Best Places to Live in Ontario
Ontario is a province of contrasts, offering everything from bustling urban environments to serene natural landscapes. It’s no wonder that it’s home to some of the best places to live in Canada. Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking to retire, Ontario has a city that can fulfill your needs. In this blog post, we’ll explore 31 of the best cities to live in Ontario, each with its unique charm and benefits. From Windsor to Sault Ste. Marie, discover which city might be the right fit for you.
1. Windsor
Windsor, located on the southern tip of Ontario at the border with the United States, is known for its vibrant cultural scene and affordable cost of living. The city boasts numerous parks, waterfront views, and a strong automotive industry. With its proximity to Detroit, residents often get the best of both Canadian and American amenities.
Beyond just aesthetics, Windsor offers a plethora of job opportunities. The automotive sector is robust, providing many with stable employment. As for education, the University of Windsor offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, attracting students from all over the world. It’s a perfect blend of work, study, and leisure.
2. Kingston
Kingston, often referred to as the “Limestone City” because of its many historic buildings built from local limestone, is rich in history and offers a high quality of life. Nestled on the shores of Lake Ontario, Kingston is also home to Queen’s University, one of Canada’s most prestigious institutions.
The city’s vibrant arts community, combined with excellent healthcare facilities, makes it an appealing place for retirees and families alike. Additionally, Kingston’s food scene is bustling, featuring numerous local restaurants, cafes, and farmer’s markets that add to its charm and livability.
3. Waterloo
As one of Canada’s leading technology hubs, Waterloo is ideal for tech enthusiasts and professionals. The city hosts renowned institutions like the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University, making it a young and dynamic place filled with innovation and entrepreneurship.
In addition to its educational and professional advantages, Waterloo offers numerous parks and trails, promoting an active lifestyle. Public transportation is also efficient, allowing for easy commutes both within and outside the city.
4. Barrie
Barrie offers an excellent blend of suburban comfort and natural beauty, making it a top choice for families and nature lovers. Located on the shores of Kempenfelt Bay, part of Lake Simcoe, Barrie provides numerous water-based activities and scenic views.
The city is also experiencing rapid growth, which translates to new job opportunities in various sectors. With its good schools, healthcare facilities, and hearty community feel, Barrie provides a balanced environment for raising a family or settling down.
5. London
London, Ontario, often called “The Forest City,” is rich in greenery, with numerous parks and wooded areas. It’s a significant educational hub, home to Western University and Fanshawe College, drawing students from around the globe.
London’s healthcare services are top-notch, and the local economy is diversified, featuring sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, and information technology. With its blend of urban amenities and suburban calm, London is a place where you can enjoy both work and leisure seamlessly.
6. Keswick
Keswick, a community within the town of Georgina, offers a laid-back lifestyle with easy access to Lake Simcoe. This town is perfect for those who appreciate a slower pace and outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking.
Keswick also features affordable housing options, making it an attractive option for young families and retirees alike. Additionally, its proximity to Toronto provides the convenience of urban amenities without the constant hustle and bustle of city life.
7. Collingwood
Collingwood is renowned for its outdoor adventures, particularly during the winter months, thanks to its proximity to the Blue Mountain ski area. Even outside of skiing season, the town offers numerous trails, water activities, and stunning views of Georgian Bay.
Besides its natural beauty, Collingwood has a strong sense of community with numerous local events and festivals taking place throughout the year. The town also boasts excellent schools and a thriving arts scene, making it a well-rounded place to call home.
8. Newmarket
Newmarket exudes a small-town feel while offering convenient access to Toronto. With its beautiful historic downtown, great schools, and modern-day conveniences, Newmarket is a balanced community that appeals to families and professionals alike.
Apart from its rich history and aesthetic charm, Newmarket is known for quality healthcare services and robust local businesses, contributing to its high standard of living. Public transit options are also well-developed, facilitating easy commutes to surrounding areas.
9. Stratford
Stratford is most famous for its annual Shakespeare Festival, which attracts visitors from around the world. The cultural vibe of the city is further enriched with galleries, theaters, and a vibrant arts community.
Despite its small size, Stratford offers many amenities found in bigger cities, such as excellent dining options and quality healthcare. For those seeking a blend of culture, convenience, and charming quietude, Stratford is an excellent choice.
10. St. Catharines
Often termed the “Garden City,” St. Catharines is a blooming community near Niagara Falls. With numerous parks, lakes, and hiking trails, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The city also benefits from its proximity to Toronto, offering the best of both worlds.
St. Catharines boasts a diverse economy, with employment opportunities in healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Additionally, it is home to Brock University, which adds a youthful dynamic to the city’s atmosphere. Vibrant, green, and economically diverse, St. Catharines is a city that thrives on balance.
