People are moving to Collingwood for cheaper (affordable homes) homes, a more relaxed lifestyle and of course, to escape the city rat race. They’re swapping the time-sucking rush hour gridlock for westerly sunsets over Georgian Bay and traffic-free grocery runs. Not to mention the 8 minute drives to the ski hills of The Blue Mountains.
This is the attraction Collingwood has in 2024 for people throughout Ontario. But what's fueling this exodus from the urban jungle? Let's unpack the allure a little further:
Ontario’s Four-Season Wonderland: The Southern Georgian Bay area can keep you active all year round. Hike the Bruce Trail, paddleboard on Georgian Bay, run/bike along Collingwood’s trails or ski the slopes – all within minutes of your doorstep. It's like living in a National Geographic documentary, minus the pesky wildlife encounters (well, mostly).
Small-Town Charm: Picture this: friendly faces, community events, and a slower pace of life. In Collingwood, you're not just another number; you're a neighbor. Sip craft beers at local pubs and breweries, stroll through quaint shops, and soak up the genuine, small-town vibe. City stress? Not here.
Work-Life Balance Redefined: Remote work is the new normal, and Collingwood has embraced it wholeheartedly. High-speed internet, co-working spaces like The Foundry, and a truly thriving entrepreneurial scene make it easy to ditch the commute and embrace a flexible lifestyle. Gibson and Co. is another favourite meeting spot for Collingwood’s entrepreneurs. But have you ever had a business meeting while skiing/snowboarding? You could do that here.
Collingwood Real Estate Numbers Compared to Toronto: Now, let's talk numbers. The housing market in here is simmering, but not boiling over like its urban counterparts. The average Collingwood detached home price in 2024 now sits at around $850,000, compared to a whopping $1.2 million in Toronto. That's a cool $350,000 more breathing room for your wallet (and your lifestyle). And guess what? Prices are showing signs of stabilizing, making 2024 a prime time to snag your piece of paradise up here.
Insider Intel: So, you're tempted? Here's a bonus tip: consider a "try-before-you-buy" approach. Rent an AirBnb (SHORT TERM RENTAL) here for a month, immerse yourself in the Collingwood/Blue Mountains lifestyle, and see if it resonates with your lifestyle goals. Then go from there. You’ll have question and recommendation requests during that time and I’d be here to help with those.
Collingwood isn't just a place; it's a state of mind - truly. It's about trading the concrete jungle for a life filled with nature walks, a slower pace and a healthy dose of work-life balance. So, if you're yearning for a simpler, more fulfilling life, Collingwood might just be your calling.
And now for a special treat. Download my Local’s Guide to Collingwood .
