SASKATOON, Sask. — Despite ongoing challenges involving homelessness, mental health and addictions, Saskatoon has been named Saskatchewan’s friendliest city to live in, according to the 2026 rankings released by Canadian social networking platform Nextdoor.
Saskatoon earned a Friendliness Score of 100, ranking first in the province based on neighbour interactions on the platform, which highlight the everyday connections that help build strong communities. The list says the city has family- and dog-friendly neighbourhoods.
Nextdoor described Saskatoon as a vibrant city known for its river valley, numerous parks, clean surroundings and family-friendly environment. Residents using the platform appreciate the city’s walkable neighbourhoods, peaceful atmosphere and dog-friendly spaces.
The ranking also reflects the importance of the small, everyday gestures that bring neighbours together, from welcoming newcomers and sharing items to helping one another with recommendations and supporting local businesses.
The rankings were developed by analyzing interactions on the platform rather than relying on surveys or self-reported opinions, including the tone of neighbourhood posts, responses to requests for help and recommendations, the sharing of free items, welcomes extended to new neighbours and support for local businesses. The Friendliness Score works like an index, with a top score of 100 and other communities ranked in relation to it.
Prince Albert placed second in Saskatchewan with a score of 93, with Nextdoor users highlighting its strong sense of community, welcoming neighbours and peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere.
Regina ranked third with 92, recognized for its parks, walkability and community spirit.
Warman also scored 92, placing fourth, with residents highlighting its well-maintained neighbourhoods, family-friendly environment and welcoming atmosphere.
Swift Current and Moose Jaw ranked fifth and sixth, respectively, each scoring 89.
Residents praised Swift Current for its parks, walking trails and quiet neighbourhoods, while Moose Jaw earned praise for its pleasant atmosphere, parks and pedestrian-friendly streets. Martensville is seventh with 88, with its schools, recreational facilities and small-town feel contributing to its appeal.
Corman Park No. 344 and Yorkton ranked eighth and ninth, respectively, with scores of 86. Corman Park was noted for its natural surroundings, wildlife and community spirit, while Yorkton was recognized for its parks, restaurants and family-friendly atmosphere.
North Battleford, Weyburn No. 67 and Estevan each scored 83, sharing the next tier of the rankings. Pilot Butte followed with 82, while Ituna scored 79 and Melfort rounded out the top 15 with 76.
The rankings offer a snapshot of how residents interact with one another online, rather than a comprehensive measure of every aspect of life in each community. For Saskatoon, the top position highlights the value residents place on friendly neighbours, accessible green spaces and walkable communities, even as the city continues to grapple with complex social challenges.
The findings also underscore that a city's reputation is shaped not only by its amenities and public spaces but by the relationships people build in their own neighbourhoods.
Nextdoor said the 2026 rankings are part of a broader effort to recognize community connections across Canada, with provincial lists released to show how cities compare. The company limited its rankings to places with at least 10 distinct neighbourhoods on the platform.
While Saskatoon's score places it first among the Saskatchewan communities listed, the results reflect activity among Nextdoor users. They should not be interpreted as a definitive measure of friendliness among all residents. Still, the recognition highlights the neighbourly connections that help make Saskatoon a welcoming place to call home.
