Brighton
- $501,750 Lowest
- $650,000 Average
- $1,173,179 Highest
- 2.4 No. Of Beds
- 2.2 No. Of Baths
- 1,975.68 Sq.Ft.
- $0 Lowest
- $329 Average
- $0 Highest
Nestled on the shores of Lake Ontario, Brighton is a vibrant town rich in heritage and natural beauty. Established with a profound historical significance, the community boasts a diverse array of attractions and amenities, including the renowned Presqu’ile Provincial Park.
Brighton’s architecture reflects a storied past, with well-preserved buildings that harken back to the 19th century. This town also fosters a supportive and dynamic community through its wide range of local businesses, educational institutions, and community events that cater to all interests and ages.
So if you’re ready to dive into Brighton real estate and what the town is all about, read on to learn more!
A CLOSER LOOK AT BRIGHTON
Located in the heart of Northumberland County, Brighton offers a unique blend of scenic landscapes, cultural heritage, and vibrant community life. Brighton is strategically situated approximately 150 kilometers east of Toronto and 100 kilometers west of Kingston. This prime location makes it an accessible getaway for those seeking refuge from the bustling city life.
With a population of 13,472, Brighton is popular among young families, with various top-rated high schools and public schools right in the community. The town covers a total area of 85.99 square miles with spacious living and recreational spaces, ensuring residents can enjoy the natural beauty that Brighton has to offer. The population is also diverse, with a mix of families, retirees, and young professionals all contributing to the town’s vibrant culture.
Brighton’s economy is bolstered by its tourism, agriculture, and small businesses. The town’s strategic location by Lake Ontario and its attractions ensure a steady influx of visitors, while the surrounding fertile lands support a robust agricultural sector. Community life in Brighton is marked by active participation in local events, support for local businesses, and a strong sense of belonging among residents.
Neighborhoods
Brighton is home to tranquil, highly livable neighborhoods where residents enjoy a variety of residential and recreational options. The top neighborhoods include:
- Downtown Brighton: The heart of Brighton, the downtown area provides residents with a range of shopping options, from quaint boutiques and antique stores to health shops and tattoo parlors. This neighborhood is also home to several cafes and restaurants, offering everything from casual to fine dining experiences. Unique to Downtown Brighton is the Proctor House Museum, a well-preserved Victorian mansion that provides a glimpse into the area’s rich history.
- Brighton Bay: This scenic area is perfect for those who love the water, with its location approximately just a 5-minute drive from Central Brighton. Brighton Bay offers excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and kayaking, and is home to Presqu’ile Provincial Park with its wetlands, forests, and beaches.
- Codrington: Approximately a 10-minute drive from Central Brighton, this rural neighborhood is characterized by its agricultural landscapes and open spaces. Codrington is home to several local farms where visitors can buy fresh produce directly from the growers. Codrington also hosts an annual community fair showcasing local crafts, livestock, and produce.
- Barcovan Beach: A quieter and more secluded neighborhood that is about a 15-minute drive from Central Brighton, this area boasts a beautiful stretch of sandy beach along Lake Ontario, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnics. The Barcovan Golf Club is also nearby, offering a challenging course for golf lovers.
- Smithfield: Only a 20-minute drive from Central Brighton, this neighborhood offers a blend of residential living and agricultural charm. Smithfield is known for its quiet streets, friendly community, and easy access to outdoor activities. Hiking and cycling enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby trails offering views of the countryside. Here, you’ll also find the historic Smithfield Mill, which stands as a landmark and a remnant of the area’s milling past and the region’s rich heritage.
HOMES FOR SALE IN BRIGHTON, ONTARIO
Brighton, Ontario’s real estate market is characterized by its diversity, offering everything from charming townhouses to spacious single-family homes. The market caters to a broad spectrum of buyers, from those seeking their first home to others looking for luxurious waterfront properties. The prices of homes for sale in Brighton, Ontario span a significant range, reflecting the variety of options available, from more modest homes starting around $490,000 to premium, high-end residences with multimillion dollar price tags.
For those seeking proximity to nature and tranquility, the outskirts of Brighton offer rural settings with expansive properties. You’ll find acreage properties with lot sizes of at least one acre, many of which are suitable for farming and agricultural operations.
In contrast, the town’s core and its immediate surroundings provide a more traditional suburban experience, with easy access to local shops, services, and community facilities.
Property Types
- Single-Family Homes: The cornerstone of Brighton’s residential landscape, single-family homes range from historic dwellings to modern constructions. These properties often come with generous yard space, offering privacy and room for outdoor activities. Amenities may include attached garages, gardens, and, in some cases, waterfront access.
