Things You Should Know About Oakville if You Plan to Move There

Wednesday Nov 06th, 2024

If you're considering moving to Oakville, you're probably wondering what makes this town so special.

Well, having lived here for over 30 years, I can tell you that Oakville is more than just a place to live—it's a community that embraces you from the moment you arrive.

As an Oakville real estate agent, I've helped countless families find not just houses, but homes here, and I'm excited to share some insider tips with you.

From amazing schools to a vibrant downtown, there's a lot to love. But before you make the move, there are some things you should know to truly appreciate all that Oakville has to offer.

Also, there's some exciting news in the real estate market you might not have heard yet. Now is a great time to consider buying a home in Oakville.

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT OAKVILLE

Outstanding Schools

Oakville boasts some of the best schools in the entire Greater Toronto Area (GTA). As a parent myself, I know how crucial education is for your children. If you have kids, you'll be thrilled with the schooling options here.

Oakville Trafalgar High School: This is one of Ontario's top-ranked high schools, renowned for its academic excellence, robust athletics programs, and active community involvement. Located in the southeast part of town, it's a school where students thrive both academically and socially.
White Oaks Secondary School: If you're interested in advanced academic programs, White Oaks offers an exceptional International Baccalaureate (IB) program. This globally recognized program prepares students for university with a rigorous curriculum. The school also fosters a diverse and inclusive environment.
St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School: An all-girls private school that provides outstanding education from preschool through grade 12. It's known for empowering young women to become leaders.
Appleby College: A prestigious co-educational private school offering boarding options. It combines academic excellence with a strong emphasis on community service and global citizenship.

For younger children, schools like E.J. James Public School and James W. Hill Public School are highly regarded for their strong academics and welcoming communities.

Vibrant Downtown Scene

Downtown Oakville is truly the heart of the town, and I've spent countless weekends enjoying everything it has to offer. Centered around Lakeshore Road, the area is a delightful mix of historic charm and modern amenities.

Boutiques and Shops: From high-end fashion retailers to unique local artisans, shopping here is a treat. Stores like Darlene's Shoes and The Kind Matter Company offer unique finds you won't get elsewhere. Also, FIORI Oakville, which has been voted Best Florist in Oakville for 5 consecutive years is somewhere you have to go.
Culinary Delights: The dining options are endless. Whether you're craving Italian at Buca Di Bacco or a sweet treat from Black Forest Pastry Shop, your taste buds are in for a ride. Read more about the Best Restaurants in Oakville.
Events and Festivals: The downtown area hosts numerous events throughout the year. Midnight Madness is a summer favorite, where shops stay open late, and the streets come alive with music and entertainment. The Oakville Waterfront Festival and Jazz Festival are also big draws, bringing in visitors from all over the GTA.
Towne Square: This is one of my favorite spots—a charming public square where you can relax with a coffee, enjoy outdoor art installations, or catch live music performances during the warmer months.

Just a little heads-up: it's easy to spend more than you planned! The combination of unique shops and delicious eateries makes for an irresistible experience.

Easy Transportation

Getting around Oakville is a breeze, and commuting to Toronto is surprisingly convenient—even after all these years, I still appreciate how accessible everything is.

GO Transit: The Oakville GO Station and Bronte GO Station provide regular train and bus services to downtown Toronto and other parts of the GTA. The train ride to Union Station is about 30 minutes, making it ideal for commuters.
Highways: Oakville is strategically located along the QEW, with easy access to Highway 403 and Highway 407. This makes driving to Toronto, Mississauga, Burlington, and Hamilton straightforward.
Public Transit: Oakville Transit offers reliable bus services throughout the town, connecting neighborhoods, shopping centers, and community hubs. They also have specialized services for seniors and those with mobility challenges.
Cycling and Walking Trails: For those who prefer to bike or walk, Oakville has an extensive network of trails. The Waterfront Trail and Sixteen Mile Creek Trail offer scenic routes perfect for exercise and leisure.

