Oakville vs. Vaughan: Why Oakville Might Be the Better Place to Live

Oakville vs. Vaughan: Why Oakville Might Be the Better Place to Live

Hi there! I’m Victoria Brodsky, your friendly GTA realtor, helping families and professionals find their dream homes in Toronto, Oakville, Burlington, Mississauga, Etobicoke, and Hamilton. Today, I’m diving into a question I get a lot: should you live in Oakville or Vaughan? Both are fantastic places in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), but I’m here to explain why Oakville might just steal your heart. Let’s look at the latest 2025 data and break it down in a way that’s easy to understand.

Housing Market: Oakville’s Edge

When it comes to buying a home, Oakville and Vaughan have different vibes. In June 2025, Oakville’s average home price was $1,421,605, with homes selling in about 28 days. Vaughan’s average home price was a bit lower at $1,327,790, up 3.7% from last year. While Vaughan’s prices are slightly more affordable, Oakville offers something special: larger, family-friendly detached homes and luxury properties that hold their value well. In Oakville, 75% of sales are over $1 million, often for spacious homes perfect for growing families.

Vaughan’s market is hot too, with condos and townhomes like those at Transit City or M2 Towns being popular for younger buyers. But if you’re looking for a big backyard or a quieter neighborhood, Oakville’s focus on detached homes in areas like Glen Abbey or River Oaks is hard to beat. Plus, Oakville’s luxury market is thriving, with move-up buyers driving sales starting at $3 million.

Lifestyle: Oakville’s Community Charm

Oakville, with its population of about 200,000, feels like a cozy community despite being just a 30-40 minute drive from downtown Toronto. It’s got that perfect mix of suburban calm and urban access. Picture this: strolling along Lake Ontario, exploring over 200 km of trails, or enjoying a coffee in downtown Oakville’s 400+ shops and restaurants. It’s family-friendly, with top schools and parks like Bronte Creek Provincial Park.

Vaughan, with a larger population, has a more urban energy. It’s home to attractions like Vaughan Mills mall and Canada’s Wonderland, which are great for fun weekends. But it can feel busier, and the 40-minute commute to Toronto can be a hassle during rush hour. Oakville’s quieter vibe and lakefront access make it a haven for those who want space and nature without sacrificing city perks.

Safety: Oakville Shines

Safety is a big deal when choosing a home, and Oakville stands out. In 2024, Oakville’s violent crime rate was 472 incidents per 100,000 people—55% lower than the national average. Property crime was also low at 1,366 incidents per 100,000. Vaughan is safe too, but Oakville’s numbers give it an edge for families looking for peace of mind.

Cost of Living: A Closer Look

While Oakville’s home prices are higher, renting can be more affordable. A one-bedroom apartment in Oakville costs around $1,750-$1,820, compared to $2,216 in Toronto’s city center. Vaughan’s rental market is similar to Oakville’s, but its focus on condos means smaller spaces. Groceries and utilities are slightly pricier in Oakville (e.g., utilities for a 915 sq ft apartment are $172.87 vs. $152.42 in Toronto), but the difference is small. Childcare costs are nearly identical, with preschool averaging $1,581.78 in Oakville and $1,561.84 in Toronto.

Why Choose Oakville?

Here’s why I think Oakville might be the better pick:

  • Spacious Homes: Oakville’s focus on detached homes is ideal for families needing room to grow.
  • Nature and Relaxation: With Lake Ontario and tons of trails, it’s a nature lover’s dream.
  • Top Schools: Oakville’s education system, including Sheridan College, is a big draw for families.
  • Safe Community: Lower crime rates make it a worry-free place to raise kids.
  • Strong Economy: Oakville’s job market is robust, with opportunities for professionals.

Vaughan is great for those who love a busier, more urban feel with attractions like Canada’s Wonderland. But if you’re after a quieter, family-oriented lifestyle with stunning homes and lake views, Oakville is tough to beat.

Ready to Find Your Oakville Home?

As a realtor working across the GTA, I’ve helped countless families find their perfect home in Oakville. Whether you’re dreaming of a lakeside estate or a cozy family home, I’m here to make it happen. Contact me today for a personalized market analysis or to start your home search. Let’s find your dream home in Oakville!

Sources: Data from WOWA.ca (April 2025), Zolo.ca (June 2025), SquareYards.ca (2024), and RE/MAX Canada (2023).