If waking up to shimmering lakes and quaint streets sounds like your dream life, this small town in Ontario is worth checking out. With beautiful water views and cozy cottage vibes, it’s a little slice of paradise, and locals say it’s one of Canada’s best small towns to live in.
On Narcity Canada’s Facebook page, we asked readers to share what they think is Canada’s best small town to live in. The post garnered hundreds of comments, and this quaint Ontario town was one of the spots mentioned.
Bobcaygeon is a charming small town nestled between two beautiful lakes, Sturgeon and Pigeon, in the Kawarthas region.
Located 90 minutes from the GTA, the cozy cottage-country town has storybook streets lined with cozy shops and a sandy beach where you can spend your weekends soaking up some sun.
A popular spot to visit in the town is Lock 32, located along the Trent-Severn Waterway. The destination offers beautiful views of boats drifting along the shimmering waters.
The downtown area boasts flower-filled streets, old-world shops and cute ice cream parlours. You can find everything from clothing to butter tarts here.
Bobcaygeon Beach Park features a large, sandy beach and shallow waters perfect for taking a dip on a hot summer day.
The surrounding Kawartha Lakes area is brimming with attractions and dreamy spots to explore. It’s home to over 250 lakes with 15 dreamy beaches, as well as cozy villages and communities such as Lindsay and Fenlon Falls.
You can check out attractions like Balsam Lake Provincial Park, the Kawartha Settlers’ Village and The Grove Theatre, or shop at some of the six farmers’ markets throughout the region.
According to Exit Realty Liftlock, Bobcaygeon “offers residents a quintessential small-town experience nestled along the shores of the Trent-Severn Waterway.” Its quaint downtown, natural surroundings, and rich history present a “rewarding and fulfilling lifestyle for residents of all ages.”
Zolo states that the average home price in Bobcaygeon as of June 2025 is $723,167 — a significant drop compared to Toronto’s median price of $1,165,143.
With cozy cottage charm and sparkling waters, Bobcaygeon is one of Canada’s best small towns to call home, according to readers.