Fantastic Neighborhoods

Oakville's neighborhoods each have their own unique character and charm. Over the years, I've explored them all, and here's a bit about some of my favorites:

Bronte Creek: Situated in northwest Oakville, this family-friendly neighborhood is surrounded by nature. Bronte Creek Provincial Park is a highlight, offering camping, hiking, a historic farmhouse, and even a pool that's converted into a skating rink in winter.
Glen Abbey: Known internationally for the Glen Abbey Golf Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus. The neighborhood features a mix of housing styles, excellent schools like Pilgrim Wood Public School, and plenty of green spaces.
Joshua Creek: An upscale area with newer homes, it's popular among professionals and families. The Joshua Creek Heritage Art Centre is a local gem, hosting art exhibits and workshops.
Old Oakville: This is where history meets luxury. With heritage homes dating back to the 1800s, cobblestone streets, and proximity to downtown, it's one of the most sought-after areas.
River Oaks: A diverse community with affordable housing options, excellent schools, and recreational facilities like the River Oaks Community Centre.

Each neighborhood has its own community events and associations, fostering a strong sense of belonging.

Recreation and Outdoors

If you love the outdoors, Oakville is a paradise. I've spent many weekends exploring parks and trails, and there's always something new to discover.

Parks and Trails: With over 1,400 hectares of parkland and 200 kilometers of trails, opportunities for hiking, biking, and picnicking are abundant.
Coronation Park: Located along the lake, it's perfect for family outings with picnic areas, playgrounds, and summer concerts.
Lion's Valley Park: A hidden gem nestled in a valley, offering trails that wind through forests and over bridges crossing Sixteen Mile Creek.
Bronte Harbour: A picturesque spot with a marina, lighthouse, and waterfront park. Great for boating enthusiasts or a leisurely stroll.
Sports Facilities: Oakville has numerous facilities for sports like soccer, hockey, tennis, and swimming. The Glen Abbey Community Centre and Iroquois Ridge Community Centre are popular among residents.

Cultural Scene

You might be surprised by Oakville's vibrant cultural offerings. Over the years, I've enjoyed many performances and events that showcase local and international talent.

Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts: This is the town's premier venue for live performances, including theater, dance, music, and comedy. I've seen some incredible shows here.
Oakville Galleries: A contemporary art museum with two locations—in Gairloch Gardens and Centennial Square—offering exhibitions and programs that engage the community.
Festivals: Annual events like the Oakville Film Festival, Kerrfest in Kerr Village, and the For the Love of the Arts Festival celebrate creativity and bring the community together.
Historical Sites: The Oakville Museum at Erchless Estate provides a window into the town's rich history, including its role in the Underground Railroad.

Safety and Community

Oakville consistently ranks as one of the safest places to live in Canada. The community is tight-knit, and people genuinely look out for one another.

Community Involvement: There are numerous community groups and associations, such as Neighborhood Watch programs and local Facebook groups where residents share information and support each other.
Volunteer Opportunities: The town encourages volunteerism, with opportunities ranging from environmental initiatives to helping at local events.
Family-Friendly Environment: With excellent schools, parks, and recreational programs, it's a fantastic place to raise a family.

Oakville's Real Estate Market

Having helped people move here all year round, I can tell you that the Oakville real estate market is both dynamic and robust.

Housing Options: There's a wide range of options, from modern condos in Oak Park to luxury lakefront estates in South Oakville. Search for homes here!
Investment Value: Property values in Oakville have shown consistent growth over the years, making it a solid investment.
Community Developments: New developments like The Preserve and North Oakville are expanding housing options while maintaining the town's charm.
Heritage Homes: If you're a fan of historic architecture, neighborhoods like Old Oakville and Eastlake offer beautiful heritage properties.

Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or looking to upgrade, there's something to suit your needs and lifestyle.

Wrapping Up

Moving to Oakville is an exciting decision. With its excellent schools, vibrant downtown, beautiful neighborhoods, and welcoming community, it's a great place to call home.

As someone who has lived here for over 30 years, I can confidently say that Oakville offers a quality of life that's hard to match.

My team of Oakville real estate agents and I are here to help you navigate the local marker, and we're passionate about helping clients find their perfect home.

Whether you're just starting your search or ready to make a move, we're dedicated to providing the service you deserve.

Quick Tip: If you plan on moving to Oakville, grab your free complete home buyers guide. It's packed with valuable information to help you on your journey.