Oakville is a picture-perfect town located on the shores of Lake Ontario, approximately 30 kilometres west of Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Founded in 1857 by Colonel William Chisholm, Oakville has a rich history as a thriving port of entry for merchants and sailors in the early 1800s.

 

The town is known for its vibrant shopping districts, active arts community, and excellent dining options. Oakville offers 1,420 hectares of parkland, 150 kilometres of trails, and more than 200 parks, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. 

 

The town also has three distinct business areas: Bronte Village, Downtown Oakville, and Kerr Village, each with unique character and charm.

 

As of 2021, Oakville had a population of 213,759 and is the largest town in Canada by area. It occupies 69,000 acres (28,900 hectares) and extends northward for some 14 miles (22.5 km) from Lake Ontario. The town is an industrial community and the site of one of Canada's largest automobile plants.

 

Oakville's heritage is on display at its many historical sites, including the Erchless Estate, the Custom House, and the Coach House. The town was also a terminus for the Underground Railroad, which provided freedom for many African Americans who fled to Canada.

 

Today, Oakville is a vibrant community that offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. With its picturesque harbours, beautiful parks, and thriving arts scene, Oakville is a hidden gem well worth visiting.

 

History of Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Oakville has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s when Colonel William Chisholm founded it. The town was built on the traditional lands of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, who were nomadic anglers and hunters.

 

In 1827, Colonel Chisholm purchased land at the mouth of Sixteen Mile Creek on Lake Ontario and developed a shipbuilding yard and harbour to attract settlers and industries. Shipbuilding and lumber soon became important industries in the town.

 

Oakville's lakeshores also played a significant role in the Underground Railroad, serving as an entry point for many American slaves seeking freedom in Canada. The Oakville Museum has permanent exhibits chronicling this important part of the town's Black history.

 

As Oakville grew, more settlers arrived, and industries like wagon, saddle, threshing machine, watch, and metal goods manufacturing emerged. Wheat became a major export product, prompting businessmen to build warehouses and ship goods to market.

 

In the late 1800s, the end of the Crimean War and the construction of the Grand Trunk Railway impacted the town's economy, reducing shipments and industries through the harbour. Farmers turned to fruit production, with strawberries becoming Oakville's primary crop, earning it the title of "strawberry capital of Canada."

 

Today, Oakville is the largest town in Ontario by area, occupying 69,000 acres and spreading northward for 14 miles from Lake Ontario. It is an industrial community and the site of one of Canada's largest automobile plants.

 

Geography of Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Oakville is a town in the Canadian province of Ontario. It is situated on the shores of Lake Ontario between Toronto and Hamilton. It is part of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and the Halton Region.

 

Geography

Oakville covers an area of 138.94 square kilometres (53.65 square miles) and has an elevation of 173 meters (568 feet) above sea level. The town is divided into 12 neighbourhoods, including Old Oakville, Kerr Village, Bronte, Eastlake, Clearview, College Park, Iroquois Ridge North, Iroquois Ridge South, Glen Abbey, Palermo, River Oaks, and Uptown Core.

 

Climate

Oakville has a humid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Its proximity to Lake Ontario moderates temperatures and provides varying temperatures within the town boundaries, with generally warmer days further from the lake.

 

Sister Cities

Oakville is twinned with the following cities:

• Dorval, Quebec, Canada (1957)
• Neyagawa, Osaka, Japan (1984)
• Huai'an, Jiangsu, China (2015)

 

Demographics of Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Oakville, Ontario, Canada, has a diverse population with a rich history and cultural heritage. Here are some key demographics of the town:

 

Population

• 2021 Census Population: 213,759
• Population Growth: 10.3% increase from 2016 to 2021
• Projected 2024 Population: 239,897

 

Age Distribution

• 0 to 14 years: 38,435 (18.0% of total population)
• 15 to 64 years: 141,725 (66.1% of total population)
• 65 years and over 33,600 (15.7% of the total population)

 

Education

• Level of Post-Secondary Education:
  • University Level Bachelor's or Above: 55.75%
  • Bachelor's Degree: 36.68%
  • University Certificate, Diploma, or Degree Above Bachelor Level: 19.07%

 

Income

• Household Income:
  • $0 to $19,999: 2.10%
  • $20,000 to $39,999: 9.76%
  • $40,000 to $59,999: 8.20%
  • $60,000 to $79,999: 8.01%
  • $80,000 to $99,999: 7.74%
  • $100,000 to $124,999: 8.89%
  • $125,000 to $149,999: 8.42%
  • $150,000 to $199,999: 12.39%
  • $200,000 and over: 34.50%

