Ready to retire? Check out our list of some great cities to retire to in Ontario based on demographics, amenities & things to do. Here are 12 of the Best Places to Retire in Ontario! (In no specific order!)
1. Peterborough
Population: 84,230
Percentage of people over 65: 21.4%
Average Age: 43
Average Home Price: $700,000
About Peterborough
Located in central Ontario, Peterborough is a vibrant city situated on the Otonabee River. It is 125 kilometers northeast of Toronto and 270 kilometers southwest of Ottawa. The city has many activities and cultural events for seniors. The Peterborough Senior Hockey League has members from ages 55 up to 80 years of age, and there is also great fishing. Peterborough is home to the annual folk music festival. Peterborough‘s nickname is the Electric City, as it was one of the first places to have electric street lights. Affordable housing with an average price of a home in 2023 of $700,000. The architecturally beautiful downtown makes it one of the most desirable and best places to retire in Ontario.
Medical/Hospital
Peterborough Regional Health Centre is a Regional hospital offering a range of health services. It is a state-of-the-art facility with 494 beds and offers emergency services.
Retirement Communities
There is an abundance of adult living communities to choose from, including:
- Applewood Retirement Residence
- Empress Gardens, Princess Gardens, Royal Gardens, Canterbury Gardens
- Jackson Creek Retirement Residence
- Kawartha Heights Retirement Living
- Rubidge Retirement Residence
Are you getting ready to retire or downsize? The following posts will assist you with your transition:
- Buy To Rent Or Buy To Downsize?
- Downsizing & POA: A Must-Have Conversation
- Best Practices for Selling a Home in Today’s Market
2. Stratford
Population: 31,465
Percentage of people over 65: 17.6%
Average Age: 45
Average Home Price: $777,000
About Stratford
For theatre lovers, Stratford is a perfectly quaint town to enjoy your retirement. Home to the renowned Stratford Shakespeare Festival. Also, the Summer Music Festival attracts world-class musicians to this event. Situated on the Avon River in Southwestern Ontario, this city was formed in 1885. The streets are lined with charming historical buildings and picturesque parks. Average housing prices in 2023 were $777,000.
Medical/Hospital
New regional hospital in St. Catharines.
Retirement Communities
3. London
Population: 511,000
Percentage of people over 65: 19%
Average Age: 39
Average Home Price: $750,000
About London
In 2014 London positioned number 6 on the 25 Happiest Cities in Canada list published by Global News. London is located halfway between Toronto and Detroit, off of Highway 401. It is the fifth-largest city in Ontario based on population.
London has no shortage of amenities for retirees to stay active and social. They have multiple seniors’ community centers, walking groups, coffee chats, card games & more!
It is called the “Forest City” as it is knowns for its 21 environmentally significant areas that cover over 730 hectares of scenic green space. Scenic trails link together multiple parks. The perfect way to stay active & get out in nature!
Popular day trips include Grand Bend and Corunna. Housing is affordable, with the average house price in 2023 being $750,000. London is also home to some excellent medical facilities, including modern hospitals and Western University.
Medical/Hospital
- London has several impressive medical facilities.
- London Health Sciences Centre
- University Hospital
- Victoria Hospital
- St. Joseph’s Hospital
- Mount Hope Centre for Long-Term Care
Retirement Communities
- Chartwell Riverside Retirement Residences
- Richmond Woods & Longworth Retirement Villages
- Windermere on the Mount, Grand Wood Park & Horizon Place
4. Niagara-on-the-Lake
Population: 17,511
Percentage of people over 65: 34%
Average Age: 50
Average Home Price: $1,052,000
About Niagara-on-the-Lake
Perfect for wine lovers! World-renowned wines are produced at various vineyards throughout this region. Located in South-Western Ontario on Lake Ontario at the Niagara River, it is an easy commute to the northeastern USA. It is also 28 minutes to one of the World’s natural wonders, Niagara Falls; this small town and region offer a wonderful lifestyle for retirement. There are beautiful walking and bicycling trails, so if you are a senior that wants to keep active, this could be the place for you. There is also a community center offering yoga, fitness classes, badminton, bridge & more!
