Community Guide
Living in Oshawa, Ontario
City of Oshawa | Population: 175,383 (2021)
A city of heritage and innovation. GM roots, university energy, Lake Ontario access, and exceptional home values.
By Keith Williams & Lisa C. Follows, Brokers, Willows Realty Group
Updated On: September 2026
Local Answer
Who is the best realtor in Oshawa?
The best realtor in Oshawa depends on your needs, but Keith Williams and Lisa C. Follows of Willows Realty Group bring deep expertise across the entire Durham Region market, including Oshawa. Both are licensed Brokers at Royal LePage Frank Real Estate with over 30 years of combined real estate experience and more than 1,000 homes sold across Durham Region. Read reviews from past clients and learn more about Keith and Lisa.
Heritage, higher education, and home value
Oshawa is the largest city in Durham Region, a dynamic urban centre that blends a proud automotive and industrial heritage with a growing knowledge economy powered by Ontario Tech University and Durham College. Known as the "Motor City of Canada" for its century-long connection to General Motors, Oshawa is reinventing itself as a hub for innovation, education, and culture.
The city boasts a scenic Lake Ontario waterfront with parks, marinas, and the Oshawa Creek Trail. Downtown Oshawa has seen significant revitalization with new restaurants, breweries, and arts venues along King and Simcoe Streets. The north end features family-friendly suburban communities and growing employment lands.
Compare Oshawa with nearby communities like Whitby and Clarington. For current pricing trends, read our Durham Region home prices 2026 market update.
Quick Facts
Lifestyle
What it is like to live in Oshawa
A dynamic city of automotive heritage, university energy, Lake Ontario waterfront, and some of the best home values in the GTA.
Culture & Education
Oshawa's downtown has undergone a remarkable revitalization. King Street and Simcoe Street are lined with new restaurants, craft breweries, coffee shops, and arts venues. The Canadian Automotive Museum on Simcoe Street is a one-of-a-kind institution showcasing the nation's automotive history, rooted in Oshawa's GM story. The Regent Theatre, a beautifully restored heritage theatre, hosts concerts, films, and live performances. The new Downtown Urban Square public space opened at the corner of Bond and Simcoe Streets in 2025, and dining additions keep arriving, including Fusion Kitchen on King Street West.
Ontario Tech University and Durham College together bring over 20,000 students to the city, injecting youthful energy and driving a growing innovation and technology sector. The campus areas around Conlin Road and Simcoe Street North are hubs of activity.
Waterfront & Parks
Oshawa's Lake Ontario waterfront is a major asset. Oshawa Harbour features a marina, parks, and the scenic Lake Ontario Waterfront Trail. The Oshawa Creek Trail connects the waterfront to the northern parts of the city along a beautiful wooded ravine. The Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens host the annual Peony Festival, one of Ontario's most beautiful garden events.
Affordable Living
For home buyers, Oshawa's biggest draw is value. You get more space and more home for your dollar compared to almost any other GTA community. This makes Oshawa particularly attractive to first-time buyers, young families, and investors who want to enter the market or maximize their purchasing power.
Canadian Automotive Museum
Canada's automotive history in Oshawa.
Ontario Tech University
Innovation and technology hub.
Oshawa Harbour & Waterfront
Marina, trails, and lake views.
Regent Theatre
Heritage theatre with live performances.
Real Estate
Housing types in Oshawa
Oshawa offers some of the best value in the GTA, from affordable family homes to student investment properties, waterfront living, and luxury estates.
Affordable Family Homes
Detached and semi-detached homes offering exceptional value in mature and new neighbourhoods across the city.
Student & Investment
Properties near Ontario Tech and Durham College ideal for rental income and investor portfolios.
Waterfront Living
Lake Ontario properties and homes near Oshawa Harbour with marina access and lake views.
Established Neighbourhoods
Mature tree-lined streets with character homes in Central Oshawa, the historic core, and South Oshawa.
New Subdivisions
Modern family communities in north Oshawa with parks, schools, and new amenities.
Bungalows & Single-Storey Homes
One-floor living in established neighbourhoods such as Central Oshawa and the south end near Lake Ontario, popular with downsizers and retirees.
Price Range
Roughly $650,000 to over $850,000 for detached homes. The best value in Durham Region for size and price.
Hobby Farms & Acreage
Rural pockets on Oshawa's north side include hobby farms and acreage, and buyers searching for small farms can filter by property type in the live listings.
Rentals in Oshawa
Rental demand in Oshawa is strong, driven in part by the more than 20,000 students at Ontario Tech University and Durham College. Options include apartments and condos near the campuses and the GO corridor, plus basements, townhomes, and rental houses. Availability changes quickly, so renters should check the live listings for what is on the market today.
Property taxes in Oshawa
Oshawa's 2025 combined residential property tax rate is 1.524475% of assessed value, including the city, the Region of Durham, and education portions. That made it the highest residential rate in the Greater Toronto Area for 2025, though it is offset by the city's comparatively low average home prices, which keep Oshawa one of the most affordable places to buy in the GTA. The city publishes official rates on its property tax rates and by-laws page.