 

Language

• English as a Native Language: 70.4%
• French as a Native Language: 1.4%

 

Ethnicity

• English: 22.1%
• Canadian: 16.9%
• Scottish: 16.4%
• Irish: 16.1%
• South Asian: 9.3%
• Italian: 8.8%
• German: 8.1%
• Chinese: 7.7%

 

Indigenous Peoples

• Indigenous Population: 0.7% of the total population
• Indigenous Groups: Neutral, Huron-Wendat, Haudenosaunee, and Anishinaabeg, including the Mississauga

 

Economy of Oakville, Ontario, Canada

The economy of Oakville, Ontario, Canada, is diverse and robust, focusing on various sectors that contribute significantly to the town's economic growth and development. Here are key points about the economy of Oakville based on the provided sources:

 

Major Employers

• Top Employers: The top employers in Oakville include the Halton Catholic District School Board, Ford Motor Company of Canada, Halton District School Board, Halton Healthcare, Regional Municipality of Halton, Sheridan College, and The Corporation of the Town of Oakville.
• Industry Presence: Oakville is home to companies like Sagen MI Canada, Algonquin Power & Utilities, Canadian Tire Financial Services, Cameron's Brewing Company, Equirex, Pelmorex, and Rockstar Toronto. Additionally, Siemens, The Ford Motor Company, and MADD Canada have their head Canadian offices there.

 

Economic Development Strategy

• Growth: Oakville's economy has been growing steadily, supporting approximately 116,300 jobs. Between 2013 and 2018, the local economy grew by 9,763 jobs.
• Business Environment: Oakville's prime location within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and access to Toronto via GO Transit provide companies with a large pool of talent within a small geographic radius, making it an attractive location for businesses.
• Key Sectors: The town has experienced growth in professional and financial services, life sciences, digital media, ICT, and film sectors. The number of businesses in these sectors has increased significantly since 2009.

 

Workforce and Labour Market

• Commuting Patterns: A significant percentage of Oakville residents commute to jobs outside the town, with most commuting to Toronto, Mississauga, and Burlington. Oakville is a net importer of labour, attracting workers from outside the town for employment opportunities.
• Labour Market Surplus: Oakville has a net gap of approximately 2,378 workers, indicating more jobs than Oakville residents employed locally. The town has labour surpluses in finance, insurance, and professional, scientific, and technical services.

• Household Income: Oakville is an affluent community, with an average household income of $169,786, significantly higher than the provincial average. Approximately 56% of households in Oakville earn an annual income of more than $100,000.

 

Oakville's economic landscape reflects a thriving community with a diverse range of industries, a skilled workforce, and a strong focus on innovation and growth.

 

Education in Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Oakville, Ontario, has a robust education system with a mix of public, Catholic, and private schools serving students from preschool through high school. Here are some key points about education in Oakville:

 

Public Schools

• Oakville's public schools are part of the Halton District School Board, which operates 28 elementary schools and six high schools.
• Some notable public elementary schools include Abbey Lane Public School, Brookdale Public School, and Oakwood Public School.
• Public high schools include Abbey Park High School, Iroquois Ridge High School, and Oakville Trafalgar High School.

 

Catholic Schools

• Catholic schools in Oakville are part of the Halton Catholic District School Board, which runs 16 elementary and three high schools.
• Some Catholic elementary schools are Holy Family Catholic Elementary, St. Joan of Arc Catholic Elementary, and St. Mary Catholic Elementary (French Immersion).
• Catholic high schools include Holy Trinity Catholic Secondary, St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Secondary, and St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary.

 

French-Language Schools

• École Patricia-Picknell (JK-G6) and École secondaire Gaetan Gervais (9-12) are part of the public French school board Conseil scolaire Viamonde.
• École Saint Marie and École Secondaire Catholique Sainte-Trinité are Catholic French schools under the Conseil scolaire de district catholique Centre-Sud.

 

Private Schools

• Oakville has many private schools, including Appleby College, Chisholm Academy, Clanmore Montessori, Fern Hill School, King's Christian Collegiate, and St. Mildred' s-Lightbourn School.
• Many private schools offer programs from preschool through high school, focusing on areas such as Montessori education, International Baccalaureate, and single-gender education.

 

Post-Secondary Education

• Sheridan College, a public polytechnic institute, has a campus in Oakville.
• Over 55% of Oakville's population has a university-level bachelor's degree or higher, significantly higher than the provincial average.

 

The town's education system provides students various options, from public schools to specialized private institutions, ensuring quality education for all.

