Thunder Bay is the largest community on Lake Superior location right in the middle of Canada. With a metropolitan population of 121,621, it is a modern, dynamic community committed to investments in infrastructure including the development of a diverse and vibrant downtown and waterfront. Living in Thunder Bay takes you away from the hectic pace of big city living, while still providing a culturally diverse area that is urban and forward-thinking. Located on the majestic shores of Lake Superior, the city offers the best of both worlds combining an urban lifestyle in an idyllic natural setting.

Thunder Bay: Superior by Nature

The City motto is "Superior by Nature" a right they can brag about thanks to the beautiful location on the world's largest freshwater lake. Living in Thunder Bay brings you close to nature with some of the most beautiful parks and natural attractions including Sleeping Giant and Quetico Provincial Park.

The city attracts people interested in a different lifestyle and career, where the cost of living is not so extravagant and home ownership is very affordable. Here you can leave the stress behind, but not lose the sense of urban living despite being so close to nature. There’s no commuter traffic to worry about and you are always moments away from your choice of adventures in the stunning landscape that is truly Canadian.

Many people are surprised to learn that Thunder Bay is actually the sunniest city in Eastern Canada. That means that despite colder temperatures in the winter, you still experience more sunny days that help keep those cold months tolerable. Because of its northern Ontario location, it is also a very comfortable climate in the summer months without the threat of high humidity found in most Ontario locations to the south.

If you are worried about snow in Thunder Bay, don’t be. The city is more than ready to manage snow removal effectively with a reliable system that handles the sidewalks and roadways following each snowfall.

The Thunder Bay Lifestyle

Thunder Bayans enjoy a modern, laid back life where newcomers are welcome and instantly become part of the community. People in the area and travellers from far and wide enjoy camping, birding, hiking, swimming, and canoeing, in the summer and skiing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding in the winter.

Thunder Bay's developing food and drink scene is suitable for even the most discerning foodie with everything you desire from greasy spoons to high-end dining. It is home to many award-winning chefs and also boasts some of the province’s best craft breweries.

Thunder Bay has a rich cultural heritage with one of the area’s major attractions, the Waverley Park Heritage Conservation District keeping people in tune with history. There is a variety of heritage homes and churches in Thunder Bay as well as a rich and colourful arts area to be discovered at Prince Arthur's Landing. You will always have a number of annual cultural festivals and events to attend to keep things interesting.

The location of most businesses and homes are in close proximity making the average commute a short 15 minutes for most.

Thunder Bay Economy

Thunder Bay enjoys a low unemployment rate thanks to the availability of jobs ranging from entry-level to executive positions. The city is home to many thriving young businesses making it an excellent location for those with a business idea they’d like to develop. It is a thriving community that also has many established businesses for sale.

People interested in making a move to a new city to explore their entrepreneurial side will have many opportunities to explore.

Thunder Bay Neighbourhoods

The Thunder Bay district includes the South and North wards where local neighbourhoods offer excellent options to settle down. Current River is the furthest northern area offering mostly newer homes, although some older homes can be found. If you’re interested in apartment living, this is the place with some of the best views of Sleeping Giant.

Mature trees and older homes can be found in Shuniah, making this a special neighbourhood with more desirable streets. College Heights is also known for its older homes, but its stellar views are what attract people to the area. Some fixer-uppers make it a great place to house hunt if you are more interested in undertaking some top-notch renovations to create your dream home.

McKellar Park offers some larger, older homes in an area close to schools and shopping. However, if you are interested in a more rural home with acreage, Vickers Heights is ideal. It also offers a quaint shopping area along Arthur Street and the Arthur Street Market.

Education

Thunder Bay is home to exceptional education including French immersion programs. It has both private and public school options, as well as a French school with its own school board. You can choose from either public or Catholic school boards.

Post-secondary options include Lakehead University and Confederation College offering a wide selection of programs including professional degrees in medicine and law. The Northern Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM), is hosted by Lakehead University and Sudbury’s Laurentian University where students will find research sites across Northern Ontario.

Getting Around Thunder Bay

You will find bus routes in Thunder Bay, although driving is still the primary source for transportation. However, when weather permits, there is a very user-friendly connection of bike and walking trails that also offer an eco-friendly way to get around.

Real Estate

If you are looking for a place in Ontario that has a low unemployment rate and extremely affordable housing, Thunder Bay could be the place for you. The housing market here has seen excellent growth in the past decade. It also has real estate prices that allow homes to maintain their value while remaining highly affordable. This makes it appealing for both buyers and sellers even though there has been an increase in detached homes. Homeowners can still purchase a single-family detached home for house prices below $200,000. Buyers will get more bang for their buck and have the option to choose from any of the inviting neighbourhoods of Thunder Bay.

If you are looking for Canadian real estate with an urban lifestyle, sans the stress and traffic woes of the fast-paced city, Thunder Bay could be the answer. With the opportunity to grow your career living in a more laid back area, this could be the perfect place to settle down and raise a family.
For more information about buying a home in Thunder Bay, reach out to our real estate agents today.