Choosing where to live in Oakville goes beyond schools—it’s about finding the right community vibe, local amenities, and family-friendly environment. Based on top school districts and insights from Oakville’s most sought-after family-oriented neighbourhoods, here’s your complete guide:
Glen Abbey
Highlights: Home to Abbey Park High School, ranked #1 in Oakville and #10 in Ontario for academics and extracurriculars.
Family Appeal: Known for its scenic trails, community centres with gyms and ice rinks, plus top elementary schools like Pilgrim Wood Public and St. Matthew Catholic.
Why Families Love It: Top-tier schools and amenities plus abundant green space make it ideal for active, growing families.
Joshua Creek
Highlights: Excellent schools including Joshua Creek Public and Iroquois Ridge High School—the latter consistently ranked among Ontario’s top high schools.
Family Appeal: Upscale homes, parks like Bayshire Woods and Glenashton Park, and a tight-knit community atmosphere.
Why Families Love It: Spacious homes, high school excellence, and calm neighbourhood streets offer peace and prestige.
River Oaks
Highlights: Schools like River Oaks Public and White Oaks Secondary, though not always top-ranked, benefit from stable performance and family focus.
Family Appeal: Green-lined streets, parks, community centre, and trails—great for kids and nature lovers.
Why Families Love It: Safe, peaceful, and community-oriented—ideal for families looking for quiet and connection.
Bronte
Highlights: Strong schools including Eastview Public and St. Dominic Elementary, with Trafalgar High School serving nearby families.
Family Appeal: Waterfront charm, walking trails, parks like Bronte Heritage Waterfront and commuter-friendly with a GO station.
Why Families Love It: A perfect blend of lakeside living, family amenities, and schooling options.
West Oak Trails
Highlights: Top-rated elementary schools such as Forest Trail and West Oak Trails Public, plus proximity to Abbey Park High School.
Family Appeal: Quiet streets, walkable parks, great schools, and easy GO/train access.
Why Families Love It: Balanced lifestyle, strong school options, and transit-friendly location.
Old Oakville
Highlights: Central feed for Oakville Trafalgar High School, nestled among well-respected elementary schools like New Central.
Family Appeal: Heritage architecture, cultural programming, boutique shopping, and vibrant lifestyle.
Why Families Love It: Walkable charm and cultural richness, paired with reliable schools.
Riverside Snapshot
| Neighbourhood | Standout School(s) | What Makes It Family-Friendly |
|---|---|---|
| Glen Abbey | Abbey Park HS, Pilgrim Wood, St. Matthew | Community centres, parks, top-ranked schools |
| Joshua Creek | Joshua Creek PS, Iroquois Ridge HS | Luxury homes, top-tier schools, peaceful setting |
| River Oaks | River Oaks PS, White Oaks SS | Green space, community feel, safe environment |
| Bronte | Eastview PS, St. Dominic Elem, Trafalgar HS | Waterfront, trails, commuter-friendly |
| West Oak Trails | Forest Trail PS, Abbey Park HS | Transit access, parks, balanced suburban living |
| Old Oakville | New Central PS, Trafalgar HS | Cultural core, walkability, historic charm |
Final Thoughts
Oakville offers exceptional educational and lifestyle value across its neighbourhoods. Whether you're drawn to luxury living in Joshua Creek, lakeside charm in Bronte, or heritage charm in Old Oakville, there's a perfect fit for every family's needs.
At Lakeshore Group Real Estate, we align school board catchments with long-term goals—so you future-proof your family’s journey while finding the right home.