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Cities in Nova Scotia
8 cities — every community listed with real estate guides and local insights.
Nova Scotia's cities are sea-sharpened and full of character. Halifax leads Atlantic Canada as a tech, university, and defence hub with a booming real estate market. Sydney anchors Cape Breton Island. Truro sits at the geographic heart of the province. All cities are covered by a combined deed transfer tax of 1.5% provincial plus up to 1.5% municipal in Halifax, regulated by the Nova Scotia Real Estate Commission (NSREC).
8 cities
All Nova Scotia Cities
Select any community to explore homes for sale, market data, and local real estate guides.
Buying in a Nova Scotia city? NS charges a deed transfer tax of 1.5% of the purchase price at the provincial level. Halifax Regional Municipality adds up to 1.5% municipal DTT — so Halifax buyers may pay up to 3% combined. Other municipalities charge less. All agents are licensed with the Nova Scotia Real Estate Commission (NSREC).
Nova Scotia Real Estate — FAQ
What is Nova Scotia's deed transfer tax?
Nova Scotia's provincial deed transfer tax is 1.5% of the purchase price. Halifax Regional Municipality adds an additional municipal deed transfer tax of up to 1.5%, for a combined maximum of 3% in Halifax. Other municipalities charge between 0% and 1.5% municipal DTT.
Who regulates real estate in Nova Scotia?
The Nova Scotia Real Estate Commission (NSREC) regulates all agents and brokerages in the province.
What is the average home price in Halifax?
As of early 2026, the Halifax average residential sale price is approximately $520,000–$560,000, reflecting strong demand from interprovincial migration and international newcomers.