This waterfront town with endless charm is one of Ontario's 'most beautiful' places to live
It's a stunning spot to call home.
A small town in Ontario.
If you've always dreamed of living somewhere with sparkling shores, storybook streets and old-world charm, this Ontario small town delivers all that and more. You can spend your days wandering through the cozy downtown area, strolling along the scenic trails, and enjoying the local food scene.
Ontario is full of gorgeous destinations to call home, but according to readers, this little town is one of the most beautiful places to live in the province.
It offers a serene, small-town lifestyle surrounded by nature, with plenty of amenities and activities to enjoy.
Collingwood is a harbourfront community situated along the shores of Georgian Bay, renowned for its stunning landscapes and timeless charm.
The downtown is lined with historic buildings straight out of a storybook and is home to over 30 restaurants, 60 boutique shops, spas, and more. You can find everything you need in the heart of this town, from clothing to jewellery and home decor.
You'll also find cozy cafes, lively breweries, and upscale restaurants dotted along the quaint streets.
Collingwood is a nature enthusiast's paradise, offering over 60 kilometres of recreational trails. Whether you're cycling, snowshoeing, or going for a leisurely walk, there are endless places to explore.
The town's marina and harbour offer beautiful water views and are surrounded by landscapes, paths, and gardens.
Another highlight of living in the town is the community events. Collingwood hosts a range of festivals and celebrations throughout the year, featuring live music, theatre performances, and more.
During the Christmas season, Collingwood transforms into a Hallmark-worthy village filled with twinkling lights, horse-drawn carriages and a charming holiday market.
The town is located just minutes from Blue Mountain Village, a four-season getaway spot that's home to thrilling attractions, shops, restaurants and more. You can enjoy rides on the mountain coaster, a magical mountain-top skating trail, year-round events and more here.
It's also just a road trip away from Wasaga Beach — the world's longest freshwater beach, where you'll find white sand shores and sparkling waves.
According to Keleher + Co., Collingwood and the Blue Mountains are "considered one of the best places to live in Ontario, offering "great schools, top-rated healthcare, boutique shopping, and an ever-growing culinary scene—all within a community that still values connection and neighbourly spirit."
RE/MAX highlights Collingwood's gorgeous lakefront properties, educational excellence, family-friendly environment and proximity to major cities as key reasons why it's one of Ontario's most desirable places to live.
So, how do housing prices in Collingwood stack up against a major city like Toronto? According to Zolo, the median cost of a home in Collingwood in June 2025 is $783,977, compared to $1,135,088 in Toronto.
With its historic charm, water views and surrounding scenery, it's no surprise readers say Collingwood is one of Ontario's most beautiful places to call home.
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.