As a tourist destination, the town has historical buildings with beautiful boutique shops and quaint restaurants. It is often referred to as the “prettiest town in Ontario.”
Niagara-on-the-Lake has a slightly milder climate making it one of the favorite places to retire in Ontario.
Due to its charm & high demand, living in Niagara-on-the-Lake is not the cheapest option, with an average sale price of $1,052,000 in 2023.
Medical/Hospital
The Niagra-on-the-lake Hospital has 559 beds. It is a multi-site hospital that provides a wide range of inpatient and outpatient services, including Acute Care, Cancer Care, Cardiac Care, Complex Care, Emergency and Urgent Care, Kidney Care, Long-Term Care, Mental Health, and Addictions, Stroke Care, and Surgical Care. Their team is made up of more than 4,800 employees, 600 physicians, and 850 volunteers. Accreditation Canada awarded Niagara Health with Exemplary Standing, a clear demonstration of their team’s commitment to the highest safety and quality standard.
Retirement Communities
5. Guelph
Population:131,794
Percentage of people over 65: 17%
Average Age: 35.7
Average Home Price: $800,000
About Guelph
Known as “The Royal City”, Guelph is one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada while also offering low crime rates, low unemployment rates, and a clean environment. The city has a generally high standard of living and has also been consistently ranked as one of Canada’s best places to live. With a culturally diverse population and a vibrant downtown, Guelph offers endless options for entertainment.
Learn even more about Guelph’s exciting real estate market in a few of our other posts below:
- 5 Reasons to Make Guelph Your Next Home
- A Complete Guide to Real Estate Investing in Guelph
- How An Experienced Guelph Real Estate Team Can Help With Your Investments
Guelph is home to the Village By The Arboretum, which is an award-winning 55+ community offering a variety of detached homes, townhouses & condos. It is a secure, friendly community with forty-two thousand square feet of luxurious amenities such as an indoor pool, tennis courts, putting greens, and a 600-person auditorium, as well as 90+ activities in the community.
It is also home to the Guelph Country Club, as well as a number of other golf courses. Guelph offers a number of outdoor recreational activities and easy access to the 401.
Medical/Hospital
Guelph General Hospital is a medical care facility in Guelph, Ontario, Canada. It is a 165-bed facility employing 224 doctors among a total staff of about 1200. St. Joseph’s Health Centre is a 240-bed long-term care home with private rooms, semi-private rooms, and basic rooms. Offers 24-hour nursing and personal care as well as access to doctors etc.
Retirement Communities
- The Village of Arbour Trails
- Chartwell Royal on Gordon Retirement Residence
- Chartwell Select Wellington
- Guelph Lake Commons
- Elliott Retirement
FOR CONDOMINIUMS IN GUELPH VISIT LETSCONDO.CA
6. Kingston
Population:167,293
Percentage of people over 65: 14.1%
Average Age: 41
Average Home Price: $695,000
About Kingston
Sitting between Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal, Kingston offers amenities usually found in big cities with a population of just 167,293. Established on the eastern end of Lake Ontario, the town is one of the best locations for sailing and offers many waterfront paths and trails.
It has a buzzing social hub. There is a 5000 + member seniors association offering 200 programs, including categories such as arts, crafts, dance, fitness, games, general interaction, language, music, sports & technology. They offer a wide range of unique programs like paint & pasta, woodworking, quilt making, aquafit, salsa dancing, yoga, bridge, book clubs & so much more!
Kingston has quick access to healthcare with multiple Hospitals throughout the city.
The average price of a home in Kingston is $695,000 (2023), and with the low cost of living, and healthy population of retirement-aged residents, Kingston is one of the most popular cities to retire in!
Medical/Hospital
Kingston General Hospital is a 456-bed acute care teaching hospital associated with Kingston University. Kingston is also home to the Cancer Centre of Southeastern Ontario.
