This enchanting Ontario city was named one of the 'best places to live' in the province

Looking for a new home? This Ontario city with old-world vibes and sparkling lake views might just be your dream destination in the province.

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

This historic gem with picturesque streets, European vibes, a vibrant food scene and stunning waterfront has earned its spot among the province's finest.

Kingston, Ontario is a beautiful destination perched along the shores of Lake Ontario. Known as the "Limestone City" due to its old-world architecture, Kingston offers an array of eateries, shops, attractions and more.

According to RE/MAX, "Kingston suits families and students because of its safe streets, low crime rate, beautiful architecture, and high-quality educational institutions."

It also has "more restaurants per capita than any other place in Canada" and is a "gateway to the Thousand Islands," making it a popular spot for tourists and nature enthusiasts.

The city is home to endless attractions, including cruises, trolley tours, Fort Henry, the Kingston Penitentiary and Ontario's oldest market.

The downtown is overflowing with cozy cafes, restaurants and local shops, making it an incredible destination to enjoy year-round.

So, how do the prices stack up? According to RE/MAX, "while the average home prices are still above their pre-pandemic levels, they have come down from their early 2022 peak."

KAREA reports that the average residential price as of October 2024 was $621,755, reflecting a 6.2% increase compared to October 2023. Single-family homes averaged $710,247, while the benchmark price for townhomes was $533,950, and apartment-style units had sold, on average, for about $417,300.

In August, Maclean's ranked Kingston as one of "Canada's Best Affordable Places to Live" noting that the city’s benchmark home price remains below the national average of $700,000.

The other cities featured in RE/MAX's list of "best places to live in Ontario" are Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton and Waterloo.

If you're planning on a move, you may want to check out listings in Kingston.