This charming lakeside town 1 hour from Toronto was named among Canada's best spots to live

You don't need to go far from Toronto to discover one of Canada's "best" spots to live. This enchanting small town with a quaint harbour and picturesque streets was named among the top places to call home in the country.

Recently, we asked readers on Narcity Canada's Facebook page to name the best small towns to live in Canada, and this lakeside Ontario destination was one of the picks.

Oakville is a quaint destination located along the shores of Lake Ontario, less than an hour away from Toronto.

According to Visit Oakville, it's home to "picturesque harbours, vibrant shopping districts, active arts community and some of the best dining options in the Greater Toronto Area."

The downtown is lined with charming shops and boutiques where you can find everything from clothing to home decor and jewelry, meaning you don't have to head into the city to enjoy a shopping spree.

There's lots to enjoy in the area, from the drive-in theatre to museums, festivals, and galleries.

If you love the outdoors, Oakville is the place to be. The destination boasts over 3,200 acres of parkland and open space where you'll find trails, pools and more.

The waterfront is a gorgeous spot for a sunset stroll or picnic. During the summer, you can enjoy two beaches — Coronation Park and Bronte Beach Park.

With more than 200 restaurants to choose from, there's no shortage of dining options in Oakville. You can enjoy brunch with a view, relax at cozy cafés, or dig into a meal on a scenic waterfront patio.

The town is a convenient place for commuters as it is accessible by VIA Rail and GO Transit.

However, you may have to spend some extra cash to afford life in this small town. According to RE/MAX, Oakville's cost of living "tends to be slightly higher than other areas in Ontario," with the median price for a home around $1,467,954 in June 2025, as reported by Zolo.

If you're looking for a new spot to call home, locals say Oakville is one of Canada's best small towns to live in.

Visit Oakville Website

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.