The heart of Kingston is its lively downtown core. It’s defined by prestige and history. Large, beautiful limestone and clay brick homes add to the historic charm, while some of the city’s best loved restaurants line the streets. It’s right on the waterfront, and it’s also where you’ll find Queen’s University.

The North of Princess neighbourhood in downtown is where the thriving arts scene lives. The homes are eccentric and the community is tight-knit. This is where young families and creatives cluster.

Some of the most sought-after neighbourhoods are found close to downtown; like Sunnyside, a favourite for families who appreciate the good schools and larger lots (and where Glenn Rea calls home), Calvin Park, a beautiful mid-century enclave in the heart of the city.

Living by the lake means Kingstonians can spend the day beaching, boating, sailing, or kite surfing on sunny days. There are tons of golf courses in the area if you prefer to spend the day hitting the links (especially in Midtown’s Polson Park, where you’ll find Cataraqui Golf Course, one of Canada’s oldest and most prestigious), and even entire retirement communities built around courses, making Kingston a great option for those who like a balance of city and suburban living.

The Memorial Centre Farmers Market in Williamsville is a favourite for Kingstonians who come to connect through events like Kingstonlicious, yoga classes, or Cycle Day. More than a place to pick up delicious artisan eats or fresh produce, the market is a place where Kingston truly comes alive, year round!

After a busy day exploring all the recreation Kingston has to offer, you’ll want to check out the excellent local dining options around the city, from casual eats and cosy cafes, to fine restaurants all serving a variety of cuisines.

One of our favourite areas of Kingston (and where Jake & Anne call home) is Midtown. It’s where midcentury architecture decorates the area and residents are spoiled with proximity to the city’s best amenities and the downtown core, while being able to enjoy the serenity of calm neighbourhood streets.

There’s something in Midtown for every resident. Quiet neighbourhoods like Balsam Grove, and Hillendale (home to Kingston’s only 100% French school) are peaceful communities great for families. Here you can connect to the Rideau Trail and Cataraqui Creek. These neighbourhoods are great for running, walking dogs, indulging in nature or playing pond hockey.

Love the lake? Portsmouth Village is a Midtown waterfront community and one of Kingston’s oldest. A 200-year old neighbourhood in the midst of a rejuvenation project, it blends the historic with the happening. Looking for a balance? In Calvin Park you’ll be right by downtown, and living the best of both worlds—close to the excitement with a suburban, yet heritage feel.

The Midtown neighbourhood of Grenville Park is perhaps the most unique, as it is actually a co-operative community with shared/owned parkland, tennis courts, and arboretum. One of the oldest neighbourhoods in the area, it’s where you’ll find larger lots, homes, and leafy mature trees.

The City of Kingston is great for commuters and people who want to be close enough to big cities without living in the midst of the hustle and bustle. It’s just two hours from Toronto and Ottawa, and three hours from Montreal and Syracuse. Neighbourhoods like Strathcona Park are right by the 401, so getting in and out of the city from here is a breeze.

The city is also home to post-secondary schools like St. Lawrence College, Royal Military College, and Queens University. The large student population brings a vibrant and energetic feel to the city.

This part of town is great for its proximity to the Canadian Forces base and RMC, as well as historic Old Fort Henry. It’s clear why many military families choose to settle in this neighbourhood. There are also a lot of new amenities popping up, including awesome restaurants and pubs like “The Duchess”, “Big Bob’s Pizza”, or “Kingston Burger Company”. And, the addition of the third crossing makes commuting easier and the views of the inner harbour are spectacular!

This is the ultimate family mecca. Kingston’s west end is filled with incredible schools, newer housing stock, big yards, expansive parks, malls and more. Think of this area as Kingston’s version of suburbia, with big box stores and a “drive to everything” vibe. Many families settle here and never leave!

Drive just five minutes north of the 401 and you will find estate subdivisions or old limestone farmhouses, and you’ll still be just 10 minutes from downtown Kingston. There even a few interior lakes that you can live on year round, including Collins Lake, Loughborough Lake, Buck Lake and more.

Another factor drawing new residents and keeping old ones? Affordability. Compared to nearby cities, Kingston has an average home price that’s under $700,000, making it a great option for first time buyers, downsizers, and families looking to get better value for their dollar outside of the GTA.

The housing stock in Kingston reflects the architectural design of the 60s and 70s. There are also an abundance of wartime homes averaging 700-1400 square feet built between the 40s and 70s. Kingston is also home to a fine collection of limestone, brick, and heritage homes clustered around the downtown area. A pleasant surprise to many buyers, most Kingston townhomes are actually freehold homes.

Some of the most interesting real estate is found in Woodlands, along Author’s Lane, Copperfield Drive, Pickwick Place, Dickens Drive, Marley Street, and Mowat Street.