Best places to retire in Ontario: Our Top Choice 2025

There’s no perfect place for everyone, but some towns in Ontario are great for retirees.  

Smaller communities with good amenities for seniors, affordable homes, and low crime rates make them attractive. They also offer decent weather and plenty of things to do.  

Looking for a great place to retire? Here are 12 top spots in Ontario to consider.

Also read; Top 10 Waterfront Retirement Communities In Ontario

Peterborough: A Great Place to Retire

• Population: 84,230
• Percentage of People Over 65: 21.4%
• Average Age: 43
• Average Home Price (2024): $630,000

Why Retire in Peterborough?

Nestled on the Otonabee River, Peterborough is a vibrant, affordable city known for its senior-friendly activities, including hockey leagues (ages 55–80), great fishing, and the annual folk music festival. Dubbed the "Electric City", it boasts beautiful architecture and a welcoming community.

Healthcare & Retirement Living

• Peterborough Regional Health Centre – A modern hospital with 494 beds and comprehensive medical services.
• Retirement Communities:
  • Applewood Retirement Residence
  • Empress, Princess, Royal, and Canterbury Gardens
  • Jackson Creek & Kawartha Heights Retirement Living
  • Rubidge Retirement Residence

With cultural events, accessible healthcare, and a strong retirement community, Peterborough is among the best places to retire in Ontario.

London, Ontario: A Top Retirement Destination

• Population: 511,000
• Percentage of People Over 65: 19%
• Average Age: 39
• Average Home Price (2024): $640,000

Why Retire in London?

Ranked 6th among Canada’s happiest cities (2014), London is a vibrant and scenic city located between Toronto and Detroit. Known as the "Forest City", it boasts 730+ hectares of green space, scenic trails, and numerous parks—perfect for staying active. Retirees enjoy senior centers, walking groups, coffee chats, and social activities.

Healthcare & Retirement Living

• Top Medical Facilities:

  • London Health Sciences Centre
  • University Hospital & Victoria Hospital
  • St. Joseph’s Hospital
  • Mount Hope Centre for Long-Term Care

• Retirement Communities:

  • Chartwell Riverside Retirement Residences
  • Richmond Woods & Longworth Retirement Villages
  • Windermere on the Mount, Grand Wood Park & Horizon Place

With affordable housing, quality healthcare, and active living options, London is an ideal place to retire in Ontario.

Also read Retirement Planning in Canada

Niagara-on-the-Lake: A Picturesque Retirement Destination

• Population: 17,511
• Percentage of People Over 65: 34%
• Average Age: 50
• Average Home Price (2024): $1,200,000

Why Retire in Niagara-on-the-Lake?

Known for its world-class wineries, charming historic buildings, and boutique shops, Niagara-on-the-Lake is often called "Ontario’s prettiest town." Located on Lake Ontario, near Niagara Falls, it offers a mild climate and an active lifestyle with walking trails, cycling paths, and community fitness programs.

Healthcare & Retirement Living

• Niagara-on-the-Lake Hospital

  • 559 beds
  • Services include Acute & Complex Care, Cancer & Cardiac Care, Long-Term Care, Mental Health, and Stroke & Surgical Care
  • Staff of 4,800+ employees, 600 physicians, and 850 volunteers

• Retirement Communities:

  • Stamford Estates
  • River Road Retirement Residence

Considerations

While Niagara-on-the-Lake offers a high quality of life, it comes at a premium price, with an average home cost of $1.2 million in 2024. For those who can afford it, it is an idyllic and luxurious retirement choice in Ontario.

Stratford

• Population: 31,465
• Percentage of People Over 65: 17.6%
• Average Age: 45
• Average Home Price (2024): $570,000

Why Retire in Stratford?

Stratford is a quaint town perfect for theatre and music lovers, best known for the Stratford Shakespeare Festival and Summer Music Festival, which attract world-class performers. Located on the Avon River, the city features historic architecture, scenic parks, and a peaceful atmosphere for retirees.

Healthcare & Retirement Living

• New Regional Hospital in St. Catharines provides medical services.
• Retirement Communities:
  • Royal Palisade
  • River Gardens Retirement Residence
  • Chartwell Anne Hathaway Retirement Residence

Considerations

With an affordable housing market (average home price $570,000 in 2024), Stratford is a great option for retirees seeking arts, culture, and a relaxed lifestyle in Southwestern Ontario.

Also read; How to Retire in Ontario as a Foreigner

Guelph: A Thriving & Safe Retirement Destination

• Population: 131,794
• Percentage of People Over 65: 17%
• Average Age: 35.7
• Average Home Price (2024): $800,000

Why Retire in Guelph?

Nicknamed "The Royal City," Guelph is one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities, known for its low crime rate, low unemployment, and high quality of life. The city offers a culturally diverse atmosphere with a vibrant downtown and plenty of entertainment options. Outdoor lovers can enjoy golf courses, recreational activities, and easy access to Highway 401.

