Should you move to Nova Scotia? Here are some of the reasons why the answer might be yes.
Affordable housing
Nova Scotia housing prices were once the envy of the nation. “But there are no jobs!” people used to complain, and certainly a depressed job market was an east coast reality.
However, Nova Scotia is booming, and with remote work finally gaining by leaps and bounds, living in Nova Scotia but working for a remote company is a reality for many.
Though increased demand has driven up the cost of housing and home prices in Nova Scotia are rising faster than nearly anywhere else in the country, homes here are still affordable compared to other areas. We were able to buy an acreage on a lake for a fraction of the price of our suburban home in Alberta. And while our place needed significant repairs (many older Nova Scotia homes do), it was definitely the right decision for us.
Lakefront and oceanside fun
Living near the ocean, “lowers stress and anxiety, increasing an overall sense of well-being and happiness, a lower heart and breathing rate, and safe, better workouts. Aquatic therapists are increasingly looking to the water to help treat and manage PTSD, addiction, anxiety disorders, autism, and more,” says Dr. Wallace J. Nichols in his book Blue Mind.
Whether you choose Halifax, a suburb, a smaller regional centre, or a place out in the sticks, you’re never more than 30 minutes from the ocean, and usually less from a lake. It’s easy to plan a last-minute beach day or get out for a paddle or go fishing when the mood strikes, without having to plan a multi-day trip. This province is absolutely spectacular, with stunning shorelines, charming scenery, and the most incredible fall foliage you’ll ever see.
Friendly and welcoming people
While we had family in Nova Scotia (my wife was born and raised in Cole Harbour), we didn’t know anyone in the area of the Annapolis Valley that we moved to. However, East Coasters are a friendly bunch (as long as you don’t complain too much about the things we like, such as stores closing on holidays, or the slower pace of life). Even in the tiniest communities, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to make friends and connections in these close-knit communities. Community suppers, usually held in schools, church basements, and fire halls, are a tradition in Nova Scotia that bring neighbours together to raise funds for projects while sharing delicious, home-cooked food. Volunteering for the local fire department, or a shore clean-up is a sure-fire way to make friends fast.
A thriving cultural scene
Nova Scotia is a musical place, and there is live music everywhere, all the time. And the festivals? There are literally thousands throughout the province all year long (our favourites are the South Shore Lobster Crawl and the Apple Blossom Festival). Keep in mind that the further you buy from Halifax, the less sophisticated or frequent the events and restaurants will be. Each of Nova Scotia’s 7 distinct regions is different, and where one area might have vineyards and five-star restaurants, another might feature golf courses and food trucks.
Are there any downsides to moving to Nova Scotia?
Yes, there definitely are some reasons not to move to Nova Scotia. In fact, there’s enough that I wrote an entire post about it. Check out I Regret Moving to Nova Scotia to read some of the reasons why people might decide against moving to Nova Scotia. Also, don’t hesitate to reach out to me to discuss why you’re considering moving here and how I can help, or download my free Guide to Buying a Home in Nova Scotia for Out of Province Buyers.
