Contemplating a move from British Columbia to New Brunswick? You’re not alone. Many individuals are attracted to the Maritime province’s captivating landscapes, reasonable cost of living, and friendly populace.
Here’s a comparison of some of the best places in New Brunswick, juxtaposed with regions in British Columbia to better comprehend the environment and anticipate expectations.
Saint John: The Prince Rupert of New Brunswick
Saint John, a harbor city on the Bay of Fundy, is an optimal choice for those fond of urban living surrounded by splendid natural scenery. Much like Prince George, Saint John has a lively arts and culture scene. While primarily industrial, the city is also carving a niche in technology and healthcare sectors.
- Differences:
- Saint John, unlike Prince George, offers seaside living.
- Saint John is relatively smaller than Prince George.
Moncton: New Brunswick’s Answer to Abbotsford
Moncton, the largest city in New Brunswick, mirrors Abbotsford in British Columbia with its friendly community and diversified economy. Along with the city amenities and opportunities, Moncton offers an impressive array of outdoor experiences, like Shediac’s sandy beaches and the renowned Hopewell Rocks.
- Differences:
- Moncton offers more French-English bilingualism compared to Abbotsford.
- The cost of living in Moncton is generally lower than in Abbotsford.
Fredericton: Victoria’s Counterpart in New Brunswick
Fredericton, the capital of New Brunswick, resembles Victoria in British Columbia as a knowledge-based city. Both cities offer innovation, a vibrant arts scene, and tech startups. Fredericton’s river views, historic architecture, and cosmopolitan atmosphere make it an ideal place for professionals and families.
- Differences:
- Fredericton experiences a colder, snowier winter compared to Victoria.
- Fredericton is smaller than Victoria.
Edmundston: Resembling British Columbia’s Nelson
Edmundston, like Nelson in British Columbia, offers serene life surrounded by nature. Both places are a paradise for outdoor lovers with opportunities for hiking, fishing, skiing, and more. Edmundston’s significant Acadian population adds a unique cultural flavor.
Differences:
- Edmundston is bilingual, with both English and French widely spoken, unlike Nelson.
- Edmundston is larger than Nelson.
Sackville: The Golden of New Brunswick
Sackville, with its cultural emphasis, shares similarities with Golden, British Columbia. Both towns are home to a thriving arts and culture scene, though Sackville being a university town, adds an intellectual vibrancy.
Differences
- Sackville experiences more humid summers than Golden.
- Sackville is located in a coastal region, while Golden is more mountainous.
Miramichi: British Columbia’s Smithers Equivalent
Miramichi, located in the heart of New Brunswick, is surrounded by water and offers numerous outdoor recreational activities, akin to Smithers in British Columbia. It’s an ideal region for those who enjoy boating, fishing, and golfing.
Differences
- Miramichi has a more maritime climate compared to Smithers.
- Miramichi is a larger city than Smithers.
Rothesay and Quispamsis: Oakville in the East
Rothesay and Quispamsis are suburbs of Saint John, similar to West Vancouver. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, and a variety of recreational opportunities.
Differences:
- Rothesay and Quispamsis have a more rural feel compared to West Vancouver.
- Both Rothesay and Quispamsis are smaller than West Vancouver.
Dieppe: New Brunswick’s Langley
Dieppe, one of the fastest-growing cities in New Brunswick, resembles Langley in British Columbia. Both cities offer urban development, strong community bonds, and outdoor recreational activities.
- Differences:
- Dieppe has a unique blend of Acadian heritage, whereas Langley has a more British influence.
- Dieppe is smaller than Langley.
Saint Andrews – The Nelson of New Brunswick
Known for its charm and history, Saint Andrews is frequently compared to Nelson in British Columbia. These towns are celebrated for their well-maintained 19th-century appeal, exquisite gardens, and unique outdoor attractions (whale watching in Saint Andrews and the mountainous landscapes in Nelson). Both locations provide an ideal retreat for those appreciating a slower lifestyle, high-quality dining, and natural splendor.
- Differences:
- Saint Andrews is significantly smaller than Nelson, with a population of about 3,000 compared to Nelson’s population of over 10,000.
- Saint Andrews is located in New Brunswick, while Nelson is in British Columbia.
