Third Time is a Charm! Burlington is Number #1 Again

Are you lucky enough to be living in Canada’s #1 midsize city? If you call Burlington “home” – congrats – we did it again! This week, MoneySense Magazine released their highly anticipated list of Canada’s Best Places to Live in 2015. For the third year in a row, Burlington has taken the top spot as the #1 Midsize City in Canada.
What draws people here is the beautiful waterfront, access to the GTA, and dozens of well-priced and desirable neighbourhoods. But there is so much more that compels them stay. Excellent schools, safe communities and convenient amenities are just a few of Burlington’s most desirable features. Burlington is the no longer just the “affordable” alternative to living in Toronto, it’s the place home buyers are choosing first.
Overall, Burlington placed third in the complete MoneySense list that included towns and cities of all sizes. We were beat out by Boucherville, a small community tucked away on Montreal’s South Shore, and Ottawa, our nation’s prestigious capital which consistently holds a high ranking. However, we rose two spots from last year’s position at Number 5 on the overall list.
In addition to bragging rights, the MoneySense report also provides some interesting facts and figures. Our population has grown 3.7% since 2013. Less than 5% of Burlingtonians are unemployed, and the median household income is just over $85,000 annually. The crime rate has dropped a tremendous 32.6% over the last five years. From a housing perspective, MoneySense reported the average value of a primary real estate dwelling in our city is $557,003. The residents of Burlington are made up of approximately 20% renters and 80% home owners.
So how does MoneySense evaluate the quality of life in cities and towns across Canada? Their methodology is based on a collection of measurable data. The editors admit that while they can’t comment on the friendliness of neighbours or how beautiful the sunsets are, there is plenty of information they can quantify. The criteria evaluates weather trends, household wealth, commute times, crime rates, and employment data.
Winning the top spot is an honour, but winning the grand prize three years in a row is no coincidence. If you live in Burlington, don’t forget to take some time to explore your city this summer. Check out a festival at Spencer Smith Park, shop local in Burlington’s downtown core, or grab a bite to eat at one of our fabulous restaurants. Whether you have lived here for a few weeks or several years, there is always something new to discover in Burlington.