- Condominiums: For those seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle, condominiums in Brighton present an appealing option. These units are typically part of larger complexes, offering shared amenities like fitness centers, pools, and communal spaces, making them ideal for first-time homebuyers or downsizers.
- Townhouses: Bridging the gap between single-family homes and condos, townhouses in Brighton offer multi-level living with more space than a typical condo but less maintenance than a detached home. These properties often come with small private yards or patios and shared amenities similar to those found in condominium complexes.
- Cottages and Waterfronts: Reflecting Brighton’s setting along Lake Ontario, cottages and waterfront properties are highly sought after. These homes offer direct access to the water, providing a serene escape and opportunities for recreational activities like boating and fishing.
Architecture Styles
- Victorian: Characterized by ornate detailing, steeply pitched roofs, and bright colors, Victorian-style homes in Brighton reflect the elegance and grandeur of the 19th century. These homes often feature large bay windows and intricate woodwork, embodying the opulence of the era.
- Craftsman: The Craftsman style, popular in the early 20th century, is represented in Brighton through its emphasis on natural materials, handcrafted woodwork, and simplicity. These homes typically feature low-pitched roofs, wide eaves, and porches with thick square or rounded columns.
- Modern: Modern architectural styles in Brighton are characterized by minimalist designs, clean lines, and a focus on function. These homes often incorporate large windows, open floor plans, and innovative materials, reflecting a contemporary approach to living.
- Cottage Style: Echoing Brighton’s waterfront and rural charm, cottage-style homes are designed for comfort and coziness. These properties often feature gabled roofs, wooden exteriors, and small porches, creating a quaint and inviting appearance.
LIVING IN BRIGHTON
living in Brighton, Ontario presents an ideal lifestyle that goes back to simpler times, yet it is imbued with the conveniences and cultural richness of modern life. Let’s peel back the layers of this delightful community, revealing what makes Brighton a place to live and thrive. From its scenic beauty and recreational offerings to its social fabric and local amenities, let’s dive into life in Brighton.
Getting Around
For the majority of residents, personal vehicles stand as the primary means of transportation around Brighton. The town is conveniently situated along Highway 401, making it easily accessible from and to major cities like Toronto and Ottawa. There are also plenty of parking spaces available in the downtown area and at major attractions.
While Brighton may not have the extensive public transit systems found in larger cities, it offers a community bus service that caters to the local population. This service provides convenient and affordable options for residents to access essential services and facilities within Brighton. The community bus routes are designed to cover key areas, including shopping centers, healthcare facilities, and recreational sites, facilitating mobility for those without access to a personal vehicle.
Brighton also has dedicated bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly streets. Many residents explore the town’s scenic scenes by bike or on foot, taking advantage of the well-maintained pathways and trails. The Waterfront trail, for instance, offers views of Lake Ontario and connects to several natural reserves and parks.
For those times when you need a quick and direct route to your destination, local taxi services in Brighton provide a reliable solution.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Brighton, Ontario is characterized by being 18% lower than the Ontario average and 8% lower than the national average. Housing costs stand out as significantly more affordable, being 50% lower than the national average. Although goods and services are slightly above the national average, the overall affordability of living in Brighton makes it an attractive place for residents, with a mix of lower housing costs and competitive prices for groceries, healthcare, and utilities.
Education
Brighton Public School stands out for its commitment to fostering a vibrant learning community from kindergarten to Grade 8. It offers an Extended French program for students in Grades 5 to 8, promoting bilingualism and cultural awareness. The school also engages students in various sports, arts, and school events, including “Spirit Days,” annual ski trips, and fundraisers to support the community.
Smithfield Public School and Spring Valley Public School are also integral parts of the Brighton education system, serving students from JK to Grade 8. These schools are dedicated to providing a supportive learning environment where students can thrive academically and socially.
For secondary education, East Northumberland Secondary School (ENSS) serves students from Grades 9 to 12. ENSS is known not only for its academic achievements but also for its dedication to environmental sustainability. The school has been recognized as a “green” school for its efforts in garbage clean-ups, tree-planting, and the operation of an active Environmental Club. Notably, ENSS has taken significant steps towards reducing its carbon footprint by installing a wind turbine in June 2009 and solar panels in the summer of 2011.
Outdoor Recreation
The great outdoors beckons Brighton residents every day, offering a host of activities from laidback sightseeing and bird watching to more demanding pursuits like mountain biking and hiking. Surrounded by lush open spaces, Brighton makes escaping to the tranquility of nature easy and convenient.