Retirement Communities
7. Cobourg
Population: 19,440
Percentage of people over 65: 37%
Average Age: 49
Average Home Price: $767,000
About Cobourg
With a population of 19,440, The small lakeside town of Cobourg sits between Toronto and Kingston. It has been recognized multiple times as “One of Canada’s Best Places to Live.”
It is boarded by Lake Ontario, making it an attractive place for tourists and beachgoers. It offers stunning waterfront views, beaches, marinas & trails.
Cobourg’s cost of living has increased significantly over the last few years, with the average price of a home being $767500 in 2023.
It is easy to stay social here! There are tons of sports clubs, arts clubs & specialty clubs such as bowling, photography, Keep Fit & much more. There is also a new community center with hockey rinks, a fitness center & concert hall!
With trails for hiking & cycling and a vibrant art scene, Cobourg truly offers something for everyone making it an ideal place to retire in Ontario.
Medical/Hospital
The Northumberland Hills Hospital is a 137-bed hospital that delivers a range of services such as:
- medical
- surgical
- obstetrical
- pediatric
- ambulatory
- emergency care
- post-acute care services, including rehabilitation and palliative care
Retirement Communities
8. Collingwood
Population: 21,793
Percentage of people over 65: 30%
Average Age: 30
Average Home Price: $789,000
About Collingwood
Collingwood is a small town situated on the southern tip of gorgeous Georgian Bay, with a population of 19,500. It’s a very popular tourist destination due to the easy access to Wasaga Beach, Blue Mountain, as well as its own attractions and waterfront.
Collingwood has been ranked 11th in Canada for Best Places to Retire 2017 and 16th Best Places to Retire 2018 by Moneysense.
In the Summer, you can enjoy sailing, fishing, swimming, hiking & golfing. In the colder months, there is tons of skiing & snowboarding, as well as cross-country skiing & snowmobiling. You will never run out of things to do in Collingwood!
With 30% of the population being at the retirement age, and a relatively low cost of living, Collingwood is one of the most sought-after places to retire in Ontario.
Medical/Hospital
Collingwood General and Marine Hospital (CGMH) is a 68-bed hospital located in Collingwood.
Retirement Communities
- Raglan Village Adult & Retirement Community
- Chartwell Georgian Traditions Retirement Residence
- Balmoral Place Retirement Community
9. Tillsonburg
Population: 15,872
Percentage of people over 65: 32%
Average Age: 46
Average Home Price: $667,000
About Tillsonburg
Tillsonburg is the perfect place to retire for those who enjoy the likes of a quiet town. Located between Chatham and Hamilton, Tillsonburg has a population of 15,872, 32% being retirement-aged.
Recently Tillsonburg was recognized as #8 on a list of ‘Best Places in Ontario for Retirees’ by Business Advice Source. It has a low average price of $667,000, has a low crime rate, and offers low property taxes. It also offers close proximity to Turkey Point & Long Point.
The town also offers the Community Complex, which has an indoor pool, fitness center, arenas, as well as more amenities, and the Tillsonburg Community Shopping Centre. Their senior center offers plenty of programs such as arts & fitness to get involved in.
Medical/Hospital
Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital is committed to improving access to our facilities, services, and care for patients, their families, visitors, staff, and volunteers. Their services include a Medical/Surgical Unit, Palliative Care, Pastoral Care, Rehabilitation Services & much more.
Retirement Communities
10. Thunder Bay
Population: 107,909
Percentage of people over 65: 23%
Average Age: 43
Average Home Price: $330,000
About Thunder Bay
As the largest city in Northwest Ontario, the former fur trading post, Thunder Bay, offers a glimpse into Canada’s past while providing the resources and amenities for modern living. Located off the shore of Lake Superior, Thunder Bay is the sunniest city in eastern Canada and is also known for its abundance of outdoor activities.
