Lately, our team has been fielding quite a few questions about Waterloo, Ontario and what it’s like to live here. There are many great reasons for the renewed interest! As part of the Tri-Cities, Waterloo is an ideal place for families, retirees, young professionals, first-time home buyers – the list goes on.
If you’re new to the area or are considering relocating from the GTA, Waterloo deserves your consideration. Our Frequently Asked Questions about living here will help to satisfy your curiosity!
Do you want a seamless and straightforward home-buying process? One of our detailed buying guides will help!
Is Waterloo a Good Place To Live?
We’ll start by diving right into the heart of the matter. If change is on the horizon, the first thing you’ll want to know is if you’ll love living in your new city. Although everyone is different, there’s no question that Waterloo has much to offer!
Take a drive, or better yet, walk through the area, and the first thing you will notice is its incredible scenic beauty. If you don’t believe us, just visit one of our stunning green spaces like Laurel Creek Conservatory, Waterloo Park, or Hillside Park to take in the wonder of nature.
Homeowners in Waterloo take meticulous pride in both their city and their individual properties, and it shows! Many of our long-established neighbourhoods are dotted with mature trees and lush landscaping all around.
Throughout the city, there’s an undeniable sense of community spirit, which is particularly appealing to families. Make no mistake, though; Waterloo is exciting and vibrant, with a thriving nightlife fuelled by a strong student population.
Do you prefer fabulous shopping and dining to clubbing? Waterloo has you covered, thanks to Conestoga Mall and The Boardwalk, a massive open-air retail space with a Walmart, Rona, and Landmark theatre. There are also countless shops and restaurants all contained within a short space.
Supporting local businesses has never been so rewarding or easy! The opportunities and amenities in Waterloo might remind you of Toronto, if Toronto had less traffic, fewer crowds, less noise, and ample access to free parking.
Want to know more about some of our other top communities? Check out the posts below:
What Is the Population of Waterloo?
Now that you have an idea of what types of people make their home in Waterloo, you might be wondering exactly how many. Though the population density is considerably lower than in Toronto, Waterloo is growing fast.
The 2021 Census reported a population of 121,436, a 15.7% growth over 2016. In 2025, the city estimated that 154,900 people now call Waterloo home.
Based on Census projections, Waterloo could have as many as 185,000 permanent residents once 2051 arrives, a number that does not even include college and university students! If that’s not a testament to the joys of Waterloo life, we don’t know what is!
Does Waterloo Have a University?
Absolutely, yes! Two, in fact. The University of Waterloo has ranked as the #1 university in Canada based on reputation, and at #97 for the entire world! The institution also boasts North America’s largest selection of co-op jobs for university students, representing approximately 8,000 employers in more than 70 countries.
Wilfrid Laurier University offers affordable success and academic excellence, with more than 100 programs taught by award-winning faculty. The Waterloo campus takes up approximately an entire city block, and is a premier institution for business, mathematics, and economics programs.
Either university is an excellent choice for those fortunate enough to be accepted, but they are not the only post-secondary institutions around. Conestoga College, which has ranked as Canada’s top trade school, also has a campus right here in Waterloo. No wonder the city attracts so many professionals at all ages who want to reach the next level in their careers!
How to Get to Waterloo From Toronto?
Without traffic, the drive time is approximately 1 hour & 15 min via the 401 west. Add in the usual congestion, and the trip can take much longer, at least through the GTA stretch.
The bus is also an option, which takes a little over 2 hours on a good day. Alternatively, you can skip the traffic and travel in comfort on Via Rail.
How Far Is Kitchener From Waterloo?
Now you’re talking about a much faster and far less stressful commute! The distance between Waterloo and its twin city of Kitchener is just 3.6 KM. Drive time typically takes between 6 and 12 minutes. Busing takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
Traffic can be heavy during peak times, but it will be a breeze if you’re used to driving in the GTA!
Kitchener Vs Waterloo: What’s the Difference?
Kitchener and Waterloo are close enough to be grouped together, which is understandable as they are considered twin cities due to their proximity and shared infrastructure. However, they operate as completely independent entities, and each has its individual characteristics.
Kitchener is the larger of the two, both geographically and in terms of population. Waterloo tends to be younger and more high-tech, thanks in no small part to the universities and college! The cost of living in Waterloo is typically higher due to more expensive real estate and high demand for rentals.
What Is Waterloo Known For?
As the birthplace of the “BlackBerry,” Waterloo has carved out a place in tech history! Waterloo has more than 100 startups to date, not bad for the smallest city in the region. The innovation has helped to earn the unofficial title of the “Silicon Valley of the North.”
With so many highly rated post-secondary schools, Waterloo also has a reputation as an education powerhouse. Upon graduation, students often find themselves with excellent opportunities right close to home.
A high student population makes Waterloo a great town for investors! To find out if this opportunity is right for you, check out A Parent’s Guide to Real Estate Investing in Guelph.
What County Is Waterloo In?
Unsurprisingly, Waterloo is part of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo, along with Kitchener and Cambridge.
Do you want to know more about buying, selling, or investing in real estate in Waterloo and the Tri-Cities? The resources below will help you get started:
- 10 Things To Consider When Buying a Home
- Should I Buy Or Sell First?
- A Complete Guide to Real Estate Investing in Guelph
Where to Eat in Waterloo?
Dining out is one of our favourite things to do in Waterloo! You don’t have to go very far to discover a ton of great restaurants! Here are just a few of our top picks:
- Bhima’s Warung (Asian)
- Wildcraft Grill & Long Bar (Bar)
- The Keg Steakhouse & Bar
- 271 West Restaurant (Italian)
- Solé Uptown (Mediterranean)
- Beertown Public House (American Bar)
- The Bauer Kitchen (American)
- Proof Kitchen (International)
- Public Kitchen & Bar (Canadian)
- Morty’s Pub
What Are the Most Popular Neighbourhoods in Waterloo?
Beechwood – Mature family neighbourhood with big traditional homes situated on large treed lots. Tons of parks, great schools, walking trails & amenities.
Laurelwood – Close proximity to schools, parks & trails. Small town feel, yet close to tons of amenities.
Eastbridge – Family-friendly suburb with newer homes. Several good schools. Easy access to the city centre.
Do you want customized guidance when choosing a neighbourhood and buying your next home in Waterloo? Our top Guelph real estate agents serve the entire region and are happy to help. Reach out to info@gowylde.ca or call 519-826-7109 for more information.
