With beautiful parks, an outstanding education system, and a thriving career market, Guelph is known far and wide as a great place for the young. The housing market is more accessible than in the GTA, and even the overall cost of living is lower, which only adds even further to the appeal of the Royal City (also known as Guelph).
However, what happens if you’re on the cusp of retirement or downsizing? If that’s the case, you may be pleasantly surprised at all Guelph has to offer for its more mature residents. In this post, we’ll paint a picture of what retirement life would look like in Guelph.
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Unparalleled Quality of Life
We’ve already mentioned that Guelph is also known as the “Royal City.” Officially, this is because the city’s founder descended from British royalty, but it also makes perfect sense when you see what life is like in this incredible community.
Safe, quiet neighbourhoods and a friendly vibe are among the first things you’ll notice. Like Toronto, there’s no shortage of things to do. Unlike Toronto, you won’t encounter crowds, noise, and traffic congestion everywhere you go. As a university city well-regarded for its medical program, Guelph offers excellent access to healthcare, as well as a vast network of community support systems.
The Guelph Wellington Seniors Association offers a variety of health and support groups that are individually tailored to older adults. Guelph General Hospital is the primary hospital, which provides a range of emergency care, as well as specialized and diagnostic services. Though finding a doctor anywhere in Ontario can be challenging, the City of Guelph is committed to your health, and offers active recruitment efforts that could help connect you with physicians accepting new patients.
Curious about what living in Guelph might look like? The posts below will help fill in the gaps:
- Our Favourite Places to Find Unique Gifts in Guelph and the Tri-Cities
- Over 70 Fun Things To Do With Your Family In Guelph
- Living in Guelph FAQs
Endless Recreational Activities
Knowing that your new community is safe and supportive may be the ultimate deciding factor in where you choose to retire. However, it’s not all about the practical aspects. An elevated lifestyle also means having plenty of recreational activities to enjoy during your downtime.
When it comes to having fun and living life to the fullest, Guelph does not disappoint. To start with, the city boasts a thriving arts and entertainment scene – there is always something going on! Here are just a few ways you can get out to enjoy an afternoon or night on the town.
- Catch the latest performance at River Run Centre, Guelph’s quintessential venue for live entertainment. Shows include concerts, musicals, comedy acts, and more.
- Check out a masterpiece from talented artists around the world at the Art Gallery of Guelph. Exhibitions include both contemporary and historical works, and there are even opportunities to enhance your own art skills through various workshops and demonstrations.
- Explore the fascinating history of the Royal City at one of Guelph’s museums or heritage sites. Thousands of stories come to life before your eyes through a series of exhibitions and artifacts.
Enjoy Guelph’s Boundless Natural Beauty
There’s just something about nature that soothes the soul, and Guelph boasts endless parks and trails where you can soak in the boundless beauty. Whether you’re walking, driving, cycling, or jogging, you won’t be able to deny that Guelph is simply breathtaking!
When you want to stay active, there’s an extensive trail system that leads you through wooded areas, often with riverside views, and some that even connect you to other communities within the city.
The Arboretum at the University of Guelph features a dazzling array of diverse plants, colourful gardens, and picturesque walking paths. On warmer days, you can head to Guelph Lake, where you can relax at the beach or spend an afternoon kayaking.
Eat, Drink, Shop, Socialize
Staying engaged and social is essential during your retirement years. What better way to do that than by getting out and sharing a meal with your friends and loved ones? With a vast array of dining options, Guelph is a fantastic place for retirees to connect with others.
The downtown core boasts numerous cozy pubs, cafes, and restaurants. You’ll also find breweries, farmer’s markets, and gourmet grocery shops, where you can either tantalize your taste buds with something new or stick with the usual favourites.
Once your appetite is satisfied, Guelph also offers a unique and varied shopping scene. Standard big box stores are available for your everyday needs. When you’re on the hunt for something special, check out one of the many independent boutiques and markets throughout the city.
For example, the Market Square provides a thoroughly unique shopping experience amidst the backdrop of beautiful scenery, with other amenities such as an outdoor skating rink and wading pool. Local artisans and craft fairs also bring you a selection of high-quality, local-made goods that are perfect, whether you’re looking for a gift for someone else or to treat yourself.
Are you looking for more practical tips to streamline your downsizing experience? The posts below can help you stay on track:
- What Are the Top Condo Buildings in Guelph For Seniors?
- When is the Right Time to Downsize?
- Buy To Rent Or Buy To Downsize?
A Varied and Affordable Housing Market
For empty-nesters, Guelph offers an unbelievable quality of life, along with a real estate market that boasts endless options. For example, a condo in the heart of downtown means a world of convenience right outside your door, where you’re close to the excitement and all the goings-on in the city. Alternatively, you might choose a quieter location in an older neighbourhood, where you can enjoy peace and quiet without sacrificing access to any of those amenities.
Whatever you decide, you can find your ideal retirement destination at prices far more affordable than in Toronto. It’s just a matter of creating your vision of what you want your future to look like and then finding the house to match.
Do you want to explore your retirement options in greater detail? Our top Guelph real estate agents are here to answer all of your questions. Reach out today at info@gowylde.ca or call 519-826-7109 to learn more about our downsizing services.
