This vibrant city near Toronto was named one of the 'best places to live' in Ontario

If you're looking for a great place to call home near Toronto, it might be worth checking out listings in this Ontario city. With a lively downtown, spacious parks, hundreds of restaurants and more, it has everything you need to live your best life.

Real estate company RE/MAX recently shared its list of top picks for the "best places to live in Ontario" on their blog. The roundup highlights five cities that RE/MAX considers the top spots in Ontario's real estate market.

This vibrant destination with a bustling downtown core, renowned tech scene and attractions was among the five cities featured.

Waterloo, located just over an hour from Toronto, is the place to be if you're looking for a new home, according to RE/MAX.

The city is located in the heart of Canada’s Technology Triangle — an area spanning Waterloo, Kitchener and Cambridge.

According to RE/MAX, Waterloo "boasts a thriving tech industry" as well as Ontario's "two most sought-after universities." Other highlights include "numerous parks, green spaces, galleries, theatres, excellent healthcare facilities, a low crime rate, and clean streets with a mix of Ranch, Victorian and Mennonite Georgian styles sprinkled among more contemporary-styled homes and condos."

Due to its proximity to Toronto, Waterloo is a great choice for professionals who work in Toronto but are looking for more affordable housing options. Waterloo also offers a quieter lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of a major city.

According to Explore Waterloo Region, "the city’s core, known as Uptown Waterloo, is home to more than 400 restaurants, shops and services." During the summer months, you can enjoy a bite to eat and cold beverage on one of the many patios as you soak up some sunshine.

There's also Waterloo Public Square – "a year-round gathering and event space" where you can enjoy festivals, ice skating and more.

Waterloo Park, known as the "Jewel of Waterloo" is a beautiful spot to go for a stroll, see some animals and relax with a picnic.

The Waterloo Region Association of Realtors reports that in October 2024, the average sale price for all residential properties in Waterloo Region was $779,008, a 1.4-per-cent increase compared to October 2023 but a 1.4-per-cent decrease compared to September 2024.

The average price of a detached home was $885,587. In comparison, townhomes went for an average of $643,382, and semi-detached homes averaged $650,098, both staying under $700,000.

Apartment-style condos had an average sale price of $484,429, reflecting a 1.8% increase from last year.

Other cities featured in the roundup of the best places to live in Ontario include Kingston and Ottawa.

If you're in the market for a new home, Waterloo might be worth checking out.