The Top 10 Cities in Ontario for Residents in 2025
An aerial view of an autumn forest in OntarioFebruary 19, 2025
Ontario is home to some of Canada’s most desirable cities, offering vibrant urban centres and charming small towns. In 2025, cities like Toronto and Guelph continue to lead the way with their diverse job markets and world-class amenities.
For a quieter pace, spots like Tillsonburg and Stratford shine with their community-focused lifestyles and affordability. Tech hubs like Waterloo are perfect for career-driven residents, while natural beauty surrounds major cities like Oakville and London.
Whether you’re drawn to a vibrant cultural community, outdoor recreation, or a populous city, these top 10 cities in Ontario offer something for everyone. Keep reading to learn more about these top cities and discover new places to live and explore.
1. Waterloo
Waterloo is known as a tech hub, with top schools like the University of Waterloo and Wilfred Laurier University, which prepare students for successful careers in diverse industries.
Waterloo visitors and residents can also experience natural beauty at Waterloo Park, Laurel Creek Conservation, Bechtel Park, and others. There are plenty of shopping options, such as SmartCentres Waterloo, St. Jacob’s Market, Waterloo Town Square, and Conestoga Mall.
Read more → Community Spotlight: Waterloo
Park Property Rentals Available in Waterloo
2. Guelph
Guelph’s proximity to major cities, like Toronto, Hamilton, and Cambridge, makes it a hub for education and business and one of the top 10 cities in Ontario. The University of Guelph isn’t only one of the biggest employers in Guelph, but it’s also ranked among the top medium-sized universities in Canada.
Explore the scenery at Riverside Park and the Guelph Lake Conservation Area or the architecture at the Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate. Admire the art in the Art Gallery of Guelph or attend an event at the Civic Museum, McCrae House, or the River Run Centre.
Read more → Community Spotlight: Exploring Guelph
Park Property Rentals Available in Guelph
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3. London
London residents can expect affordable housing, low crime rates, superior education, and abundant local culture with urban and scenic living. It’s known as the “Forest City” since there’s so much green space and natural beauty, such as the Thames River and Springbank Park. Don’t forget about Bolar Mountain for winter sports.
There’s always lots to do, from Ribfest and the Home Country Music & Art Festival to the annual Western Fair and go-carting at Eastpark. Add hockey to the list of London activities, since this city is home to the London Knights, an Ontario Hockey League team (OHL).
Read more → Community Spotlight: London
Park Property Rentals Available in London Live in London
4. Toronto
Everyone knows Toronto is one of the top cities in Ontario. Not only is Ontario’s capital city filled with art, tourist attractions, large-scale events, and energy, but it’s also one of the most multicultural cities in the world. Visit exciting locales, such as the CN Tower, the Royal Ontario Museum, and Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada.
There’s so much packed into one city when it comes to Toronto. It offers schooling opportunities, career options, nightlife escapades, and unique activities. Visit downtown Toronto to experience culture and cuisine from all over the world and feel like you’re travelling the world simply by exploring this city.
Image source: Unsplash
5. Oakville
There are many opportunities for those seeking outdoor recreation in a city as diverse as Oakville. Visit Lion’s Valley Park, Bronte Heritage Park, Gariloch Gardens, and more. Water sports enthusiasts will love being so close to Lake Ontario Park, where they can sail, kayak, swim, and more.
For quality entertainment year-round, visit The Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts, the Royal Botanical Gardens, Oakville Museum, and Centennial Square Galleries. There’s no shortage of art, music, and theatre in Oakville, making it one of the top cities in Ontario.
6. Kitchener
For amazing architecture and a gripping history, visit Kitchener’s historical sites: Doon Heritage Village, Homer Watson House, Joseph Schneider Haus, Woodside National Historic Site, and more. There’s a rich history to immerse yourself in this Southern Ontario city.
Downtown Kitchener holds many well-known events, such as the Downtown Showdown and the Christkindl Market. Don’t forget about other events, such as Black Heritage Month, Cruising on King, Caribana Ignite, and the Downtown Paddle Palooza Pickleball Festival.
Read more → Get to Know Kitchener!
7. Stratford
While other Canadian cities like Toronto and Oakville give off “big city” energy, Stratford is known for its small-town charm. There’s a strong sense of community and unique culture, which makes Stratford one of the top cities in Ontario for raising a family.
Stratford also sits along the Avon River, which offers beautiful sights, gardens, parks, and trails. Sometimes, summer concerts and cultural events also happen in these parks. Enjoy outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, and swimming in the Wildwood Conservation Area.
Read more → Community Spotlight: Stratford - Your New Home Awaits
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8. Cambridge
Like all these cities, Cambridge has so much to offer. Start with the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory to get up close and personal with whimsical butterflies. Follow that with boutique shopping in Downtown Cambridge, where you’ll be surrounded by European-inspired buildings.
Fill your days with excellent food from Cambridge restaurants. From local to international flavours, experience it all at Cambridge Mill, Blackshop, 13 Food + Beverage, Q BBQ Public House, or Amici Restaurant.
9. Tillsonburg
While you may not have heard of Tillsonburg, this city is known for its vibrant cultural scene, affordable living, and tourist attractions. Tillsonburg is all about quality of life, and that’s reflected in what you can find in the city. Find your favourite sport, from biking and golf to motorcycle touring and snow sports. With Lake Lisgar in the centre of the city and Lake Erie nearby, participate in swimming, beach days, fishing, and camping.
Eat the best food and meet the best people at Bre’s Market and Farm Fresh, which happens weekly at the Station Arts Centre between May and November. Find fresh vegetables and fruit, baked goods, herbs, jams, pastries, and more.
Read more → Get to Know Tillsonburg
10. Burlington
Burlington is a people-centric city where people raise kids, start new careers, or retire in comfort. Work and school aside, there’s so much to do in your free time. Walk the Burlington Waterfront Trail, picnic at the Royal Botanical Gardens, or shop at the Mapleview Shopping Centre.
You’re never far from something to do in Burlington. It’s on the eastern shore of Lake Ontario, offering great views and activities. Plus, there are art galleries and vintage shops to peruse whenever the mood strikes.
Start Living in One of the Top Cities in Ontario
You can experience all the wonders of these top 10 cities in Ontario for yourself with the help of Park Property Management. With properties in all these cities, you’ll find an apartment that matches your needs in an Ontario city that matches your lifestyle.
Contact us to find your dream Ontario apartment today!