East Coast Adventure: Nova Scotia Or New Brunswick?

If you're looking for a scenic coastal vacation in Canada, you might be wondering whether to visit New Brunswick or Nova Scotia. Both provinces offer beautiful natural landscapes, but there are some key differences to consider when planning your trip.

Nova Scotia, Canada's second-smallest province, is known for its slow pace of life and peaceful atmosphere. The province boasts a diverse range of landscapes, from fishing harbours and sandy beaches to tidal salt marshes and foggy coastlines along the Atlantic Ocean. Its capital, Halifax, is a popular tourist destination, offering attractions such as the Citadel Hill National Historic Site and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.

On the other hand, New Brunswick, known for its natural wonders, offers unique experiences such as whale watching, warm saltwater swims, and high tides. The Bay of Fundy, with its rushing waters and epic waves, is a popular destination for surfers and outdoor enthusiasts. The province is also home to picturesque forests, covering more than three-quarters of its land area.

Both provinces share similar cultures and friendly populations. However, when it comes to cost, Nova Scotia is the more affordable option, with significantly lower daily costs for accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment.

So, whether you choose to explore the diverse landscapes of Nova Scotia or immerse yourself in the natural wonders of New Brunswick, you're sure to have a memorable trip filled with breathtaking scenery and unique experiences.

The job market in Nova Scotia vs New Brunswick

When it comes to job markets, both Nova Scotia and New Brunswick have their unique features and opportunities. Here is a detailed comparison to help you understand the job market in each province:

Nova Scotia:

Nova Scotia offers a diverse range of industries and businesses across its five key regions, from small towns to growing cities. The province's capital, Halifax, has a strong service sector, accounting for over 85% of jobs. Other industries such as healthcare are also expanding. The Annapolis Valley is witnessing a rise in full-time jobs, driven by agriculture and construction sectors. Northern Nova Scotia is focused on service-producing industries, while the Southern region offers opportunities in construction, forestry, fishing, mining, and oil and gas. Cape Breton Island is experiencing gains in full and part-time employment, particularly in healthcare, social services, and public administration.

New Brunswick:

New Brunswick has a varied job market, and bilingualism in French and English can be beneficial, especially for government jobs. The province offers opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, aquaculture, fisheries, education, finance, and tourism. While some rural areas may have limited job prospects, cities like Moncton, Saint John, and Fredericton provide better chances for employment. New Brunswick is known for its natural beauty, with lush forests and a stunning coastline, which contributes to its tourism industry.

Comparison:

Both Nova Scotia and New Brunswick offer diverse employment opportunities. Nova Scotia's job market seems to be more concentrated in specific regions, with Halifax being the primary job hub. In contrast, New Brunswick offers a more distributed job market across its regions, with certain sectors or industries being prominent in different areas. Bilingualism can be an advantage in New Brunswick, especially in government jobs, while Nova Scotia may offer more opportunities in the service sector and healthcare.

When considering the job market in Nova Scotia versus New Brunswick, it is essential to research specific industries and regions within each province, as well as take into account factors such as language skills and urban-rural preferences. Both provinces offer unique opportunities, and the choice depends on your individual preferences, skills, and career goals.

The housing market in Nova Scotia vs New Brunswick

When it comes to the housing market, both Nova Scotia and New Brunswick have their advantages and unique features.

Nova Scotia, known for its diverse landscape and culture, has seen a recent increase in its real estate market. According to the Nova Scotia Association of REALTORS® (NSAR), the benchmark price for a home in the province rose by six per cent year-over-year to $369,000. However, the average price of homes sold in the province experienced a slight decrease of 1.5 per cent year-over-year to $362,966. This decrease could present an opportunity for prospective homebuyers.

Nova Scotia offers a range of housing options, including single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments. Single-family homes saw a 5.7 per cent increase to $362,100, while townhomes and apartments experienced more significant increases of 19 per cent and 6.4 per cent, respectively. The province is facing supply challenges, with new listings decreasing by over 13 per cent, resulting in limited inventory.

On the other hand, New Brunswick, known for its natural wonders and attractions, has a more affordable housing market. The average daily cost per person in New Brunswick is $112, compared to $0.00 in Nova Scotia. While this makes Nova Scotia seem more affordable, it is important to note that Nova Scotia has a larger population, with 44% residing in the capital city, which can impact housing demand and prices.

The New Brunswick Real Estate Association reported that the MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) rose by 5.8 per cent annually to $265,800. However, the average price of homes sold in December 2022 slipped by over one per cent year-over-year to $264,402. This slight decrease may present buying opportunities for prospective homeowners.

New Brunswick offers a range of housing options, with single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments available. Single-family homes saw a 5.4 per cent increase to $265,900, while townhomes and apartments experienced more significant increases of 18.4 per cent and 20.1 per cent, respectively. Similar to Nova Scotia, New Brunswick is facing supply challenges, with new residential listings falling by 16.4 per cent year-over-year.

Both provinces offer attractive options for homebuyers, with Nova Scotia boasting a diverse landscape and culture, and New Brunswick offering natural wonders and a more affordable housing market. It is important to consider personal preferences, budget, and the specific features that each province offers when making a decision.

