If you’ve followed our site for any length of time, you know that we frequently compare all that Peterborough has to offer with Toronto and the GTA. And while we’re not biased at all, our beloved hometown clearly comes out ahead in all categories! In what ways does Peterborough outshine Toronto, do you ask?
For starters, it’s more affordable, less crowded, has endless green space, has plenty of exciting things to do. The stunningly beautiful waterfront is just one more added bonus.
Here in Peterborough, the average price of a house is now $592,432, which is substantially less than a condo in Toronto would cost. And instead of a cramped living space, you’d have a spacious three or four-bedroom home with a full driveway and a backyard. But enough about Peterborough vs Toronto.
Instead, let’s take a look at how Peterborough compares with some of the other small cities nearby.
Peterborough vs Belleville
Belleville is another one of Ontario’s fastest-growing small cities, which now boasts a population of just over 50,000 people. How does Belleville life compare with Peterborough? The cost of living is ever-so-slightly higher in Peterborough. But when you think of the convenience, attractions, and amenities, it is well worth your consideration.
For example, if you ever needed to head to Toronto from Belleville, it would take twice as long at nearly three hours. There is no university in the city. However, Loyalist College offers many postsecondary and postgraduate programs.
Is Peterborough a good place to live when you have a family? The posts below will tell you all you need to know:
- Top Schools in Peterborough
- All About Peterborough’s Stunning Green Spaces
- Why Peterborough is Perfect for Families
Peterborough vs Trenton
Like Belleville, Trenton falls within the Bay of Quinte. It is a pretty, scenic place to live, with a population of just over 21,000 people. While the cost of living is lower than in the GTA, the job market is limited, and you’d have to travel for higher education. The closest major institution is Loyalist College in Belleville.
Trenton is ideal if you want a quiet place to live, but it does not offer much in the way of nightlife or entertainment. Compare that with Peterborough, where you get it all–affordable living, beautiful scenery, and a thriving entertainment scene!
Peterborough vs Kingston
Kingston is our home away from home, where we lived and worked for 15 years before returning to Peterborough! With a population of over 170,000 people, this is the largest city on our list. Like Peterborough, Kingston also offers plenty of conveniences and excitement. You wouldn’t expect anything different from a fun-loving university town!
However, once you leave Kingston, it’s a long way to go before you reach another major city. Toronto and Montreal are both at least three hours away. Ottawa is the closest large city at nearly two hours’ driving time. And your options for getting in and out of Kingston by public transport are limited. Toronto is accessible by Via Rail, but tickets can be expensive. Kingston itself was a great place to live. But with so few connections nearby, we always used to joke that if something wasn’t readily accessible from the 401, it “didn’t exist at all.”
Gearing up for a big move? There are countless reasons Peterborough deserves your consideration! Find out more in our Relocation Guide, which you can download right here.
Peterborough vs Bowmanville
Bowmanville is a pretty little town with approximately 40,000 people. Located 75 km east of Toronto, it is still considered part of the GTA. If you’re looking for a quiet place to retire or raise a young family, Bowmanville could be an ideal spot. However, for a small town, it can be rather expensive, with an average house price sitting at $752,652 as of January 2023. In addition, you may find yourself in for a commute if you’re looking for your next career opportunity or seeking postsecondary education. The closest major college is Durham College in Oshawa, a 20-minute drive if traffic is clear.
What is the real estate market like in Peterborough? Check out a few of our recent articles below:
- Need to Sell Your House in Peterborough? Here’s What Buyers Are Looking For
- A Walk Through the Neighbourhoods of Peterborough
- Will the Peterborough Real Estate Market Ever Get Back to Normal?
Peterborough vs Whitby
As a growing suburb of the GTA, Whitby does have a lot to offer. It’s full of small-town charm, with a more relaxed way of life than in downtown Toronto. In Whitby, you can find plenty of modern shopping opportunities and amenities without the crowds and hassles of being in the city. This luxury and convenience comes at a price, however. The cost of living is slightly lower than in Toronto proper. Still, as one of the more affluent communities in the GTA, the average house cost in Whitby is well over $1 million.
Why Choose Peterborough?
There’s no doubt about it. All of these small towns and cities have a lot going for them and can be beautiful places to live and raise a family. But where else can you find everything you want and need without compromise?
Peterborough offers affordability, a thriving job market, and access to high-quality. Let’s not forget the bustling and exciting downtown core, fantastic dining options, and exciting events and entertainment! And if you ever need to commute, downtown Toronto, Kingston, and Barrie are all approximately 90 minutes away by car. The 407 stops here, and we are easily accessible from the GTA via the Go Train.
In Peterborough, you get the best of all worlds in a centralized location that you can’t beat anywhere else.
Do you want to talk more about the real estate opportunities you’ll find in Peterborough? We have lived in and served the area since 2018 and are happy to answer all of your questions. Reach out today at team@jeffandkatie.ca or call 705-243-9797 to get the conversation started.