 

Transport System in Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Oakville, Ontario, Canada, has a comprehensive public transportation system managed by Oakville Transit, which offers a variety of services to cater to the town's residents and visitors. Here are key points about the transport system in Oakville:

 

Public Transportation

• Oakville Transit: The primary public transportation provider in Oakville, offering conventional bus and para-transit services like care-A-van and Home to Hub. The fleet comprises 101 low-floor, fully accessible conventional buses and 24 home-to-hub/care-A-van buses.
• Routes: Oakville Transit operates 21 regular bus routes, one express route, and eight school routes. The routes cover various areas of Oakville, including the downtown core, Bronte, Appleby, and Clarkson GO stations.
• Fares: Cash fares are $4.00 for riders 13 and older. Children ages 0-12 ride free when accompanied by a fare-paying passenger. Students/youths (13-19) and seniors (65+) can ride fare-free with their Presto cards.
• Presto Integration: Oakville Transit is part of the Presto system, allowing riders to pay fares using Presto cards, contactless credit/debit cards, or mobile wallets.

 

Rail Services

• GO Transit: Oakville is served by the GO Transit Lakeshore West commuter train line, which runs from Union Station in Toronto to Hamilton. Peak-hour trains run every 15 minutes, and off-peak trains run every half-hour.
• VIA Rail: VIA Rail operates intercity trains across Canada, with stops at Oakville GO station. The trip from Toronto takes between 25 and 40 minutes.

 

Other Transportation Options

• Megabus: Megabus operates coach services between Toronto and Niagara Falls, stopping at the Holiday Inn in Oakville.

 

Getting Around

• Walking: Walking is convenient in the downtown core and Bronte areas, with parking available.
• Driving: Driving is more accessible in areas outside the downtown core.
• Public Transit: Public transit is a viable option for those without cars, with Oakville Transit offering a comprehensive network of bus routes.

 

Facilities

• Terminals & Junctions: Oakville Transit has several terminals and junctions, including Oakville GO Station, Bronte GO Station, South Oakville Centre, Uptown Core, and Sheridan College.
• Mississauga Bus Terminals: Oakville Transit connects to Mississauga's MiWay bus service at various terminals.
• Burlington Bus Terminals: Oakville Transit connects to Burlington Transit bus services at Appleby GO Station and other terminals.

 

Overall, Oakville's transportation system provides a range of options for residents and visitors, including public buses, commuter trains, and intercity rail services.

 

Living in Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Oakville, Ontario, is an excellent place for those seeking a high quality of life in a picturesque town with easy access to Toronto. Here are some key reasons why living in Oakville is so appealing:

 

Outdoor Recreation

Oakville offers abundant green spaces, with over 1,420 hectares of parkland, 150 kilometres of trails, and more than 200 parks. 

 

The scenic waterfront trail, Bronte Creek Provincial Park, and Sixteen Mile Creek provide ample opportunities for walking, biking, and enjoying nature. 

 

In winter, residents can go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice skating at the town's many outdoor rinks.

 

Arts and Culture

Oakville has a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous art galleries, theatres, and cultural festivals throughout the year. 

 

The Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts presents over 70 performances annually, ranging from music and theatre to comedy and jazz. The town also features attractions like the Oakville Museum and Centennial Square Galleries.

 

Shopping and Dining

Oakville offers a mix of shopping options, from the 100+ stores at Oakville Place Mall to boutiques, indie shops, and markets in neighbourhoods like Old Oakville and Kerr Village. Foodies will enjoy the town's many restaurants, cafes, and culinary events.

 

Education

Oakville has an excellent education system, with public and Catholic schools under the Halton District School Board and Halton Catholic District School Board, respectively. The town is also home to Sheridan College and is close to the University of Toronto.

 

Safety and Community

Oakville is consistently ranked as one of the safest communities in Canada. With a low crime rate, the town has a strong sense of community, with many festivals, events, and volunteer opportunities.

 

Proximity to Toronto

Oakville is located just 30 kilometres west of Toronto. It offers easy access to the city's amenities and a more relaxed pace of life. 

 

The town has excellent transportation links, with GO Transit commuter rail service and major highways like the QEW, 403, and 407.

 

While housing prices in Oakville are higher than the provincial average, the town's many benefits make it an attractive option for those seeking a high quality of life in a picturesque setting. With its parks, arts scene, shopping, dining, and community spirit, Oakville is an ideal place to call home.

