Ontario continues to be a top destination for Canadians and immigrants alike, offering a balanced mix of economic opportunity, cultural vibrancy, and high-quality living. As we look ahead to 2026, a number of cities across the province are emerging as standout places to call home — combining **job growth**, **affordability**, and **public safety** in an ever-evolving social and economic landscape. With new infrastructure projects taking shape and localized housing initiatives starting to bear fruit, a fresh crop of cities are climbing the ladder as desirable locations for both families and professionals.
While big names like Toronto and Ottawa still draw attention, several mid-sized and small cities are outperforming on key metrics such as employment rates, crime reduction, and cost of living. Whether you’re looking to invest, relocate for work, or raise a family in a stable environment, understanding where these cities rank now — and why they’ve emerged as top contenders — can help guide your next move.
Top Cities to Live in Ontario in 2026: Overview Table
| City | Median Home Price (2026) | Unemployment Rate | Crime Severity Index | Notable Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guelph | $685,000 | 4.7% | 37.5 | Strong economy, youth-driven innovation |
| Kingston | $525,000 | 5.2% | 44.0 | Affordable living, great healthcare |
| Waterloo | $720,000 | 5.0% | 40.8 | Tech sector boom |
| Barrie | $605,000 | 5.4% | 41.2 | Proximity to Toronto & nature |
| Peterborough | $495,000 | 6.0% | 48.7 | Revitalized downtown, rising arts scene |
| Ottawa | $710,000 | 5.1% | 35.9 | Stable employment, cultural diversity |
| Milton | $790,000 | 4.9% | 39.3 | Fast development, commuter-friendly |
| Sudbury | $420,000 | 5.7% | 43.1 | Affordability, natural landscape access |
| St. Catharines | $550,000 | 5.3% | 45.2 | Wine industry, education hubs |
| Whitby | $765,000 | 4.8% | 42.5 | Top-tier schools, suburban balance |
What changed this year
The housing market correction that began in late 2024 continues to ripple across Ontario, changing the dynamics for cities eager to attract both residents and businesses. Some cities have stabilized with modest price increases, while others have remained relatively affordable. Combined with strategic investments in healthcare, technology, and green transit, these changes have allowed some smaller and mid-sized cities to challenge long-dominant urban centers.
In 2026, **job creation** in non-Toronto areas has increased by nearly 7%, largely due to expansion in remote work policies and regional incentives that have motivated companies to decentralize operations. This has especially benefited cities like Guelph and Waterloo, where existing infrastructure meets innovation-driven growth.
Key factors driving city rankings
To determine the best cities to live in Ontario in 2026, we evaluated dozens of municipalities across five main categories: job opportunities, housing affordability, public safety, healthcare access, and community development. A strong economy was no longer enough — cities needed to offer sustainable growth, inclusive policies, and a high quality of life that kept both young professionals and retirees in mind.
Housing affordability and real estate trends
Rising interest rates in previous years led to a slight cooling in real estate prices. In cities like **Peterborough** and **Sudbury**, housing remains significantly more affordable than the provincial average. These markets cater perfectly to first-time homebuyers, downsizers, or remote workers looking for more space without sacrificing lifestyle or safety.
Crime rates and community safety improvements
Public safety remains an integral part of what makes a city livable. Enhanced policing strategies and community-led initiatives have made notable impacts in cities such as **Ottawa** and **Guelph**, where total crime severity indexes remain well below the national average. Investments in mental health services, youth education programs, and public lighting have all played a role in making these cities safer over the past two years.
Job growth beyond the GTA
The tech sector’s footprint has expanded beyond traditional hubs, with **Waterloo** leading the pack due to its longstanding reputation as a tech and academic center. Similarly, the green energy transition has seen major employers settle in **Kingston** and **Sudbury**, opening up well-paying jobs in renewable energy, infrastructure renewal, and environmental science.
“Companies are seeking diverse talents and stable logistics outside Toronto. Secondary cities are the new strategic base for long-term scalability.”
— Naomi Singh, Urban Economist
Winners and Cities to Watch
| Winners | Why They Stand Out |
|---|---|
| Waterloo | Tech industry anchors and post-secondary institutions fueling skilled migration |
| Guelph | Low unemployment, sustainability focus, growing youth culture |
| Kingston | Affordable home prices, strong healthcare options, low commute stress |
Rising stars and hidden gems
While some cities dominate the spotlight, others are quietly becoming magnets for residents looking for creative energy and lifestyle balance. **Peterborough’s** downtown rejuvenation, for example, blended historical charm with modern amenities, earning it a spot in this year’s top ten. Similarly, **St. Catharines** is beginning to benefit from Niagara region investments and eco-tourism expansion, making it attractive for young families and retirees alike.
Infrastructure and public transit upgrades
Multiple cities saw significant investments in public transit and roadways, improving both commute times and accessibility. Whitby and Milton experienced major upgrades to GO Transit service, aligning them with expectations for Toronto-area commuters. Affordable homes paired with easy downtown access led to increased migration of professionals toward these regions.
“Transit-oriented development is the game-changer for suburban cities trying to attract high-income earners without pricing out current residents.”
— Julian Markham, Infrastructure Consultant
Healthcare access and amenities
Any city list must consider healthcare access, especially in light of demographic shifts affecting long-term residents. Kingston and Sudbury saw noticeable boosts to their health infrastructure in 2025, including expanded ER services and increased staffing in retirement-friendly neighborhoods. These changes are attracting new residents, especially seniors seeking a quieter yet well-equipped environment.
Community and education
Strong school systems and community cohesion continue to sway buyers toward towns like Whitby and Guelph. Both invested in school infrastructure and after-school programming in 2025, offering holistic environments for families with children. Additionally, community festivals and civic involvement campaigns contributed to the rise of local pride and cultural identity within these locations.
Where to look if you’re planning to move in 2026
If you’re considering relocating, cities like Guelph, Waterloo, and Kingston are excellent choices that strike the right balance between **cost and opportunity**. For those prioritizing lifestyle and nature, Sudbury and Barrie offer affordability alongside outdoor access. And if you still need ease of access to Toronto without paying downtown housing premiums, Milton and Whitby are great options with improving transit connections.
Short FAQs: Everything You Should Know
Which Ontario city has the lowest crime index in 2026?
Ottawa currently holds the lowest reported **Crime Severity Index**, making it the safest city among the top ten.
What’s the best Ontario city for tech professionals in 2026?
Waterloo remains the top choice for tech professionals due to its universities, startups, and innovation hubs.
Where can I find the most affordable homes in Ontario?
**Sudbury** and **Peterborough** offer the most affordable median home prices under $500,000.
Which city has seen the most job growth recently?
Guelph has experienced sharp growth in employment, particularly in green tech, agri-food, and manufacturing.
Is Kingston a good place for retirees?
Yes, Kingston’s strong healthcare system and walkable communities make it an ideal spot for retirees in 2026.
Which cities are best for raising a family?
Whitby, Guelph, and Kingston offer a mix of education, amenities, and safety perfect for young families.
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