Healthcare & Retirement Living

• Hospitals:
  • Guelph General Hospital (165 beds, 224 doctors, and 1,200 staff)
  • St. Joseph’s Health Centre (240-bed long-term care home offering 24-hour nursing and medical care)
• Retirement Communities:
  • The Village of Arbour Trails
  • Chartwell Royal on Gordon Retirement Residence
  • Chartwell Select Wellington
  • Guelph Lake Commons
  • Elliott Retirement

Considerations

With an average home price of $800,000 (2024), Guelph is a safe, growing city offering a mix of urban conveniences, natural beauty, and strong healthcare options, making it an attractive choice for retirees.

Kingston: 

• Population: 167,293
• Percentage of People Over 65: 14.1%
• Average Age: 41
• Average Home Price (2024): $640,000

Why Retire in Kingston?

Strategically located between Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal, Kingston offers big-city amenities with a smaller population. Situated on the eastern end of Lake Ontario, it is a prime location for sailing, waterfront walks, and outdoor activities.

Kingston has a thriving social scene, with a 5,000+ member seniors association offering 200+ programs, including:

• Arts & Crafts (quilting, woodworking, painting)
• Fitness & Sports (yoga, aquafit, salsa dancing)
• Social & Educational Activities (book clubs, bridge, language learning, technology)

Healthcare & Retirement Living

• Hospitals:
  • Kingston General Hospital (456-bed teaching hospital)
  • Cancer Centre of Southeastern Ontario
• Retirement Communities:
  • Royale Place Retirement Residence
  • Kingsdale Chateau
  • St. Lawrence Place

Considerations

With a low cost of living, affordable home prices ($640,000 in 2024), and strong healthcare options, Kingston is a top choice for retirees seeking an active lifestyle, social engagement, and excellent medical care.

Collingwood: 

• Population: 21,793
• Percentage of People Over 65: 30%
• Average Age: 30
• Average Home Price (2024): $720,000

Why Retire in Collingwood?

Nestled on the southern tip of Georgian Bay, Collingwood is a top-rated retirement destination, offering stunning waterfront views and year-round recreational activities.

It has been ranked among the Best Places to Retire in Canada by Moneysense, placing 11th in 2017 and 16th in 2018.

Activities & Lifestyle

Collingwood is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering:

• Summer Activities: Sailing, fishing, swimming, hiking, golfing
• Winter Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling

With 30% of the population being retirement-aged, it has a strong senior community and a low cost of living relative to its amenities.

Healthcare & Retirement Living

• Hospital: Collingwood General and Marine Hospital (CGMH) – a 68-bed facility
• Retirement Communities:
  • Raglan Village Adult & Retirement Community
  • Chartwell Georgian Traditions Retirement Residence
  • Balmoral Place Retirement Community

Considerations

Collingwood offers beautiful scenery, a vibrant senior community, and diverse activities year-round, making it one of Ontario’s most sought-after retirement destinations.

Also read; Best Provinces To Retire In Canada For Retirees

Tillsonburg: 

• Population: 15,872
• Percentage of People Over 65: 32%
• Average Age: 46
• Average Home Price (2024): $840,000

Why Retire in Tillsonburg?

Tillsonburg is perfect for retirees seeking a peaceful, small-town lifestyle. Conveniently located between Chatham and Hamilton, the town offers a low crime rate, low property taxes, and a strong senior community, with 32% of residents being retirement-aged.

It was recently ranked #8 on Business Advice Source’s list of ‘Best Places in Ontario for Retirees’.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Tillsonburg provides various recreational and social opportunities, including:

• Community Complex featuring an indoor pool, fitness center, arenas, and more
• Tillsonburg Community Shopping Centre
• Senior programs focused on arts, fitness, and social activities
• Close proximity to Turkey Point & Long Point for nature lovers

Healthcare & Retirement Living

• Hospital: Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital, offering medical, surgical, palliative, and rehabilitation services
• Retirement Communities:
  • Tillsonburg Retirement Residence
  • Harvest Crossing Retirement Community
  • Dayspring Residence

Considerations

With its safe, affordable, and well-equipped environment, Tillsonburg is a great choice for retirees looking for a quiet but engaging lifestyle in Ontario.

Cobourg: 

• Population: 19,440
• Percentage of People Over 65: 37%
• Average Age: 49
• Average Home Price (2024): $740,000

Why Retire in Cobourg?

Cobourg, a charming lakeside town between Toronto and Kingston, has been ranked among Canada’s Best Places to Live. With stunning waterfront views, beaches, marinas, and trails, it offers a relaxed yet engaging lifestyle for retirees.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Cobourg is perfect for retirees who want to stay active and social, offering:

• Sports, arts, and specialty clubs (e.g., bowling, photography, fitness)
• A modern community center with hockey rinks, a fitness center, and a concert hall
• Scenic trails for hiking & cycling
• A thriving arts scene

Healthcare & Retirement Living

• Hospital: Northumberland Hills Hospital (137 beds) provides medical, surgical, pediatric, emergency, rehabilitation, and palliative care services
• Retirement Communities:
  • Palisade Gardens Retirement Residence
  • Rosewood Estates
  • Cobourg Retirement Residence

Considerations

With 37% of the population being retirement-aged, Cobourg offers a vibrant senior community, making it one of the best places to retire in Ontario. However, the cost of living has risen, so prospective retirees should plan accordingly.