 

Healthcare in Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Healthcare in Oakville, Ontario, Canada, is well-served by a range of medical facilities and services, catering to the diverse healthcare needs of the town's residents. Here is an overview based on the provided sources:

 

Private Clinics

• Oakville Health Centre Clinic offers comprehensive medical care for adults and children, focusing on services like listing medications, allergies, and sensitivities. The clinic does not prescribe narcotics or controlled substances.
• La Vie Executive Health Centre is a premier private clinic in Oakville focusing on early detection, prevention, and anti-aging. The clinic offers personalized services and same-day appointments when feasible. Services include consultations with specialists, ongoing care, and preventive health measures.

 

Family Health Teams

• OakMed Family Health Team: A collaborative team of doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, social workers, dietitians, pharmacists, and other healthcare staff in the Oakville area. The team focuses on chronic disease management, disease prevention, and health promotion.

 

Hospitals and Medical Facilities

• Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital: A key healthcare facility in Oakville providing various medical services to the community.

 

Top Employers in the Healthcare Sector

• Halton Healthcare: A major employer in Oakville that provides healthcare services to the community.
• Other Healthcare Employers: Oakville is home to various healthcare-related companies and facilities, including retirement homes, pharmaceutical companies, and elder care services.

 

Accessibility and Convenience

• Private clinics like La Vie Executive Health Centre offer convenient locations and flexible hours to accommodate patients' schedules.
• The healthcare facilities in Oakville aim to provide personalized care, state-of-the-art facilities, and a highly skilled team of medical professionals to ensure optimal patient care.

 

Overall, healthcare in Oakville is characterized by a mix of private clinics, family health teams, hospitals, and healthcare-related employers, all working together to meet the diverse healthcare needs of the town's residents.

 

Tourist places in Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Oakville, Ontario, Canada, offers a variety of tourist attractions and activities that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are some of the top tourist places in Oakville:

1. Oakville Lighthouse: Located at 99 Forsythe St, Oakville, ON L6K 3R7, this historic lighthouse is a popular spot for locals and tourists. 
2. Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park: This park is at 2340 Ontario St, Oakville, ON L6L 6P7.
3. Bronte Creek Provincial Park: Located at 1219 Burloak Dr, Oakville, ON L6M 4J7, this park offers a range of outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, and swimming.
4. Lions Valley Park: This park is at 1227 Lions Valley Park Rd, Oakville, ON L6H 6W8.
5. South Shell Park: Located at 3376 Lakeshore Rd W, Oakville, ON L6L 6S6, this park offers scenic views of Lake Ontario.
6. Oakville Museum: Located at 8 Navy St, Oakville, ON L6J 2Y5, this museum showcases the city's history and culture. 
7. Oakville Town Square: This square is located in the heart of Oakville and offers a variety of events and activities. 
8. CN Tower: Located in Toronto, about 31.1 kilometres from Oakville, this iconic tower offers stunning views of the city and Lake Ontario.
9. Casa Loma: Also located in Toronto, this historic castle offers guided tours.

 

These are just a few of the many tourist attractions and activities that Oakville offers. The town's unique blend of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities makes it an attractive destination for visitors worldwide.

 

Local Food of Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Oakville, Ontario, has a vibrant local food scene that showcases the town's agricultural heritage and diverse culinary influences. Here are some highlights of the local food in Oakville:

 

Specialty Food Shops

Oakville is home to several specialty food shops that offer high-quality local products. Some notable ones include:

• Boffo's: A meat shop and deli that sources from local farms and offers a variety of fresh cuts and prepared foods.
• Farmhouse Artisan Market: A market featuring local produce, baked goods, and artisanal products from nearby farms and producers.

 

Local Farms and Producers

Halton Region, which includes Oakville, has a thriving agricultural sector with many family-owned farms. Some local farms offer pick-your-own produce, garden products, and agriculture-related activities. The Simply Local initiative by Halton Region promotes these local farms and connects residents with their products.

 

Ethnic Cuisine

Oakville's diverse population has contributed to a wide variety of ethnic cuisines. For example, Kori's Roti Stop offers authentic West Indian and Jamaican food, including roti, a popular flatbread dish.

 

Downtown Oakville Food Scene

Downtown Oakville is a hub for local food, with many restaurants and eateries showcasing regional ingredients and flavours. A food crawl through the area reveals a mix of independent cafes, restaurants, and specialty shops5.

 

Culinary History

Oakville's culinary history dates back centuries, from its early agricultural roots to the present day. The town has become a foodie destination, with chefs and restaurateurs incorporating local flavours into their menus.

 

Oakville's local food scene reflects its agricultural heritage, diverse population, and commitment to supporting local producers and businesses. From specialty shops to ethnic eateries, this charming Ontario town has no shortage of delicious local food.

 

You can also check the information regarding North Bay, Ontario