The vibrant community of Hamilton in Ontario has a rich history, with lots of diversity, innovation and modernization. Dubbed “The Hammer”, Hamilton was and still is an industrial powerhouse (hence the nickname), but has long since seen wide-swept changes to foster a welcoming atmosphere where new business and cultural venues can thrive alongside its historic landmarks. An economic resurgence ushered in a flourishing service industry, with tons of diverse restaurants and specialty bars, so that everyone can indulge their individual taste. Whether it’s the people bustling on Locke Street, or the youthful and innovative spirit emanating from McMaster University, the sense of belonging that Hamilton offers its residents and visitors is undeniable. As part of the Hamilton community, our dentist office in the Jackson Square Mall is very proud to be a part of it.
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Where is Hamilton located?
Hamilton is located on the western tip of Lake Ontario and has become a gem in the province’s urban landscape. With roughly a 75-minute drive from Toronto and less than two hours away from the US border crossing in Buffalo, New York, Hamilton is neither too crowded and busy nor to rural to be significant. Its location provides easy access to its many neighbouring cities, including Burlington, St. Catharines, Brantford, Kitchener, Guelph and Cambridge, each with its own growing communities. The natural splendour of the nearby Niagara Escarpment, combined with its extensive waterfront and numerous conservation areas, Hamilton connects its residents to nature while providing a true urban living experience.
What is Hamilton known for?
Historically, Hamilton has been an industrial city known primarily for its steel production capacity. However, the city has long since seen explosive growth in other sectors, like agri-food, chemical engineering, construction, retail and hospitality.
Hamilton is also known as the waterfall capital of the world, thanks to its staggering number of natural waterfalls which dot the Niagara Escarpment (a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve). It’s also home to the Royal Botanical Gardens, a Canadian treasure.
If you ask us, it’s the natural wonder of the Escarpment, the Royal Botanical Gardens and the rich industrial history that dates back to 1846 that defines the history of Hamilton.
Is Hamilton a good city?
We love the blend of past and present that Hamilton has to offer. Our industrial past has since primarily given way to a very diversified and growing economy with booming technology, healthcare and education sectors. As it usually does, this economic transition has brought an invigorated job market that pulls talent and skilled professionals to our city.
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, then you’ll love Lake Ontario and the scenic Niagara Escarpment, which offer hiking trails, conservation areas and room for all types of nature activities.
Regarding culture, Hamilton offers an awesome creative hub that hosts a vibrant art scene, music festivals and lots of culinary diversity.
The city is committed to preserving its heritage while looking towards a dynamic future, which, in our humble opinion, makes this one of the best places to live and raise a family.
What’s it like to live in Hamilton?
To us, Hamilton feels like it exudes a certain warmth, both in terms of its welcoming communities and the pleasant and varied seasons. Our city is a balance of urban amenities and natural retreats, thanks to our vibrant city and the vast green spaces and conservation areas.
Even when the seasons change, the city remains alive and moving, so whether it’s basking in the sun on a warm summer day or bundling up before a snowy adventure – the city’s spirit never seems diminished. Choose from the arts and culinary scenes, natural retreats, and historical exploration – Hamilton has lots to keep everyone busy.
Is Hamilton a safe city?
We all know that safety is a primary consideration when choosing a place to call home, which is why Hamilton’s community prioritizes well-being. There has been heavy investment into public services, with a visible presence of community-focused initiatives that foster a sense of security and make Hamilton a reassuring choice for many. In 2023, Hamilton is one of the top 10 safest cities in Ontario, with a crime rate that has been steadily declining. For perspective, the city has a rating similar to that of its larger sibling, Toronto.
How are the entertainment and restaurant scenes in Hamilton?
Two words can aptly describe the Hamilton entertainment and culinary scenes – diversity and innovation. We have historical dive bars that coexist happily with trendy eateries that offer everything from artisan cocktails to gourmet cuisine. Taking a look at the Hamilton event calendar, you’ll notice that cultural events and music festivals are plenty and provide year-round excitement for every taste.
The city’s arts scene is burgeoning and can be showcased through venues like Theatre Aquarius, known for its professional plays and community-driven productions, and the Hamilton Fringe Festival, which celebrates local and international talent in the performing arts.
Local cuisine is a cornerstone of Hamilton’s charm, with culinary gems such as The French (one of our lunchtime favourites because it’s close to our Jackson Square clinic), offering a contemporary take on bistro classics, and Aberdeen Tavern, where the ambiance of a historic bank meets the warmth of a modern Canadian eatery. Food enthusiasts revel in the flavors of The Burnt Tongue, an eatery that has turned soup into a culinary art form, and Earth to Table: Bread Bar, which is a testament to the city’s love for organic, locally-sourced dishes.
Events like Supercrawl, a massive free street festival that celebrates music, art, and fashion, and the Hamilton Film Festival, which puts a spotlight on the cinematic arts, fill the city’s calendar with vibrant expressions of creativity. The revitalized waterfront, with attractions like Pier 4 Park, serves as a gathering place for concerts and community events, further cementing Hamilton as a city that not only honors its industrial roots but also celebrates its present-day renaissance through a thriving social and cultural landscape.
Is Hamilton a good city for shopping?
Boutique stores on Locke Street are a good place to begin an eclectic shopping experience, rounded off by a visit to the CF Lime Ridge Mall. Hamilton offers us a varied choice of shopping preferences, ranging from vintage finds to luxury items to practical goods. Of course, we have seasonal surges too, around the holidays and Black Friday, that make bargain hunting fun and shopping successful. If you’re in the Jackson Square Mall, please drop by our dental office to say hi.
