Why Live in Orillia, Ontario

Orillia, often referred to as the “Sunshine City,” is a vibrant community in Central Ontario known for its scenic waterfronts, historic charm, and family-friendly lifestyle. Located between Lake Couchiching and Lake Simcoe, Orillia offers a perfect balance of small-town living with access to big-city amenities. It’s a popular choice for families, retirees, students, and professionals who value both affordability and quality of life.

The real estate market in Orillia is more affordable than nearby cities like Barrie or Toronto. Buyers and renters can choose from detached homes on quiet residential streets, modern condos with lake views, semi-detached homes, and townhouse developments. Whether you’re looking for a 1+ bedroom condo, a 3+ bedroom semi-detached resale, or a 4–5 bedroom detached home, Orillia has a wide range of options to fit different lifestyles and budgets.

In terms of prices, Orillia offers a mix of affordability and value compared to the Greater Toronto Area. Smaller detached and semi-detached homes often fall in the $500k–$700k range, while larger detached homes and townhouses range from $700k–$900k. Some premium lakefront and luxury homes can exceed $1M, but these are less common. Rental prices are reasonable compared to Southern Ontario cities, with apartments starting around $1,400/month and detached rentals averaging between $2,000–$2,500/month.

Residents of Orillia enjoy a high quality of life with year-round activities. The city is home to beautiful waterfront trails, marinas, and beaches, along with skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing in the winter. The historic downtown features shops, restaurants, and cultural venues, while Lakehead University’s Orillia campus and Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital provide educational and healthcare services. With schools, shopping centers, and recreation facilities, day-to-day living is convenient and enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Orillia a good place to live?
Yes, Orillia is a great place to live thanks to its affordable housing, natural surroundings, and vibrant community. It appeals to families, retirees, and young professionals who want more space and a slower pace while still being close to the GTA.

How much do you need to make to afford a home in Orillia?
The median resale home price in Orillia is around $650,000 (2025). With a 20% down payment, a household would need an income of about $105,000/year to qualify. Rental housing is also more affordable than in larger Ontario cities, with most homes renting between $1,400–$2,500/month depending on size and location.

What types of homes are available in Orillia?
Orillia has a variety of housing choices, including:

Detached homes in suburban and waterfront areas.
Semi-detached homes in established neighborhoods.
Condo homes and apartments for low-maintenance living.
Townhomes with modern designs.
Luxury and lakefront properties for premium buyers.

What are the most popular postal codes in Orillia?
The main postal codes in Orillia include L3V, L3V 0A1, and L3V 6H3, covering different parts of the city and surrounding areas.

What neighborhoods are near Orillia?
Nearby communities include Oro-Medonte, Severn, Ramara, and Barrie, each offering additional housing and lifestyle options within a short drive.

Are home prices changing in Orillia?
Home prices in Orillia have seen moderate growth, with a 3–4% increase year-over-year. Despite rising values, Orillia remains more affordable compared to the Greater Toronto Area and continues to attract buyers looking for long-term value.