While winter temperatures drop across Canada, activity on the infidelity-focused website Ashley Madison is heating up in specific regions. The platform has released its latest ranking of the top 10 Canadian cities where residents are most actively seeking connections outside their primary relationships this season.
Smaller Cities Surprise on Top 10 List
The findings, based on new sign-up data from November 2025, present a surprising geographic shift. Major metropolitan centres like Toronto and Vancouver, which have historically dominated such lists, are absent from the top spots. Instead, the ranking is dominated by smaller and mid-sized communities across the country.
The top 10 Canadian locales for non-monogamous activity, according to Ashley Madison, are:
- Victoria, B.C.
- Barrie, Ont.
- Peterborough, Ont.
- Kelowna, B.C.
- Kingston, Ont.
- Kamloops, B.C.
- Belleville, Ont.
- Fredericton, N.B.
- Lethbridge, Alta.
- Moncton, N.B.
Why Risk It in a Small Town?
The prevalence of these smaller cities may seem counterintuitive, given the increased likelihood of social exposure in tight-knit communities. Sex and relationship therapist Tammy Nelson, who spoke with the Toronto Sun, offered insight into this phenomenon.
"In smaller or mid-size towns, people may feel social expectations more intensely because everyone knows everyone," Nelson explained. She noted that the pressure to maintain a specific public image can be overwhelming, leading some to seek discreet outlets. "When couples feel stuck in these roles, they may look for connection, excitement, or emotional validation outside of the relationship, sometimes discreetly, because it feels like a private place to breathe."
Nelson agreed that the risk of discovery is higher in a small community, but suggested that for some, the reward outweighs the risk. "It seems counter-intuitive, but the elevated risk of exploring non-monogamy within a small town can be part of the motivation," she noted.
Seeking Connection, Not Just Sex
The therapist emphasized that the drive behind using platforms like Ashley Madison often extends beyond physical desire. "When people choose to date outside their primary relationship, it isn’t always about sex," Nelson continued. "Sometimes it can feel like breaking out of a role and doing so in a discreet way is more comfortable and a way to avoid gossip or judgement."
For individuals in less populated areas, digital platforms can serve as a crucial, and sometimes sole, outlet. "In rural and mid-size communities, people often feel isolated," Nelson said. "Without access to diverse communities like different social groups or open relationship hang outs, online platforms can be the only outlet."
She added that discreet apps make non-traditional dating more accessible for those looking to explore, even in environments where word travels fast. The data, released in early December 2025, suggests that for many Canadians, the search for external connection remains a year-round pursuit, undeterred by the winter chill or the watchful eyes of a small town.
