The best Canadian cities for bungalow living are the ones with a large supply of one-storey homes, good services and a lifestyle that suits you. In Ontario, the GTA’s inner suburbs, Oshawa, Hamilton, Barrie, Niagara and Ottawa all have strong bungalow stock. Across the country, Prairie cities like Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg and Regina are known for their many post-war bungalows.
Key takeaways
- Cities that grew quickly from the 1950s to the 1970s tend to have the most bungalows.
- Ontario options range from the GTA to Hamilton, Barrie, Niagara and Ottawa.
- Prairie cities have deep supplies of classic one-storey homes.
- The best city for you depends on family, healthcare, climate and budget.
What makes a city good for bungalow living?
Not every city has many bungalows. When you’re comparing places, look for:
- Supply: lots of one-storey homes, so you have real choice.
- Healthcare: hospitals and clinics within easy reach, especially for retirees.
- Services: shopping, recreation and community centres close by.
- Transportation: good roads, transit or both.
- Climate: snow and winter length matter for upkeep and comfort.
- Community: family, friends and groups that make it feel like home.
Ontario cities for bungalow living
Ontario has some of the best bungalow options in Canada, especially around the GTA.
| City or area | Why bungalow buyers like it |
|---|---|
| Toronto inner suburbs | Mid-century bungalows on mature lots, close to everything |
| Mississauga and Brampton | Large supply of bungalows and backsplits, many with basement suites |
| Oshawa and Durham | More space for the money, close to the GTA |
| Hamilton | Bungalows on the Mountain, lower prices than Toronto |
| Barrie and Simcoe | Lakes, trails and a slower pace for retirees and remote workers |
| Niagara | Retirement-friendly towns and newer bungalow communities |
| Ottawa | Stable government job market and many older bungalow neighbourhoods |
Explore our listings in Durham Region, Hamilton or Niagara to see what’s available.
Bungalow-friendly cities across Canada
Prairie cities
Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Regina and Saskatoon expanded quickly after the Second World War. Many of their older neighbourhoods are full of classic one-storey homes, often with full basements.
Atlantic Canada
Halifax, Moncton and smaller towns across the Maritimes have plenty of bungalows and a slower pace of life. Many retirees are drawn to the ocean and the smaller-city feel.
British Columbia
Greater Vancouver has fewer bungalows left in the city core, though some remain in the suburbs. Interior cities like Kelowna and Kamloops, along with Vancouver Island communities, have many ranch-style bungalows popular with retirees.
Quebec
Montreal’s suburbs and cities like Quebec City and Gatineau have many single-storey homes, often called “plain-pied” homes in local listings.
Bungalow tip: If you’re thinking of moving out of Ontario, rent in the new city for a season before you buy. You’ll learn the neighbourhoods, the winters and the local services without the cost of buying and selling twice.
How to choose the right city for you
- Start with people: where are your family and friends?
- Check healthcare: how close are the hospital and your doctors?
- Think about climate: can you handle the winters, or the summers?
- Compare costs: look at prices, property taxes, insurance and utilities.
- Visit in different seasons to see daily life, not just vacation life.
Many buyers end up close to where they already live. That keeps them near family and doctors while still getting one-level living.
Questions to ask about any new city
- How long are wait times for a family doctor in the area?
- Is there a hospital with the services you’re likely to need?
- How are snow clearing and garbage pickup handled on residential streets?
- Are there community centres, seniors’ programs or clubs you’d join?
- How easy is it to fly or drive back to family?
The answers often matter more than the house itself, especially if you plan to stay for many years.
Buying a bungalow in Ontario: costs to know
If you’re buying in Ontario, budget for the provincial land transfer tax. In Toronto, there’s also a municipal land transfer tax. Closing costs, including legal fees, title insurance and adjustments, commonly run 1.5% to 4% of the price on top of your down payment, and more in Toronto.
A mortgage agent can confirm your budget, and a real estate lawyer can explain your exact closing costs. Our buyer’s guide covers each step.
Is a bungalow in a smaller city a good move?
For many people, yes. Smaller cities often offer more bungalow choice, quieter streets and lower prices. The trade-offs can be fewer specialists, longer trips to major hospitals and a smaller job market.
If you’re downsizing, our guide to moving from a house to a bungalow walks through the process. You can also browse all bungalows for sale to compare locations.
Frequently asked questions
Which Canadian city has the most bungalows?
There’s no official ranking, but cities that grew quickly after the Second World War, including many Prairie cities and the inner suburbs of Toronto, have large supplies of bungalows.
What is the best Ontario city for bungalow living?
It depends on your needs. The GTA offers convenience, while Oshawa, Hamilton, Barrie and Niagara often offer more space for the money and a quieter pace.
Are bungalows cheaper outside the GTA?
Often, yes. Prices in many Ontario cities outside the core GTA are lower, though costs vary widely by neighbourhood and home condition.
The bottom line
Canada has great bungalow cities in every region, from the GTA’s mature streets to the Prairies and the coasts. The best one is where you’ll have the home, people and services you need.
Start close to home, compare a few cities, and visit before you commit.
