The Moncton area has recently been named as Canada's fastest-growing city for the year 2022. This news may come as a surprise to many, as the Atlantic Canada region is often overlooked as a destination for growth and opportunity. However, the reality on the ground in Moncton paints a different picture, with the city seeing a significant increase in construction projects and new development. The skyline is dotted with cranes, a clear indication of the growth and excitement that the city is currently experiencing. It's a great time to be in Moncton and to witness the transformation of the city.

The federal government has announced a huge investment of $700 million to create the Atlantic Science Enterprise Centre in Moncton which will create 100's to 1,000's of high paying jobs and workers needed for the incredible expansion to the current Fisheries & Oceans building. 

The Moncton area is currently experiencing a population boom, as new estimates reveal that the population grew by an impressive 5.3% between July 2021 and July 2022. According to figures released by StatCan, the region's population stood at 171,608 as of July 1st, an increase of 8,784 people.

This growth rate is notably higher than the national average of 1.8%, with international migration being identified as a significant contributor to this trend. The Saint John and Greater Fredericton areas have also experienced significant growth, with rates of 2.1% and 3.3% respectively. It is worth noting that the population growth in the Saint John region is the largest one-year increase in the past two decades, and the Greater Fredericton area is also experiencing a similar trend.

Demographically, Moncton is a diverse city, with a mix of Anglophone and Francophone residents, as well as a growing immigrant population. The city is home to a large Acadian population and is considered a bilingual city, with both English and French being widely spoken.

There are many things to see and do in Moncton. Some popular tourist attractions include:

1- Avenir Centre - Moncton's Premier Event, Entertainment, Concert & Sports Arena 

2- Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park - One of Canada's best natural landcapes  (30 Mins from Moncton)

3- USVA - Spa Nordik - Moncton's Premier Spa and Wellness Destination

4- The Moncton Market: A farmers market that features local produce, crafts, and food vendors. (Saturdays until 2pm)

5- The Capitol Theatre: A historic theater that hosts a variety of performances; live music, theater & comedy shows.

6- Magnetic Hill Winery: A winery that offers tours and tastings of their wines, as well as a restaurant.

7- The Magic Mountain: A water park that features a variety of water slides, pools, and a lazy river.

8- The Tidal Bore: a rare tidal phenomenon where a large wave travels up the Petitcodiac River.

9- The Moncton Zoo, which features a variety of animals from around the world.

10- Moncton Coliseum: which hosts a variety of events, from concerts to sporting events.

11- The Irishtown Nature Park: a large nature reserve with hiking trails and a variety of wildlife.

12- The Moncton Casino: A casino that offers a variety of games, as well as a restaurant and entertainment.

13- The Moncton Botanical Garden: A large botanical garden with a variety of plants and gardens

14- The TreeGO Moncton: An aerial adventure park that offers a variety of obstacle courses and zip-lines.

15- Centennial Park: a large urban park with walking trails, gardens, and a playground.

In addition, Moncton offers a variety of recreational activities, such as skiing and snowshoeing during the winter season and cycling, golfing, and kayaking during the summer season. Moncton also offers a vibrant nightlife with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants, catering to different tastes and preferences. Overall, Moncton is a city with a rich history, a diverse culture, and plenty of things to see and do, making it a great place to visit or call home.

Moncton offers a diverse culinary scene with a variety of restaurants and various types of cuisine.  Here are some of my personal favourites:

Top 10 Restaurants in Moncton (January 2023)

1- Black Rabbit - Moncton's closest option to getting a Michelin Star (In my humble opinion) - 

2- Les brumes du coudes -  - A French bistro that offers classic French dishes with a modern twist.

3- Gusto Italian Bar & Grill - Best Italian cuisine. Pasta, Pizza, Desserts, Wine & Seafood! A local Favourite

4- Little Louis' - Offers a variety of fine dining dishes. Lobster parpadelle is everyone's favorite & sommelier on site. 

5- Calactus - The best vegan, vegetarian restaurant in Moncton.

6- The Tide and Boar Gastropub - A variety of dishes made with local ingredients and a selection of craft beers.

7- The Old Triangle Irish Alehouse - Offers a traditional pub atmosphere and serves Irish and pub-style food.

8- The Pump House Brewery - A microbrewery that serves a variety of beers and pub-style food.

9- Red Satay - Arguably the best Vietnamese in the city.

10-The Blue Olive - A Mediterranean restaurant that offers family-style dishes.

*** Bonus: Best Pizza in town - Tide & Boar Brewing - Detroit Styled Pizza (Eat-in Only)

Whether you are visiting, investing or passing through, make sure to message me if you are thinking of making Moncton your home!

Joel Langlois