7 Very Good Reasons Not to Move to Windsor-Essex (Unless You Like Sunshine, Space, and Sanity)
Thinking of relocating to Windsor-Essex County? We won’t stop you… but you might want to read this first—just in case you’re not into affordable homes, private beaches, and warm weather.
If you’re browsing Google for “best places to live in Ontario,” chances are Windsor-Essex popped up somewhere. And why wouldn’t it? The area is growing fast, home prices are still within the realm of reality, and the views? Let’s just say… it’s not your average commuter town.
But before you start house hunting or daydreaming about lakeside sunsets, here’s a reality check: Windsor-Essex might completely ruin your expectations for what life should feel like.
Here are 7 tongue-in-cheek—but very real—reasons to think twice about moving here. Because once you settle into this part of Southwestern Ontario, going back might feel impossible.
1. It’s Uncomfortably Close to the U.S. Border
Do you really want to live just minutes away from an international border? In Windsor, Detroit is right across the river. That means concerts, NBA and NFL games, U.S. shopping, and cheap flights are all practically in your backyard. Tempting, right?
The Canada-U.S. border crossing via the Ambassador Bridge or Detroit-Windsor Tunnel is almost too convenient. One minute you’re having poutine, the next you’re at a Tigers game. And if you have family or business in the States—forget about it. Windsor makes cross-border life so seamless, it might just spoil you.
2. Homes You Can Actually Afford? The Horror!
If you’re into 600-square-foot condos for a million dollars, you’ll hate it here. Windsor-Essex has some of the most affordable real estate in Ontario. That means starter homes with yards, garages, and maybe even a pool.
You might even find homes with lakefront views, or historic houses with character and charm—without needing to rob a bank. It’s unsettling, really.
3. The Riverside Is Way Too Relaxing
Here’s the thing—Windsor-Essex hugs the Detroit River and Lake Erie. And that means waterfront parks, trails, beaches, and homes with views that look like they belong in a vacation brochure.
Some residents even have private beaches or backyard docks. Add a glass of wine, a good book, and a sunset that sets the sky on fire—and suddenly, you’ve forgotten what stress even is.
If you’re into chaos and concrete jungles, stay away.
4. The Weather’s… Honestly Too Nice
Snow boots? Rarely needed. Arctic wind? Nope. Windsor enjoys the warmest weather in Ontario, with longer summers, shorter winters, and more time spent outside than inside.
The region boasts a full-on growing season for your backyard garden (yes, even tomatoes and grapes), and if you’re into biking, hiking, or patio-hopping, this climate delivers.
5. You’ll Be Late—Because You Got There Too Early
Windsor-Essex isn’t built for stress. Here, “rush hour” feels more like a brisk 10-minute drive with your favourite playlist barely getting through one song.
Average commute times are some of the shortest in Ontario, meaning you’ll spend more time living and less time sitting in traffic. It’s suspiciously efficient.
6. Everyone’s Way Too Friendly
In Windsor-Essex, people say hello. They make eye contact. They talk to their neighbours. It’s a bit unsettling if you’re used to city life where no one even knows who lives next door.
You might actually end up making friends—real ones. The kind who lend you a lawnmower or invite you to their kid’s birthday party. Shocking.
7. It’s Unapologetically Multicultural
Windsor-Essex is one of Canada’s most diverse regions. You’ll find Lebanese bakeries next to Vietnamese pho shops, Italian delis beside Indian grocery stores, and festivals celebrating everything from Diwali to Greek Independence Day.
That means more food, more culture, and more open-minded, welcoming people.
But if you like your neighbourhoods bland and predictable… maybe look elsewhere.
Final Thoughts: Maybe Don’t Move to Windsor-Essex…
…unless you’re into affordable living, riverside serenity, warm weather, short commutes, and genuinely kind people. In that case, it might just be the best decision you ever make.
