soon find out that Nova Scotians are among the most welcoming people you have ever met, and it won’t take you much time to make new friends here.

The province of Nova Scotia might sometimes take a back seat when it comes to the bigger provinces of Canada such as Quebec and Ontario but the residents here rather prefer it this way.

Whether you are drawn to the vibe and culture of a city or the slower way of life in rural living, Nova Scotia’s fairness in life is among the best in North America. This place has tons to offer for an individual or families living here, such as the extremely affordable real estate, the low cost of living, pure natural environment, and amazingly friendly people. 

That being said, let’s go through some detailed reasons on why immigrants move to Nova Scotia and what keeps the locals consistently in love with this place. 

1. The Nova Scotia Ocean

Regardless of where you might be standing in Nova Scotia, you won’t be more than half an hour away from the ocean.

Starting a New Life in Nova Scotia
Photo by Noah Atkins on Unsplash

Some might call this a luxury but the natives have become accustomed to the coastal lifestyle. Just beyond the ocean, there are beaches, cliffs, boulders, and marine life.

2. The Nova Scotia People (Nova Scotians)

Even though there are around 1 million people in the province, you will still know many of the people who live here, just like other small towns. Anyone visiting Nova Scotia will always return home impressed by how nice, generous, and hospitable the people of Nova Scotia were.

Nova Scotians have always been known around the world for being some of the warmest, polite and kindest people, and who wouldn’t want the nicest people in the world as their neighbors?

3. The Nova Scotia Breweries

Besides their goodwill, Nova Scotians are also known all over the world for are their ability to drink. The breweries in Nova Scotia will keep you dazzled for a while as they take much pride in their beer and amusing atmosphere.

Starting a New Life in Nova Scotia
Photo by Tim Foster on Unsplash

Garrison Brewery is an independent micro-brewery that is known for making delightful craft beer with all-natural ingredients. Also, Nova Scotia’s most famous export is Alexander Keith Brewery. There’s Propeller Brewing Company which is the best-selling microbrewery in Nova Scotia, so you get the idea of how there are quite many great breweries to work, drink and relax at.

4. The Nova Scotia Seafood

Everyone who lives in Nova Scotia definitely knows about the seafood hub. People from many different places visit Nova Scotia just for its world-renowned seafood, making it another livable luxury for those residing here.

You will get to watch fishing boats sail in while unloading lobsters, crab, scallops, fish of all kinds, depending on the season. You will also get a chance to see them prepare the goods for a meal just in front of you. As Nova Scotia is almost surrounded by water, the locals are always familiar with at least one, two, or maybe even two dozen fishermen.

5. The Nova Scotia Education

Among Canada’s initial sea coast destinations for studying, Nova Scotia upholds exceptional educational institutions along with a relaxed lifestyle. When studying in this place, the college students get top value for their money by being provided a high-quality education while paying tuition fees that can be considered among the lowest in the English-speaking locations. At present, Nova Scotia has 10 universities.

Long been known for being a center of excellence in the Arts, Nova Scotia has plenty of art galleries and playhouses, which produce several famous singers and songwriters. Ann Murray, Hank Snow, Denny Doherty (The Mamas and the Papas), Sarah McLachlan, Martina McBride, Gordie Sampson, and Lee Anne Rhimes, can be taken as some examples.  

There are several museums in Nova Scotia and you’ll find them reflecting its ethnic heritage, as well as plenty of historical sites and National Parks. Once an important shipbuilding facility during the days of sail, Halifax is elegantly represented by the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. Not to forget, another major attraction is sport-fishing in the Bay of Fundy.   

All in all, Nova Scotia is an incredible place to begin a new life if you’re looking for a secure, near-the-coast, modern yet laid-back lifestyle with the kindest people around.