Statistics Canada data shows that more and more Canadians are leaving large urban centres and moving to smaller communities like Collingwood and Wasaga Beach pursuing better quality of life.

The number of people living in rural areas increased by 2% compared to 2018, while the number of those living in small towns grew by 7%. The number of people who lived in cities decreased by 0.5%, while the number of those who lived in medium sized cities dropped by 1.1%. This trend was seen across the country, with increases in the provinces of Alberta (+3%), Saskatchewan (+4%) and Manitoba (+6%). In contrast, decreases were observed in Ontario (-2.9%), Quebec (-0.7%) and Atlantic Canada (-1.8%).

This shift in population distribution is likely due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 outbreak. Many businesses closed their doors, which led to job losses and reduced income. People started working from home, which meant they had less money to spend on travel and leisure activities. Additionally, many people chose to stay at home rather than go out into public spaces.

In addition to these factors, there are some demographic differences between urban and rural residents. Rural dwellers tend to be older (average age 50) than city dwellers (average age 45). They also earn lower incomes (median household income $52,000), have fewer children (median family size 2) and are less educated (high school completion rate 80%).

Rural residents also face greater challenges when trying to access health care services. For example, they are less likely to receive regular medical checkups and have higher rates of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.

While the reasons behind this change in population distribution remain unclear, it’s clear that the COVID-19 crisis has changed how we think about where we want to live, work and play.

When I was 22 years old, I left home, family and friends behind and moved across Canada to pursue my dreams

Jamie is an architect that found her happiness in Collingwood, Ontario.

For me, it wasn't an overnight decision. I lived in Toronto for three years before I decided to leave. And I didn't just pack up and drive away without looking back. I spent several months visiting places I'd always wanted to visit, meeting people I'd always wanted to meet and revisiting places I knew well but hadn't seen in awhile.

It took me almost two years to decide to move to Collingwood. I went through dozens of towns along Highway 11. I visited places I'd heard great things about but never actually set foot in.

As I drove, I kept thinking about how I would spend my weekends. What would I do? Where would I go? Who would I hang out with?

Ultimately, I realized that I needed to figure it out myself. I couldn't rely on anyone else to tell me what I should do. So I started driving. And I stopped worrying so much about what others expected from me.

Eventually, I settled on Collingwood. I liked the town and I met some great people there. I found a job that suited me perfectly. I got married and bought a house.

Then I became pregnant. My husband and I both moved to Collingwood full-time. And I finally felt comfortable enough to quit my job and stay home with our son.

I'm grateful for the experiences I had during that period. I wouldn't trade them for anything. But ultimately, I made the right decision.

Today, I'm happy in Collingwood. I love living here. I love raising my son. I love working from home. I love spending time with my husband.

I'm also glad I didn't listen to everyone who said I was crazy to move to such a small town.

I could have stayed in Toronto. I could have taken a big risk and gone somewhere bigger. But I chose something smaller. Something safer. Something easier.

And I'm glad I did. Now, 20 years later, I know that I made the best decision for me.

I know that I can find my place in the world by moving to Collingwood and living my dream. Finding the perfect place to live is like finding your ideal partner. It's not easy. There isn't really a right answer.

But ultimately, you'll only find the right fit if you put yourself out there and actively seek it out. Because until you've looked around, you won't truly know what you want."

Beautifull Surroundings of Collingwood

The beauty of Collingwood’s beaches are not just found on the sand but also in its surroundings. As you drive along the beachfront road, you'll see beautiful houses overlooking the bay. You may also notice the many cafes and restaurants lining the streets which make for an ideal place to relax after a day at the beach.