Are there enough professional services in Hamilton?
As the city has grown, so has its professional services sector. Hamilton is more than equipped to meet all its citizen’s needs when it comes to healthcare, education, legal services and more. For example, McMaster University’s top-ranking faculties combined with the city’s diverse economic base – professional services in Hamilton are plentiful and provide ample access to the necessary care and expertise required for a growing city.
You can visit the website for the Martindale Dental dentist office in Jackson Square Mall and see why we’re proud of our small part in the Hamilton healthcare community.
What’s it like to raise children in Hamilton?
Raising children in Hamilton provides parents with many educational and recreational opportunities within a community that emphasizes growth and family values. The city is dotted with family-friendly neighbourhoods like Westdale, known for its charming character homes and proximity to the Royal Botanical Gardens, and Ancaster, which boasts spacious lots and a variety of recreational facilities. Dundas, with its small-town vibe and community-focused events, is perfect for those who prefer a quieter setting. Family-friendly neighbourhoods such as the East End offer the serenity of Gage Park and the amenities of Crown Point, ideal for first-time homebuyers and young families. The area is known for its affordable living, pedestrian-friendly streets, and proximity to CF Lime Ridge Mall for convenient shopping. With its beach and splash pad, Sprawling Confederation Park provides ample outdoor spaces for children to play and explore.
Corktown is another standout community, rich in history and character, and offers a variety of amenities, including parks, restaurants, and shopping. It’s an ideal spot for young families and professionals, especially those who may need to commute to Toronto, with the Hamilton GO station close at hand. Westdale is a favourite among young families too, with its village-like shopping district and close proximity to McMaster University, providing a blend of nature and urban lifestyle with easy access to cultural venues like the Westdale Theatre and McMaster Museum of Art.
In terms of education, Hamilton prides itself on its range of schooling options. Some of the top public elementary schools in Hamilton include Rousseau and Tiffany Hills in Ancaster, Allan A Greenleaf in Waterdown, and Greensville and Balaclava in their respective communities. These schools exemplify the city’s commitment to high-quality education, with programs that cater to diverse learning styles and needs. Schools in Hamilton are community-centric, offering diverse programs catering to various interests and abilities.
By choosing to raise a family in Hamilton, parents are opting for a community that not only cherishes its youth but also provides the foundations for a well-rounded education and a fulfilling lifestyle. With its family-oriented neighbourhoods, excellent schools, and abundant green spaces, Hamilton stands as a city that nurtures the potential of every child.
Is Hamilton a good place to live and work?
Hamilton is experiencing a rebirth as a city, blossoming into a hub of economic variety and cultural vibrancy. This transformation makes it a desirable destination for life and career growth. The city’s job market has evolved from its historic industrial base to encompass a wider range of sectors, such as cutting-edge manufacturing, healthcare services, and education.
Key sectors that contribute to Hamilton’s employment landscape include:
Advanced manufacturing: Leveraging its history in steel, Hamilton now excels in advanced manufacturing, attracting high-tech industries and talent.
Agribusiness and food processing: With robust supply chains, Hamilton is a significant player in food production and transportation.
Creative industries: The city thrives with musicians, artists, writers, filmmakers, and fashion designers, contributing to a vibrant cultural scene.
Finance, insurance, and real estate (FIRE): Located within Canada’s most populous region, Hamilton is a hub for the FIRE sectors.
Goods movement: Its strategic location with access to major transport infrastructure makes it a nexus for goods movement.
ICT & digital media: The ICT sector is thriving, supported by a highly educated workforce and strong ties between industry and academia.
Life sciences: Hamilton is a leader in healthcare innovation, bioengineering, and cellular research.
Tourism: The tourism industry in Hamilton is expanding, bringing in visitors with its attractions and events.
These industries are supported by institutions like McMaster University, which fosters collaboration between businesses and academia, fueling the city’s economic vitality. The synergy between Hamilton’s heritage, natural assets, and forward-looking industries makes it an excellent place for professionals seeking diverse career opportunities and a high quality of life.
The quality of life is bolstered by affordable housing, excellent healthcare, and a community-oriented lifestyle, making Hamilton a balanced choice for both personal and professional fulfillment.
FAQs about Living in Hamilton
The commute is simple and straightforward, with regular GO train services to Union Station and a very accessible highway network.
Absolutely! Hamilton is known as the waterfall capital of the world and offers extensive green spaces, conservation areas, and trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hamilton experiences four distinct seasons, with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters.
Yes, Hamilton is home to McMaster University, renowned for its research and medical faculty, along with a range of public and private schools.
Hamilton is generally more affordable than Toronto, offering a lower cost of living with a high quality of life.
Hamilton boasts a diverse population with vibrant cultural events, diverse dining options, and inclusive community initiatives.
Conclusion
If you ask us, Hamilton seamlessly blends the charm of its historical roots with the dynamism of modern urban living. The city welcomes the adventurous, the innovative, and those who want to be part of a community. Whether you’re seeking a connection with nature, an integration into economic diversity, or the feeling of “being home”, Hamilton can easily be considered as a place to put down roots. Hamilton is a welcoming city and makes it easy to find career growth, educational excellence, or simply a beautiful place to live.
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Have more questions?
Please contact us for all inquiries or to book an appointment with one of our convenient clinic locations. We look forward to hearing from you.
