Barrie Home Leasing Centre

Living in Barrie, Ontario offers several appealing advantages, from its natural beauty and recreational
options to a more relaxed, community-focused lifestyle. Here’s a closer look at the benefits of making
Barrie your home.

 While housing prices in Ontario have increased, Barrie remains more affordable than Toronto
and other parts of the GTA. This affordability attracts young families, professionals, and retirees
looking to own homes rather than rent in high-cost areas.

 Barrie is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including Lake Simcoe’s waterfront, scenic parks,
and nearby ski hills like Horseshoe Valley.

 The waterfront offers beaches, trails, and parks ideal for walking, biking, and summer activities,
while winter brings opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing.

 Barrie offers a quieter, less congested lifestyle than bigger cities, making it perfect for families
and individuals looking for a slower pace with a community-centric feel.

 The city is known for its friendly residents, and local events like the Barrie Waterfront Festival
and Kempenfest enhance this community atmosphere.

 Barrie’s economy has been diversifying, with growth in sectors like healthcare, technology,
education, and manufacturing.

 The city has programs to support small businesses, and many remote workers or entrepreneurs
choose Barrie for its lower operational costs and connectivity to larger markets.

 The city has a good selection of schools, both public and private, along with post-secondary
options like Georgian College, known for its automotive and environmental programs.

 Healthcare facilities are also growing, including Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, a key
regional hospital.

 Barrie experiences all four seasons, allowing residents to enjoy activities suited for each.
Summers are ideal for lake and park activities, while winters provide excellent conditions for
winter sports in nearby resorts.

 Fall and spring offer their own unique charm, with festivals, hiking trails, and beautiful autumn
colours drawing in locals and tourists alike.

 Barrie’s cultural scene has been evolving, with local theaters, art galleries, and live music
venues. The MacLaren Art Centre and local performing arts groups bring a creative vibe to the
city.

Downtown Barrie

 Vibe: Urban, artsy, and historic.
 Highlights: This waterfront area on the west side of Kempenfelt Bay features historic
architecture, local businesses, and cultural venues like the MacLaren Art Centre. You’ll find
restaurants, cafes, and shops along Dunlop Street, along with parks, walking trails, and year-
round events.

Allendale

 Vibe: Established, family-oriented, with a suburban feel.
 Highlights: One of Barrie's oldest neighbourhoods, Allandale has beautiful, mature trees, quiet
streets, and older brick homes. The Allandale Recreation Centre, featuring swimming, fitness
facilities, and sports programs, is popular with residents.

Holly

Vibe: Family-friendly, growing, with ample amenities.
 Highlights: Located in the southwest of Barrie, Holly is a relatively newer, suburban
neighborhood with plenty of parks, schools, and community centers. The Holly Community
Centre is a hub for sports and activities, including ice skating and soccer.

East End

 Vibe: Quiet, established, and close to amenities.
 Highlights: Known for its spacious lots and older homes, the East End is a residential
neighbourhood with easy access to schools, parks, and Kempenfelt Bay. Johnson’s Beach and
nearby walking trails make it appealing for outdoor lovers.

Ardagh Bluffs

 Vibe: Green, scenic, and peaceful.
 Highlights: Known for the scenic Ardagh Bluffs, this neighbourhood offers over 500 acres of
protected forest with extensive trails, ideal for hiking and biking. It’s a quiet, nature-centric
community that appeals to those who love the outdoors.

Painswick

 Vibe: Convenient, commuter-friendly, and evolving.
 Highlights: Located in Barrie’s south end, Painswick is close to Highway 400 and the Barrie
South GO Station, making it convenient for commuters. It also has a range of retail options,
including big-box stores, grocery stores, and restaurants.

Letitia Heights

 Vibe: Family-oriented, affordable, and close-knit.
 Highlights: Situated in the northwest, Letitia Heights is known for its strong sense of
community, local schools, parks, and Letitia Heights Community Centre. It’s a great
neighborhood for those looking for affordability in Barrie

The North Shore (Shanty bay)

 Vibe: Scenic, waterfront, upscale.
 Highlights: North of Barrie along Kempenfelt Bay, Shanty Bay is known for its scenic lakeside
views and luxurious homes. Residents here enjoy the tranquility of living near the water, with
easy access to boating and waterfront trails.

Sunnidale

 Vibe: Relaxed, nature-focused, and centrally located.
 Highlights: Known for the sprawling Sunnidale Park, which is a favorite spot for picnics, dog-
walking, and outdoor activities. The neighbourhood has a relaxed atmosphere with a central
location that provides easy access to downtown and nearby shopping.

Each of Barrie’s neighbourhoods has its own appeal, so whether you’re looking for urban excitement,
suburban comfort, or a lakeside retreat, there’s likely a part of Barrie that fits.