Presqu’ile Provincial Park is a cornerstone of outdoor recreation in Brighton, celebrated for its marsh boardwalk and a variety of ecosystems. This park offers a diverse range of activities including birding, fishing, boating, and hiking, making it perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers alike.
Cricklewood Farm provides a different kind of outdoor experience with its adventurous corn maze and pick-your-own raspberries and pumpkins when in season. The farm is also known for contributing to local charities, as well as for its charming shop selling farm-fresh produce, homemade goodies, and local products. It’s a fantastic spot for families looking to enjoy the outdoors and experience farm living.
Proctor Park Conservation Area is a haven for those who enjoy walking, hiking, birding, and immersing themselves in nature. With its lush vegetation and scenic trails, it’s a magnet for people who appreciate the tranquility of raw nature.
Goodrich-Loomis Conservation Area is another gem, offering peaceful trails for wandering and wildlife observation. Its untouched natural beauty and serenity make it an excellent location for those seeking a quiet escape in nature.
Memorial Park, King Edward Park, Codrington Park, Kinsmen Park, and Anne Street Park are other key outdoor spots in the Brighton area. These parks cater to a wide variety of interests, from sports and picnicking to simple relaxation in green spaces. King Edward Park, in particular, serves as a hub for sports and recreation during the fall and winter months, featuring an arena, community center, and multiple sports facilities.
Dining
You don’t have to travel far to satisfy your cravings. You can have your pick of dining experiences from the excellent choices in and around Brighton.
The Gables Restaurant stands out as a premier destination for those looking for a refined dining experience. With a menu that celebrates European and Canadian flavors, The Gables offers a sophisticated atmosphere ideal for special occasions. This restaurant is renowned for its attention to detail and a menu that incorporates fresh, high-quality ingredients.
For lovers of Italian cuisine, Vito’s Pizzaria Restaurant & Dining Lounge provides a cozy and authentic dining experience. Offering a blend of Italian classics and Canadian favourites, Vito’s is perfect for family gatherings or casual dining, making it a favourite among locals.
The Smokehouse Pub & Grill and Captain George’s Fish & Chips cater to those craving hearty American, British, Greek, and Canadian fare. Whether you’re in the mood for barbecue or classic fish and chips, these spots are known for their generous portions and welcoming atmosphere.
Shopping
Beyond these restaurants, Brighton offers unique local shopping and farm experiences that complement its dining scene.
The charming and historic Downtown area is filled with boutiques, restaurants, and services housed in vintage buildings with brick facades. You’ll find shops selling clothing, homeware, books, wines, antiques, and many more.
Some of the must-visit stores in Downtown include Special Effects Lifestyle Boutique for clothing, accessories, unique home decor items, and locally made products. Sunflower Health Shop & Services focuses on health and wellness products including vitamins, organic foods, spices, herbs, and cruelty-free body care products. The Birdhouse Nature Store specializes in birdhouses, feeders, and a variety of seeds designed to attract specific bird species to your garden.
In and around Brighton, including Northumberland County, are a wealth of local markets and specialty food stores.
The city’s Codrington Farmers Market is open on Sundays from 10 am to 1 pm, offering the freshest produce and homemade food items from the numerous farms around the area. Many of these farms also open their gates to welcome shoppers looking for fresh fruits, vegetables, poultry, meat, and small batch goodies.
In nearby Coburg, there’s Market & Smor which emphasizes local produce and offers a zero food-waste shopping experience. Northumberland Hills Brewery showcases locally crafted beers, highlighting the region’s growing craft beer scene.
Local Events
Each year, Brighton locals and visitors get together in numerous events celebrating the community and its heritage.
EXPLORE HOMES FOR SALE IN BRIGHTON, ONTARIO WITH JACQUELINE PENNINGTON
For those drawn to the charm of Brighton and in pursuit of finding a place to call home, the search for homes for sale in Brighton, Ontario offers an exciting opportunity. The real estate landscape here is as diverse as the town itself, featuring a range of properties from quaint cottages to modern family homes, each promising a piece of Brighton’s unparalleled lifestyle.
Let Jacqueline Pennington give you the expert guidance you need in your journey. With a profound understanding of Brighton’s real estate market and a dedication to exceptional service, Jacqueline can assist you in finding the perfect home. Her expertise and passion for the community shine through in every interaction, ensuring a personalized and seamless experience.
We invite you to explore the possibilities that await in Brighton, Ontario with Jacqueline Pennington. Contact her by texting or calling 905.375.0062 or sending her an email here.