Moving to Nova Scotia, Canada: The Complete Relocation Guide (2025)
Are you considering moving to Nova Scotia, Canada?
Whether you're relocating domestically or internationally, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Let’s explore the best ways to prepare for your relocation and make the province of Nova Scotia, Canada your new home!
Click the menu below to skip to the section that best applies to you:
Why Choose Nova Scotia?
Nova Scotia is Canada’s easternmost province, and it’s known for a balance of urban amenities and rural charm. This makes the province suitable for a wide range of lifestyles and preferences.
Students flock to the capital city of Halifax for top school Dalhousie University, along with respected medical programs that attract international students.
However, other areas of Nova Scotia are equally attractive, offering small-town charm, rich maritime culture, and stunning coastlines.
Top cities of Nova Scotia include Halifax, Cape Breton, New Glasgow, Queens, Lunenburg, and Amherst.
Moving to Nova Scotia from Other Canadian Provinces
If you're planning an interprovincial move to Nova Scotia, the process is relatively straightforward.
There are a few administrative items to consider for your inter-provincial move:
Provincial Healthcare Transfer
When moving from another province, ensure you apply for your Nova Scotia Health Card immediately upon arrival. There's typically a three-month waiting period before coverage begins, so maintain your previous provincial coverage during this transition.
Driver's License Exchange
You'll need to exchange your current provincial driver's license for a Nova Scotia license within 90 days of establishing residency. Visit Access Nova Scotia to complete this process.
Moving to Nova Scotia from Ontario
The Ontario to Nova Scotia migration path has become increasingly popular, especially since the pandemic. Many Ontarians are attracted to Nova Scotia's lower housing costs and slower-paced lifestyle.
For example, housing prices in Nova Scotia average significantly lower than in Ontario's major centers.
Nova Scotia vs. Ontario Cost of Living Comparison
In general, Nova Scotia is cheaper compared to Ontario. However, it’s important to note that prices vary significantly depending on the city/neighbourhood.
For example, small towns in Ontario may have more comparable costs, while the Greater Toronto Area has significantly higher prices.
International Relocation to Nova Scotia
For international relocators, moving to Nova Scotia presents additional requirements. In addition to administrative tasks like setting up your healthcare and transferring your driver’s license, you may need to consider your visa requirements, moving logistics, and cultural differences ahead of time.
Visa Requirements for Nova Scotia, Canada
The province offers several immigration pathways:
Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP): This provincial program allows Nova Scotia to nominate individuals who wish to immigrate to the province and who meet specific labour market needs.
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): A pathway for skilled foreign workers and international graduates who want to work and live in Nova Scotia and other Atlantic provinces.
Planning Your International Move
Even once you have all the documentation and administrative tasks out of the way, you’ve still got the physical aspects of your move to worry about.
This includes things like shipping, accommodations, budgeting, deciding what to move and what to replace, and settling into your new community. Preparing far ahead of time can help you reduce the chances of something falling through the cracks.
Begin by creating a detailed timeline that includes booking international moving companies, organizing the shipment of your belongings, and planning for temporary housing upon arrival. We recommend starting your timeline as soon as possible, or ideally around 6 months before your moving date.
Estimate the full costs of your move, including shipping, insurance, temporary accommodations, and any unforeseen expenses. It’s also wise to set aside funds for emergencies or delays that might occur during the relocation process. Planning your budget ahead of time will help you mentally prepare, and may even give you extra motivation and time to save up!
Research, research, research: When you’re a few months away from your move, take the time to research your new location, prepare important paperwork that you’ll need, and find more information about smaller things like public transportation, local services, and your neighbourhood.
What You Need to Know About This Province
Understanding Nova Scotia’s Culture
Adapting to a new country goes beyond paperwork and logistics—it’s also about embracing a new way of life! You may be curious about Canadian and/or Nova Scotian culture, so we’ve compiled a few facts that will help you get a better sense about life in this province:
Nova Scotians are known for their friendliness and community spirit. Whether you’re in Halifax or a smaller town, you’ll likely find that locals are eager to help newcomers integrate into their communities. Don’t hesitate to attend local events or community gatherings to meet new people.
The province boasts a rich maritime history that is celebrated through festivals, music, and local cuisine. From lively fiddle music sessions to seafood festivals highlighting lobster and scallops, you’ll have ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the maritime culture.
With its stunning coastlines, parks, and historic sites, Nova Scotia promotes a relaxed, outdoor-centric lifestyle. Residents often take advantage of the natural beauty for recreational activities like hiking, boating, and cycling—perfect for those who appreciate a balanced, nature-oriented way of living.
Cost of Living in Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia is known for having one of Canada’s lowest costs of living. Let’s break down the approximate monthly expenses for a family of four located in 3 different Nova Scotian cities: Halifax, Sydney, and Truro.
Halifax is the capital city of Nova Scotia, which means it has generally higher prices, but access to more amenities.
Sydney and Truro represent slightly smaller cities, which is reflected in the cost of living.
Nova Scotia’s Climate
Nova Scotia experiences four distinct seasons, with generally mild summers and winters reaching as low as -10°C. Being so close to the ocean, Nova Scotia also has precipitation year-round and is known for coastal fog and increased humidity at times. However, the ocean also helps to regulate temperatures, keeping summers and winters generally mild compared to other more inland regions.
Practical Steps for Moving to Nova Scotia, Canada
If you’re planning on moving to Nova Scotia, Canada, there are a few practical stages of preparation to consider.
We recommend working with a relocation specialist to develop detailed checklists for your situation, but we’ve compiled a few general rules of thumb below.
Research and Planning (6-12 months before)
Investigate employment opportunities
Research housing options
Contact immigration authorities if applicable
Begin gathering necessary documentation
Administrative Tasks (3-6 months before):
Secure employment or education arrangements
Arrange housing
Register for healthcare
Set up banking and utilities
Final Preparations (1-3 months before):
Book moving services
Arrange transportation
Notify current service providers
Update address information
Settling In (post-move):
Join local community groups
Participate in community events
Connect with newcomer services
Consider joining sports leagues or hobby groups