Exploring the wellbeing of migrants in third places: An empirical study of smaller Canadian cities

Abstract

Smaller cities are seeking to attract and retain migrants (e.g. immigrants, refugees, and temporary foreign workers) for population and economic growth yet may lack the physical and social infrastructure to support settlement and integration. More empirical research is needed to reveal how migrants navigate and experience smaller cities on a daily basis, and to what extent these places are conducive to retaining and supporting the wellbeing (e.g., quality of life and sense of belonging) of migrants. This study utilizes the concept of ‘Third Places’ to gain a more detailed and nuanced understanding of the wellbeing of migrants in smaller cities. Interviews with migrants living in smaller cities across Canada were conducted. The findings reveal that third places play an essential role in shaping migrants’ lived experiences in smaller cities and have an impact on their wellbeing when considering the opportunity for social interaction, and accessibility to ethnocultural amenities (e.g. food and retail), social services, and nature. We propose the imperative of investigating and improving third places as social infrastructure may benefit local and migrant populations in smaller cities and help foster community cohesion.