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Although Canada is recognized for a high standard of living, there are some cities still grappling with persistent poverty. In 2025, urban areas like Halifax, Windsor, and Moncton are reported to have among the highest poverty rates in the country, demonstrating the economic divide between regions. Also read, Top 10 Poorest Cities in the US in 2025, Top 5 Poorest Cities In California For 2024
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Halifax, the capital of the province, continues to be poverty’s hot spot. The province reported a 13.9% poverty rate among the 18–64 age group, with child poverty at 15.2%, the second largest in the country next to Saskatchewan. Economic perils and rising costs of housing have caused many residents to be unable to afford even basic needs.
Saint John and Moncton, New Brunswick
New Brunswick cities like Saint John and Moncton also share the same pattern. There remains a scarcity of jobs, mainly in traditional job industries, which has resulted in increased rates of poverty. Furthermore, with housing costs often linked to market value exceeding wage increases, living on a limited income continues to pressure the family unit. Social services are inundated with the rising demand of service users.
Windsor, Ontario
The economy of Windsor is heavily reliant on manufacturing, which has experienced an enormous decline. And some neighbourhoods report more than 40% poverty rates, which makes Windsor one of the poorest cities in Ontario. The loss of employment resulted in many residents feeling vulnerable, which encouraged the city to invest in community support programs.
Fredericton, New Brunswick
Fredericton experiences limited job opportunities and expensive housing costs. Although it is a small city, it is under pressure to provide adequate social support to a number of low-income families, which have generated initiatives to enhance the economic resilience and generate jobs.
St. Catharines, Ontario
About 23% of children in St. Catharines live in poverty, which is a percentage above the national average. There are community programs and government interventions designed to lessen child poverty and assist families facing financial hardship.
Nelson, British Columbia
Nelson’s size and job market size have contributed to the city’s poverty rate being over 200% higher than the national average. Organisations in the area concentrate on sustainable development and small community projects in an effort to raise the local population’s standard of living.
Why Poverty Continues
The city’s poverty level is a cumulative result of:
- Changing Economies: the changing nature of work and decline of forest-based economies.
- Housing Affordability: rising rents and property values.
- Limited Employment opportunities: both in smaller cities and single-industry cities.
- Social Service Demand: lack of services available, increasing demand for services.
The Way Forward
Poverty in urban communities in Canada can be addressed by focusing on economic diversification, affordable housing plans of action, and a stronger social safety net. All solutions will need to be collaboratively created with local governments, local organisations and residents, to create sustainable solutions to improve the quality of life for everyone.
