Quality of Life
British Columbia (B.C.), Canada’s westernmost province, is consistently ranked among the best places in the world to live due to a unique combination economic stability and public safety, cultural diversity, world-class healthcare and education, natural beauty and vibrant urban centers.
Whether building a career, raising a family, or seeking adventure, B.C. provides the environment and infrastructure to thrive.
Public Safety and Services
A cornerstone of quality of life is safety, and B.C. offers a secure environment supported by robust public services. Municipal governments are responsible for fire protection, road maintenance and community infrastructure, while the Provincial Government oversees major services like education, highways and healthcare. British Columbia has one of the lowest crime severity indexes among Canadian provinces.
A Great Place to Live and Work
B.C.’s economy fuels both prosperity and quality of life. As of June 2025, B.C.’s unemployment rate was 5.6%—significantly below the national rate of 6.9%—demonstrating economic resilience and opportunities for residents.
Vancouver regularly ranks in the top five most livable cities in the world, according to Mercer’s Quality of Living Ranking and the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Livability Index.
Cultural Diversity
B.C. is Canada’s most ethnically diverse province, with approximately 30% of residents born outside the country. This multiculturalism fosters a vibrant tapestry of languages, cuisines, traditions and festivals that enrich community life. Our multicultural society helps nurture inclusiveness, understanding and mutual respect.
Additionally, B.C. continues to lead efforts toward meaningful reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, guided by the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. These efforts include supporting Indigenous-led governance, education and cultural revitalization.
Education and Healthcare
Quality education and accessible healthcare are fundamental to B.C.’s elevated standard of living. Home to world-class institutions such as the University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University, B.C. attracts students globally. Its post-secondary system also includes respected teaching universities and colleges that support regional development.
In healthcare, B.C. ranks third among all Canadian provinces and peer countries for life expectancy and health outcomes, including low cancer mortality and strong self-reported health indicators.
Natural Environment
British Columbia’s natural beauty is one of its greatest assets. The province features a diverse landscape that includes rugged coastlines, snow-capped mountains, ancient rainforests and serene lakes. This natural abundance encourages an active lifestyle and offers year-round opportunities for hiking, skiing, kayaking and wildlife viewing. The temperate coastal climate makes it possible to enjoy outdoor activities in every season.
Access to clean air, fresh water and green spaces contributes to both physical and mental well-being, reinforcing why so many people choose to live and stay in B.C.
Urban Life
B.C.’s cities offer cosmopolitan flair, with a diverse arts and cultural scene, within breathtaking natural settings. Vancouver, the province’s largest city, combines global urban sophistication with eco-conscious design. Renowned attractions such as Stanley Park, Granville Island and Gastown coexist with a thriving culinary scene and year-round cultural events. Vancouver not only ranks as one of the world’s most livable cities but has also been called one of the best food cities in the world.
Beyond food, our arts and cultural scene delights, with festivals, museums, live performances, indigenous art and more.
Learn more about B.C.
Discover the sector or regional advantages to support your business. Learn more about community engagement and consulting with Indigenous people and First Nations communities in British Columbia.