If you're searching for a cottage country region that offers a rare blend of scenic tranquility and city-connected convenience, Peterborough & The Kawarthas should be on your radar. With over 250 lakes, a thriving arts and culture scene, and easy access to the GTA, this region is ideal for buyers seeking weekend escapes, year-round living, or smart investment opportunities.
Whether you're drawn to the boating lifestyle on Stoney Lake, the peaceful shores of Buckhorn Lake, or the vibrant energy of Peterborough’s downtown, this area offers something for everyone.
Peterborough & The Kawarthas: Key Takeaways
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Over 250 lakes with strong recreational, lifestyle, and investment appeal
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More affordable waterfront compared to Muskoka and Haliburton
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Balanced 2025 market with rising inventory and improved buyer leverage
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Ideal for year-round living, weekend escapes, and short-term rentals
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Just 90 minutes from the GTA, offering city access without city pricing
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Peterborough & The Kawarthas a good place to buy real estate in 2026?
Yes. With modest price growth, increased listings, and easing interest rates, 2026 presents a favorable buying environment—especially for those seeking long-term value or lifestyle properties.
How do prices compare to other cottage regions in Ontario?
Prices remain significantly lower than Muskoka or Haliburton, particularly for waterfront homes, making the region attractive to first-time cottage buyers and investors.
Can you live in the Kawarthas year-round?
Absolutely. The region offers strong infrastructure, healthcare access, schools, and vibrant communities, making it ideal for full-time residents and hybrid lifestyles.
Which lakes are best for investment or short-term rentals?
Rice Lake and Chemong Lake are seeing strong demand due to accessibility, boating appeal, and proximity to amenities—making them popular with both renters and investors.
Buyers range from young families and remote professionals to retirees and real estate investors, creating a diverse and stable market.
2025 Market Snapshot: Why Now Is a Smart Time to Buy
The Peterborough & Kawarthas real estate market is showing steady growth in 2025. Average residential sale prices have risen by 2.3% year-over-year, now sitting around $710,000. While the number of sales has dipped slightly, listings are up by 7.5%, giving buyers more choice and negotiating power.
This shift toward a more balanced market is being supported by a recent interest rate cut, which has eased borrowing costs and encouraged more buyers to enter the market. The result? A region that’s not only beautiful and accessible, but increasingly viable for long-term investment.
Why Buyers Love Peterborough & The Kawarthas
- Boater’s Paradise: The Trent-Severn Waterway connects many of the region’s lakes, making it a dream for boaters and paddlers.
- Diverse Property Options: From cozy cottages and waterfront homes to vacant lots and family residences, the region offers a wide range of real estate.
- Culture & Community: Peterborough is home to live music, galleries, restaurants, and festivals—blending cottage charm with city amenities.
- Easy Access: Just 90 minutes from Toronto, the region is perfect for weekend getaways or permanent relocation.
- Strong Value: Compared to Muskoka or Haliburton, Peterborough & The Kawarthas offer more affordable waterfront options with excellent long-term potential.
- Investment Appeal: Lakes like Rice Lake and Chemong Lake are seeing strong demand for short-term rentals, making them attractive for investors.
Top Lakes to Watch
- Stoney Lake: Known for its clear waters, granite shorelines, and upscale cottages.
- Buckhorn Lake: A family-friendly lake with great fishing and relaxed living.
- Chemong Lake: Popular for boating and close to amenities.
- Rice Lake: A large, accessible lake with strong rental and investment appeal.
Four-Season Living in Peterborough & The Kawarthas
While summer may steal the spotlight, Peterborough & The Kawarthas offer incredible year-round appeal. In winter, the region transforms into a snowy playground with ice fishing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and cozy fireside retreats. Lakes like Buckhorn and Chemong remain active for winter recreation, and local trails such as the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail offer scenic snow-covered adventures.
For those considering permanent relocation or hybrid living, the region’s strong infrastructure, reliable road access, and proximity to healthcare and schools make it a practical choice. Peterborough’s downtown stays vibrant year-round, with restaurants, galleries, and cultural events continuing through the colder months.
Whether you're looking for a weekend escape or a full-time lifestyle shift, Peterborough & The Kawarthas deliver comfort, charm, and connection in every season.
Who’s Buying Here?
The region is attracting a mix of buyers:
- Young families looking for affordable homes with access to nature and good schools.
- Remote professionals seeking a peaceful lifestyle with reliable connectivity.
- Retirees downsizing from the GTA and drawn to the area's charm and convenience.
- Investors capitalizing on short-term rental demand and long-term appreciation.
This diversity is helping stabilize the market and drive demand across property types—from seasonal cottages to year-round residences.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect in 2026
As we move into 2026, the Peterborough & Kawarthas real estate market is expected to continue its steady upward trajectory. Local market analysts anticipate modest price growth, with average sale prices projected to rise by approximately 2% into the new year. This signals a healthy, sustainable market — especially appealing to buyers seeking long-term value.
Building on the momentum from late 2025, the market continues to favor buyers thanks to expanded inventory and improved borrowing conditions. Broader forecasts suggest that Ontario’s housing market will experience a gradual recovery in 2026, with affordability improving and buyer confidence returning. For Peterborough & The Kawarthas, this means more opportunities for both recreational and residential buyers — especially those seeking waterfront properties or income-generating cottages.
Why Work with The Janssen Group
At The Janssen Group, we specialize in connecting buyers and sellers in Peterborough & The Kawarthas. We understand the nuances of waterfront zoning, seasonal access, urban and rural dynamics, and local market trends—and we’re passionate about helping our clients find the perfect fit.
From the upscale serenity of Stoney Lake to the cultural heartbeat of downtown Peterborough, this region blends nature and lifestyle beautifully. Our local Realtor Rebecca Quinn is your best bet in finding your ideal property.
Ready to explore Peterborough & The Kawarthas real estate? Reach out today!