The best attractions for families with kids

Nova Scotia

• The Halifax Public Gardens, with its colourful variety of flowering plants, bushes, and trees, is a great place for kids to explore and play.
• Peggy's Cove Lighthouse offers a picturesque setting for photos and a chance to listen to music played by local artists.
• The Halifax Citadel National Historic Site provides insight into the military history of Halifax and Canada.
• The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic showcases the history of sailboats, the Halifax Explosion, and the Titanic.
• The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 offers a chance to trace your family history and learn about the journeys of your ancestors.
• The Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk is a great place for a walk, with shops and restaurants along the way.
• The Halifax Central Library has two cafes, inviting spaces for reading, and a rooftop cafe with beautiful views.
• The Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens feature a wide variety of trees, flowers, and shrubs from across North America.

New Brunswick

• The Bay of Fundy and Fundy National Park offer a unique natural experience with the highest tides in the world, whale watching, and miles of hiking trails.
• The Hopewell Rocks provide a chance to witness the power of the tides up close and explore sea caves at low tide.
• Roosevelt Campobello International Park is home to the Roosevelt Cottage, a 34-room summer home of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, preserved as a museum.
• The Fundy Trail Parkway is a scenic coastal drive with lookouts, picnic areas, and a 10-kilometer pedestrian and bicycle trail.
• Kingsbrae Garden is a 27-acre horticultural garden with themed gardens, engaging animals, and a sculpture garden.
• The Village Historique Acadien is a living museum portraying the daily lives of Acadians from 1770 to 1949, with costumed interpreters and historic buildings.
• Magnetic Hill in Moncton is a tourist icon, creating the optical illusion of a car rolling uphill.
• The Saint John City Market offers a traditional "farmers market" experience with local crafts, seafood, and international foods.

The best attractions for nature lovers

Both New Brunswick and Nova Scotia offer a plethora of natural attractions, from scenic coastal views to unique wildlife experiences. Here are some of the best attractions for nature lovers in each province:

New Brunswick:

• The Bay of Fundy: With the highest tides in the world, the Bay of Fundy is a must-see. Witness the epic waves, explore the majestic cliffs, sea caves, and rock formations, and look out for the variety of whale species that call this bay home during the whale season from June to October.
• Fundy Trail Parkway: This picturesque coastal drive offers stunning views of coastal cliffs, isolated beaches, and marine wildlife. It also features pedestrian and bicycle trails for those who want to get even closer to nature.
• Irving Nature Park: Explore the many trails and enjoy the beautiful spots and vistas that this park has to offer.
• St. Martins Sea Caves: Visit at low tide to discover and explore the sea caves, which are part of the Stonehammer UNESCO Global Geopark.
• Magnetic Hill Zoo: Get up close and personal with a variety of animals, including lions, leopards, and lemurs.
• Grand Manan Island: Take a ferry ride to this island, where you can go whale watching, visit museums, and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Nova Scotia:

• Cape Breton Island: Take a drive along the northwest coast of this island to experience the stunning scenery, with the highest mountains in Nova Scotia hugging the Gulf of St. Lawrence. It's especially magnificent during Autumn.
• Peggy's Cove: This fishing village, located 43 kilometres southwest of Halifax, will bring back childhood memories and ignite a passion for fishing. Peggy's Point Lighthouse, illuminating the foggy Atlantic Coast, is one of the most photographed lighthouses in Canada.
• Halifax Public Gardens: Stroll through the beautifully manicured Victoria gardens in downtown Halifax, featuring acres of trees, bushes, and flower gardens.
• Cape Breton Highlands National Park: Enjoy the pristine natural beauty and hiking trails that this park has to offer, with unparalleled views of the ocean and rugged cliffs.
• Joggins Fossil Cliffs: Explore cliffs that hold fossils, including the earliest known reptile, dating back more than 300 million years.

The best attractions for history buffs

If you're a history buff, both New Brunswick and Nova Scotia have plenty to offer. Here are some of the best attractions for those interested in history:

New Brunswick:

• Fredericton's Garrison District: This site was once a British garrison and now features heritage buildings, grassy lawns, museums, and historical reenactments.
• Boyce Farmers Market: One of Canada's top community markets, offering a variety of local produce, crafts, and food.
• Historic Saint John: Explore the Victorian architecture and Loyalist history of this city, which includes National Historic Sites like St. John's Anglican Church and the City Market.
• Kings Landing: A unique combination of a museum and historical village, Kings Landing brings rural New Brunswick's history to life.
• Village Historique Acadien: This museum village represents the lives and traditions of Acadian settlers from the 17th and 18th centuries.
• Saint John City Market: A traditional "farmers market" offering a unique shopping experience with local crafts, seafood, and other edibles.

Nova Scotia:

• Halifax Citadel National Historic Site: A must-visit site offering amazing views of the city and a glimpse into its military history.
• Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site: A reconstructed fort with exhibits and character interpreters bringing history to life.
• Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21: A poignant and informative museum about immigration, located in Halifax.
• Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site: Learn about Alexander Graham Bell's life and his pioneering work beyond the invention of the telephone.
• Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk: Enjoy the views and stroll along the boardwalk, with plenty of restaurants and shops nearby.
• Fairview Lawn Cemetery: The final resting place of victims of the Titanic and the 1917 Great Disaster.
• Port-Royal National Historic Site: A beautifully rebuilt fort offering exhibits and a glimpse into 17th-century life.
• Lunenburg Historic District: Explore the colourful houses, waterfront, and restaurants of this historic district.

Frequently asked questions