Move to Newfoundland & Labrador
Jobs, cost of living, NLPNP immigration program, healthcare, and everything you need to settle in Newfoundland & Labrador in 2026.
Updated: November 2026
About Newfoundland & Labrador
Newfoundland & Labrador offers the lowest cost of living in Canada, stunning natural beauty, and a unique culture unlike anywhere else. Offshore oil provides high-paying jobs. The province actively recruits immigrants through the NLPNP and Atlantic Immigration Program.
Why Move to Newfoundland?
Newfoundland is unforgettable: rugged coastlines, icebergs, whales, and a culture defined by warmth and hospitality. St. John's is the most easterly city in North America, with colorful row houses and vibrant nightlife (George Street). The cost of living is the lowest in Canada — you can buy a house for $200,000-$300,000. Offshore oil (Hibernia, Hebron) provides high-wage employment. Healthcare workers are in critical demand, with incentives and signing bonuses offered.
Immigration Pathways
- •Atlantic Immigration Program: employer-driven, streamlined
- •NLPNP Skilled Worker: requires job offer from NL employer
- •NLPNP Express Entry Skilled Worker: linked to Express Entry
- •NLPNP International Graduate: for graduates of NL institutions
- •NLPNP International Entrepreneur: for business investors
- •International Graduate Entrepreneur: start a business after graduating in NL
Cost of Living
The most affordable province for housing. St. John's average 1-bedroom rent: $1,000-$1,200/month. Average home price: $250,000-$320,000 (the lowest among provinces with major cities). HST is 15%. Groceries are slightly above average. Overall, your settlement funds go furthest in Newfoundland.
Climate and Lifestyle
Newfoundland has a harsh but beautiful climate. Winters are cold, windy, and snowy (-5 to -15°C with significant wind chill). Fog is common. Summers are cool and pleasant (15-22°C). The province is remote — St. John's is a 5.5-hour flight from Toronto. The culture is deeply unique: traditional music (Celtic/Irish influence), kitchen parties, and legendary hospitality. If you value nature, community, and affordability over big-city amenities, Newfoundland is extraordinary.
Top Cities in Newfoundland & Labrador
Top Industries in Newfoundland & Labrador
Immigration: NLPNP
Newfoundland & Labrador operates the NLPNP program, which provides nomination for permanent residence. A PNP nomination adds 600 CRS points to your Express Entry profile, virtually guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA). The NLPNP has multiple streams targeting different applicant profiles including skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs.
Healthcare in Newfoundland & Labrador
Newfoundland & Labrador provides immediate healthcare coverage — no waiting period for new permanent residents. This is a significant advantage over provinces like Ontario and BC which have a 3-month wait.
- ✓ Doctor visits and specialist referrals
- ✓ Hospital stays and surgery
- ✓ Medical tests and diagnostics
- ✗ Dental care (adults)
- ✗ Prescription drugs (some provinces vary)
- ✗ Vision care (adults)