Hey everyone, it's Ryan Megson, your local real estate aficionado in Simcoe County. If you're contemplating a move to Barrie, Ontario, you're in the right place. In today's video, I'll be breaking down the top three pros and cons of living in this vibrant city. Whether you're comparing cities outside the GTA or just exploring your options, stay tuned for some valuable insights. And hey, if you're new here, hit that subscribe button and ring the bell for the latest updates. Now, let's dive into the details!
Pros of Living in Barrie:
1. Amenities Galore: Barrie boasts a plethora of amenities catering to every need. The city's unique layout, wrapping around Lake Simcoe, divides the south and north ends. The south end, particularly Mapleview Drive, houses the bulk of shopping and restaurants, including Barrie's sole Costco. Meanwhile, the north end, with Bayfield Street and the Georgian Mall, offers a similar shopping experience. This geographical distribution ensures that residents don't have to traverse the entire city for everyday needs. Barrie also flaunts 5 LCBOs, 11 Starbucks, a scenic waterfront with a boardwalk and playground, a variety of local businesses, restaurants, and golf courses.
2. Proximity to GTA and Efficient Transit: Situated just 90 km north of the GTA, Barrie provides quick access to Toronto via Highway 400, connecting seamlessly to the 401 and 407. For those averse to highway driving, two GO Train stations offer a direct route to Toronto Union Station in just an hour and a half. Barrie is also a mere 50-minute drive to Pearson Airport on good days, making travel a breeze.
3. Diverse Housing Market: Barrie boasts a diverse property market with homes to suit every lifestyle. From family-friendly neighbourhoods with detached and semi-detached houses to townhouses, bungalows, condos, and more, there's something for everyone. The housing market features a wide range of prices, with the average for a detached house at around $700K, townhouses at $600K, and 2-3 bed condo apartments at $550K-$600K. Whether you're looking for a cozy abode or a waterfront penthouse, Barrie has it all.
Cons of Living in Barrie:
1. Harsh Winters: One of the downsides is Barrie's winter weather. Despite being only slightly north of Toronto, Barrie experiences heavy snowfall from early November to mid-April, averaging 50cm per month. January and February witness the largest snowfall and coldest temperatures, ranging from 5 degrees to -12 degrees on average, with occasional dips to -35 degrees (excluding wind chill). If you're considering Barrie, think about the size of your driveway or explore condo living.
2. Traffic and Congestion Woes: Traffic congestion stands out as a notable drawback. Barrie's roads often face ongoing construction, highway congestion, and lengthy travel times across town. The city's popularity among cottagers heading north adds to the traffic, exacerbating the situation. While GTA residents might be accustomed to traffic, it can be a frustrating aspect for others.
3. Lack of Community Feel: Barrie's proximity to Toronto and affordable housing has attracted many commuters, turning the city into a sleepover town. While bustling, it may lack a true sense of community. Despite being busy, there's a noticeable absence of locals supporting businesses, especially in the colder months. This community feel is something Barrie seems to be lacking, according to personal observations.
And there you have it, folks—my top pros and cons for living in Barrie. If you found this valuable or want to chat about a potential move to the area, check out my contact details in the description below. Don't forget to hit that subscribe button, and I'll catch you in the next video!