A recent poll has found that residents of Atlantic Canada are the most proud to be Canadian, with 82% of respondents in the region expressing strong national pride. This figure is the highest among all regions surveyed, according to the study conducted by the Angus Reid Institute.
National Pride Across Canada
The poll, released on June 30, 2026, surveyed over 4,000 Canadians across all provinces. Overall, 74% of Canadians said they are proud to be Canadian, but regional variations were significant. Following Atlantic Canada, Quebec reported the lowest pride at 68%, while Ontario and the Prairies both recorded 76%. British Columbia came in at 72%.
“Atlantic Canadians have a unique sense of identity tied to their history and community,” said Shachi Kurl, president of the Angus Reid Institute. “The strong pride reflects a deep connection to both the region and the country.”
Factors Influencing Pride
The poll also asked respondents what makes them proudest about Canada. Top reasons included universal healthcare (cited by 63%), natural beauty (58%), and multiculturalism (52%). In Atlantic Canada, community spirit and resilience were also frequently mentioned, with 45% of respondents highlighting these as sources of pride.
“The sense of community here is strong,” said Mary Walsh, a resident of St. John’s, Newfoundland. “We support each other through tough times, and that makes us proud to be part of this country.”
Generational and Political Differences
The survey found that older Canadians are more likely to express national pride, with 85% of those aged 55 and older saying they are proud, compared to 62% of those aged 18-34. Political affiliation also played a role: 89% of Conservative voters expressed pride, versus 72% of Liberal voters and 68% of NDP voters.
“Younger Canadians are more critical of the country’s history and current issues, which may temper their pride,” Kurl noted. “But that doesn’t mean they lack patriotism; it’s a different kind of engagement.”
Implications for National Unity
The results come at a time of ongoing debates about national unity and regional disparities. Experts say the high pride in Atlantic Canada could be a stabilizing force. “Atlantic Canada’s strong sense of belonging can serve as a model for other regions,” said Dr. John Smith, a political scientist at Dalhousie University. “It shows that pride in one’s region and country can coexist.”
The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 2.5 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.
