Windsor is a city of roughly 240,000 residents which sits on the Detroit River directly opposite the city of Detroit. It’s long been known as a hub of the automotive industry, but beyond the factories and assembly lines it’s a charming city brimming with history, culture, and opportunity.
With a surprising variety of experiences waiting to be explored, Windsor is a worthy reflection of its unique position at the crossroads of Canada and the United States.
So, is Windsor a good place to live? Let’s delve into some key factors that show what living in Windsor Ontario is like:
Where is Windsor Ontario?
Windsor, Ontario, is a city located in southwestern Ontario, Canada, situated along the Detroit River directly across from Detroit, Michigan, in the United States. Known as the southernmost city in Canada, Windsor is part of the Windsor-Essex region and serves as a major gateway between Canada and the U.S. The city is connected to Detroit by the Ambassador Bridge, the busiest international border crossing in North America, and the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel. Windsor is recognized for its automotive industry, rich multicultural heritage, and vibrant arts scene, making it a significant hub for commerce and culture in the region.
Low Cost of Living in Windsor Ontario
Affordable Lifestyle
Living in Windsor Ontario means enjoying a significantly lower cost of living compared to other major Canadian cities. According to Numbeo, a website that compares living costs globally, Windsor is much easier on the wallet than the average city 2.
- Cost of living in Windsor Ontario: The median price for a small apartment in Windsor is $900, significantly lower than Toronto’s $1,800 and Vancouver’s $2,000 2. This can translate to significant savings on your monthly rent.
- Everyday Expenses: Groceries, transportation, and healthcare are also generally more affordable in Windsor 2. This frees up your budget for other expenses or allows you to save for the future.
This can free up your budget for other expenses or allow you to save for the future.
Accessible Real Estate
Compared to other Canadian cities, Windsor boasts a more accessible real estate market with a smaller down payment required, making homeownership a realistic possibility for many 4.
Moving to Windsor Ontario offers a chance to secure affordable housing in a competitive market. The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) reports a median house price of $387,200 as of February 2024—much lower than Toronto’s $1,070,100 and Vancouver’s $1,406,800. 4.
It’s important to note, however, that the market can be competitive, with properties selling quickly in desirable neighborhoods. Be prepared to move quickly if you find your dream home.
Steady Growth on Real Estate
The Windsor housing market has seen steady growth with moderate home price appreciation in recent years 4. This means your investment is likely to grow over time, offering greater security and potential returns.
Opportunities
Diverse Job Market
Windsor offers a diverse employment landscape, catering to a variety of skillsets and interests 3.
The auto industry is a major player here, with Chrysler, Ford, and General Motors employing a significant portion of the workforce (around 20%) 3. However, opportunities extend beyond manufacturing. Sectors like healthcare, education, and tourism contribute significantly to the job market, making life in Windsor Ontario appealing for many job seekers.3.
Top Notch Education In Windsor
Windsor, Ontario, offers a diverse range of educational opportunities through its prominent institutions. The University of Windsor is a leading comprehensive university known for its strong programs in engineering, law, business, and social sciences, attracting students from across
Canada and beyond.
St. Clair College is another major institution in the city, providing hands-on training in fields such as health sciences, skilled trades, and media arts. The college offers a wide range of diploma, certificate, and degree programs across various disciplines and is known for its strong focus on practical, hands-on learning, helping students develop the skills needed for real-world careers. The college also features state-of-the-art facilities such as the Centre for Applied Health Sciences and the SportsPlex athletic complex.
Windsor also has a variety of public and Catholic schools operated by the Greater Essex County District School Board and the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board, ensuring quality education from kindergarten through high school. These institutions collectively contribute to Windsor’s reputation as a hub for academic excellence and career-focused learning.
Life in Windsor Ontario
High Quality of Life
Safety is a significant advantage of living in Windsor Ontario, with the city consistently ranking as one of Canada’s safest according to Statistics Canada 5.
Windsor fosters a welcoming and diverse community, celebrating its multicultural spirit through various festivals throughout the year 5. The Windsor-Detroit International Freedom Festival, the Windsor International Film Festival, and the Windsor-Essex Pride Fest are just a few examples 5.
Nature lovers will appreciate the abundance of parks and green spaces, including the Windsor Riverfront Trail and the Ojibway Prairie Complex, offering ample opportunities for outdoor recreation 5.
Vibrant Cultural Scene
Windsor is a city that wears its history on its sleeve, offering a vibrant cultural scene that goes beyond its proximity to Detroit 6. The city is actively investing in its waterfront, creating a beautiful and functional space for residents and visitors to enjoy 7. New businesses are popping up, and the arts and culture scene continues to flourish.
- Art Gallery of Windsor: A prominent public gallery housing over 3,000 artworks, including modern Canadian and international pieces 6.