11. New Tecumseth
Consisting of Alliston, Beeton, and Tottenham, New Tecumseth provides a mixture of urban and rural living. Its proximity to Toronto makes it convenient for commuters, while its agricultural roots offer a serene and calming environment.
New Tecumseth is known for its strong community spirit, with frequent local events and festivals. Quality schools, healthcare facilities, and diverse housing options add to its appeal, making it a well-rounded choice for families and retirees alike.
12. Huntsville
Huntsville, located in the heart of Muskoka, is a paradise for nature lovers. With its numerous lakes, forests, and parklands, Huntsville offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and skiing.
The town may be smaller, but it boasts a strong sense of community and excellent local amenities, including schools and healthcare services. Huntsville’s serene beauty and welcoming atmosphere make it a wonderful place to call home.
13. Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay is a city that perfectly combines urban and natural living. Located along the shores of Lake Superior, it offers magnificent vistas and numerous outdoor activities year-round, from hiking to ice fishing.
The city boasts a diversified economy with strong healthcare, education, and manufacturing sectors. Its cultural scene is enriched with galleries, theaters, and festivals, making Thunder Bay a vibrant yet relaxed community.
14. Ottawa
As the capital city of Canada, Ottawa offers a wealth of opportunities. It is a city rich in history, culture, and politics, featuring numerous national museums, historic sites, and government institutions.
Besides its political significance, Ottawa offers top-notch educational institutions, healthcare services, and job opportunities in various sectors. With its multicultural atmosphere and abundance of parks and recreational facilities, Ottawa is an excellent place for individuals and families alike.
15. Goderich
Known as the “Prettiest Town in Canada,” Goderich offers stunning beaches, picturesque landscapes, and a rich history. This small town, located along the shores of Lake Huron, provides a relaxed and peaceful lifestyle.
Goderich has a strong sense of community and numerous local amenities, including excellent schools, healthcare facilities, and dining options. It’s a wonderful place for those seeking a beautiful and idyllic small-town environment.
16. Bracebridge
Bracebridge, situated in the heart of Muskoka, is renowned for its beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and forested landscapes. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore, from hiking trails to water sports.
The town also offers a strong sense of community and excellent local amenities, including good schools and healthcare services. Bracebridge’s charming downtown, filled with local shops and restaurants, adds to its appeal, making it a delightful place to live.
17. Sudbury
Greater Sudbury, often just called Sudbury, is known for its rich mining history and stunning natural surroundings. As the largest city in Northern Ontario, Sudbury combines urban living with easy access to outdoor adventures.
The city boasts a diverse economy, with strong healthcare, education, and mining sectors. Sudbury’s vibrant arts community, numerous parks, and excellent local amenities make it a well-rounded city for residents of all ages.
18. Parry Sound
Parry Sound, located along the shores of Georgian Bay, is a paradise for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. The town offers beautiful landscapes, numerous lakes, and endless opportunities for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking.
With its relaxed lifestyle, strong community spirit, and excellent local amenities, Parry Sound is a wonderful place for families, retirees, and anyone seeking a more tranquil way of life. The town’s scenic beauty and recreational opportunities make it a hidden gem in Ontario.
19. North Bay
North Bay, nestled between Lake Nipissing and Trout Lake, offers a unique blend of urban living and natural beauty. The city provides numerous outdoor activities, from summer water sports to winter skiing and snowboarding.
The local economy is diversified, with strong healthcare, education, and retail sectors. North Bay’s excellent schools, healthcare facilities, and vibrant arts community make it an appealing choice for families and individuals looking for a balanced lifestyle.
20. Woodstock
Woodstock, often called the “Friendly City,” offers a mix of historic charm and modern convenience. The city boasts numerous parks, historic buildings, and a strong community spirit.
With its good schools, healthcare facilities, and robust local economy, Woodstock is an excellent place for families and professionals alike. The city’s peaceful atmosphere, combined with its modern amenities, provides a great quality of life.
21. Perth
Perth, located along the Tay River, offers a charming and picturesque lifestyle. The town is known for its historic buildings, scenic beauty, and strong community spirit.
Perth’s excellent schools, healthcare facilities, and numerous local events and festivals make it an attractive choice for families and retirees. Its small-town charm and welcoming atmosphere create a wonderful place to call home.
22. Peterborough
Peterborough is a city that perfectly blends urban convenience and natural beauty. Located along the Otonabee River, the city offers numerous parks, trails, and waterfront activities.
The local economy is diverse, with strong healthcare, education, and manufacturing sectors. With its excellent schools, healthcare facilities, and cultural scene, Peterborough is a vibrant and dynamic place to live.
23. Burlington
Burlington offers a high quality of life with its beautiful waterfront, numerous parks, and vibrant community. The city boasts excellent schools, healthcare facilities, and a strong local economy.
