Moving to Prince Edward Island (PEI)

Relocating to PEI: What You Should Know Before You Move

Updated March 2026

Are you thinking about moving to Prince Edward Island (PEI)? Whether you're looking for a slower pace of life, breathtaking coastal scenery, or a welcoming community, PEI offers an exceptional lifestyle and relatively affordable real estate compared with many Canadian markets.

This guide explains what you should know before relocating to PEI, including housing options, popular communities, cost of living, and what makes island life unique. Buyers relocating from across Canada — particularly Ontario and Western Canada — continue to choose PEI for its quality of life and strong sense of community.

If you’re considering making PEI your new home, the Government of PEI relocation guide is a helpful starting point. If you're looking for homes or local insight into the real estate market, I’m happy to help. I’m Jodi Bernard, a local REALTOR® who works with many families relocating to Prince Edward Island.

Why People Are Moving to PEI

• More affordable real estate than many Canadian cities
• Strong sense of community in both towns and rural areas
• Natural beauty including beaches, red cliffs, and scenic drives
• Family-friendly lifestyle and safe communities
• Remote work flexibility making relocation easier

Where to Live on PEI

Prince Edward Island offers a wide variety of communities ranging from small rural villages to vibrant urban centres. Many buyers relocating to PEI explore the following areas:

• Charlottetown: The provincial capital with restaurants, culture, and employment opportunities.
• Summerside: PEI’s second-largest city known for its waterfront and growing amenities.
• Kensington: A smaller town offering a quiet lifestyle near the North Shore.
• Stratford: A family-friendly community just minutes from downtown Charlottetown.
• Cornwall: A growing suburb with newer homes and convenient access to the capital.

Buying a Home on PEI

PEI offers a wide range of housing options including waterfront cottages, farmland properties, suburban homes, and historic houses. For buyers relocating from another province, working with a local REALTOR® can help simplify the process and ensure you understand local property considerations.

Browse available properties:

• Waterfront & Waterview Properties
• Single Family Homes
• Luxury Homes

If you are relocating from out of province, I can assist with virtual tours, video walkthroughs, and consultations to help you confidently purchase a home on PEI.

Cost of Living on PEI

Compared with many Canadian cities, PEI remains relatively affordable. Housing costs are generally lower, and commute times are shorter. Property taxes, utilities, and groceries can vary by location, but many families find the overall cost of living manageable while enjoying a higher quality of life.

Island Lifestyle: What to Expect

Life on Prince Edward Island tends to move at a slower pace. Residents spend more time outdoors enjoying beaches, cycling trails, boating, fishing, and community events. Island communities are known for their friendliness, and newcomers often find it easy to become part of local life.

Schools and Healthcare

PEI has a strong public education system with both English and French programs available. The island also provides provincial health coverage with hospitals and clinics located throughout the province. As with many regions in Canada, access to family doctors can be limited, so new residents are encouraged to register early.

How I Can Help You Relocate to PEI

As a lifelong Island resident and full-time REALTOR®, I regularly help buyers relocate to PEI from across Canada. I can assist with:

• Virtual property tours and consultations
• Coordinating inspections and local services
• Understanding PEI-specific property considerations
• Choosing the right community for your lifestyle

If you're considering a move to Prince Edward Island, contact me here and I would be happy to help guide you through the process.

More Resources for Moving to PEI

For additional relocation information, visit the official Move to PEI page provided by the provincial government.

Whether you're searching for a fresh start, a retirement destination, or a coastal lifestyle, Prince Edward Island continues to attract people from across Canada. With the right guidance, relocating to PEI can be an exciting and rewarding experience.