Thunder Bay:

• Population: 107,909
• Percentage of People Over 65: 23%
• Average Age: 43
• Average Home Price (2024): $360,000

Why Retire in Thunder Bay?

As Northwest Ontario’s largest city, Thunder Bay blends rich history with modern amenities. Nestled on Lake Superior, it is also Eastern Canada’s sunniest city, offering year-round outdoor recreation.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Perfect for active retirees, Thunder Bay offers:

• Outdoor activities like snowshoeing, skiing, hiking, and sailing
• Low cost of living, with affordable housing
• A scenic, nature-filled environment

Healthcare & Retirement Living

• Hospital: Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (395 beds) serves the city and much of Northwestern Ontario. It is also a leader in cancer care.
• Retirement Communities:
  • Chartwell Thunder Bay Retirement Residence
  • Chartwell Glacier Ridge Retirement Residence
  • Chartwell Isabella Retirement Residence

Considerations

Thunder Bay’s affordable home prices ($360,000) and active lifestyle make it one of Ontario’s best retirement destinations. It is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a relaxed yet adventurous retirement.

Huntsville: A Scenic & Peaceful Retirement Destination

• Population: 19,816
• Percentage of People Over 65: 25%
• Average Age: 45
• Average Home Price (2024): $710,000

Why Retire in Huntsville?

As the largest town in the Muskoka Region, Huntsville offers a charming small-town atmosphere with plenty of amenities and entertainment.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Ideal for nature lovers, Huntsville provides:

• Boating, swimming, hiking, golfing, and skiing at Hidden Valley Ski Resort
• Picturesque shorelines, surrounded by four lakes
• Vibrant community life, including art shows, community theatre, and boutique shops
• Easy access to Algonquin Park for outdoor adventures
• Cottage-like living, just 2.5–3 hours north of Toronto

Healthcare & Retirement Living

• Hospital: Huntsville District Memorial Hospital (37 beds) with a 24/7 Emergency Department
• Retirement Communities:
  • Chartwell Muskoka Traditions Retirement Residence
  • Country Moments
  • Muskoka Landing Muskoka

Considerations

With beautiful lakes, outdoor recreation, and a strong community feel, Huntsville is an excellent choice for retirees looking for a peaceful, nature-filled lifestyle while still having access to modern amenities.

Owen Sound: 

• Population: 21,341
• Percentage of People Over 65: 30%
• Average Age: 46
• Average Home Price (2024): $550,000

Why Retire in Owen Sound?

As the largest urban community in Grey and Bruce counties, Owen Sound offers a picturesque setting, affordable living, and vibrant community events.

Amenities & Lifestyle

• Natural Beauty: Known for its scenic waterfalls and stunning landscapes along Georgian Bay
• Community Events: Home to festivals like the Festival of Northern Lights and Summerfolk Music & Crafts Festival
• Low Cost of Living: Affordable housing with an average home price of $550,000
• Active Community: Plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and social engagement

Healthcare & Retirement Living

• Hospital: Owen Sound Hospital serves as the regional referral center for Grey and Bruce Counties, ensuring quality medical care
• Retirement Communities:
  • Central Place Retirement Community
  • Seasons Owen Sound
  • John Joseph Place

Considerations

With its stunning natural surroundings, strong sense of community, and affordable living, Owen Sound is an ideal choice for retirees looking for a peaceful yet engaging lifestyle.

Brighton: 

• Population: 12,108
• Percentage of People Over 65: 33%
• Average Age: 50
• Average Home Price (2024): $650,000

Why Retire in Brighton?

Brighton is a quaint town in Northumberland County, located between Kingston and Toronto. With its peaceful setting, lakeside beauty, and strong community atmosphere, it offers a relaxing yet engaging lifestyle for retirees.

Amenities & Lifestyle

• Nature & Outdoor Activities: Home to Presqu’ile Provincial Park, offering beaches, swimming, and scenic shorelines along Lake Ontario
• Charming Downtown: Features unique shops and restaurants, including:
  • The Gables – Known for its cozy ambiance and excellent cuisine
  • Northumberland Fine Foods – Offers artisanal products, wine tastings, and live music performances

Healthcare & Retirement Living

• Hospital: Northumberland Hills Hospital (37 km away in Cobourg) provides medical, surgical, rehabilitation, and palliative care
• Retirement Communities:
  • Brighton Retirement Living by Esprit Lifestyle Communities

Considerations

With its idyllic waterfront setting, vibrant local culture, and strong retirement community, Brighton is a top choice for those seeking a peaceful and scenic retirement destination.