Living in Whitby, Ontario
Living in Whitby, Ontario: The Definitive Guide is intended to provide you with an overview of everything Whitby has to offer as well as a taste of what it might be like to live in this wonderful town.
If you're considering moving to Whitby, Ontario, whether it's for work, to start a family, to retire, or just for a change of scenery, this is for you!
Contents
Where Is Whitby, Ontario?
Whitby's historic downtown is more than just a place to visit; it's a destination. Downtown Whitby, located in the heart of the Durham Region, offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy.
As you shop, take in the beautiful architecture or enjoy the vibrant public art sprinkled throughout the streets. There's always a reason to visit, whether you want to shop, eat, or explore. What they say is true: Downtown Whitby has it all.
Whitby is frequently ranked among Canada's top ten places to live. This is not surprising given the city's beauty. It has pleasant weather and a beautiful environment bordering Lake Ontario to the south. The city's proximity to Toronto and other major Ontario cities contributes to its popularity.
Whitby is 89% safer than the rest of Canada's cities? Despite its proximity to cities with higher crime rates, such as Oshawa, Whitby is a safe and secure place to live and raise a family.
The city's average crime rate is nearly 37% lower than the national average, according to areavibes.com. Similarly, the violent crime rate is 34% lower in comparison to the national average. This makes it very safe place for raising a family.
General Overview
Whitby housing remains reasonably priced despite its ideal location to Toronto. With prices starting around $657K, properties sell quickly when they are listed, as many people find Whitby to be the ideal balance of large city amenities and a small town community.
Whitby is part of the Greater Toronto Area, and as such has experienced rapid growth in recent decades. Its population nearly doubled between 1986 and 2016, owing largely to Toronto's rapid growth.
Many families are seeking an alternative to city life and want to raise their children in a more traditional suburban setting, so they have spread out to the surrounding towns. Whitby, has now become a ethnically diverse community.
Business and Jobs
Whitby is a Toronto commuter suburb, and many of its residents work in Toronto or other suburbs in the Greater Toronto Area.
Whitby is not dominated by a single industry, although it is home to a variety of significant firms, including steel, pharmaceuticals, and automobiles. The region north of the city is primarily agricultural.
Whitby is currently working on a downtown redevelopment plan and is giving a variety of subsidies and incentives to companies wishing to relocate there.
Education
The Durham District School Board headquarters are in Whitby, and the board manages 24 elementary schools and 5 secondary schools throughout the district.
Catholic education is also accessible in Whitby, where there are 12 elementary schools and two secondary schools.
As a multilingual country, French education is also available. The Conseil scolaire catholique MonAvenir serves the whole Durham region with one elementary school, École élémentaire catholique Jean-Paul II (JK-grade 6), and one secondary school, École secondaire catholique St-Charles Garnier (grades 7-12).
Whitby offers a one-of-a-kind educational experience thanks to Trafalgar Castle, an internationally renowned independent day and boarding school. This female-only educational institution provides a university pre-program for grades 5 through 12.
The area's post-secondary possibilities are extensive, with over 30 university and college campuses within an hour's drive.
Where To Live?
Brooklin
Located in the northern, more rural section of Whitby, has its own unique downtown area.
Port Whitby
The neighborhood offers amazing facilities and is near to the lake.
Williamsburg
It is appealing because of its position on the west side of town and near proximity to major roads.
Blue Grass Meadows
It is popular with families since it offers good schools, lots of parks, and other attractions.
Public Transportation
One of the primary reasons people relocate to Whitby, ON is its proximity to Downtown Toronto and other regional economic hubs. This makes it an excellent commuter town for those who work outside of Whitby, ON.
Highways 401 and 407 connect the city well. As a result, commutes to western cities are simple. Personal transportation from Whitby to Downtown Toronto takes approximately 45 to 50 minutes. GO Train is another viable option for connecting between cities.
Nightlife and Restaurants
Nightlife
One of the most common complaints about Whitby is its lack of a vibrant nightlife. However, because this frequently comes from folks who have moved away from Toronto, the comparison may be a little harsh.
Fine Taste Hakka Chinese Restaurant
Prepare to be blown away if you've never tried Hakka food. Hakka food is a mix of Chinese and Indian cuisines that is incredibly delicious. Choose from their Chili Chicken or Manchurian Chicken, all of which come with gravy. Kung Pao Chicken and Crispy Ginger Beef are two examples of Americanized Chinese meals. All of their meals are also halal!
Mexico Lindo
This bright and eccentric Whitby restaurant serves homestyle Mexican fare. Choose from a range of burrito or fajita options to go with one of their Mexican beers. It may not appear to be much on the outside, but the cuisine is real and delicious!
Smash Kitchen & Bar
Smash offers innovative, Southern-inspired twists on classic comfort food meals, as well as a fantastic brunch menu on weekends. They have a ton of fantastic comfort food items, from their BBQ Brisket Grilled Cheese to their Home Fried Buttermilk Chicken.
They also have a Southern Platter that is ideal for sharing, including fried chicken, ribs, croquettes, mac & cheese, gravy, coleslaw, and pickled cucumbers! Their original site is in Markham, but they also have a Landmark Cinemas facility in Whitby.
A Tavola Bistro
A Tavola serves Mediterranean food. They manufacture their own artisan breads and handmade pastas in-house, and they also provide a large selection of gluten-free pastas, breads, and pastries. Try Ricotta Gnocchi with house-smoked pork belly or Seafood Linguine Nera with squid ink pasta! In Italian, "a tavola" means "to the table."
What To Do in Whitby?
Camp X
Whitby is home to Camp X, a secret agent training facility. From 1941 to 1945, the school was used to train agents who were parachuted into Nazi-occupied territory. A large monument marks the location of Camp X, which is now known as Intrepid Park. Walk through the park to see artifacts and learn about life at this famous secret agent school.
Waterfront Trail
Port Whitby Marina is a 420-slip, year-round facility on Lake Ontario's natural harbour. The marina offers sailing, kayaking, fishing, and paddle boarding. You can also take a boating or sailing class or relax at the clubhouse.
Downtown Whitby
Downtown Whitby is not large, but it has a lot to offer. The neighborhood has a charming village feel to it, complete with architectural treasures. It is a charming neighborhood with an eclectic mix of businesses. It's also one of the best places in town to find one-of-a-kind items. Downtown Whitby is home to boutiques, unique restaurants, and historic structures. Explore the neighborhood by walking around to take it all in.
Lynde House Museum
Lynde House Museum is a historic mansion that is now a fantastic museum. It was one of the first houses built in the town and is now one of its main attractions. The mansion is now open to the public as a museum. Explore the rooms and imagine what life was like in the 1800s.
Farmers Market
Explore the market and snack on fresh fruits and vegetables. If you enjoy arts and crafts, stop by the artisans' booths and purchase some truly one-of-akind items. There are also prepared foods available, such as fresh baked treats, juices, and salads. You can also simply walk around and talk to local farmers about their crops, and perhaps even pick up a few tips from them.