Generation Z’s Preferred Home-Buying Locations: Insights from Point2

A recent study by Point2 focusing on Generation Z (those born between 1997 and 2012) has found that this demographic values mental health, work-life balance, and environmental and financial stability above all else. The study aimed to identify which of Canada’s largest cities would be most attractive to young, savvy professionals based on these priorities.Interestingly, the study found that these goals are often more achievable in smaller, slower-paced cities than in large urban centers. As a result, smaller cities scored higher in areas such as affordable housing, cost of living, work-life balance, and mental health.Except for Montreal, none of Canada’s major cities made it into the top 10 for Gen Z-relevant metrics. In fact, eight out of the top 10 cities that best support young adults have populations under 300,000.St. John’s, Newfoundland, emerged as the top city for Generation Z, scoring highest in categories such as income, education, cost of living, remote work opportunities, and mental health indicators.The province of Quebec also stood out, with eight of its cities ranking in the top 10. These cities scored highly in areas like the percentage of young homeowners, cost of living, median income, and access to health services. Regina also made the list, coming in at number 10.