With a population nearing 215,000, Oakville has earned the right to call itself a “city.” However, residents have such pride in their tight-knit community with its family-friendly vibe that they refuse to be called anything but the “Town of Oakville.” And why mess with perfection?
In 2018, Mayor Rob Burton said, “Oakville is a city that calls itself a town and acts like a village.” He was referring to the incredible sense of community and togetherness that makes Oakville so beloved among its residents.
And this isn’t just one biased opinion. The high standard of living in Oakville is well documented. In fact, MoneySense Magazine once dubbed this town the best place in Canada overall.
If you’re looking for a safe and vibrant community to live in with your family, Oakville is a hidden gem that should be near the top of your list. Here are just a few reasons why.
Oakville Is Safe
Safety is always front of mind for every family. And Oakville is as safe as you can get anywhere. As a city with next to no crime, you can let your children play outside without worry or fear. While people lock their doors out of habit and an abundance of caution, your chances of ever becoming a victim are practically zero.
This peacefulness and safety provide the foundation of a life well lived, allowing you to focus on the other things that matter most, like giving your child the best possible education. And, of course, having the freedom to play, explore, and create cherished memories that will last forever!
Wherever you decide to settle, making your house feel like home is one of the first things you’ll want to do. Here are some creative ideas to get you started:
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An Outstanding Education System
Access to high-quality schools is another must when searching for your family’s forever home. And Oakville delivers, with a robust education system that serves children at all levels, from pre-school to post-secondary. For example, Sheridan College is recognized internationally for its excellence in business, engineering, communications, applied health, and performing arts programs.
The Halton District School Board serves the area, providing access and resources to 84 elementary and 19 secondary schools, including many with French immersion options. Looking for a highly-rated high school? Here are a few of your top choices:
- Abbey Park Secondary School
- Iroquois Ridge Secondary School
- Oakville Trafalgar High School
- Ste Trinité
Although there are too many to list, here are a few excellent choices for elementary schools in Oakville:
- Joshua Creek PS
- Sunningdale PS
- St. Matthew Catholic Elementary
- Ecole elementaire Patricia Picknell
Do you prefer the individualized attention and specialized instruction that only a private facility can provide? You are in the right place in Oakville, as the town is noted for the calibre of its independent schools. Here are just a few of the many options that may be the perfect fit for your child’s unique needs and learning style:
- Appleby College
- Fern Hill School Oakville Campus
- Walden International School
- Rotherglen
- MacLachlan College
- Chisholm Academy
- St Mildred’s-Lightbourn School
This is just a broad overview of Oakville’s outstanding education system. You’ll learn even more in our post 5 Highly-Reputable Schools In Oakville.
What’s Around the Town?
In terms of sheer size, Oakville is tiny when compared with other cities. But what it lacks in square mileage, it more than makes up for with its unforgettable character and world-class amenities. Beauty is everywhere, both natural and in the detailed architecture of the downtown buildings and majestic homes.
The Bronte Harbour waterfront is a joy to explore all year long, lined with boutique stores, ice cream shops, and endless cafes and restaurants. However, you will notice something missing as you stroll along the boardwalk; the crowds!
Just imagine: You get to explore the stunning shores of Lake Ontario on the busiest days and still have room to breathe and move. If you want to enjoy an elevated lifestyle, Oakville may be just the town for you. Famous former residents include actor Jim Carrey and singer Sarah McLachlan.
As spectacular as the sights and scenery may be, there’s a lot more to experience and enjoy. For example:
- Over 200 parks and 140 kilometres of trails. That’s a lot of space for your kids to run, play and burn off their endless energy.
- An outstanding shopping and dining district, with a variety of cuisines, including Mexican, Italian, French, Greek, Thai, Pacific Rim and Southwestern. Eat your heart out, Toronto!
- A bonanza of exciting events such as the Taste of Oakville, Oakville Children’s Festival, and the Bronte Provincial Park’s Maple Syrup Festival.
- A one-of-a-kind art scene, where you can visit multiple downtown galleries in a single afternoon.
- Endless chances to pamper yourself, with a selection of services that include therapeutic massage, facials, and restorative body treatments.
Not many places can truly boast that there’s something for everyone, but Oakville is one of them.
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A Few Neighbourhood Highlights
The neighbourhoods that make up our beloved town each have their own unique characteristics and way of life. They do, however, all have something in common. Everywhere you go, there’s a strong sense of community. It’s the glue that holds the town together! Now that you know about the incredible lifestyle Oakville offers, let’s take a closer look at a few of our favourite neighbourhoods.
Old Oakville
The heart of south Oakville is known for its stately mix of heritage homes and modern architectural wonders, all situated near the shore of Lake Ontario. You know when you’ve reached Old Oakville when the cars begin to slow down – not because of traffic, but to take in the beauty of the neighbourhood.
Old Oakville is also home to some of the best schools in town, including E.J. James Public Elementary School and Maple Grove Public Elementary School, along with several options for private education.
With an abundance of beautiful trails and parks combined with the convenience of a highly walkable downtown area, this is where many affluent families decide to settle.
Discover more about Old Oakville in our community guide right here.
Morrison
Welcome to one of the ritziest neighbourhoods not just in Oakville, but in all of Canada. Spectacular homes line the streets of this luxurious and private enclave. For residents of Morrison, only the best will do, especially when it comes to education. You’ll find some of the city’s best schools nearby, including St. Vincent Elementary, St. Joseph Elementary, and Oakville Trafalgar Secondary Schools. The neighbourhood is renowned for quiet luxury and stunning scenery while being close to the convenient amenities of downtown.
Want to know more about Morrison? Check out our community guide right here.
Glen Abbey
Home to the famous Glen Abbey Golf Club, Glen Abbey is one of the most coveted neighbourhoods in Oakville. Spacious, two-storey homes on oversized lots are the norm, as are tall trees, plentiful parks, and beautiful green spaces. You will also find a few townhouses and beautiful custom builds sprinkled around, which means there’s something for everyone in this quintessential Oakville neighbourhood.
The number of quality schools in the catchment area makes Glen Abbey a top choice for families. And the convenience of restaurants, cafes, shops, and other amenities allows residents to enjoy an enviable lifestyle.
You can find out more about Glen Abbey in our community guide right here.
Westoak Trails
Westoak Trails is well-known as one of the most family-friendly communities in Oakville. For a town renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, that is saying something! It’s also one of the newer neighbourhoods where you’ll find plenty of walking trails and bike paths that connect you to many of Oakville’s convenient amenities, including a children’s playground and splash pad.
Westoak Trails is also the location of the prestigious Forest Grove Preschool Academy of Arts and Technology and The Edge School of Performing Arts. If there is a budding genius or talented performer in your family, this could be the perfect place to nurture their gifts.
Ready to discover even more about Westoak Trails? You will find our community guide right here.
Bronte
Does the ambiance of picturesque waterfront parks near a bustling marina and dynamic shopping district appeal to you? Then look no further than Bronte, where the downtown harbour is always full of energy and excitement. The streets are lined with shops and restaurants, and Bronte Creek Provincial Park is a breathtaking destination for a day or a week. Perhaps even better than the scenery is the diverse crowd of friendly locals who may just be your new neighbours!
Discover even more about Bronte in our community guide right here.
Do you want to know more about Oakville and which neighbourhood within would be the best fit for your home search? Reach out to us today at tanya@tcteam.ca or call 647-293-3785 for more information or to begin house hunting.
