Home to communities Avalon and Livingston, Empire is proud to build in Haldimand County because of the area’s natural beauty and growing opportunity. In 2019, Macleans named Haldimand County as one of the 25 best communities in Canada to live in, with the locality nabbing the 13th spot. The annual ranking considers cities and towns across the country that offer the best quality of life, with communities given points for categories that include wealth and economy, affordability, health, weather, crime, commute, taxes, demographics, culture, community and amenities.
For Haldimand Mayor Ken Hewitt, the endorsement comes as no surprise. “For all of us who live in and appreciate Haldimand County, this recognition is a testament to what we already know. Our proximity to nature, incredibly dedicated citizens, cultural and heritage assets, low tax rates, development potential and extensive recreation opportunities all contribute to the exceptional quality of life we’ve been recognized for.”
The Top Three Reasons Haldimand County is a Great Place to Live, According to Macleans
1. Good weather: With one third of the year spent with temperatures above 20°C, Haldimand County residents have ample opportunity to enjoy all of the natural beauty that surrounds them, with the Grand River and Port Dover beach both nearby.
2. Low property taxes: With the average property tax rate at 2.3% of the total household income, Haldimand County residents are able to save or invest their earnings as they please.
3. Nearby medical care: With the West Haldimand Hospital located in the heart of town and several medical centres located in neighbouring localities, Haldimand County residents have the peace of knowing that excellent health care is within their vicinity. It is estimated that Haldimand County has 102 family doctors per 100,000 residents.
Haldimand County by the Numbers
○ Current population: 47,635
○ Regional unemployment rate: 4.7%
○ Median household income: $84,225
○ Average household net worth: $629,581
○ Property tax as per cent of income: 2.3%
○ Total days above 20°C: 117
○ Crime severity index (5 year average): 42
○ Family doctors per 100,000: 102
What Sets Hagersville in Haldimand County Apart?
A small town with deep roots and a rich history, Hagersville is a great place to call home and offers a welcoming sensibility.
It’s Close to Some of Southwestern Ontario’s Best Nature Scenes
There’s no shortage of opportunities to enjoy nature in Hagersville. Winding its way through neighbouring towns Cayuga and Caledonia, the Grand River is right next door to Hagersville and serves as a prominent location for get-togethers and outdoor activities including cycling, hiking and picnicking. And for days when the calm of the water is calling your name, one of Ontario’s best beach experiences can be found only 20 minutes away. With palm trees, sandy shores and a scenic pier for fishing, Port Dover Beach will make you feel as though you’re somewhere tropical.
Its Food Scene is Proudly Local
Hagersville’s proximity to a robust farming community is a treasure for the health-conscious looking to adopt a true farm-to-table lifestyle or for foodies in search of their next favourite restaurant. Freshly farmed meats, dairy and produce are all easily accessible — take a quick drive in any direction to find farm stands selling their goods, or stop into one of Hagersville’s best eateries to taste the difference. Find the best street meat in town at Wally Parr Sausage, make the best sandwich you’ll ever have using cold cuts from European Edge Meats and Delicatessen or treat the whole family to delicious frozen goods at Hewitt’s Dairy Bar.
It Has Plenty of Family-Friendly Recreation Opportunities
Whether it’s walking the dog in the summer, squeezing in an extra soccer practice with your kids or tobogganing in the winter, Grant Kett park is a great multi-use park in the centre of Hagersville. It’s also home to local music festival and concert series Hagersville Rocks.
It’s Home to the Region’s Most Popular Music Festival
Hagersville Rocks is undoubtedly the most exciting annual festival in the region. This country barn burner draws top musical talent — including recent acts Alan Doyle, the Jim Cuddy Band and The Washboard Union — to the park every July for a two day concert series.
If you’re considering Hagersville as your next community to call home, be sure to explore Empire Livingston and Empire Avalon for more community and neighbourhood information.
Image courtesy of BlogTO (beach).