If the kids have all moved out and you’ve noticed that you just don’t need as much space at home as you once did, there’s a good chance you might have downsizing on your mind.

Now is the time to live your absolute best life, and for empty-nesters in Ontario, Barrie is one of the best places to consider. This city is bursting with excitement, entertainment and culture, but also affords the slower pace of life that so many people truly enjoy. Pair this with the fact that Barrie’s connection with nature is prevalent in nearly every aspect of life, and you have the makings of truly magical place to reinvent yourself.

Here are some of the reasons why Barrie is the perfect place for empty-nesters to live.

Small Town Feel with Big City Amenities

One of Barrie’s most endearing qualities is how homey it feels. Morning greetings from passersby, café owners who know how you like your coffee before you’ve even ordered it, and the proliferation of independently owned shops, restaurants, and services make this city of over 153k people feel like a small town.

Afraid this means all of your favourite stores and restaurants will become a thing of the past? Not a chance, Barrie is filled with Ontario’s favourite community staples and amenities like Costco and Zehrs, HomeSense, Michael’s, Old Navy, Chapters and more! Your favourite restaurants are also plentiful here. So, no need to worry about leaving those mouth-watering steaks from The Keg, or Boston Pizza’s extensive pizza menu behind.

Closer Proximity to Ontario’s Prime Getaway Destinations

Barrie is uniquely positioned within close proximity to many of Ontario’s favourite getaway destinations. Blue Mountain is only 1 hour away, while Sauble Beach is an easy 2-hour drive. If you have a passion for scuba diving, you’ll be delighted to know that travelling to Tobermory is much less daunting when you live in Barrie, than it is with a more southern starting point. The beautiful Muskoka Lakes and Georgian Bay are only 30 minutes away.

Are you a lover of life on the links? If so, you’ll love how close Barrie is to some of the best golf courses in the world, including Lake Joseph Club, Muskoka Bay, Taboo, and more.

At the same time, Barrie isn’t so far away from the GTA that the kids (and grandkids) won’t want to come for a visit. Plus, the Toronto Pearson Airport is only an hour away as well…very hands, in case you decide to become jetsetters!

Incredible Active Lifestyle

Many people count living a more active lifestyle among the things they plan to do once their children leave home. In Barrie, active living is a year-round part of the lifestyle! Whether you take up kayaking on Kempenfelt Bay, cycling along the many recreational trails or skiing at Snow Valley, you will never be at a loss for ways to enjoy the great outdoors.

Safety is Paramount

If you’d like this next season of your life to be as worry-free as possible, living in one of Canada’s safest cities is a good way to go. Statistics Canada has placed Barrie among Canada’s top 3 safest cities since 2013! It is ranked Canada’s second-safest large city, and the safest city in Ontario.

Lower Cost of Living

Beyond the enjoyment and tranquility that comes with moving to a lakeside city like Barrie, the fact is that downsizing from a house to a condo outside of Toronto means noticeable savings in terms of time and living expenses. This savings offers a newfound freedom to enjoy some of the things you’ve been dreaming about for years. Take up a new hobby, go back to school, travel, or simply relax on your balcony and take in the breathtaking view of the lake.

Moving down? Only in terms of the size of your home. When it comes to the quality of your lifestyle, a move to Barrie is most definitely a move up

Visit the Lākhouse Presentation Centre in Barrie to take the first steps toward your new, carefree lifestyle!

140 Dunlop Street East, Toronto ON
Monday – Friday: 12PM – 6PM
Saturday & Sunday: 12PM – 5PM or by appointment
Holidays: Closed

Register with us today to learn more about the luxury of Lakefront Living in Barrie. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for regular updates.