Before You Arrive

Important Information About the Niagara Region

Niagara is a large, diverse region in southern Ontario located between Lake Ontario and Lake Erie. Niagara covers 1896 square kilometres (715 square miles) and is made up of 12 distinct cities and towns.  St. Catharines and Niagara Falls are the urban centres with the largest population.  Other parts of Niagara are largely rural.

As a resident of Niagara, you will be part of a multi-level government system. Residents are governed locally by their city or town council, regionally by the Regional Municipality of Niagara, provincially by the Government of Ontario and federally by the Government of Canada.  It may be confusing at first but you will soon understand which level of government delivers which services and programs.

There is currently no municipal transit system that operates across the whole region. The larger cities - Niagara Falls, St. Catharines and Welland - have their own public transit system of buses,. This creates the need for most individuals to have their own personal transportation. In Niagara, 91% of residents travel to work as a driver or a passenger in a private vehicle. Transportation to and from your job, school and place of worship will be consideration in deciding where to settle in Niagara.

Our natural features, rich soils and unique climate have contributed to some of the best farmland to be found anywhere. Our farmlands are promoted through many local markets as well as extensive worldwide distribution. Niagara has become renowned for its tender fruit and award winning wine industry.

This unique climate means that Niagara can experience temperatures well over 27 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit) for days at a time in the summer months. In the winter months, Niagara can experience temperatures well below 0 degrees Celsius (32degrees Fahrenheit) with varying amounts of snowfall across the region. During the spring and fall seasons, the weather and the temperature can be unpredictable. You will require clothing that is suitable for significant changes in the climate throughout the year. Niagara’s climate offers opportunities for both warm weather and cold weather recreational activities.

Niagara is blessed with natural features such as the Niagara Escarpment, many parks and beaches and majestic Niagara Falls which bring more than 12 million visitors a year. Tourism is a booming industry in this region. From the historic landmarks and quaint shopping opportunities of Niagara-on-the-Lake, to the modern and lavish atmosphere of Casino Niagara in Niagara Falls, you will find an ample supply of things to see and do in Niagara. The region has an abundance of walking trails, cycling and driving routes that will help you explore some of the prettiest countryside in Ontario.