Top 10 Canadian Cities by Population and Geographic Size

Canada's vast expanse is home to equally expansive cities. These urban giants are not only hubs of dense populations but also occupy extensive territories. Spanning from the eastern to the western shores, the largest cities in Canada boast significant land areas alongside their bustling communities.

10 Most Populous Cities in Canada

In terms of population, these cities stand out as leaders. Canada's most densely populated urban centers are hubs of culture and commerce, drawing both residents and visitors from around the globe.

1. Toronto (Population: 6.2 million)

Toronto, Canada's biggest city and a key part of the Greater Toronto Area, thrives on the banks of Lake Ontario. Renowned for its multicultural community, the city boasts exceptional museums, theaters, and professional sports teams.

Did you know? The CN Tower, once the tallest freestanding structure globally from 1975 to 2007, is located in Toronto.

2. Montreal (Population: 4.2 million)

Montreal, situated on the banks of the St. Lawrence River in Quebec, ranks as Canada's second-largest city and a cultural epicenter. Renowned for blending historic elegance with contemporary vibes, it is home to countless festivals and stands as the globe's second-largest French-speaking metropolis. Additionally, it hosted the 1976 Summer Olympics.

3. Vancouver (Population: 2.7 million)

This coastal jewel in British Columbia is celebrated for its stunning landscapes, framed by ocean and peaks. Vancouver is a leading center for film production, earning it the title “Hollywood North.” Its multicultural food scene and abundance of outdoor adventures make it one of Canada's most desirable places to live.

4. Calgary (Population: 1.6 million)

Located in Alberta along the Bow River, Calgary is best known for its yearly Calgary Stampede, a rodeo event that attracts more than a million visitors annually. It’s also emerging as a tech hotspot, with numerous development projects shaping the future of this dynamic city.

5. Edmonton (Population: 1.5 million)

Located in Alberta, Edmonton boasts the largest shopping center in North America: West Edmonton Mall. While the southern part of the city is a retail paradise, it also thrives with a vibrant arts community and is famously dubbed "Festival City." Additionally, it is home to Wayne Gretzky's former NHL team, the Edmonton Oilers.

6. Ottawa (Population: 1.4 million)

As the capital of Canada and the center of its government, Ottawa presents a unique mix of history, culture, and political significance. The city is renowned for its breathtaking Parliament Hill, historic architecture, and some of the nation's finest museums.

7. Winnipeg (Population: 825,000)

Winnipeg, the capital of Manitoba, is a rising city celebrated for its chilly winters and welcoming residents. The city is steeped in cultural and historical significance, featuring landmarks such as the Canadian Museum for Human Rights and The Forks, a historic meeting point of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers.

8. Quebec City (Population: 800,000)

Quebec City offers a European charm with its well-preserved historic architecture. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of North America's oldest cities, its cobblestone streets and breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River make it a top destination for visitors.

9. Hamilton (Population: 775,000)

Situated in Southern Ontario close to Toronto, Hamilton has evolved from an industrial center to a vibrant city brimming with art, culture, and community pride. It is also renowned for its picturesque waterfalls and thriving culinary scene.

10. Kitchener-Waterloo (Population: 570,000)

This rapidly growing urban area in Ontario may not be as widely recognized, but it’s making waves as a tech hotspot, with giants like Google establishing a presence here. It’s also renowned for hosting Oktoberfest, attracting global visitors each year.

10 Largest Canadian Cities by Land Area

In terms of landmass, these Canadian cities are vast and varied. From northern wilderness expanses to urban green spaces and extensive suburbs, the largest cities in Canada by area reflect the country’s diversity. Let’s dive into the cities that offer the most space to explore.

1. La Tuque, Quebec (Area: 11,197 square miles; 29,000 square km)

Leading the rankings, La Tuque in Quebec spans an impressive 11,197 square miles — bigger than some small nations! Despite its vast area, the city has a modest population of around 12,000 residents. Much of La Tuque is blanketed by forests, rivers, and lakes, creating an ideal haven for nature lovers.

2. Senneterre, Quebec (Area: 6,000 square miles; 15,540 square km)

Senneterre encompasses 6,000 square miles of largely pristine wilderness. With a population of just 3,000, this city offers a tranquil environment surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

Though it lacks the urban energy of Canada’s larger cities, it’s a perfect retreat for those seeking a quieter, nature-centric way of life.

3. Val-d'Or, Quebec (Area: 4,800 square miles; 12,432 square km)

Continuing Quebec's dominance in land area, Val-d'Or spans approximately 4,800 square miles. Historically a thriving mining town, it gained its name, "Valley of Gold," from its abundant gold deposits. While mining remains a key industry, the city has also developed a strong tourism sector.

4. Greater Sudbury, Ontario (Area: 1,246 square miles; 3,227 square km)

In Ontario, Greater Sudbury stands as the province's largest city by land area, covering 1,246 square miles. Beyond its industrial heritage, it has evolved into a lively hub for education and culture, offering residents and tourists access to over 300 lakes and numerous parks.

5. Timmins, Ontario (Area: 1,111 square miles; 2,878 square km)

Also in Ontario, Timmins stretches across 1,111 square miles and is often seen as a gateway to the northern wilderness. Similar to Val-d'Or, it is renowned for its historical significance in Canada's gold mining industry. Today, this city of around 40,000 people continues to play a vital role in mining precious and other metals.

6. Ottawa, Ontario (Area: 1,081 square miles; 2,800 square km)

As Canada's capital, Ottawa is not only steeped in history and culture but also expansive, spanning 1,081 square miles. Despite its urban vibrancy, the city is home to extensive green spaces and parks, such as the expansive Greenbelt that encircles much of its core.

