Top 5 Canadian Cities for British GPs: Ranked by Quality of Life & Demand

If you're a British GP considering a move to Canada, you're not alone. The appeal of a balanced lifestyle, higher earning potential and less NHS-style bureaucracy has led many UK-trained doctors to explore GP jobs in Canada. 

But with a country as vast and varied as Canada, where should you set your sights?

At Advantage Medical Staffing, we’ve helped dozens of British GPs find their perfect fit in Canada, and it’s not always where you'd expect. Drawing on our recruitment expertise and experiences from UK doctors who’ve made the move, we’ve ranked the top five Canadian cities for British GPs, based on two core factors: quality of life and job demand.

‍1. Calgary, Alberta

‍Why it tops the list: High demand for GPs, excellent income, family-friendly

Calgary strikes a rare balance: a booming city with strong demand for GPs, yet surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Rockies. The province of Alberta pays some of the highest GP salaries in the country, with many family doctors earning well into six figures, particularly in the suburbs or underserved areas.

British GPs appreciate Calgary’s familiar work-life rhythm, affordable housing ( especially compared to Toronto or Vancouver) and excellent schools. Alberta also offers more flexible practice models, including fee-for-service and blended options.

‍Bonus: No provincial sales tax in Alberta, which means more of your income stays in your pocket.

‍2. Ottawa, Ontario

‍Why it ranks high: Consistent demand, great for those who are bilingual, clean and safe

Canada’s capital often flies under the radar, but Ottawa has quietly become a haven for British GPs. The city is clean, well-organised, and offers high job stability. Ontario is actively recruiting international medical graduates to fill growing gaps in primary care, particularly in suburban and satellite communities.

Ottawa also appeals to GPs raising young families, with world-class education, cultural diversity, and easy access to nature. And unlike Toronto, it’s not inundated with traffic.

‍Tip: While French is useful, most clinics in Ottawa operate in English. It’s therefore a great soft entry into bilingual Canada.

‍3. Halifax, Nova Scotia

‍Why it stands out: A high need for GPs, perfect for those who love a coastal lifestyle, plenty of support with immigration 

If you're looking for strong community demand and a more relaxed pace of life, Halifax delivers. Nova Scotia has made international recruitment a priority, offering streamlining for British GPs through the Physician Stream of their Provincial Nominee Programme (PNP).

There’s a pressing need for GPs in both Halifax and smaller surrounding towns. Many GPs here report higher levels of appreciation from patients, less red tape and more autonomy in practice.

British qualifications are highly respected here, and the licensing process tends to be less complex compared to other provinces.

‍4. Toronto, Ontario

‍Why it’s still a top pick: Huge market, major infrastructure, endless opportunities

Canada’s largest city is a magnet for healthcare professionals. With over 6 million people in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), the demand for GPs remains strong, especially in underserved or multicultural neighbourhoods.

Yes, the cost of living is higher, but you have so many more options. British-trained GPs can find locum, permanent and specialised roles across a range of clinics and health networks. Toronto is also an ideal base if you want a cosmopolitan lifestyle, international schools, and quick access to other global cities.

‍5. Victoria, British Columbia

‍Why it makes the list: High quality of life, mild climate, GP shortages

Located on Vancouver Island, Victoria combines the charm of a small city with the opportunities of a regional health hub. British GPs here enjoy strong work-life balance, thanks to BC’s structured physician payment models and emphasis on team-based care.

Victoria’s mild climate, often likened to parts of the UK, is a big plus for British doctors not keen on those glacial Canadian winters. And while competition in central Vancouver can be stiff, Victoria and its surrounding communities still face significant GP shortages.

British Columbia has several pathways for UK doctors to gain licensure, especially if you’re open to starting in a rural or remote role.

‍How We Help British GPs Relocate to Canada

At Advantage Medical Staffing, we’re more than just recruiters: we’re doctors who’ve walked this path ourselves. Our co-founder, Dr Rowen Fernando, made the leap from the UK to Canada and turned that journey into a mission: to support other medical professionals in making their own move with clarity and confidence.

From licensing guidance to support with your visa and job placement, we handle the heavy lifting, so you can focus on your future. Whether you’re looking for a permanent role in Toronto, a locum contract in Nova Scotia, or something in between, we’ll match you with opportunities that suit your goals, lifestyle, and values.

‍Ready to explore your options?

‍Get in touch with Advantage Medical Staffing today and take the first step towards your future in Canada.