Moving to Regina with Family: The 2026 Relocation Guide

Moving to Regina with Family

Discover the “Queen City”—where your mortgage is manageable, the commute is 15 minutes, and the prairie sky goes on forever.

For years, Regina was often overlooked in favor of its larger neighbours to the west. But in 2026, the secret is out. As housing affordability crunches families in Toronto and Vancouver, Regina stands out as one of the last major Canadian capitals where the middle-class dream is alive and thriving.

With a cost of living approximately 29% cheaper than Toronto and a community spirit that rivals any small town, Regina offers families the chance to stop surviving and start living.

If you are ready to trade gridlock for green space, here is your guide to moving to Regina this year.

1. The Financial Win: Housing & Affordability

Regina’s housing market is arguably its biggest draw. While other cities see prices skyrocket, Regina remains stable and incredibly accessible.

  • Housing Market: As of early 2026, the composite home price in Saskatchewan sits around $359,000. In Regina specifically, you can find spacious single-family homes in good neighborhoods for under $400,000—a price that barely buys a parking spot in downtown Toronto.
  • Rent: If you plan to rent first, the average two-bedroom apartment costs approximately $1,350 to $1,450 per month.
  • Overall Savings: Beyond housing, daily expenses are lower. Cost of living data from January 2026 indicates that transportation, personal care, and housing costs are significantly lower here than in major Ontario hubs.

2. Best Neighbourhoods for Families (2026 Top Picks)

Regina is a city of distinct communities, mostly divided into the North, South, East, and West zones.

For Education & Atmosphere: Whitmore Park (South)

Located near the University of Regina and Saskatchewan Polytechnic.

  • The Vibe: Mature trees, large lots, and a quiet academic atmosphere. It reports a very low crime rate, offering a strong sense of security for families.
  • Housing: A mix of mid-century single-family homes and affordable apartments.

For Character & Walkability: Lakeview (South)

One of the city’s most prestigious and historic areas.

  • The Draw: It is located directly across from Wascana Centre (a massive urban park) and the legislative building.
  • Why Families Love It: It is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who want to bike or walk to the park. The streets are lined with historic elms, and the architecture is full of character.

For Modern Convenience: Sherwood-McCarthy (Northwest)

A quiet, established suburban area perfect for raising children.

  • Safety: It boasts a low crime rate and a calm ambiance, with housing primarily consisting of single-detached homes.
  • Access: Great access to schools like St. Jerome and W.H. Ford, plus shopping amenities nearby.

3. Navigating Schools

Regina is served by Regina Public Schools and the Regina Catholic School Division.

  • Registration is OPEN: For the 2026-2027 school year, Kindergarten registration officially opened in mid-January 2026.
  • Eligibility: Children must be 5 years old by December 31, 2026 to register for Kindergarten.
  • French Immersion: The program is open to all Kindergarten students in the public board—no prior French experience is needed. If you want your child to be bilingual, you should register early in the year.

4. Lifestyle: The “Queen City” Advantage

  • Wascana Centre: This is the jewel of the city. At 2,300 acres, it is larger than New York’s Central Park and Vancouver’s Stanley Park combined. Families spend weekends here paddleboarding, visiting the Science Centre, or just walking the loop around the lake.
  • Winter Life: Reginans embrace the cold. The city maintains outdoor rinks in almost every neighborhood, and cross-country skiing in Wascana is a winter staple.
  • Culture: Visit the RCMP Heritage Centre (Regina is the home of the RCMP training academy) or catch a Saskatchewan Roughriders game at Mosaic Stadium—the energy is unmatched in the CFL.

Regina Relocation FAQs

Contact us to receive a custom “Regina Welcome Package” with school catchment maps and neighborhood profiles.

Is Regina safe?

Like any city, Regina has areas with higher crime rates, particularly in the inner city. However, suburban neighborhoods like Whitmore Park, Sherwood-McCarthy, and Albert Park are statistically very safe and family-oriented. Researching your specific neighborhood is key, as safety varies block by block.

How cold does it actually get?

It gets very cold. Winter temperatures can drop below -30°C (before wind chill). However, Regina is also one of the sunniest cities in Canada year-round. You will need a high-quality parka, insulated boots, and a vehicle with a block heater (standard on most cars sold here).

What is the job market like in 2026?

The economy is diverse. Key sectors with demand include healthcare (nurses and support workers), skilled trades (electricians, welders), and transportation/logistics. The agricultural tech sector and government services are also major employers in the capital.

Is it hard to find a family doctor?

Saskatchewan faces similar doctor shortages to other provinces. Upon arrival, apply for your Saskatchewan Health Card immediately. You may need to rely on walk-in clinics initially while you search for a family practice accepting new patients.

Do I need a car?

For most families, yes. Regina is a driving city. While Regina Transit operates buses, the system is not as frequent or extensive as in larger metros. Most errands, school runs, and winter commutes are significantly easier with a personal vehicle.

Ready to find your prairie home?

Whether you are looking for a character home in Lakeview or a new build in the suburbs, we can help you find the perfect fit.

Start your Regina search with us today.