Exact pricing varies by market conditions. For current listings and recent sales data, visit our Durham Region market snapshot or contact our team.
Local Businesses
Shopping, dining & services in Oshawa
From a revitalized downtown with breweries and restaurants to the Oshawa Centre and major retail corridors, Oshawa offers everything you need.
Downtown & Dining
- Downtown Oshawa along King and Simcoe Streets has seen significant revitalization with independent restaurants, craft breweries, coffee shops, and arts venues.
- The Oshawa Centre is the largest shopping mall in Durham Region, with over 200 stores and services.
- The Taunton Road and Harmony Road corridors offer extensive retail plazas and restaurants.
Services & Amenities
- Lakeridge Health Oshawa is one of Ontario's largest community hospitals, serving all of Durham Region.
- The Oshawa Public Library has multiple branches and excellent programming for all ages.
- The city's recreation system includes the Delpark Homes Centre, the Oshawa Civic Centre, and numerous community centres.
Growing Economy
Oshawa's diversifying economic base
Oshawa's economy is diversifying beyond its automotive roots. Healthcare, education, technology, and logistics are growing sectors. The Durham Region Employment Network and Ontario Tech's innovation programs are attracting new businesses. General Motors continues to operate its Oshawa Assembly Plant, while the Oshawa Harbour supports trade and transportation.
The city's Fiesta Week in the summer is one of the largest community festivals in Durham Region, featuring parades, concerts, and events that draw thousands of residents.
Education
Schools serving Oshawa
Oshawa is served by comprehensive public and Catholic schools through the DDSB and DCDSB, plus French-language options through Conseil scolaire Viamonde.
Explore the Durham District School Board guide for secondary schools in the city, and confirm your home's school with the DDSB school finder.
Eastdale CVI
Public (DDSB) · Grades 9-12
Oshawa's first secondary school, established in 1923, serving the community with a strong academic tradition.
O'Neill CVI
Public (DDSB) · Grades 9-12
A comprehensive secondary school serving north Oshawa with a wide range of academic and extracurricular programs.
Monsignor John Pereyma CSS
Catholic (DCDSB) · Grades 9-12
Oshawa's Catholic secondary school, offering faith-based education with strong community support.
Elementary Schools
Public (DDSB) & Catholic (DCDSB) · JK-8
Rather than listing every elementary school, browse the full list for Oshawa through each board's directory.
Family Highlights
Family highlights in Oshawa
Oshawa pairs exceptional home value with parks, waterfront trails, and community amenities that make it a natural fit for growing families.
New Family Subdivisions
Modern family communities in north Oshawa with parks, schools, and new amenities close by.
Waterfront & Oshawa Creek Trail
A wooded ravine trail connects the waterfront to the northern neighbourhoods, with marina and lake parkland along the way.
Botanical Gardens & Peony Festival
The Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens host one of Ontario's most beautiful garden events each year.
Exceptional Family Value
More space and more home for your dollar than almost any other GTA community.
Indigenous Heritage
Land Acknowledgement
Oshawa is located on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe, Huron-Wendat, and Haudenosaunee peoples. This land is covered under the Williams Treaties of 1923.
Acknowledging the Land
The City of Oshawa acknowledges that the land on which the city now stands is the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe people, including the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation. This territory was also home to the Huron-Wendat and Haudenosaunee peoples and is covered under the Williams Treaties.
We recognize the enduring presence and contributions of Indigenous peoples to this community. We are committed to reconciliation and honouring the history of First Nations peoples who have cared for this land since time immemorial.
Williams Treaty Territory
1923 Treaty covering this area
The Williams Treaties of 1923 were signed between the Crown and several Mississauga and Chippewa First Nations, covering the land now known as Oshawa and the surrounding Durham Region communities. The City of Oshawa formally acknowledges these treaties as the foundation of its relationship with Indigenous peoples.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about living in Oshawa, answered by local experts.
What is it like to live in Oshawa?
Is Oshawa affordable?
How far is Oshawa from Toronto?
Is Oshawa good for families?
What is Oshawa known for?
What schools serve Oshawa?
What are the best neighbourhoods in Oshawa?
Who are the best realtors in Oshawa?
Buying & Selling
Oshawa real estate: buyer & seller questions
Whether you are buying or selling in Oshawa, here is what you need to know.
Buying: Best value in the GTA?
Oshawa consistently offers the best value for detached homes in the GTA. First-time buyers and investors are drawn to the combination of affordable prices, a growing economy, and the university student rental market.
Selling: What is my home worth?
Oshawa home values vary significantly between south Oshawa waterfront, central neighbourhoods, and north Oshawa subdivisions. Contact Keith and Lisa for a free, personalized home valuation.
Buying: Student investment potential?
Properties near Ontario Tech University and Durham College have strong rental demand from over 20,000 students. Investor buyers should focus on the north Oshawa campus areas for the best returns.
