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NTMove to Northwest Territories
Jobs, cost of living, NTNP immigration program, healthcare, and everything you need to settle in Northwest Territories in 2026.
Updated: November 2026
About Northwest Territories
Northwest Territories offers some of the highest wages in Canada due to northern isolation premiums. Diamond mining and government are major employers. Very small population means less competition for jobs and immigration. The Northern Lights, midnight sun, and vast wilderness define the lifestyle.
Why Move to NWT?
NWT offers a unique proposition: very high wages (northern premium of 20-40% above southern salaries), small population (less competition), immediate healthcare, and access to the NTNP. If you can handle the extreme climate, NWT rewards you with financial advantages, incredible natural experiences (aurora borealis, midnight sun), and a tight-knit community. Many professionals save significantly due to high wages and employer-provided housing in remote communities.
Immigration and Jobs
The NTNP (Northwest Territories Nominee Program) is small but accessible. With only 45,000 residents, even modest labour needs translate into real opportunities. Healthcare workers, teachers, construction workers, and mining professionals are in demand. The territorial government is a major employer. Employer-provided housing and northern living allowances help offset high costs of goods.
- •NTNP Employer Driven: requires job offer from NWT employer
- •NTNP Express Entry: linked to federal Express Entry
- •NTNP Business Stream: for entrepreneurs
- •NTNP Critical Impact Worker: for semi-skilled workers filling critical roles
- •Federal LMIA work permits also available
Cost of Living
Housing is moderate (Yellowknife 1-bedroom: $1,500/month) but groceries and goods are expensive due to transportation costs — expect 20-40% above southern prices for food. However, many employers provide housing or housing allowances, and the Northern Residents Deduction provides tax benefits. No territorial sales tax — just 5% GST.
Top Cities in Northwest Territories
Top Industries in Northwest Territories
Immigration: NTNP
Northwest Territories operates the NTNP 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 NTNP has multiple streams targeting different applicant profiles including skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs.
Healthcare in Northwest Territories
Northwest Territories 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)