Burlington’s proximity to Toronto provides convenient access to urban amenities, while its serene atmosphere and scenic beauty make it an appealing place for families and individuals seeking a balanced lifestyle.
24. Toronto
Toronto, the largest city in Canada, offers a wealth of opportunities and a vibrant, multicultural atmosphere. The city is known for its diverse neighborhoods, world-class amenities, and numerous cultural attractions.
With its top-tier educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and abundant job opportunities, Toronto is an excellent place for professionals and families alike. The city’s dynamic and bustling environment provides endless opportunities for entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences.
25. Orangeville
Orangeville offers a charming mix of small-town atmosphere and modern amenities. The town is known for its vibrant arts community, beautiful parks, and historic downtown.
Orangeville’s excellent schools, healthcare facilities, and strong community spirit make it an appealing place for families and individuals. The town’s relaxed lifestyle and welcoming environment create a wonderful place to call home.
26. Oakville
Oakville offers a high quality of life with its beautiful waterfront, numerous parks, and elegant neighborhoods. The city is known for its excellent schools, healthcare facilities, and robust local economy.
With its proximity to Toronto, Oakville provides convenient access to urban amenities while maintaining a serene and upscale atmosphere. The city’s vibrant community and scenic beauty make it a top choice for families and professionals.
27. Owen Sound
Owen Sound, located along the shores of Georgian Bay, offers a tranquil and scenic lifestyle. The city is known for its beautiful landscapes, numerous parks, and outdoor activities.
With its strong community spirit, excellent schools, and healthcare facilities, Owen Sound is an appealing place for families and retirees. The city’s relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty create a wonderful place to live.
28. Guelph
Guelph, often referred to as “The Royal City,” offers a high quality of life with its beautiful parks, vibrant downtown, and strong community. The city is known for its excellent schools, healthcare facilities, and thriving local economy.
Guelph’s proximity to Toronto provides convenient access to urban amenities while maintaining a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The city’s dynamic community and scenic beauty make it a top choice for families and professionals.
29. Hamilton
Hamilton offers a vibrant and diverse community with a rich industrial history. The city boasts numerous parks, trails, and cultural attractions, providing a high quality of life for residents.
With its strong healthcare, education, and manufacturing sectors, Hamilton offers abundant job opportunities and excellent local amenities. The city’s dynamic atmosphere and scenic beauty make it an appealing place to live.
30. Centre Wellington
Centre Wellington, consisting of Fergus and Elora, offers a charming mix of historic charm and natural beauty. The town is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the Elora Gorge, and its strong community spirit.
Centre Wellington’s excellent schools, healthcare facilities, and vibrant local economy make it an attractive choice for families and retirees. The town’s relaxed atmosphere and welcoming environment create a wonderful place to call home.
31. Sault Ste. Marie
Sault Ste. Marie, often referred to as “The Soo,” offers a unique blend of urban living and natural beauty. The city boasts numerous parks, trails, and waterfront activities along the St. Marys River.
With its strong healthcare, education, and manufacturing sectors, Sault Ste. Marie provides abundant job opportunities and excellent local amenities. The city’s vibrant arts community and scenic beauty make it an appealing place to live.
What You Need to Know About Living in Ontario
Living in Ontario offers a diverse range of experiences depending on where you choose to reside. From the bustling metropolis of Toronto to the serene communities in Muskoka, each location presents unique opportunities and challenges. The province boasts a strong economy, excellent healthcare, and outstanding educational institutions.
Ontario’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and vibrant communities make it an attractive destination for newcomers. Whether you’re seeking career growth, family-friendly neighborhoods, or a combination of both, Ontario has something to offer. It’s essential to consider factors like cost of living, job opportunities, and lifestyle preferences when choosing the best place to live in Ontario.
Best Places to Live in Ontario: FAQs
Where in Ontario has the lowest crime rate?
Ontario has various cities known for their low crime rates, making them safe and secure places to live. Cities like Burlington, Oakville, and Newmarket are often highlighted for their excellent safety records. These communities focus on maintaining low crime rates through effective law enforcement and community programs, contributing to a high quality of life for residents.
What is the best area to buy a house in Ontario?
The best area to buy a house in Ontario depends on your preferences and needs. Burlington and Oakville are known for their upscale neighborhoods and amenities, making them attractive for families and professionals. For more affordable options, consider cities like Windsor or Sudbury, which offer a lower cost of living while still providing excellent amenities and job opportunities.
Where is the most affordable place to live in Ontario?
Windsor and Sudbury are among the most affordable places to live in Ontario, offering lower housing costs and overall living expenses compared to larger cities like Toronto or Ottawa. These cities provide numerous amenities, job opportunities, and a high quality of life, making them attractive options for individuals and families seeking affordability without compromising on lifestyle.
Where is the best city to live in Ontario?
The
