Barrie, Ontario, has been ranked as the second-best place to live in Canada for 2026, according to a recent study by the Toronto-based digital marketing agency dNOVO Group. The ranking, which evaluated 28 of the largest cities in the country, highlights the community for its overall livability, financial stability, and personal safety.
The Downtown Barrie BIA shared the news on April 10, 2026, noting that the city earned a score of 96.63 out of 100. The assessment measured various factors, including local attractions, cost of living, rent prices, safety, and quality of life. Barrie performed well in these categories, bolstered by a safety score of 58.9, a high quality of life rating of 177.8, and 181 cultural attractions.
The study found that Barrie offers a more affordable lifestyle compared to larger metropolitan areas. In March 2026, the average house price in the city was $671,496, which is significantly lower than the $1,041,163 average reported for Toronto. Additionally, monthly living expenses in Barrie average $1,434.38, and the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment sits at $2,003.56.
Barrie was second only to Kelowna, British Columbia, which received a perfect score of 100. Ontario cities maintained a strong presence in the study, capturing six of the top 10 positions nationwide.
Steve Ricalis, chair of the Downtown Barrie BIA and a local business owner, said the recognition reflects the city’s ongoing efforts to foster a dynamic environment. The BIA recently reported that its festivals and events in 2024 brought nearly 300,000 visitors to the area, generating more than $15 million in economic impact.
