Rural Living

The Case for Rural Living in Kawartha Lakes

With an estimated population of 6.7 million people, the Greater Toronto Area has a certain understandable appeal, offering abundant networking opportunities and a vast hiring pool that many believe is irreplicable elsewhere. But with fast growing economies, renewed commitments to continuous innovation, and the impacts of the global pandemic, rural communities are expanding their appeal – and Kawartha Lakes is no exception.

Here in Kawartha Lakes, businesses, entrepreneurs, and job seekers alike can find many of the assets and amenities people enjoy in big city life from a smaller, quieter, and more economical package. Take it from Ellen; the sole proprietor of Mariposa Woolen Mill and Farm Market. "Kawartha Lakes’ lifestyle is distinct because it has the rural factor but with the conveniences of essential amenities."

Here are four reasons to trade big city living for a rural life and lifestyle in Kawartha Lakes:

1. Commuting and connecting is never a challenge

Nobody enjoys a traffic jam, which is where Kawartha Lakes hosts a particular advantage. A network of rural highways can get you from point A to point B with minimal hassle, while picturesque scenery provides an idyllic backdrop for the commute. For those who require access to major markets, highways 401, 407, and 115 facilitate swift access in 90 minutes or less, while broadband internet connections support those whose commutes are limited from bedroom to home office.

2. Opportunities are always knocking

Here in Kawartha Lakes, our key sectors lend themselves to fulfilling career opportunities and entryways for new business ventures. Our agriculture and food industry boasts 6 major commodity groups across 277,793 acres of land, while our tourism industry sees 1.6 million visitors each year. Combined with the vibrancy of our culture sector, the over 190 companies that compose our manufacturing sector, and our Innovation Cluster that provides entrepreneurs with connections, knowledge, and resources to thrive, Kawartha Lakes is an ideal destination for advancing an idea or skill set.

3. Life’s better at the lake

Home to over 250 lakes and 600 kilometres of scenic trails, Kawartha Lakes provides a natural backdrop for those who seek a relaxed lifestyle and connection to the great outdoors. For those who prefer cityscapes and the perks that come with them, our growing craft beverage and restaurant scene can't be overlooked, and neither can our signature museums, art galleries, and live theatre experiences. Check out Launch Kawartha, a modern coworking space, or the Innovation Cluster which supports innovative entrepreneurs on their journeys to success.

4. There’s a place for everyone in the community

Living in a big city makes it easy to blend in; to become less of a face and more of a stranger amongst many. But in Kawartha Lakes, neighbours are friends, businesses are partners, and communities are connected. As Ryan Oliver of Pinnguaq has said, “The business community as a whole is full of wonderful people, and in my experience, most people – especially younger entrepreneurs – are very interested in growing this community together.” We welcome new talents and ideas with an enthusiasm that can be felt, and we deliver a palpable warmth of spirit that is difficult to locate in the concrete jungle.

Gone are the days where major metropolitan areas are the sole destination for exciting amenities, new innovations, and vast opportunities. Now’s the time to jump in to Kawartha Lakes to uncover the advantages of rural living. Learn more at www.kawarthalakes.ca/welcomehome.