So you're thinking of moving in or relocating to Oakville, Ontario, one of Canada's most prestigious communities. Oakville is definitively worth considering if you're moving into or around the Greater Toronto Area, most often referred to as the GTA. I've lived in Oakville for over 25 years, and have been involved in the community since 1972. I know my way around the town, its various neighborhoods, and communities. I'm passionate about Oakville.
A Brief Overview of Oakville
Oakville is home to approximately 165,000 residents, from a wide range of communities. The town itself is divided into smaller neighborhoods, which include: South East Oakville, Old Oakville, South West Oakville, Kerr Village, West Oakville, Bronte, Glen Abbey, Westmount, West Oak Trails, Bronte Creek, River Oaks, College Park, Falgarwood, Wedgwood Creek, and Joshua Creek. A map of all the various sub-districts is available from the Oakville Milton Real Estate Board.
Oakville was founded in the 1800s, around what is now considered Old Oakville. This neighborhood has a historic shopping district, which is filled with excellent boutiques, restaurants and cafes. The second major community, which was also founded in the 1800s, was Bronte. The area around Kerr Village was the last to be developed in the 1850s.
Transportation in Oakville
Oakville has easy access to public transit (Oakville Transit) whether you are needing to catch a bus, or catch commuter train (GO Transit) into Toronto. By car the town has excellent road systems and quick access to three major highways: QEW, 403 & 407. It is about a 30-minute car ride to Toronto Internation Airport (Pearson). VIA Rail, the nation's rail service, has a stop in Oakville. The vast majority of Oakville residents own a car.
Types of Oakville Homes
The majority of homes in Oakville are single detached dwellings. There are also condominiums, and townhomes as well. Homes range in style from the historic 1800s to ultra modern. Currently prices range from $175,000 for a one-bedroom apartment to $45 million for an estate on the shores of Lake Ontario. There is something for everyone in town.
Education in Oakville
Oakville residents are well educated with a significant number of people holding university degrees, college certificates, and post-graduate degrees. The neighborhood schools are considered the best in Ontario, whether you are seeking public, catholic, or private. The public system is rated as the highest in Ontario. Most people who live in Oakville use the public system to educate their children. Oakville is also home to Sheridan College, with its world renowned animation program.
For the youngest Oakville residents there are a large number of excellent daycares.
Recreation in Oakville
Oakville has a wide variety of recreational opportunities, both in sport and the arts. There is basically nothing you cannot find happening in Oakville from running clubs and competitive canoeing, to the symphony or theatre. You'll be able to find a group, organization, or facility to meet your needs.
Parks in Oakville
There are a wide range of parks, from the formal Garilock Gardens to the vast trails of Glen Abbey. You can sit on a beach in the summer, and cross-country ski in the winter.
Weather in Oakville
For a northern climate, Oakville weather is moderate. The winters are cold with snow, and summers are usually warm and humid, and. However, you can always cool off by the lake. The lake also provides Oakville with very moderate winters (though you'll have the occassional fridged day). The most pleasant time of the year - at least for me - is Fall, when it is usually warm but not humid, and the trees change color to vivid oranges, reds and yellows.