Buying & Selling: Market trends
Oshawa's market is shaped by its affordability advantage and growing population. The future Highway 407 extension and continued downtown revitalization are positive long-term trends. Read our market update.
Things to Consider
A balanced look at life in Oshawa
Every city has trade-offs. Here is an honest look at what to weigh when deciding whether Oshawa is right for you.
Property tax rates
Oshawa's property tax rate was the highest in the GTA on a rate basis for 2025, though the city's lower average home prices help offset it for many buyers.
Driving on the 401 today
The Highway 407 extension through Durham is still planned rather than built, so many drivers travelling west rely on Highway 401 for now.
GO Transit parking
GO train service is convenient for commuters heading to Toronto, but station parking can fill early, so it pays to build in a little extra time.
Competitive rental market
The student population keeps rental demand high, so the rental market is competitive and renters should move quickly when they find a place they like.
Why Oshawa
Reasons people move to Oshawa
Every year families, students, investors, and professionals choose Oshawa. Here are the most common reasons.
Home Value
Oshawa offers the best value for detached homes in the GTA. First-time buyers and families can buy more space for less money than anywhere else in the region.
University Energy
Ontario Tech University and Durham College bring youthful energy, innovation, and a thriving rental market that makes Oshawa a smart choice for investors.
Waterfront Access
Oshawa Harbour, Lake Ontario waterfront parks, and the Oshawa Creek Trail provide beautiful outdoor recreation minutes from anywhere in the city.
Downtown Revitalization
Oshawa's downtown is undergoing a remarkable transformation with new restaurants, breweries, and cultural venues bringing energy back to the historic core.
Employment & Growth
GM, Ontario Tech, Lakeridge Health, and a growing logistics sector provide diverse employment opportunities. The future Highway 407 extension will boost growth further.
Arts & Culture
The Canadian Automotive Museum, Regent Theatre, Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens, Fiesta Week, and the Downtown Jazz Festival make Oshawa a cultural hub in Durham Region.
Whether you are drawn by the value, the university energy, or the waterfront, Oshawa welcomes you home. Call or email us to start your Oshawa journey.
Community Spotlight
Featuring Mathilda's
Curated by Keith Williams of Willows Realty Group. Each week we spotlight an independent business that makes Oshawa a better place to call home.
Plant-based eating at its best in downtown Oshawa
Mathilda's is downtown Oshawa's plant-based gem. Founded in 2018 by owner Mathilda Irawan, the restaurant serves international-inspired, fully plant-based dishes built from real, whole ingredients. The menu includes soups, sandwiches, pasta, chick'n shawarma, banh mi, and mac and cheeze, much of it also gluten-free, sugar-free, and oil-free.
What makes Mathilda's special is the philosophy behind it. The owner's own journey from illness to wellbeing inspired a kitchen that proves healthy food does not have to be boring. The results are colourful, satisfying, and comforting, which is why the restaurant has become the go-to spot for vegan and gluten-free eaters across Durham Region.
Beyond the dining room, Mathilda's does catering, meal prep, frozen meals, and retail, offering desserts, baking mixes, and sauces. It is the kind of business that quietly supports the community in many small ways.
The space itself is warm and welcoming, with bright, clean surroundings that make healthy eating feel easy rather than effortful. For residents of the downtown and students from nearby campuses, Mathilda's has become a dependable spot for a good meal that also happens to be good for you. Whether you drop in for lunch, pick up frozen meals for the week, or order catering for a gathering, the quality stays consistent and the welcome is always warm.
Who would love it? Vegans, vegetarians, gluten-free eaters, health-conscious families, and anyone who likes exploring the food scene in a growing downtown. If you are considering Oshawa for your next home, a meal at Mathilda's is a delicious introduction to the neighbourhood. Read our Oshawa community guide, browse more Community Spotlights, or get in touch with Keith and Lisa to start your search.
Curated by Keith Williams
Willows Realty Group, local broker and community supporter
Mathilda's
Plant-Based Restaurant | Oshawa
| Address | 29 Simcoe Street South, Oshawa, ON L1H 4G1 |
| Rating | |
| Hours | Tue - Sat 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM Sun - Mon Closed |
| Phone | (365) 688-3663 |
| Website | mathildas.ca |
| Directions | Open in Google Maps |
Is Your Business the Next Spotlight?
We love featuring local businesses that make Oshawa special. If you own or manage a business and would like to be featured, we would love to hear from you.
Request to Be FeaturedFrequently Asked Questions
What kind of food does Mathilda's serve?
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Proud to spotlight Mathilda's in Oshawa.
Call today to talk about your next move! Call Lisa or Keith at 905-985-9898.
Ready to explore Oshawa?
From affordable family homes to student investments, Oshawa offers value and opportunity you will not find anywhere else in Durham Region.
Call today to talk about your next move! Call Lisa or Keith at 905-447-5842 or the brokerage at 905-985-9898.
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