A Newcomer's Guide to Living in Fredericton, New Brunswick

Why Choose Fredericton as a Newcomer?

Fredericton is a small but vibrant city located along the Saint John River in central New Brunswick. As the provincial capital, it serves as the administrative heart of the province and is home to a growing multicultural community. With a population of approximately 65,000 in the city proper and over 100,000 in the greater area, Fredericton offers the amenities of a larger centre while maintaining the warmth and accessibility of a smaller community. Newcomers often choose Fredericton for its low cost of living compared to cities like Toronto, Vancouver, or Halifax, as well as its safe neighborhoods and high quality of life.

New Brunswick is one of only two officially bilingual provinces in Canada (the other being Manitoba at the federal services level, though New Brunswick is the only constitutionally bilingual province). This means that government services in Fredericton are available in both English and French. For newcomers who speak French, this bilingual environment can make the transition to life in Canada significantly easier. Even for those who do not speak French, the bilingual nature of the province creates a culturally rich and linguistically diverse atmosphere.

Cost of Living in Fredericton

One of the most compelling reasons newcomers settle in Fredericton is the affordability. Housing costs in Fredericton are significantly lower than in major Canadian cities. As of early 2026, a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre typically rents for between $900 and $1,200 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment or house may range from $1,300 to $1,800. These figures are considerably lower than comparable rentals in Toronto, Vancouver, or even Halifax. Purchasing a home in Fredericton is also more accessible, with average house prices well below the national average.

Groceries, utilities, and other day-to-day expenses are also generally lower in New Brunswick. The provincial sales tax is harmonized (HST) at 15%, which is higher than some provinces, but overall living costs remain manageable due to lower housing and transportation expenses. For newcomers arriving with limited savings or those starting entry-level employment, Fredericton provides a practical and sustainable place to begin building a new life in Canada.

Housing and Neighborhoods

Fredericton is divided into several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character. The downtown core is walkable and close to shops, restaurants, and the riverfront trail system. The Southside offers more suburban living with access to schools and parks. Areas near the University of New Brunswick (UNB) and St. Thomas University tend to have a mix of student housing and family homes, often at competitive prices. The Northside, across the river, provides quieter residential streets and is connected to the rest of the city by two main bridges.

When searching for rental housing, popular resources include Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace, and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) rental listings. Many newcomers also connect with local settlement agencies that can assist with the housing search. It is common for landlords to request references and a credit check, so building a Canadian credit history early is beneficial. You can learn more about this process in our guide on how to build credit in Canada.

Utilities and Internet

Electricity in New Brunswick is provided by NB Power, a Crown corporation. Heating costs vary depending on the type of system in your home; oil and electric heat are both common. Internet and phone services are available from providers such as Bell, Rogers, and regional companies. Setting up these utilities promptly upon arrival will help you settle in quickly. For a broader overview of settling-in tasks, refer to our first week in Canada checklist.

Transportation: Getting Around Fredericton

Fredericton Transit operates the city's public bus system, with routes covering most residential and commercial areas. Monthly transit passes are affordable compared to larger cities, typically costing around $65 per month for adults. Bus schedules and route maps are available on the City of Fredericton Transit website. While the bus system is functional for daily commuting, service frequency is lower than in major urban centres, particularly on evenings and weekends.

Many residents in Fredericton rely on personal vehicles for transportation. If you hold a valid driver's licence from your home country, you may be able to exchange it for a New Brunswick licence. The process varies depending on your country of origin. Visit Service New Brunswick for details on driver's licence requirements. Fredericton is also a very bikeable city in the warmer months, with an extensive trail network along the river that connects many parts of the city.

Education: Universities and Schools

Fredericton is home to two well-regarded universities: the University of New Brunswick (UNB) and St. Thomas University (STU). UNB is one of the oldest English-language universities in Canada and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including engineering, computer science, nursing, and business. St. Thomas University is a smaller liberal arts university known for its strong programs in humanities, social sciences, and education. Both institutions attract international students and provide support services for newcomers, including English language programs.

For families with children, Fredericton offers both English and French public school systems, reflecting the bilingual nature of the province. The Anglophone West School District operates English-language schools, while the District scolaire francophone sud serves Francophone students. There are also private school options available. Registering your children for school is one of the first steps you should take after arriving. For more information on the Canadian education system, see our guide on understanding the Canadian education system.

Language Training

If you need to improve your English or French language skills, Fredericton offers several options. The federal government funds Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) classes, which are free for permanent residents and convention refugees. These classes are offered at various levels and schedules, including full-time and part-time options. UNB also offers an English Language Program for international students and newcomers seeking academic-level English proficiency. Being bilingual (English and French) in New Brunswick can significantly improve your employment prospects, so taking advantage of language training is highly recommended.

