Top 5 best places to retire in Ontario with the Best quality of life – 2024

• Population: 104,316 
• Proportion of seniors: 26.40%
• Average property buying cost: $452,560 
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,588

With its affordable lifestyle, Chatham-Kent is a hidden gem in the “Banana Belt” of southwestern Ontario. There are four distinct seasons here, although the weather is mild. The community is situated between Lake Erie and Lake St. Clair. With a population of 104,316, 26.40% are seniors who appreciate the scenic views of Lake Erie and Lake St. Clair. In addition to activities like attending the Chatham Retrofest, it’s no wonder this city is known as the Classic Car Capital of Canada. Moreover, residents benefit from its proximity to border crossings such as the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel and Ambassador Bridge.It is common to find many retirement communities located nearby, with the closest hospital being Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA).

Statistics Canada (2021), CREA (July 2024) & Zumper (2024)

• Population: 128,624
• Proportion of seniors: 27.90%
• Average property buying cost: $695,300 
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,193

Peterborough is located between Ottawa and Toronto and has gained recognition for hosting some of the greatest retirement communities, with 27.90% of the population being seniors. The city boasts over ten different retirement homes, including the highly rated Applewood Retirement Residence.The area offers its elderly residents an abundance of activities to partake in, including a visit to the Art Gallery of Peterborough or the Canadian Canoe Museum. If you enjoy fishing or boating, these activities are available at the Trent-Severn Waterway. Looking for a nice walk outdoors? Peterborough has its own Rotary Greenway Trail where walking, hiking, and cycling can be enjoyed.

Statistics Canada (2021), CREA (July 2024) & Zumper (2024)

• Population: 12,108
• Proportion of seniors: 36.40% 
• Average property buying cost: $577,000
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $2,250

Brighton is a town in Northumberland County known for Presqu’ile Beach. In winter, residents enjoy activities such as skiing at resorts, while summers provide opportunities for fishing, boating, paddleboarding, and swimming in its lakes. The town is also equipped with its own golf course known as Timber Ridge Golf Course. Brighton is also a 25-minute drive to the Northumberland Hills Hospital. In Brighton, 36.40% of the population are seniors.Locals love to unwind by enjoying the sunset on the shoreline of Lake Ontario. For food lovers, Brighton has its own Northumberland Fine Foods where residents can enjoy a tasting lounge with charcuterie samplers.

Statistics Canada (2021), Zolo (Aug 2024) & Zumper (2024)

• Population: 24,811
• Proportion of seniors: 34.40% 
• Average property buying cost: $798,000 
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,825

Collingwood is an ideal retirement destination with easy access to outdoor activities. It’s perfect for those seeking an affordable and serene environment with abundant parks, beaches, and golf courses. The town’s population of 24,811 includes 34.40% seniors benefiting from Raglan Village, an adult and retirement community designed to fit various lifestyles.Many residents can be found relaxing at Wasaga Beach during their downtime, where locals can sail and appreciate the natural beauty of Collingwood. In the winter, Blue Mountain becomes a ski destination, drawing families together on weekends.

Statistics Canada (2021), Zolo (Aug 2024) & Zumper (2024)

• Population: 656,480 
• Proportion of seniors: 13.70% 
• Average property buying cost: $999,999 
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $2,072

If you love being near big cities, Brampton is the perfect place to settle. Located in Ontario’s Greater Toronto Area, the city can be a home for anyone, with a population of 656,480, 13.70% are seniors. Locals love to travel to the downtown center of Brampton to visit the Rose Theatre which puts on local shows known as Brampton On Stage. The city is surrounded by natural areas such as Eldorado Park and sports fields like Sandalwood Sports Field. Brampton is also a 22-minute drive to Mississauga or a 6-minute commute via GO Transit. The closest hospital is William Osler Health System’s Brampton Civic Hospital. Most private retirement homes in Brampton offer a continuum of care that allows residents to live in one type of accommodation for some time and then move to another as their needs change. Despite this change, you can maintain social ties with peers and friends and participate in activities and events that strengthen your connection with the community.

Statistics Canada (2021), CREA (July 2024) & Zumper (Aug 2024)