Kingston has a fractured yet effective layout, allowing for decent liveability in almost all areas. East, West and Downtown all have their own set of amenities, shops, restaurants, green space and sense of community. Liveability across the city is very good. Negative factors such as crime are typically focused in two regions, and everywhere else is somewhat on par with the next neighbourhood. There are only small pockets that would be deemed to have a lower liveability. On the other hand, Alwington is the arguably one of the best neighbourhoods in Kingston among homebuyers, having seen high demand recently. Alwington is an older, more developed neighbourhood with large homes. Its location, proximity to downtown and amenities, big yards, big houses, big trees make the neighbourhood an all-around desirable area to live. It also has the nearby lake and parks for people to enjoy.
We asked RE/MAX brokers and agents to weigh in on their market, and help identify some trends and the best neighbourhoods in Kingston. Here’s what they said.
Top concerns for homebuyers in Kingston are:
- Affordability
- Diversity/sense of community
- NIMBYism (not in my backyard)
Top 3 liveability qualities buyers seek in Kingston are:
- Affordability compared to major centers has been a driving factor with the work from home segment of buyers
- Small town feel with a lot of big city touches
- Kingston and area boast the one of the highest restaurants per capita in Canada with added choices through growing diversity in the city
Best Neighbourhoods in Kingston
Top 3 most affordable neighbourhoods:
- Rideau Heights
- Henderson
- Kingscourt
Top 3 up-and-coming neighbourhoods:
- Cataraqui Westbrook
- Cataraqui North
- Cataraqui River East
Top 3 most luxurious neighbourhoods:
- Alwington
- Ravensview
- Sydenham Ward
Advice to homebuyers
“Kingston is a relatively stable market – less so during the pandemic years – without the housing price “spikes and dips” that are more common in major urban centres, says Rob Colangeli, broker and owner, RE/MAX Finest Realty Inc., based in Kingston. “The area is becoming more culturally diverse every year, and with that, new opportunities arise for the residents. Work with a knowledgeable real estate agent to help you best understand the market, trends, and considerations relevant for you.”