7. Thunder Bay, Ontario (Area: 1,052 square miles; 2,725 square km)

Located on the northern edge of Lake Superior, Thunder Bay stretches across 1,052 square miles. This northern Ontario city is celebrated for its striking natural landscapes, including the iconic Sleeping Giant, a rock formation that looks like a reclining giant.

8. Calgary, Alberta (Area: 319 square miles; 826 square km)

Heading west, Calgary in Alberta spans 319 square miles, with the stunning Rocky Mountains as its scenic backdrop. Despite its contemporary skyline, the city maintains a deep connection to its small-town heritage and rural traditions.

9. Edmonton, Alberta (Area: 264 square miles; 684 square km)

Edmonton, Alberta's capital, is often called the “Gateway to the North,” serving as a major starting point for adventures into Canada's northern territories. A highlight of the city is the North Saskatchewan River Valley, the most extensive urban parkland in North America.

10. Toronto, Ontario (Area: 243 square miles; 629 square km)

While Toronto is Canada's most populous city, its land area of 243 square miles places it just within the top 10. Despite its compact size, this vibrant urban center is packed with attractions. Situated along the shores of Lake Ontario, Toronto is a dynamic metropolis and the financial hub of the nation.

Ranking All 10 Provinces by Population

Canada, a sprawling nation with 10 distinct provinces, showcases a rich tapestry of culture, economy, and geography. While some provinces are known for their bustling urban centers and large populations, others are celebrated for their vast landscapes and tight-knit communities. Here’s a ranking of the provinces based on population.

1. Ontario (Population: 15.4 million)

Ontario is the heart of Canada, housing Toronto, the country's largest city, and Ottawa, its capital. With 15.4 million residents, Ontario makes up nearly 40% of Canada's total population.

The province offers a striking contrast: Southern Ontario is densely populated and a center of finance and culture, while the northern region is characterized by its sparse population, abundant lakes, forests, and breathtaking natural scenery.

Ontario offers a diverse range of experiences, from the towering skyscrapers of Toronto to the tranquil beauty of Algonquin Park.

2. Quebec (Population: 8.7 million)

Quebec, with 8.7 million residents, is next on the list. Quebec is celebrated for its unique Francophone culture, with Montreal and Quebec City standing as vibrant cultural centers.

The province is rich in history, with French traders among the earliest European settlers. While Quebec's urban areas are lively and bustling, much of the province is covered by forests, rivers, and expansive wilderness.

3. British Columbia (Population: 5.5 million)

British Columbia, with 5.5 million residents, ranks as the third-largest province. Situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Rocky Mountains, it is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes.

Vancouver, the province's largest city, is frequently listed among the world's most livable cities due to its pleasant climate, abundant outdoor activities, and thriving cultural scene. From skiing in Whistler to exploring temperate rainforests, the region provides unmatched access to nature, attracting both residents and visitors.

4. Alberta (Population: 4.5 million)

Alberta, home to 4.5 million people, is celebrated for its expansive prairies and proximity to the Rocky Mountains. The province features two major urban centers: Calgary and Edmonton.

Calgary is known for its Stampede and as a former Winter Olympics host, while Edmonton serves as the provincial capital and a center for government and industry. Alberta is also the core of Canada's oil sector, which has fueled much of its economic growth and prosperity.

5. Manitoba (1.4 million)

While Manitoba is famous for its chilly winters, this prairie province is also inhabited by 1.4 million residents. Winnipeg, its capital, serves as a key cultural and economic hub, often dubbed the "Gateway to the West."

The terrain of Manitoba is primarily flat, but it features numerous lakes, attracting enthusiasts for fishing, boating, and camping. The province is steeped in Indigenous heritage and is crucial to Canada's agricultural industry.

6. Saskatchewan (1.2 million)

Saskatchewan, home to 1.2 million people, is celebrated for its vast horizons and expansive wheat fields. Though it has fewer large urban centers compared to other provinces, cities like Regina and Saskatoon are vibrant cultural centers, blending contemporary facilities with historic landmarks.

Saskatoon's scenic beauty is enhanced by the North Saskatchewan River flowing through it. The city thrives on agriculture and energy production, both of which are vital contributors to Canada's economic landscape.

7. Nova Scotia (1 million)

With approximately 1 million residents, Nova Scotia is celebrated for its rich maritime heritage. Situated on Canada's eastern seaboard, it boasts Halifax, a prominent urban center in the Atlantic region.

Nova Scotia is renowned for its charming fishing communities, dramatic coastal landscapes, and iconic lighthouses. The province's economy is deeply tied to the ocean, with fishing, shipbuilding, and tourism being key industries.

8. New Brunswick (825,000)

New Brunswick, with 825,000 residents, is a lively yet compact province in the Maritimes. Famous for its undulating hills, lush forests, and the breathtaking Bay of Fundy coastline, it provides spectacular scenery and a wealth of outdoor adventures.

Moncton, the province's largest city, serves as a key hub for transport and trade, whereas Fredericton, the capital, is steeped in cultural heritage and hosts the provincial government.

9. Newfoundland and Labrador (522,000)

Despite being one of Canada's least populous provinces, Newfoundland and Labrador, with 522,000 inhabitants, boasts some of the planet's most awe-inspiring natural scenery.

St. John's, one of North America's oldest cities, is located here, featuring vibrant row houses and steep streets that echo its rich Canadian past. The province's wild coastline and pristine wilderness make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

10. Prince Edward Island (175,000)

Though Prince Edward Island is the smallest province in both population (175,000) and size, it is brimming with charm. Renowned for its crimson sand beaches and verdant landscapes, PEI is a favorite summer getaway for both residents and visitors.

The island is also celebrated as the backdrop for "Anne of Green Gables." Its quaint towns and friendly locals provide a charming insight into the relaxed, island way of life that characterizes this province.