Hampton – The Rossland of New Brunswick
Much like Rossland in British Columbia, Hampton is nestled amidst natural beauty and offers urban conveniences in the Kennebecasis River Valley. The closeness of Hampton to Saint John and its variety of outdoor activities resemble the experiences in Rossland, known for its mountain biking trails and proximity to larger cities.
- Differences:
- Hampton is larger than Rossland, with a population of around 6,000 compared to Rossland’s population of around 3,500.
- Hampton is located in New Brunswick, while Rossland is in British Columbia.
St. Stephen – The Creston of New Brunswick
St. Stephen, located along the U.S. border, resembles Creston in British Columbia. Known as ‘Canada’s Chocolate Town,’ it shares the small-town charm, friendly atmosphere, and historic buildings that are characteristic of Creston, known for its fruit orchards. Both towns are a haven for those who love scenic beauty and a sense of community.
- Differences:
- St. Stephen has a larger population than Creston, with around 10,000 inhabitants compared to Creston’s population of around 5,000.
- St. Stephen is located in New Brunswick, while Creston is in British Columbia.
Dalhousie – The Powell River of New Brunswick
Dalhousie, a picturesque town in Restigouche County, parallels Powell River in British Columbia. Both towns offer stunning vistas, Dalhousie of the Restigouche River and Chaleur Bay, and Powell River overlooking its namesake body of water. Similar to Powell River, Dalhousie offers plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities, including trails, parks, and water sports.
- Differences:
- Dalhousie is smaller than Powell River, with a population of around 5,000 compared to Powell River’s population of over 13,000.
- Dalhousie is located in New Brunswick, while Powell River is in British Columbia.
Shediac – The Qualicum Beach of New Brunswick
Shediac, resting on the Northumberland Strait and known as the ‘Lobster Capital of the World,’ has many similarities to Qualicum Beach in British Columbia, known for its beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant summer tourism. While Qualicum Beach is famed for its views over the Strait of Georgia, Shediac attracts with its warm beaches and delightful seafood.
- Differences:
- Shediac is located on the Northumberland Strait, while Qualicum Beach is located on the Strait of Georgia.
- Shediac is famous for its lobster, while Qualicum Beach is renowned for its beachside lifestyle.
Bathurst – The Courtenay of New Brunswick
Located on Chaleur Bay, Bathurst offers a comparable experience to Courtenay in British Columbia. Both are smaller cities with welcoming community spirits, gorgeous waterfronts, rich local cultures, and a passion for festivals and community events.
- Differences:
- Bathurst, with its location on Chaleur Bay, contrasts with Courtenay, situated by the Strait of Georgia.
- Bathurst has a larger population than Courtenay.
Grand Falls – The Twin Falls of New Brunswick
Though significantly smaller than the famous Twin Falls in British Columbia, Grand Falls in New Brunswick captivates tourists with its waterfall and gorge. This town offers a peaceful lifestyle with its distinctive charm and natural beauty.
- Differences:
- Grand Falls is smaller than Twin Falls.
- Grand Falls is located in New Brunswick, while Twin Falls is in British Columbia.
Sussex – The Salmon Arm of New Brunswick
The rural town of Sussex, located in the picturesque Kennebecasis River valley, is similar to Salmon Arm in British Columbia. Sussex, like Salmon Arm, is a fantastic place for those looking to enjoy a tranquil lifestyle amidst beautiful rural landscapes.
- Differences:
- Sussex is located in New Brunswick, while Salmon Arm is in British Columbia.
- Sussex has a larger population than Salmon Arm.
Campbellton – The Campbell River of New Brunswick
Campbellton, situated on the Restigouche River, shares similarities with Campbell River in British Columbia. Both cities provide stunning waterfront views, a sense of community, and an array of outdoor activities.
- Differences:
- Campbellton is smaller than Campbell River.
- Campbellton is located in New Brunswick, while Campbell River is in British Columbia.
Final Thoughts
A move from British Columbia to New Brunswick offers a diverse array of options, whether you prefer city living, a quiet rural life, or a coastal town. While the comparisons with familiar British Columbia locations provide a general understanding, each location in New Brunswick has its own unique charm and appeal. As you explore these regions, you’ll find one that feels just like home.
