Canada has so many gorgeous places to live, and these Ontario small towns were named among the best in the country. Offering a quieter pace of life, these charming destinations let you trade city noise for quaint streets, local boutiques, and picturesque surroundings.
We asked readers on Facebook to name Canada’s best small towns to live in, and these Ontario spots were mentioned in the comments.
From dreamy beach towns to historic gems, here are 10 beautiful Ontario small towns that readers say are some of the best places to live in the country.
Picton
Address: Picton, ON
About: If white sand beaches, storybook charm and scenic wineries sound like your vibe, Picton might be your dream destination.
Nestled in Prince Edward County, the town has quaint streets, local shops and delicious eateries. It’s located close to the stunning Sandbanks Provincial Park, where you’ll find three gorgeous, dune-filled beaches.
The town is surrounded by beautiful wineries and farm markets, which add to its appeal.
According to The County website, the area is home to “outstanding natural beauty surrounded by Lake Ontario, fresh farm-to-table cuisine and Ontario’s fastest growing wine and craft beer region,” allowing for a “unique and unmatched quality of life.”
Port Hope
About: This quaint small town is just an hour away from Toronto, and it’s brimming with old-world charm. Home to “the best-preserved heritage main street in Ontario,” Port Hope will transport you back in time with its quaint shops and eateries.
According to the website, “you can look forward to spending summer evenings at the beach, picking up fresh veggies at the Farmers’ Market and wandering around a sparkling downtown in the winter.”
Almonte
About: If you love Christmas, this small town might be your dream place to live. It looks like it was plucked from the front of a holiday card and offers quaint streets and charming river views.
It’s even been dubbed the “Hallmark Capital of Ontario” and “Christmas Capital of Ontario” due to the many festive movies that have been filmed in the area.
Boasting a charming downtown, scenic river strolls, delicious eateries and more, it’s a beautiful spot to call home and is just 1 hour away from Ottawa.
Fergus
About: You might feel like you’re waking up in Scotland in this charming riverside town. Fergus is a cozy village nestled along the Grand River. It has a rich Scottish heritage, which is reflected in its natural limestone buildings, scenic parks and gardens, trail network, quaint boutiques and more.
The old-world downtown features cute shops and cafes where you can find all sorts of unique items and treats.
According to Centre Wellington, the township is “an amazing place to live and is one of the fastest growing areas in Wellington County. Residents of Centre Wellington enjoy the benefits of small town living, rural life, the Grand River as well as close proximity to many urban centres.”
Southampton
About: This coastal village in Ontario has stunning beaches and small-town charm. If you’re dreaming of escaping the hustle and bustle of big cities, this tranquil small town is the place for you.
Located along the shores of Lake Huron, Southampton offers “unspoiled white sand beaches” and allows you to “live like you’re in the Hamptons without breaking the bank,” according to the website.
The downtown is dotted with charming shops and restaurants where you can find all the necessities without a trip to the city.
Brighton
About: Perched along the shores of Lake Ontario, Brighton offers beautiful water views and gorgeous landscapes.
You can spend your days exploring Presqu’ile Provincial Park, visiting the local heritage sites, and popping into the quaint shops around the downtown.
According to the Municipality of Brighton website, “whether you’re just starting out or making a change, you’ll find that Brighton is a safe community with a vibrant business district, healthy lifestyle opportunities, and good employment prospects.”
Goderich
About: Situated on the shores of sparkling Lake Huron, Goderich is a gorgeous small town to call home.
It’s fittingly known as “Canada’s prettiest town,” and is home to dreamy beaches and a quaint downtown brimming with shops.
You can spend your summer days relaxing on the three beautiful beaches, strolling along the picturesque trails, and dining on a scenic patio.
According to the town’s website, “Goderich is a growing community and the largest urban community in Huron County” and is complete with “quality childcare, healthcare, top-notch schools, state-of-the-art recreation, dozens of active community and sporting groups/service clubs, as well as government and community services” and more.
Paris
About: If historic streets, river views and old-world charm sound like your idea of a dream spot to live, you’ll want to check out this quaint small town.
According to readers, Paris is one of the best spots to live in Ontario. Dubbed the “Cobblestone Capital of Canada,” the village will transport you back in time with its cozy cafes and historic streets.
It’s home to a number of delicious restaurants to enjoy, as well as beautiful riverside trails and more.
Bobcaygeon
About: Readers say that this charming town tucked between two lakes is one of the best places to live in Canada. Bobcaygeon, situated in the Kawarthas region, boasts flower-filled streets and quaint shops that seem straight out of a postcard.
You can enjoy the tranquillity of the small town and explore the surrounding region, which offers over 250 lakes, dreamy beaches, farm markets, and cozy communities.
Elora
About: Want to spend every day in “Ontario’s most beautiful village?” Elora is renowned for its old-world charm and is a gorgeous place to call home.
With limestone buildings, unique shops and cozy cafes, it has no shortage of things to enjoy.
The town is surrounded by beautiful trails and is also home to the Elora Quarry — a picturesque swimming hole with turquoise water.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.