10 Ways Canada Is Better Than The USA

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10 Ways Canada Is Better Than the USA

Canada and the USA have a lot in common, but there are some things Canada just does better. From healthcare to food, there are some real perks to living up north. Canadians don’t have to worry about medical bills, they’re way safer from gun violence, and they even get longer parental leave. Plus, there’s poutine. That alone might be enough to win this debate.

Of course, both countries have their pros and cons, but if you’ve ever wondered why so many people say Canada is the better place to live, here are 10 solid reasons why.

1. Free Healthcare – No Stressing Over Medical Bills

One of the biggest things Canada has going for it is free healthcare. While Americans have to worry about insurance, co-pays, and medical debt, Canadians can go see a doctor without stressing over the cost. If you need surgery, break a bone, or just feel sick, you can get treatment without worrying about a giant bill.

Sure, taxes cover the cost, and sometimes there are wait times for non-urgent care, but the peace of mind is worth it. No one goes bankrupt because they got sick, and people don’t avoid going to the doctor just because they can’t afford it. In the USA, a hospital visit can cost thousands of dollars, even if you have insurance. In Canada, it’s covered.

Canada’s system isn’t perfect, but it’s a huge relief not having to worry about whether you can afford basic medical care. Americans often have to choose between paying rent and seeing a doctor, which just shouldn’t happen. Free healthcare means Canadians can focus on getting better, not on how they’re going to pay for it.

2. Way Less Gun Violence – Safer Cities and Schools

Gun violence is a serious problem in the USA. Shootings happen way too often, and it’s a constant worry for many people. Canada, on the other hand, has much stricter gun laws and way fewer gun deaths. That makes a huge difference when it comes to safety, whether it’s in schools, public places, or just walking down the street.

In the USA, mass shootings have become disturbingly common, and even day-to-day gun violence is a major issue. In Canada, guns are much harder to get, and there are more rules about who can own them. People still have hunting rifles and shotguns, but you don’t see the same level of gun-related crime.

This doesn’t mean Canada is crime-free, but it does mean people don’t have to live in constant fear of gun violence. Schools and public places are generally safer, and that’s a big deal.

3. Paid Parental Leave – Up to 18 Months Off? Americans Can Only Dream

Having a baby is a huge life change, and in Canada, new parents actually get time to adjust. Parents can take up to 18 months off and still get paid a percentage of their salary. That’s a big difference from the USA, where many parents are forced to go back to work just weeks after having a baby.

Paid parental leave allows parents to actually spend time with their newborn instead of worrying about rushing back to work. In the USA, many people have to choose between taking unpaid leave or going back way too soon because they can’t afford the time off.

In Canada, both moms and dads can take parental leave, which helps families bond and adjust to their new life. Raising kids is already tough—at least in Canada, parents get the support they need to take care of their families.

4. Kinder People – Canadians Just Are Nicer

The stereotype about Canadians being polite? It’s mostly true. People in Canada tend to be friendlier, more patient, and just overall nicer. You’re more likely to hear “sorry” or “thank you” in daily interactions, and people generally treat each other with more kindness and respect.

Of course, not every Canadian is nice, and not every American is rude, but overall, the culture in Canada encourages more politeness. In the USA, people can be a little more aggressive, especially in big cities. In Canada, even customer service interactions tend to be more pleasant.

It’s not just about politeness, either. Canadians are generally more laid-back and easygoing. There’s less road rage, fewer public meltdowns, and people just seem to be in less of a rush all the time. That makes daily life a little more pleasant.

5. Legal Drinking at 18 (or 19) – No Waiting Until 21

In Canada, you can legally drink at 18 or 19, depending on the province. In the USA, you have to wait until you’re 21. That might not seem like a big deal, but it actually makes a difference.

By allowing younger adults to drink legally, Canada treats alcohol more like a normal part of life rather than a forbidden activity. In the USA, people under 21 often end up binge drinking or making reckless choices because drinking is treated like a big deal. In Canada, it’s just part of growing up, and people tend to learn how to handle it more responsibly.

Plus, it’s nice not having to wait until 21 to go out for a drink with friends. It makes socializing easier, and it means people can enjoy themselves without worrying about fake IDs or breaking the law.

6. More Affordable University – A Degree Doesn’t Leave You Drowning in Debt

College in the USA is ridiculously expensive. Many students end up with massive debt that takes decades to pay off. In Canada, university is much more affordable, and students don’t graduate with the same financial burden.

Tuition fees are lower, and there are more grants and financial aid options. In the USA, student loans can add up to hundreds of thousands of dollars, making it hard to even think about buying a house or starting a family after graduation. In Canada, while students still have some debt, it’s nowhere near as crushing.

Higher education should be accessible, not something that puts people in debt for life. Canada does a much better job of making sure students can actually afford to go to school without ruining their financial future.

7. Poutine Exists – Fries, Gravy, Cheese Curds—Pure Magic

Poutine is one of Canada’s greatest contributions to the world. It’s a simple dish—fries, cheese curds, and gravy—but it’s absolutely perfect. If you’ve never had poutine, you’re seriously missing out.

While you can find versions of it in the USA, it’s just not the same. In Canada, poutine is everywhere, from fast food spots to fancy restaurants. It’s the ultimate comfort food, and it’s a must-try if you ever visit.

8. Beautiful, Untouched Nature – Vast Wilderness, Mountains, and Lakes

Canada is huge, and a lot of it is still untouched wilderness. While the USA has some beautiful places, Canada has more wide-open spaces, massive forests, and stunning lakes. If you love nature, Canada is the place to be.

National parks, mountains, and northern landscapes make Canada one of the most beautiful places in the world. Plus, there’s way less overcrowding, so you can actually enjoy the outdoors without feeling like you’re in a tourist trap.

9. Less Over-the-Top Patriotism – No Daily Pledges or Flag Obsession

Americans are known for their over-the-top patriotism—flags everywhere, national anthems before every event, and kids reciting the Pledge of Allegiance every morning. Canada is way more low-key about it.

Canadians love their country, but it’s not shoved in your face 24/7. People don’t feel the need to prove how patriotic they are, and there’s way less pressure to constantly praise the country.

10. Less Obsession with Tipping – No Mandatory Feeling Around Tips

In Canada, tipping exists, but it’s not as extreme as in the USA. In American restaurants, not tipping is basically a crime, and workers rely on tips to survive. In Canada, wages are better, so tipping isn’t as intense.

While Canadians still tip, it doesn’t feel as forced. In the USA, 20% is expected no matter what, and some places even add automatic gratuity. In Canada, tipping is appreciated, but it’s not such a big deal.