Charlottetown 
In a comprehensive evaluation of the best cities for young professionals in Canada, the 2023 Urban Work Index, presented by RBC Future Launch and Youthful Cities, ranked Toronto at the top, despite its issues with affordability and a decreasing youth population.
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The index ranked 30 cities based on factors such as climate action, equity, diversity and inclusion, job quality for young people, digital accessibility, and affordability.
Per the news release, the Urban Work Index provides vital insights for young Canadians seeking inclusive and accessible work opportunities in urban centers, while fostering a national conversation about the future of urban work and the critical role of youth.
Montreal and Vancouver secured second and third spots respectively.
Toronto excelled in Education and Training, Digital Access, and Entrepreneurial Spirit categories. Its assets included dedicated scholarships for BIPOC students, effective post-secondary exchange programs, affordable high-speed internet, and a strong startup ecosystem.
Despite Toronto’s leading position, Montreal demonstrated superior transport infrastructure and scored high in Education and Training, as well as Entrepreneurial Spirit. The city is also renowned for its cycling and pedestrian-friendly environment.
Vancouver, on the other hand, led in climate action due to robust composting bylaws, comprehensive recycling programs, and abundant nature trails. Vancouver also ranked third in Entrepreneurial Spirit.
The city of Charlottetown in Prince Edward Island made a significant leap, landing in the top four for the first time, primarily due to its extensive urban health resources.
Kitchener-Waterloo Region ranked 5th with its favourable position in Good Youth Jobs, City Economy, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Education & Training.
Other standouts included Brampton, Ontario, lauded for its Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion; Moncton, New Brunswick, topping the chart for Good Youth Jobs; and Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, ranking among the top three for City Economy.
Regarding migration patterns, the data reveals a trend of youth movement from central Canada towards the east and west coasts. Regina and Saskatchewan witnessed the most significant youth exodus, while Halifax recorded the highest net gain of youth through interprovincial migration and immigration.
Cities in Alberta showed minor youth population gains, reversing a previous exodus. East coast cities Halifax, Moncton, and Charlottetown experienced notable gains of over 5%, while Vancouver, on the west coast, boasted the highest absolute youth gain.
Top 30 Cities in Canada For Youth
1. Toronto
2. Montreal
3. Vancouver
4. Charlottetown
5. Kitchener-Waterloo
6. Ottawa-Gatineau
7. Mississauga
8. Quebec City
9. Laval
10. Halifax
11. Calgary
12. Victoria
13. Hamilton
14. Edmonton
15. London
16. St. Catharines-Niagara
17. Brampton
18. Winnipeg
19. Kelowna
20. Windsor
21. Fredericton
22. Saskatoon
23. Moncton
24. Regine
25. Greater Sudbury
26. Whitehorse
27. Lethbridge
28. Oshawa
29. St. Johns
30. Yellowknife
