Burlington is a city in the Regional Municipality of Halton, at the west end of Lake Ontario, in Ontario, Canada. It is situated approximately halfway between Toronto and Niagara Falls, making it part of the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area and Hamilton metropolitan census area. 

 

With a population of 186,948 as of 2021, Burlington is Canada's 28th most populous city. Geographically, Burlington is situated at the southwestern end of Lake Ontario, just northeast of Hamilton and the Niagara Peninsula. 

 

The city has a land area of 187 km2 (72 sq mi), with the main urban area located south of the Parkway Belt and Hwy. 407. The land north of this area is primarily used for agriculture, rural residential, and conservation purposes. 

 

The Niagara Escarpment, Lake Ontario, and the sloping plain between the escarpment and the lake make up the land area of Burlington. Burlington has a rich history dating back to the 19th century when the area was home to the Mississauga nation. 

 

In 1792, John Graves Simcoe, the first lieutenant governor of Upper Canada, named the western end of Lake Ontario "Burlington Bay" after the town of Bridlington in the East Riding of Yorkshire, England. 

 

The British purchased the land on which Burlington now stands from the Mississaugas in Upper Canada Treaties 3. The city has grown significantly, with its population exceeding 100,000 by 1974, leading to its incorporation as a city. 

 

Between 2001 and 2006, Burlington's population grew by 9%, compared to Canada's overall growth rate of 5.4%. By 2006, the population topped 160,000.

 

Burlington is considered an affluent suburb of Toronto, with a median household income of $93,588 in 2015. Burlington's average household net worth was $1,099,461 in 2019, while the average home was $1,067,867 in 2021. 

 

The city's economic strength is attributed to its diverse economic base, proximity to large industries in southern Ontario, and transportation infrastructure.

 

Burlington has a humid continental climate with warm, humid summers and long, cold, and snowy winters. The city is known for its scenic waterfront and is surrounded by parks, including the Mount Nemo Conservation Area, which is relatively easy to access.

 

Burlington has been recognized as Ontario's most livable city, ranking fifth in the country. The city scored highly for its access to amenities like gyms and parks and its proximity to health care, education, and transportation. 

 

However, Burlington has faced challenges with housing affordability, ranking near the bottom of the livability ranking in this category.

 

In conclusion, Burlington is a city with a rich history, diverse economy, and high quality of life. Its proximity to Toronto and Hamilton, as well as its scenic waterfront and parks, make it an attractive option for those looking to live in a smaller city with access to amenities and services.

 

History of Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Burlington, Ontario, Canada, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. The Mississauga nation originally inhabited the area, and in 1792, John Graves Simcoe, the first lieutenant governor of Upper Canada, named the western end of Lake Ontario "Burlington Bay" after the town of Bridlington in the East Riding of Yorkshire, England. 

 

The British purchased the land on which Burlington now stands from the Mississaugas in Upper Canada Treaties 3, 8, 14, and 19. The Burlington Canning Company, later known as Canadian Canners, was constructed at the foot of Brant Street around 1900 to pack local produce, marking a significant shift in the local economy from grain and lumber to fresh produce. 

 

The construction of railroads and the development of larger, steam-powered ships led to the decline of Burlington's wharves in favor of bigger facilities at Hamilton and Oakville. 

 

This change in the local economy led to a shift towards fruit production, with larger orchards being developed, especially along No. 5 Highway (now Dundas Street).

 

The town was once a thriving farming community. Pine and oak timbers were popular exports, as were wheat and other cash crops that thrived in the temperate summers and cold winters. 

 

The King's Head Inn was the first-ever building to be commissioned in Burlington in 1796, and during the War of 1812, it was a prominent battle point.

 

Burlington was first incorporated as a village in 1873, as a town in 1915, and as a city in 1974. The amalgamation of the Town of Burlington, Nelson Township, and part of East Flamborough Township created the modern boundaries in 1958. 

 

The city has continued to develop in recent decades, partly thanks to its location on Lake Ontario and proximity to Hamilton and Toronto.

 

The city's cultural life is also notable, with the Royal Botanical Gardens, the Art Gallery of Burlington, and the Joseph Brant Museum, among other attractions. Burlington has been home to several notable individuals, including Order of Canada recipients and notable artists, athletes, and musicians.

 

Burlington's history is marked by its early days as a thriving farming community, the shift towards fruit production, and its growth into a city with a rich cultural life.

