Why Mississauga Just Claimed the Title of Canada’s Happiest Big City

Mississauga has officially been named the happiest of Canada’s 10 largest cities, according to the latest Happiness Index released by market researcher Leger. Scoring 70.3 out of 100, Mississauga edged out other major centres like Montreal and Vancouver, standing well above the average for big cities in Canada.

The Survey Behind the Headlines

Leger’s 2025 Happiness Index surveyed 39,841 Canadians aged 18 and over, offering a snapshot of how people across the country are feeling right now. Among respondents, 49 percent said their level of happiness had stayed the same over the past year, 23 percent said they were feeling happier, and 28 percent reported feeling less happy.

In the big city category, Mississauga ranked first, followed by Montreal and Quebec City. Toronto ranked the lowest among the top 10 largest cities in the country.

Why Mississauga Stands Out

Mississauga’s top ranking didn’t happen by accident. The city offers a unique blend of urban convenience, cultural diversity, and access to nature that makes it an easy place to feel at ease.

From lakefront trails and parks to vibrant neighbourhoods like Port Credit and Streetsville, Mississauga gives residents space to unwind and connect. The city’s strong sense of community shows up in everything from multicultural festivals to local events that bring people together in the heart of Celebration Square.

Add to that a solid transit network, growing job opportunities, and one of the most diverse populations in Canada, and you’ve got a city where people can genuinely enjoy everyday life.

Happiness Across the Country

While Mississauga led the big-city rankings, the province of Quebec topped the list nationally with an overall happiness score of 72.4. New Brunswick followed close behind, while provinces like Manitoba and Prince Edward Island saw lower overall scores.

This year’s survey suggests that factors like community connection, lifestyle balance, and access to public spaces continue to play a key role in how Canadians experience happiness—especially in urban settings.

Final Thoughts

Mississauga’s rise to the top of the Happiness Index is a reflection of what locals already know: this city offers a quality of life that’s hard to beat. With its mix of natural beauty, cultural vibrancy, and a strong sense of belonging, Mississauga proves that big cities don’t have to feel overwhelming.

Whether you’ve lived here for years or just arrived, there’s no doubt Mississauga is doing something right. And now, the rest of the country is starting to notice.