Area Description

A vibrant and impressive community within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), the Town of Oakville is a beautiful lakeside town with a strong heritage, preserved and celebrated by residents and visitors alike. Founded in 1857, this striking town has become one of the most coveted residential and business centres in Ontario, and for good reason:

Great neighbourhoods

Great places to do business

Quality schools

A full-service acute care community hospital

Proximity to Lake Ontario and recreational areas

Easy access via QEW, 403, 407 and GO Transit

Charming shopping districts in the downtown core

This thriving municipality of about 188,900 residents provides all the advantages of a well-serviced urban centre, while also maintaining its small-town ambiance. Along historical downtown streets, Oakville offers a mix of converted 19th century buildings which accommodate over 400 fine shops, services and restaurants.

A 30-minute drive from downtown Toronto, and an hour’s drive from the U.S. border, Oakville is a great destination for visitors.

Residents and visitors enjoy theatre, dance, music and comedy performances at the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts. They can visit the Oakville Museum at Erchless Estate, located in the home of the Chisolms, Oakville’s founding family. Other points of interest include galleries, historical societies and local architecture, especially in heritage neighbourhoods. Oakville is also home to the state-of-the-art Sixteen Mile Sports Complex and the new Queen Elizabeth Park Community and Cultural Centre.

Among the many special attractions and activities for the whole family, Oakville’s annual RibFest and Jazz Festival draw crowds from around the GTA. The community also provides plenty of recreational opportunities. Golfers can play at one of Oakville's many golf courses, including PGA-recognized Glen Abbey Golf Course, which has hosted the Canadian Open for many years.

Enjoy the acres of park space, many with groomed hiking trails, or join a recreation centre which provides programs for all ages. For boaters, Oakville features two picturesque harbours with docks and slips for sail and powerboats.

Oakville's strong and diversified economic base offers an excellent location for both new and expanding businesses. Currently, national and international corporate headquarters represent automotive, technology, business service, aerospace, pharmaceutical and tourism sectors.

People who live here are proud of the quality of life this great community has to offer. In a recent survey of residents, 86 per cent said Oakville is a better place to live than anywhere else in the GTA. Ideally located in a beautiful natural setting, Oakville offers first-rate facilities and amenities. The outstanding range of lifestyle choices will continue to make this growing community one in which residents and businesses feel a sense of pride and connection.