Snowshoeing, skiing, hiking, as well as sailing make this city a perfect place for outdoor recreation in every season! With the average home price of a home being $330,000, the low cost of living and gorgeous setting makes it one of the best places to retire in Ontario.
Medical/Hospital
Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre serves Thunder Bay and much of Northwestern Ontario. The hospital has 395 beds, and all patient rooms are handicapped-accessible. They are also a leader in providing cancer care.
Retirement Communities
- Chartwell Thunder Bay Retirement Residence
- Chartwell Glacier Ridge Retirement Residence
- Chartwell Isabella Retirement Residence
11. Huntsville
Population: 19,816
Percentage of people over 65: 25%
Average Age: 45
Average Home Price: $800,000
About Huntsville
With a population of 19,816, Huntsville is the largest town in the Muskoka Region, meaning it provides an abundance of amenities & entertainment, such as art shows, community theatres & much more. Huntsville’s charming main street offers a mix of fantastic restaurants and boutique shops!
It is surrounded by four lakes providing miles of boating & gorgeous shorelines to explore! Spend your time boating, swimming, hiking, golfing, or reading on a beach! There is also Hidden Valley Ski Resort for the winter months.
Enjoy all the peace & quiet of cottage living while located about 2.5-3 hours north of Toronto.
Huntsville is located on the Canadian Shield and is home to many lakes. Providing easy access to Algonquin Park, Huntsville is a popular tourist destination for many and an easy retirement choice due to the low cost of living and affordable housing.
Medical/Hospital
Huntsville District Memorial Hospital is a 37-bed care facility offering in-patient services and a 24/7 Emergency Department.
Retirement Communities
12. Owen Sound
Population:21,341
Percentage of people over 65: 30%
Average Age: 46
Average Home Price: $600,000
About Owen Sound
With a population of 21,341, Owen Sound is the largest urban community in the Grey and Bruce counties. Located on the southern shore of Georgian Bay, Owen Sound is known for its scenic natural attractions, such as the multiple waterfalls found around the community. Owen Sound is also home to an array of festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Festival of Northern Lights, and Summerfolk Music & Crafts Festival, ensuring that entertainment is never too far away. With the low costs of living, housing (average price – $600,000), and beautiful surroundings, Owen Sound is one of the best places to retire in Ontario.
Medical/Hospital
The Owen Sound Hospital serves Owen Sound and the surrounding community as well as serving as the regional referral centre for Grey and Bruce Counties. Grey Bruce Health Services uses six hospital sites across the region to provide quality and convenient care to the residents.
Retirement Communities
Bonus: Brighton
Population: 12,108
Percentage of people over 65: 33%
Average Age: 50
Average Home Price: $700,000
About Brighton
Brighton, a quaint town in Northumberland County, lies 100 kilometers west of Kingston and 150 kilometers east of Toronto. Nestled within is the renowned Presqu’ile Provincial Park, home to the picturesque “Presqu’ile Beach,” where visitors can unwind, swim, and immerse themselves in the beauty of Lake Ontario’s shoreline.
Adding to the town’s charm are its unique shops and delightful eateries. Among them, “The Gables” stands out, celebrated for its inviting ambiance and delectable cuisine. Additionally, “Northumberland Fine Foods” offers a treat for food enthusiasts, featuring a gift shop, a tasting lounge, and a delightful selection of artisanal products from top producers. Guests can indulge in a charcuterie-style sampling platter paired with exquisite wines while the Tasting Lounge hosts performances by both local and international artists during after-hours.
Medical/Hospital
Northumberland Hills Hospital is located in Cobourg, which is 37 KM from Brighton. The 137-bed hospital delivers a broad range of services, including medical/surgical care, complex/long-term care, rehabilitation, palliative care, and obstetrical care.
Retirement Communities
Brighton Retirement Living by Esprit Lifestyle Communities
Hope this list of 12 of the Best Places to Retire in Ontario helped! Comment Let us know if you have any suggestions to add!
Downsizing in Ontario? Learn more about WyldeOne, our expert downsizing services!
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