10 Largest Cities in Canada: Ranked by Population

Toronto is Canada's largest city, with a population that exceeds 2.79 million residents. Located in southern Ontario along the northern shore of Lake Ontario, Toronto is part of the Greater Toronto Area and serves as the provincial capital.

The populous city is a hub for finance, arts, and culture, and is home to the CN Tower, once the world's tallest freestanding structure. Toronto hosts numerous festivals and is a favorite for both locals and tourists alike.

Located in Québec, Montreal is Canada's second largest city and has a population of over 1.76 million. Nestled along the St. Lawrence River, Montreal boasts a blend of old-world charm and modern flair.

Known for its world-class museums, UNESCO World Heritage Site Old Montreal, and as a host city for many international events, Montreal also stands out for its French influence and culinary scene.

Calgary, in the prairie province of Alberta, has a population of over 1.31 million. It lies near the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and is a key player in Canada's oil industry.

The city hosts the annual Calgary Stampede, a major draw for tourists, and offers outdoor recreational opportunities thanks to its proximity to national parks. It’s a high-energy city with a booming local economy.

As the nation's capital, Ottawa is located along the Ottawa River in eastern Ontario. It’s the last of the Canadian cities on this list to have a population of at least 1 million people. It's known for the Parliament Buildings and a strong presence of the federal government.

The city balances politics with culture, offering world-class museums, a vibrant arts scene and access to scenic waterways and bike paths.

Edmonton is the provincial capital of Alberta and sits on the North Saskatchewan River. With a population just over 1 million, it’s famous for cold winters, the Edmonton Oilers hockey team, and its massive shopping mall.

Known as "festival city," Edmonton hosts numerous festivals each year and is a central player in Canada’s energy sector.

Winnipeg, the capital city of Manitoba, is home to about 750,000 residents. Situated at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine rivers, this city offers rich Canadian history and a strong arts and culture scene. Cold winters are common, but so are warm community vibes and a growing local economy.

Located immediately west of Toronto, Mississauga is part of the Greater Toronto Area and has a population nearing 800,000. Though often overshadowed by its big neighbor, it stands tall with its own skyline, corporate headquarters, and vibrant multicultural community.

Mississauga borders Lake Ontario and offers extensive parkland and waterfront access.

On the Pacific Ocean in British Columbia, Vancouver boasts a population of around 660,000. It's internationally celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, mild climate and cultural diversity.

Vancouver is also a popular filming location and hub for tech and sustainability initiatives. With proximity to the mountains and sea, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Another major city in southern Ontario, Brampton has a population of more than 650,000. Once a small town, it has rapidly grown into a key urban agglomeration with a diverse population and strong cultural presence.

Located near Toronto, Brampton thrives as part of the economic and demographic engine of the province.

Québec City, the capital of Québec, has about 550,000 residents. One of the oldest cities in North America, it was founded by French traders and offers a glimpse into early colonial life.

The city’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it boasts cobblestone streets, historic architecture and a rich blend of French and Canadian culture.