Where to Live in London, Ontario: A Neighbourhood Comparison

December 18, 2023

Where to live in London Ontario

Nicknamed the Forest City, London combines the beauty of nature with practical urban living, serving as a regional hub for business, shopping, entertainment, and more. We’ve highlighted the unique features of London’s main regions to show you why London is one of the fastest growing cities in southwestern Ontario!

North London

Western University in North London

Masonville

A bustling neighbourhood in North London, Masonville is a busy shopping district and includes Masonville Place, the city’s largest mall. The mall serves as a major northern hub for London Transit. Masonville is also close to Western University and University Hospital. 

The residential part of Masonville contains newer builds, typically in the form of large, single-family homes and townhomes. Owing to its proximity to Western University, Masonville also includes ample student housing. 

Hyde Park

Tucked away in London’s northwest corner is Hyde Park, a relatively new neighbourhood with plentiful greenspace and a large outdoor shopping centre. Housing here is a mix of single detached homes, townhomes, and high-density apartment buildings. As a result, the neighbourhood is home to a varied population, from students and young professionals to families. 

Maple Grove, Coronation North Park, and Canterbury Park are the major parks in the area, complete with play structures, swing sets, and soccer fields. The outdoor shopping plaza at Fanshawe Park Road and Hyde Park Road includes outlets of many beloved brands, along with a variety of restaurant options. 

East London

100 Kellogg Lane

Old East

Historic and brimming with charm, Old East Village is located east of downtown. The oldest part of the city, it has recently seen a revitalization, with many homes being renovated and modernized.  

The Western Fair District is a major economic and social fixture nearby, housing artisan and farmer’s markets every Saturday. The District also houses four ice rinks, live horse racing, and a casino. Each September, it hosts the Western Fair, a festival featuring amusement park rides, fair food, and a local market. Looking for year-round entertainment? Old East Village, or “OEV”, is also home to 100 Kellogg Lane, a factory turned entertainment complex! Here you can enjoy seasonal markets, see art shows, play at The Factory, and so much more! 

Argyle

Encompassing several smaller neighbourhoods, Argyle is one of London’s older neighbourhoods and includes detached homes, townhomes, and three-story walk-ups. It’s a popular area for families and seniors. 

Kiwanis Park, the major neighbourhood park, includes a skateboard park, playground, sports fields, splash pad, and plenty of walking trails. Argyle Arena is the community ice rink, with ice skating lessons and hockey games available for kids.  

Argyle Mall is a medium-sized outdoor shopping centre with a variety of big-box stores and smaller shops, and acts as the east hub of London transit. 

West London

Boler Mountain in West London, Ontario

Image courtesy of Boler Mountain

Located in one of the most picturesque parts of the Forest City, West London includes Oakridge and Proudfoot, both of which offer beautiful homes, easy access to the downtown core, and nearby transit routes.

Oakridge

Oakridge is largely residential and close to many local amenities, making it a desirable neighbourhood for families. Shopping, dining, and recreation are located within walking distance, including Costco Wholesale and Sobeys. Central to the neighbourhood is Oakridge Optimist Park, a large public park featuring an outdoor pool, splash pad, playground, tennis courts, and an arena. Our twin properties at Pineridge Place, is nestled in this family-friendly locale, offering breathtaking views of the city while being steps away from a bustling shopping district.

Proudfoot

Naturally scenic, Proudfoot is a breath of fresh air in the heart of the city. Its green spaces provide a reprieve from city living, with plenty of walking trails and public parks where you can stroll, play, and relax. Its close proximity to shopping, entertainment, and nightlife via downtown make it a favourite for young professionals and couples. 535 and 565 Proudfoot Place are in the centre of this lush neighbourhood, surrounded by natural woodlands and beautifully landscaped grounds. 

Byron

Once a small independent village, Byron maintains its small town feel even as it’s been fully integrated into the Forest City. A mostly residential neighbourhood, it’s primarily home to families, filled with lovely older homes brimming with character. 

Boler Mountain remains one of London’s favourite recreational venues, with skiing, snowboarding, and tubing among its popular winter activities. Storybook Gardens, a small amusement park oriented toward children, is also located in Byron, offering rides, playgrounds, splash pads, and kid-friendly live shows.  

South London

Wortley Village in South London Ontario

Old South

Once the southernmost part of the city, Old South refers to a swath of historic neighbourhoods. Wortley Village is the cultural and historical heart of this charming locale, with shopping, schools, parks, and a public library all within walking distance.  

Local shops and restaurants like Sagi line Wortley Road, serving as a “main street” for this beautiful area. You’ll find handmade goods and excellent food that will encourage you to return again and again. 

Westmount

Westmount is located in the far west of London and characterized by a diverse mix of housing, including single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments. Westmount Shopping Centre remains a major transit hub, and Westwood Power Centre at Southdale and Wonderland Road is the centre of activity, with ample shopping and dining options.

Public parks abound, with Jesse Davidson Park, Basil Grover Park, and Southwest Optimist Park as the main options. There is a large selection of schools, including London’s largest high school, Saunders Secondary School.

White Oaks

With countless options for parks, schools, and shopping, White Oaks is a south London neighbourhood that’s ideal for young families. White Oaks Public School, Rick Hansen, and Ashley Oaks are the major elementary schools in the area, alongside Westminster and Regina Mundi secondary schools. 

When it comes to recreation, there’s plenty to do in White Oaks! White Oaks Mall is a large shopping centre that’s home to dozens of stores, right across the street from the Jalna branch of the London Public Library. Just down the road is the South London Community Pool, famous for its whimsical whale shape, with water slides, rock climbing, and swimming lessons for kids of all ages.    

Central London/Downtown

Downtown London Ontario

Home to the downtown core, Central London is the business and entertainment centre of the city. A variety of businesses are headquartered here, including finance, government, and law firms, along with city hall and the courthouse. Its central location also makes it the central hub for transit. 

The entertainment side of downtown includes Budweiser Gardens, the Grand Theatre, Museum London, and London Music Hall. For handmade goods, farm-fresh produce, and delicious local restaurants, Covent Garden Market is a must-visit. 

Discover Your Dream Home in London, ON with Summit Properties

Your new dream home in London is just a phone call away! Summit is an experienced property management company that has been faithfully serving Londoners for decades. Contact our Residential Team to learn more about this beautiful city and the stunning properties we offer in West London!

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