Ontario, B.C., and Quebec rank lowest in Canada for housing policy due to slow approvals, high fees, and unaffordability, a new report finds.

A University of Ottawa report ranks Ontario, B.C., and Quebec among Canada’s worst in housing policy, citing slow approvals, high development charges, and poor affordability. Atlantic provinces like New Brunswick and P.E.I. earned top marks due to faster permitting and lower fees. Ontario’s 25-month approval average and B.C.’s affordability struggles highlight systemic issues. Alberta led in supply growth, and Newfoundland and Labrador excelled in affordability and household formation. The study finds development charges—sometimes over $180,000—significantly hinder construction and raise prices, urging urgent provincial and municipal reform.