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New Brunswick Migration Myth vs. Reality
We hear it often: "Are people still moving here from Ontario? I thought that trend ended!" It is a crucial question for Saint John sellers. If we are relying on outside demand, we need to know the reality, not the rumors. |
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First, the myth: The pandemic 'work from home' rush has changed. People are not just "fleeing" city centers. The dynamic is now one of strategic moves. For a few years we were seeing people moving from other provinces, especially Ontario, with no personal experience or knowledge of life in Saint John. When the interest rates went up sellers in Ontario found their market softening at a very fast rate so buying in New Brunswick became less appealing. Many sellers in other parts of Canada found themselves in a position that they were unable to sell their homes so they chose not to move to New Brunswick. |
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Here is the 2026 reality (backed by NBREA inter-provincial data): The net migration into New Brunswick has stabilized, but Saint John remains a priority destination. We are no longer the 'unknown' option. We are a recognized economic hub with major industry (energy, port). Many professionals are moving here to take jobs with some of our world class companies such as Cooke's Aquaculture, Port of Saint John and the Irving group of companies. |
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The buyers coming in 2026 aren't just 'trying life out.' They are people with corporate roles (both remote and in-office), young families seeking an actual community, or industrial professionals with careers. When we market your home, we target this refined demographic. We show them stability, value, and connectivity, not just "cheap land." |