 

Geography of Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Hamilton is located on the western end of the Niagara Peninsula, wrapping around the westernmost part of Lake Ontario.

 

Hamilton is characterized by Hamilton Harbour in the north and the Niagara Escarpment running through its middle, dividing the city into upper and lower parts.

 

Originally known as "Attawandaronia" by the native Neutral people, the area was first surveyed and named between 1788 and 1793.

 

Burlington, Ontario, Canada, is located at the southwestern end of Lake Ontario, just northeast of Hamilton and the Niagara Peninsula, roughly in the geographic center of the urban corridor known as the Golden Horseshoe. 

 

The city has a land area of 187 km2 (72 sq mi), with the main urban area situated south of the Parkway Belt and Hwy. 407. 

 

The land to the north of this area, including north Aldershot, is primarily used for agriculture, rural residential, and conservation purposes. 

 

The Niagara Escarpment, Lake Ontario, and the sloping plain between the escarpment and the lake make up the land area of Burlington.

 

Burlington's climate is classified as humid continental (Köppen climate classification Dfa), characterized by warm, humid summers and long, cold, and snowy winters. 

 

The city's climate is moderated by its proximity to Lake Ontario, with monthly mean temperatures ranging from 22.5 °C (72.5 °F) in July to -4.4 °C (24.1 °F) in January. 

 

Burlington receives an average annual precipitation of 763 mm (30.0 in) of rain and 99 cm (39 in) of snow, with the winter temperatures moderated by the lake and the sheltering effect of the Niagara Escarpment.

 

Burlington, Ontario, is geographically positioned at the southwestern end of Lake Ontario. It benefits from its proximity to the lake and the Niagara Escarpment, which influences its climate and natural landscape.

 

Demographics of Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Population:

• As of the 2021 census13, Burlington's population was 186,948, making it the 28th most populous city in Canada.
• The population has grown steadily in recent decades, increasing by 4.3% between 2011 and 2016.
• The population density is 1,651.3 people per square kilometer.

Age Distribution:

• The age distribution in Burlington is similar to the provincial average, with 18,330 (14.6%) residents aged 0-14 years, 77,115 (61.5%) aged 15-64 years, and 30,000 (24%) aged 65 years and over.

Diversity:

• Burlington has a diverse population, with significant minority groups including South Asians (33%), Africans (16%), Chinese (15%), Filipinos (5%), Latin Americans (7%), and Arabs (7%).
• Around 15,690 people (8.5%) in Burlington come from a minority background.
• English is the primary language spoken by 118,415 (64.5%) residents, while 2,105 (1.1%) speak French primarily and 465 (0.3%) are bilingual.

Economy and Employment:

• Burlington has a low unemployment rate of 4.6%, compared to 6.4% for the province of Ontario.
• Most of the workforce, 79.7%, commutes to work by private vehicle, higher than the provincial average of 71%.

 

Burlington is a growing, diverse, and economically prosperous city in Ontario, Canada. As of 2021, its population was nearly 187,000.

 

Economy of Burlington, Ontario, Canada

The economy of Burlington, Ontario, Canada, is characterized by its diversity and robustness, with a range of industries contributing to its economic prosperity.

 

The city is known for its strategic location, which has attracted various businesses and industries. Some key points about the economy of Burlington include:

1. Diverse Industries: Burlington's economy is not dominated by a single industry but is known for its diverse economic base. Major industries in Burlington include advanced manufacturing, software development, professional and technical services, clean technologies, food and beverage, information and communication technology (ICT), and logistics.
2. Employment Opportunities: The city is home to over 13,000 businesses, employing over 85,000 people across various sectors. Major employers in Burlington include companies like Boehringer Ingelheim, Cogeco, EMC Corporation of Canada, Evertz Microsystems, Sofina Foods Inc., and Deloitte.
3. Global Skills Strategy: Burlington participates in the Global Skills Strategy (GSS) program initiated by the Canadian government. This program attracts skilled individuals from other countries, providing newcomers with opportunities to secure work permits and contribute to the local economy.
4. Economic Stability: Burlington's economy benefits from its strategic location within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), offering proximity to major economic hubs like Toronto and Hamilton. This strategic positioning ensures ample job opportunities for residents and businesses alike.
5. Business-Friendly Environment: The city has successfully cultivated a business-friendly environment, attracting large corporations and small enterprises. This environment, coupled with the city's economic diversity, contributes to Burlington's overall economic stability and growth.

