Canada's cultural landscape is a captivating tapestry woven from a rich mix of backgrounds and languages. Over the years, this vast and welcoming nation has opened its arms to people from all corners of the globe. According to Census data, Canada is now home to over 8.6 million immigrants, a number that continues to surge.
Since 2016, Canada's population has expanded by more than 5%, bringing with it an increasing cultural and linguistic diversity. This vibrant blend of cultures has transformed Canada into a hub for the exchange of ideas and experiences, fostering innovation and inclusivity.
To unveil the most culturally diverse corners of Canada, e-learning platform Preply analyzed of the latest Canadian Census data, exploring five key factors including immigration and language across 110 of the largest cities in the country. Preply then evaluated each city and province on the basis of these five criteria and assigned an overall diversity score. The results offer an insightful glimpse into the most culturally and linguistically diverse cities in Canada.
Canada's Most Culturally Diverse Cities:
1. Kitchener, Ontario - 8.33 out of 10: Kitchener emerges as the reigning champion of cultural diversity in Canada. With a score of 8.33 out of 10, it's a cultural melting pot where individuals from all walks of life come together. According to the findings, like the country as a whole, Kitchener is seeing an influx of immigration. Immigration increased by 65% from 2011-15 to 2016-21, accounting for over 10,000 new permanent residents in this period. The average across Canada was only 18%. Over a quarter (27%) of the population also noted speaking at least one language other than French or English.
2. Winkler, Manitoba - 8.14: Winkler secures the second spot with a score of 8.14. This charming city is a testament to Canada's diverse tapestry.
3. Guelph, Ontario - 7.95: Guelph takes the third place with a score of 7.95. It's a place where cultures coexist, creating a rich and vibrant community.
Interestingly, among Canada's ten largest cities, only two made it to the top ten of the most diverse. The largest city, Toronto, may not have clinched the top spot, but it stands at 19th place, boasting the highest proportion of immigrants and a significant number of speakers of multiple non-official languages.
Out of the top-ranking cities, 11 are located in Ontario, six in British Columbia, two in Manitoba, and one in Prince Edward Island. Québec City, while charming in its own right, landed at 83rd place out of the 110 cities analyzed.
These are the most culturally diverse cities in Canada, according to the study:
- Kitchener, ON
- Winkler, MB
- Guelph, ON
- Squamish, BC
- London, ON
- Abbotsford, BC
- Charlottetown, PE
- Brandon, MB
- Hamilton, ON
- Oshawa, ON
Which Canadian province is the most diverse?
While the majority of Canada's most diverse cities find their home in Ontario, the title of the most culturally diverse province falls squarely on the shoulders of British Columbia, according to the study. Situated in the westernmost part of the country, BC is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and natural beauty, but it has also earned a reputation as a thriving cultural and linguistic melting pot.
In 2021, BC exhibited an impressive demographic composition, with nearly a third of its population, precisely 29%, having immigrated from abroad. This figure marked a substantial 18% surge from the period spanning 2011-2015 to 2016-2021, surpassing the national average, which stands at 23%. What's even more remarkable is that 28% of BC's residents converse in at least one language other than French or English within the confines of their homes.
Furthermore, a noteworthy 3% of BC's inhabitants designate a non-official language as their primary tongue, underlining the province's exceptional linguistic diversity.
Click here to read the full survey and to learn more about Canadian cities ranked.
