This dreamy lakeside town 1 hour from Toronto is one of Canada's 'best' spots to live
It's known for its historic main street.
A small town in Ontario.
Thinking about moving? Canada is full of beautiful small towns to call home, and, according to readers, this charming village just outside of Toronto is one of the best spots to live in the country.
Offering lakeside views, old-world streets and cozy shops, it's the kind of place where every day feels like you've stepped into a storybook.
On Narcity Canada's Facebook page, we asked readers to name the best small towns to live in Canada, and this lakeside Ontario village was one of their picks.
Port Hope is a quaint small town located on the shores of Lake Ontario, about an hour away from Toronto. The village is known for its historic charm and boasts the "best-preserved heritage main street" in the province, according to Northumberland Tourism.
There are many boutiques, cafes, and eateries to enjoy along the main strip, and you can discover everything from vintage clothing to books and more.
The town is even home to the "No. 1 burger in Canada," served up at the local Olympus Burger.
Aside from its shops and restaurants, Port Hope offers a variety of activities to enjoy year-round. From catching a show at the Capitol Theatre to visiting museums and wandering along the Ganaraska River, there's no shortage of activities.
During the summer, you can head to Port Hope's two sandy beaches — East Beach and West Beach, where you'll find shimmering waves and picturesque shores.
If you're feeling brave, you can embark on the It walking tour, which features filming locations of the iconic horror movie.
The town is surrounded by rolling countryside and quaint farms and markets, which add to its rural charm and small-town feel.
According to the Port Hope website, the town has "an ideal quality of life" with "a variety of wonderful amenities and excellent services, a distinctively preserved downtown, locally owned and operated businesses, rolling hills and farmland to explore and so much more."
Port Hope's housing market is significantly more affordable than Toronto's. In August 2025, the average home price in the town was $678,358, compared to $1,024,112 in Toronto, according to Zolo.
If you're dreaming of small-town life, readers say Port Hope is one of the best spots to live in Canada.
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.