 

Burlington's economy is characterized by its diverse industries, job opportunities, strategic location, and business-friendly environment, making it attractive for businesses, entrepreneurs, and skilled individuals looking to thrive in a dynamic economic landscape.

 

Education in Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Education in Burlington, Ontario, Canada, is facilitated by various educational institutions and initiatives catering to the community's diverse needs. Here are some key points based on the provided sources:

1. Brock University: Brock University offers Teacher Education programs on two campuses: one in St. Catharines and a satellite campus in Burlington. The Burlington Satellite Campus at 1433 Headon Road is part of Brock's plan to better serve students in the Hamilton-Burlington-Oakville corridor.
2. Halton District School Board (HDSB): The Halton District School Board provides education for approximately 64,000 students in Kindergarten to Grade 12 in Burlington, Halton Hills, Milton, and Oakville. The HDSB focuses on providing quality education and offers various programs and initiatives to support student learning and development.
3. J.W. Singleton Education Centre: The J.W. Singleton Education Centre, located at 2050 Guelph Line in Burlington, is part of the Halton District School Board. This center serves as an educational hub for the community, offering various educational services and programs.
4. Educational Opportunities: Burlington residents can access various educational opportunities, ranging from elementary and secondary schools under the Halton District School Board to post-secondary education at institutions like Brock University. These educational institutions play a crucial role in shaping the academic landscape of Burlington and providing students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.

 

Education in Burlington, Ontario, Canada is supported by a strong network of educational institutions, including Brock University and the Halton District School Board, which offer a range of programs and services to meet the educational needs of the community.

 

Transport System in Burlington, Ontario, Canada

1. GO Transit:
   • GO Transit is the regional public transit service that operates train and bus services in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area, including Burlington.
   • GO Transit trains run from Toronto Union Station to the Burlington GO station every 30 minutes. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 2 minutes.
   • Tickets for the GO Train service from Toronto to Burlington cost between $7 and $10.
2. Burlington Transit:
   • Burlington Transit is the local public transit service that operates bus routes within the city of Burlington.
   • The downtown Burlington Transit Terminal is located at 430 John Street, where passengers can plan their routes and access bus schedules and real-time information.
   • Burlington Transit provides specialized transit services for residents with disabilities through its Specialized Transit service.
3. Other Transportation Options:
   • Residents and visitors can also use taxis, ridesharing services, or drive personal vehicles to get around Burlington.
   • The driving distance between Toronto and Burlington is approximately 35 miles, which takes around 41 minutes.

 

The transportation system in Burlington, Ontario, is primarily served by the regional GO Transit train and bus services and the local Burlington Transit bus network.

 

The city's strategic location and proximity to major highways like the Queen Elizabeth Way and Highway 403 also provide residents with various transportation options to travel within and beyond Burlington.

 

Living in Burlington, Ontario, Canada

1. Safety and Family-Friendly Environment:
   • Burlington is consistently ranked as one of Canada's safest cities, providing a secure and peaceful environment, especially for raising families.
   • The city has many neighborhoods that are well-suited for families with children.
2. Education System:
   • Burlington's education system is renowned for its excellence, with high-quality elementary and secondary schools.
   • Families with children benefit from access to these educational opportunities in a nurturing environment.
3. Proximity to Toronto:
   • Burlington's location, roughly halfway between Toronto and Niagara Falls, allows residents to enjoy a quieter suburban lifestyle while easily accessing the Greater Toronto Area's job opportunities, cultural attractions, and amenities.
4. Economic Diversity and Job Opportunities:
   • Burlington has a diverse economy with various industries, including manufacturing, technology, healthcare, and more, providing employment opportunities for residents.
   • The city's participation in the Global Skills Strategy program also attracts skilled individuals from other countries, further expanding the job market.
5. Cost of Living and Housing Affordability:
   • The main downside of living in Burlington is the relatively high cost of living, particularly regarding real estate and housing prices.
   • However, the city still offers more affordable options than other Greater Toronto and Hamilton areas.
6. Livability and Quality of Life:
   • Burlington has been ranked as Canada's 5th most livable city and the most livable city in Ontario, thanks to its economic prosperity, educational excellence, healthcare, cultural vibrancy, and community engagement.
   • The city's scenic waterfront, parks, and recreational opportunities contribute to its high quality of life.

