Moving to Peterborough, Ontario: Is It the Right City for You?

Thinking of moving to Peterborough, Ontario? If you’re planning on moving to Canada and searching for a city that feels like home, Peterborough might just be the place for you.

As I mentioned in 13 Tips to Choose The Best Place to Live in Canada, there are several factors to consider when picking the right spot, and Peterborough checks a lot of those boxes.

Located in the heart of Ontario, we had the chance to explore this charming city last year while travelling as pet sitters. With its natural beauty and welcoming community, Peterborough offers a fresh start for newcomers looking to settle down in a peaceful and connected place.

Let’s take a closer look at why moving to Peterborough, Ontario could be the right choice for you.

 

1. Where Is Peterborough Located?

If you’re thinking about moving to Peterborough, Ontario, here’s a bit of what you can expect.

Peterborough is located about 125 kilometres northeast of Toronto, right along the Otonabee River. It’s a mid-sized city with a population of around 80,000.

The city offers a mix of opportunities in manufacturing, healthcare, education, and technology, making it a great choice for newcomers looking for career options or international students searching for schools that welcome them.

2. Education: What to Know When Moving to Peterborough, Ontario

If you’re moving to Peterborough, Ontario, it’s great to know that education here is well-rounded for families and international newcomers.

Peterborough offers quality public schooling through the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board (KPRDSB) and the Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board.

For a clear understanding of how Canadian schools work, you can check out Canadian Education System for Newcomers: A Guide for Parents.

When it comes to higher education, the city is home to respected institutions like Trent University, Fleming College, and Seneca Polytechnic (aviation campus). All three are Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs), making their graduates eligible for the Post‑Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). According to each school’s international programs page, students who complete qualifying programs can work in Canada after graduation.

According to the official Canada.ca website, when I write this blog post, four institutions offer post-graduation work permit programs for their international students. Always check the official IRCC or your school’s international pages when you apply.

3. Top Landmark in Peterborough, Ontario

If you’re moving to Peterborough, Ontario, one spot that stands out is the Peterborough Lift Lock, a true engineering marvel and a key landmark of the city.

This incredible hydraulic lift lock was opened in 1904 and remains the highest hydraulic boat lift in the world, raising vessels a full 19.8 meters (65 feet). It sits on the Trent–Severn Waterway and continues to function, powered entirely by gravity, using a clever counterweight system.

You’ll often find people stopping to watch boats ascend and descend, especially during the summer months when cruises are offered. It’s one of just two hydraulic lift locks in North America, and a treasured piece of local heritage.

4. Parks and Green Spaces in Peterborough, Ontario

If you’re moving to Peterborough, Ontario and love being outdoors, you’ll be happy to know the city has over 100 parks and sports fields to explore.

One of my favourites is Jackson Park, a peaceful spot with walking trails, beautiful trees, and quiet places to relax. It’s perfect for a slow morning walk, reading under the shade, or just spending time in nature.

Peterborough is great for nature lovers, whether you enjoy a calm stroll or want space for kids to run around.

You can find more information about local parks and trails on the City of Peterborough’s official website here.

5. Is Peterborough Family-Friendly?

If you’re moving to Peterborough Ontario with a family, you’ll love how welcoming the city is for kids and parents alike.

Peterborough offers many educational and recreational programs. The public library hosts activities that help families connect and meet new people, perfect for settling in.

The city truly supports newcomers.  You can find resources, events, and support just for new arrivals at the Welcome Peterborough site.

6. How Is the Transit System in Peterborough, Ontario?

If you’re moving to Peterborough, Ontario, it’s helpful to know how the local transit system works, especially if you don’t have a car or just prefer public transportation.

The system is called Peterborough Transit, and it runs full-size buses with regular and express routes. There’s also a community bus, an accessible van service, and PtboOnDemand, which lets you book a trip when and where you need it.

You can pay using the HotSpot app, which is free to download and allows for contactless ticketing.

The regular fare is $2.75, but you can also buy 10-ride passes, monthly passes, and even semi-annual or annual options for seniors.

You can find more details about the transit system on the City of Peterborough’s official website.

And if you want to compare with other Canadian cities, check out my post Understanding Public Transportation in Canada for Newcomers.

7. What Is Healthcare Like When Moving to Peterborough, Ontario?

If you’re moving to Peterborough, Ontario, it’s reassuring to know that the city offers good access to healthcare services.

The main hospital is the Peterborough Regional Health Centre, which serves the city and surrounding areas. In addition to the hospital, there are several walk-in clinics across the city, making it easier to get care without needing an appointment.

Whether you’re new to Canada or just to the province, having access to reliable healthcare is key when settling into a new place.

If you’re not sure where to begin with Ontario’s health system, you can check out my post How to Get an Ontario Health Card for Temporary Workers: A Step-by-Step Guide to help you get started.

8. What Are the Job Opportunities When Moving to Peterborough, Ontario?

The city’s diverse economy offers employment opportunities in various sectors.

If you’re moving to Peterborough, Ontario, you’ll find a variety of job options in diverse sectors.

The city has notable employers like PepsiCo/Quaker Oats, Siemens, Rolls-Royce, and BWXT, along with local industry leaders such as the Peterborough Regional Health Centre and Trent University.

If you’re unsure where to start with finding a job, don’t miss my post How to Get a Job in Canada as a Newcomer: 18 Essential Tips. It’s full of practical tips and steps to help you land work after you move.

9. What’s Housing Like When Moving to Peterborough, Ontario?

If you’re moving to Peterborough, Ontario, you’ll find a good mix of housing options to fit different needs and budgets.

You can choose from downtown apartments to cozy single-family homes in quieter neighbourhoods. On average, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre rents for about $1,900 CAD, while a 3-bedroom unit costs around $2,300 CAD, much more affordable than Toronto or other bigger cities. You can check more information at numbeo.com

Areas like West End and East City are favourites among families and newcomers. They offer easy access to schools, parks, shops, and local transit while still feeling like tight-knit communities.

If you’re not sure where to begin, check out my guide, How to Rent Your First Home as a Newcomer in Canada for helpful tips on finding and securing the right place.

10. Conclusion

In conclusion, moving to Peterborough, Ontario could be a great step if you’re looking for a welcoming and affordable place to start a new chapter in Canada.

With its mix of educational opportunities, family-friendly spaces, iconic landmarks, and growing job market, Peterborough offers a balanced lifestyle for individuals and families alike.

If you’re still exploring where to live, be sure to check out these helpful posts:

• 10 Best Cities Near Toronto for Newcomers to Canada
• 14 Top Reasons to live in Mississauga
• Top Reasons to Choose Ottawa as Your New Home in Canada

Wherever you land, I hope you find a place that feels like home.