When Canadians search for the best places to live, two Halton Region communities consistently stand out: Oakville and Burlington. Both towns regularly appear at or near the top of national rankings for livability, happiness, and safety. For families, professionals, and retirees, these lakeside communities represent some of the finest living in Canada.
Burlington: Happiness on the Waterfront
-
Top 5 happiest places in Canada – In 2023, Burlington ranked 5th happiest municipality in Canada, based on factors such as health, income, commute time, and sense of belonging.
-
Work-life balance leader – Studies also placed Burlington at #1 in Ontario for work-life balance, highlighting its high life satisfaction and low stress levels.
-
Quality of life satisfaction – Nearly 8 in 10 residents rated Burlington’s quality of life as “very good” or “excellent,” and 92% reported strong satisfaction with city services.
-
Parks and trails – With 127 parks and over 200 km of trails, nearly every Burlington resident is within a 20-minute walk of green space.
Burlington blends natural beauty with modern conveniences. The waterfront, Spencer Smith Park, and vibrant downtown create a balance of relaxation and community activity that few cities can match.
Oakville: Prestigious & Highly Liveable
-
Top 10 in Canada – The Globe and Mail’s 2023 survey ranked Oakville in the Top 10 most liveable cities in Canada, and #1 in Ontario for access to health care.
-
Best Place to Live – Oakville was named the #1 Best Place to Live in Canada by MoneySense Magazine in 2018, praised for its economy, schools, safety, and culture.
-
Safety and community strength – Consistently ranked among the safest communities in Canada, Oakville also scores highly for education and community engagement.
Oakville offers a prestigious lifestyle with its lakefront neighbourhoods, historic downtown, excellent schools, and cultural amenities. Its blend of small-town charm and cosmopolitan access makes it a highly sought-after address.
Why Oakville & Burlington Rank Among Canada’s Best
Both communities offer qualities that directly impact happiness and livability:
-
Safety: Low crime rates and well-maintained neighbourhoods.
-
Green space & recreation: Trails, parks, waterfronts, and community events.
-
Health & education: High access to hospitals, schools, and post-secondary institutions.
-
Community: Surveys consistently show residents feel a strong sense of belonging.
-
Location: Close proximity to Toronto while offering a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle.
Considerations
It’s worth noting that demand for homes in these towns contributes to higher real estate prices compared to many Canadian municipalities. However, the investment pays off with stability, community strength, and quality of life.
The Bottom Line
For buyers and families looking at Oakville real estate or Burlington real estate, both towns consistently rank among the happiest and most liveable places in Canada. Whether you’re drawn to Burlington’s strong community feel and affordability, or Oakville’s prestige and amenities, both represent outstanding choices for a balanced, fulfilling lifestyle.