- Chimczuk Museum: Explore Windsor’s rich heritage, showcasing the city’s auto industry, indigenous history, and immigrant communities 7.
- The Capitol Theatre and the Chrysler Theatre: Stages for a variety of performances, from plays and ballets to concerts.
Whether you’re a young professional seeking opportunity, a family looking for a safe and affordable place to raise children, or a retiree yearning for a slower pace of life with easy access to a major city across the river, Windsor has something to offer everyone.
Shopping and Dining
Windsor, Ontario, offers a vibrant shopping scene with a mix of local boutiques, major retail stores, and specialty shops. Devonshire Mall, the largest shopping centre in Windsor, features popular brands, department stores, and dining options all under one roof. For those seeking unique finds, Walkerville and Via Italia (Erie Street) are known for their charming shops, art galleries, and specialty stores that showcase Windsor’s creative and multicultural spirit. Additionally, Windsor’s proximity to Detroit provides residents and visitors easy access to even more retail options, including major U.S. shopping destinations such as Somerset Collection and Great Lakes Crossing Outlets.
Windsor’s dining scene is equally diverse, reflecting the city’s rich cultural heritage. Food lovers can enjoy everything from authentic Italian cuisine on Erie Street, also known as Windsor’s “Little Italy,” to Middle Eastern eateries, Asian fusion restaurants, and classic Canadian comfort food. The Riverside Drive area boasts waterfront dining spots with scenic views of the Detroit skyline, offering a memorable experience for both locals and tourists. Thanks to its border location, Windsor also benefits from American dining influences, giving visitors an even greater variety of flavors to explore.
Sports Lovers Playground
Windsor, Ontario, is a hub for sports enthusiasts, offering excellent facilities and exciting local teams. The WFCU Centre is a premier multi-purpose arena that hosts major sporting events and is home to the Windsor Spitfires, a successful Ontario Hockey League (OHL) team with multiple Memorial Cup championships. Basketball fans can cheer on the Windsor Express, a professional team in the National Basketball League of Canada (NBL), known for their thrilling games and passionate fan base. For aquatic sports, the Windsor International Aquatic and Training Centre is a world-class facility that has hosted major competitions, including the FINA World Swimming Championships. Whether you’re a dedicated sports fan or an active participant, Windsor offers a dynamic sports culture with something for everyone.
Wide Range of Transportation to Get Around Windsor and Beyond
Windsor, Ontario, offers a variety of transportation options that make getting around the city and beyond convenient. Transit Windsor operates the city’s public bus system, providing reliable service throughout Windsor and even offering cross-border routes to Detroit for commuters and visitors. For air travel, Windsor International Airport (YQG) offers domestic flights and select international connections, while those seeking train travel can access VIA Rail services at Windsor’s station, connecting the city to Toronto and other major destinations. Windsor also boasts an extensive network of scenic bike trails, including the popular Ganatchio Trail and Riverfront Trail, which provide safe and enjoyable routes for cyclists and pedestrians alike. These diverse transportation options ensure residents and visitors can easily explore Windsor and its surrounding regions.
Access to Nature
Windsor, Ontario, is rich in natural beauty, offering numerous opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration. Situated along the shores of the Great Lakes, Windsor provides excellent access to water-based activities such as kayaking, canoeing, boating, and relaxing on sandy beaches. The city also boasts an extensive network of scenic trails, ideal for walking, running, and cycling, which can be explored using the official Windsor Trail Map.
Windsor’s green spaces are plentiful, with well-maintained parks found throughout the city, including popular spots like Jackson Park and Malden Park, which offer picnic areas, playgrounds, and vibrant gardens. Nature lovers can also visit the Ojibway Prairie Complex, a significant ecological site home to diverse wildlife, rare plant species, and peaceful hiking trails. These natural attractions make Windsor a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
Conclusion: Is Windsor Ontario a good place to live?
Ever dreamt of a fresh start? Moving to Windsor Ontario is an exciting adventure. The city provides a slower pace of life, a strong sense of community, and access to affordable housing and living costs. If affordability, a stable job market, and a high quality of life rank high on your list, Windsor has much to offer.
Ready to take the leap? Here are some helpful resources from Marda Management to guide you through the rental process:
- Thinking about renting a house? This guide explores key factors to consider when searching for your perfect Windsor rental: What To Look For When Renting a House
- Feeling overwhelmed by the moving process? Simplify your move with these helpful tips: Make Moving to Your Rental Easier
- Interested in a Windsor rental? Here are our current active property listings: Available Rentals
Sources
- Wikipedia: Windsor, Ontario
- Numbeo: Cost of Living in Windsor
- Invest WindsorEssex: Labour and Workforce
- CREA: Canadian Housing Market Stats (Data as of February 2024)
- Statistics Canada: Quality of Life Hub
- Art Windsor-Essex
- City of Windsor: Chimczuk Museum