 

Burlington, Ontario, offers a safe, family-friendly environment with a strong education system, economic diversity, and proximity to major urban centers, making it an attractive place to live, despite the relatively high cost of living.

 

Healthcare in Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Burlington has a robust healthcare system that caters to the needs of its residents. Some key points:

1. Healthcare Providers:
   • The city is home to the Burlington Ontario Health Team, a collaboration of various health and social service providers who work together as a coordinated team.
   • ParaMed, a home health care services provider, has been operating in the Burlington area for over 40 years. It offers a range of services, including personal care, homemaking, and dementia care.
   • The Burlington Family Health Team (BFHT) is a healthcare organization that provides programs and services in areas such as physiotherapy, psychotherapy, remote care management, and health education.
2. Healthcare Services:
   • The healthcare providers in Burlington offer a wide range of services, including chronic disease management, disease prevention, health promotion, and community remote care monitoring.
   • Specialized services such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and respiratory therapy are also available through the BFHT and other healthcare providers.
   • The Community Care Access Centre, located at 440 Elizabeth Street, provides access to various healthcare and social services for residents.
3. Healthcare Accessibility:
   • Burlington's healthcare system is designed to ensure that people receive the care they need within their community. Each healthcare team is tailored to the local health and community needs.
   • The healthcare providers in Burlington work collaboratively to deliver comprehensive and coordinated care to the city's residents.

 

Burlington, Ontario, has a well-developed healthcare system with a range of providers and services catering to the community's diverse needs, from chronic disease management to specialized therapies and home healthcare.

 

Tourist places in Burlington, Ontario, Canada

In Burlington, Ontario, Canada, there are numerous activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Some of the top things to do in Burlington include:

• Royal Botanical Gardens: Explore the beautiful gardens and nature trails at the Royal Botanical Gardens, covering over 1,000 acres and featuring a variety of plant species.
• Spencer Smith Park: Visit Spencer Smith Park for relaxing strolls, picnics, and events by the waterfront, offering incredible views of Lake Ontario.
• Ireland House Museum: Step back at the Ireland House Museum to explore the history of the Ireland family and the area, housed in a restored 19th-century home.
• Mount Nemo Conservation Area: Enjoy scenic hiking opportunities through the Niagara Escarpment at Mount Nemo Conservation Area, known for its natural beauty and trails.
• RBG Hendrie Valley Sanctuary: Discover the RBG Hendrie Valley Sanctuary, offering lush gardens, nature trails, and wildlife habitats for nature lovers to explore.
• Joseph Brant Museum: Visit the Joseph Brant Museum to learn about Burlington's local history and heritage. It features period furnishings and interactive exhibits.
• Village Square: Explore the shops at Village Square for a unique shopping experience in Burlington. They offer a variety of goods and products.
• Art Gallery of Burlington: Visit the Art Gallery of Burlington to admire contemporary and traditional Canadian art, showcasing works by local and national artists.
• Farms & Farmers Markets: You can pick your own fresh produce at farms and farmers markets in Burlington. These markets offer a variety of fruits, vegetables, and locally made products.

 

These attractions and activities offer visitors a diverse range of experiences while exploring Burlington, Ontario, Canada.

 

Local foods in Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Local foods in Burlington, Ontario, Canada, are easily accessible through various avenues such as farmers' markets and local food producers. Some key points based on the provided sources include:

1. Farmers' Markets:
   • Centro Market on Brant Street in downtown Burlington is a popular spot for local foods. It opened on Sundays starting in May.
   • Another option is the Burlington Centre Lions Farmer's Market, which opens on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday starting in May.
2. Benefits of Choosing Local:
   • Opting for local foods positively impacts sustaining family farms, supporting local economies, promoting agricultural diversity, and encouraging sustainable environmental practices.
   • Local foods also reduce the carbon footprint associated with food transportation and support a more stable food source for the future.
3. Food Waste Reduction:
   • Food waste is a significant issue, with a large amount of food being wasted each year at various levels of production and consumption.
   • Tips for reducing food waste include spreading awareness, buying only what you will eat, storing leftovers properly, and ensuring visible food storage to prevent spoilage.

 

Burlington, Ontario, offers a vibrant local food scene with farmers' markets and a focus on supporting local agriculture, reducing food waste, and promoting sustainable food practices within the community.

 

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