According to online real estate aggregate website Zolo, Barrie ranks among Canada’s most livable cities. In a list titled Best Places to Live in Canada in 2026, “Barrie and District” rank ninth, head of Halifax-Dartmouth, but behind places like the number one ranked Guelph, Regina, and Calgary. According to Zolo, the rankings were made based on factors such as home price, household income, population growth, unemployment rate, crime rate and more. “Barrie offers a cheaper alternative to living in Toronto, with the GO Train getting you to Union Station in less than two hours,” the report on Zolo states. According to Zolo, the cost of living in Barrie is 12% higher than the national average, the average household income is $114,500 and the area’s biggest industries include health care and social assistance, manufacturing, retail trade, and education. Zolo says the average home price in Barrie is $687,400. “Over two-thirds of Barrie’s population works in Barrie as of the last census and the city boasts a lower-than-average unemployment rate and higher-than-average household income,” Zolo says. Factors such as access to a primary healthcare provider, sunny days per year and walkability were also included. “Located on the shores of Kempenfelt Bay, Barrie is known for excellent access to beaches and walking trails,” Zolo adds. “With plenty of Barrie neighbourhoods to choose from, this city is an excellent choice for first-time homebuyers and investors,” says Zolo. The website claims Barrie has become increasing popular, as last year, Zolo ranked Barrie at 13 on the list of most livable cities.