Healthcare in New Brunswick

All eligible residents of New Brunswick are covered by the provincial Medicare plan, which provides medically necessary physician and hospital services at no direct cost. To register for a Medicare card, you must apply through Service New Brunswick. Permanent residents are eligible for coverage, though there may be a waiting period of up to three months. During this waiting period, it is strongly recommended that you purchase private health insurance to cover any medical expenses.

Fredericton is served by the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital, which provides emergency, surgical, and specialized medical services. There are also several walk-in clinics and family medical practices throughout the city. Finding a family doctor can take time, as there is a shortage of family physicians in many parts of New Brunswick. Registering on the Patient Connect NB waitlist is an important step. For a detailed breakdown of healthcare registration, see our guide on healthcare in New Brunswick.

Employment and the Job Market

Fredericton's economy is anchored by the provincial government, the two universities, and a growing technology sector. The city has become a hub for IT companies, cybersecurity firms, and digital innovation. Major employers include the Government of New Brunswick, UNB, Fredericton's two hospital networks, and technology companies such as Introhive, Sonrai Security, and others in the Knowledge Park area. The unemployment rate in Fredericton has historically been lower than the provincial average, making it a relatively strong job market within Atlantic Canada.

To begin your job search, create a profile on Job Bank, the federal government's employment portal. You should also connect with local settlement agencies such as the Multicultural Association of the Greater Moncton Area or the New Brunswick Multicultural Council, which serve newcomers across the province. Networking is important in a smaller city like Fredericton, where many positions are filled through personal connections and community involvement.

Credential Recognition

If you have professional credentials from your home country, you may need to have them assessed and recognized in Canada. Organizations such as World Education Services (WES) can evaluate your educational credentials. For regulated professions such as nursing, engineering, or teaching, you will need to contact the relevant provincial regulatory body. Starting this process before you arrive in Canada can save valuable time.

Immigration Pathways: The NBPNP

The New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) is one of the primary immigration pathways for newcomers who wish to settle permanently in the province. The NBPNP offers several streams, including the Skilled Workers with Employer Support stream, the Express Entry Labour Market stream, and the Strategic Initiative stream (which targets Francophone immigration). Through these streams, eligible candidates receive a provincial nomination, which significantly boosts their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score in the federal Express Entry system.

The NBPNP official website provides detailed eligibility criteria and application instructions. Newcomers already living in Fredericton on a work permit may also be eligible to apply through employer-supported streams. Additionally, the Atlantic Immigration Program is another pathway available to newcomers in New Brunswick, offering a route to permanent residence for those with job offers from designated employers in the Atlantic provinces.

Community and Social Life

Fredericton has a welcoming and active community for newcomers. The city hosts cultural festivals, farmers' markets, and community events throughout the year. The Boyce Farmers Market, held every Saturday morning, is a beloved community gathering place where you can find local produce, crafts, and prepared foods. The city also has a thriving arts scene, with galleries, theatres, and music venues. For newcomers, joining community groups, sports leagues, or volunteer organizations is an excellent way to build social connections and feel at home.

Settlement organizations in Fredericton, such as the YMCA of Fredericton and the Multicultural Association of Fredericton (MCAF), provide a range of services including orientation sessions, mentorship programs, social events, and practical support with everything from finding housing to navigating government services. These organizations are often the first point of contact for newcomers and can connect you with others who have gone through similar experiences.

Climate and Preparing for Winter

Fredericton experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and pleasant, with temperatures reaching 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping to minus 15 or minus 20 degrees Celsius. Snow typically begins in November and can last until April. For newcomers from warmer climates, preparing for winter is essential. Invest in a quality winter coat, insulated boots, gloves, and a hat before the cold weather arrives. Our guide on preparing for your first Canadian winter offers practical advice for staying warm and safe.

Seasonal Activities

Despite the cold, winter in Fredericton offers many enjoyable activities. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and skating are popular pastimes. The city maintains outdoor skating rinks and groomed ski trails. In the warmer months, the river and trail system provide opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and cycling. Embracing the seasons and participating in outdoor activities is one of the best ways to enjoy life in Fredericton and connect with the local community.

Building Your New Life in Fredericton

Fredericton offers newcomers an affordable, safe, and welcoming environment in which to build a new life in Canada. With access to quality education, healthcare, a growing job market, and a supportive multicultural community, the city is well positioned to help newcomers thrive. Whether you are arriving as a skilled worker, a student, or through a family sponsorship program, Fredericton provides the resources and community support needed to make a successful transition. The bilingual character of New Brunswick adds a unique cultural richness that distinguishes it from many other Canadian provinces.

WelcomeAide is here to support your journey to Fredericton and beyond. Use our AI Newcomer Navigator to get personalized answers to your settlement questions, explore our blog for more newcomer guides, learn about our mission, or find out how to get involved in supporting newcomer communities across Canada.