The History of Norfolk
If the name “Norfolk County” gives off some British vibes, there’s a good reason for it! The region was named after Norfolk, England, when it first came into being in 1792. However, Norfolk’s potential for agriculture due to its rich soil caught the attention of indigenous tribes long before then. The Princess Point People discovered the county’s suitability for maize growing as far back as 500 to 1000 CE. Norfolk County merged with Haldimand in the early 1900s but became its own municipality again in 2000.
During the War of 1812, Fort Norfolk provided protection and accommodation to approximately 300 British troops. In 1925, the Canadian government designated Fort Norfolk as a national historic site, and the monument still stands today at 76 Old Hill Road in Turkey Point.
Though it was once known as the “Ontario Tobacco Belt”, many farmers have made the switch to crops such as lavender, ginseng, and wolfberries as the demand for tobacco continues to diminish. Today, agriculture remains integral to Norfolk County’s economy.
Where is Norfolk?
Norfolk is located approximately 160 km south of Toronto and 92 km southwest of Hamilton. It is bordered by Haldimand, Brant, and Oxford Counties. A prime location on Lake Erie is a massive draw each summer for tourists, and it is also home to some of the best wineries in Southern Ontario. Highways 6, 24 and 403 provide access to larger cities, including Brantford, Ancaster, and Hamilton.
Norfolk Economy
As we mentioned, Norfolk’s economy has always been largely driven by agriculture. During the early 1900s, canning was a major industry, but by 1920, many local farmers switched to tobacco production. In modern times, tourism has become a major producer, with many bustling restaurants and shops lining the streets of the vibrant little towns. The many sandy beaches and summer resorts are the main tourist attractions, but wine tours, relaxing day spas and romantic bed and breakfasts help to contribute to a stable economy all year long.
Simcoe and Port Dover are also home to numerous factories that contribute to the region’s growing manufacturing sector, including Dover Mechanical, Lakeshore Fish Market, Exelby’s Machining & Welding, and Mouldoff.
Though Norfolk County’s population is small, it is within a day’s drive to over 150 million consumers within Canada and the United States, making it an ideal place to do business. The economic development plan offers grants of up to $20,000 to encourage even more companies to open their doors in Norfolk.
Currently, the municipality is the region’s biggest employer, with approximately 1100 people working in operations, community development, and health services.
Norfolk Demographics
Norfolk is a massive area that spans 1,607 square kilometres and encompasses over 40 smaller communities. As of 2021, the population has grown to 67,490, with a density of 39.3 persons per square kilometre.
The median age of 48.8 suggests a healthy balance of all ages, including many who are enjoying their retirement years in our safe and supportive towns. As the local economy continues to grow, we can expect even more families and single professionals to be attracted to the region.
A high quality of life combined with affordable housing will continue to be a draw for those relocating from Hamilton and the GTA and those in search of small-town life and outdoor adventures. Ready access to highways makes commuting for work or leisure easy and convenient.
Education in Norfolk
Norfolk’s public education system falls under the Grand Erie District School Board, which serves a dynamic network of elementary and secondary schools. Though ratings can change on a yearly basis, below are some of the schools with the highest Fraser Rankings in the region:
- Courtland Public School
- Lakewood Elementary School
- Lynndale Heights Public School
- Port Rowan Public School
For those who prefer a faith-based education, there are several private schools throughout Norfolk. Though there are no local colleges or universities, several postsecondary education options are available a short drive away:
- Mohawk College (Hamilton)
- McMaster University (Hamilton)
- Wilfrid Laurier University (Waterloo and Brantford)
Norfolk Infrastructure
Ride Norfolk is a shared-ride service that provides on-demand service from Monday to Friday, allowing riders to request trips through a mobile app, online, or over the phone.
Rides can be booked anywhere from 45 minutes to 7 days in advance, with payment accepted by debit or credit cards right through the app.
Norfolk General Hospital is located in Simcoe, providing emergency and in-patient care to residents from all communities in the region. In addition, there are several walk-in clinics and family medical practitioners throughout the area.
Arts and Culture in Norfolk
For a small town, Norfolk County boasts an incredible arts scene, with many festivals, museums, and fun events to attend. With its vast array of sandy beaches, forested trails, grassy fields, and fragrant gardens, it is also a natural wonderland just waiting to be explored!
From summertime swimming, jet skiing, fishing, and paddle boarding to brisk hikes in the fall and cross-country skiing in the winter, there is always something new and exciting on the horizon in Norfolk County!
The Old Town Hall in Waterford is a fantastic place to enjoy live entertainment, with live plays and performances by local musicians and comedians. Other great venues are The Mill-Underground in Tillsonburg, Port Dover Lions Community Centre, and Capital 33 in Delhi.
The towns of Norfolk County are alive with art and creativity, as you’ll see when popping in and out of galleries like the Lynnwood Arts Centre, Silver Sands Gallery, Woodhouse Gallery and Custom Framing, and more! In addition, the Port Dover Summer Art in the Park Festival has delighted residents and visitors for 40 years and counting.
A scenic outdoor environment encourages activity of all kinds throughout the year. However, if you prefer more organized forms of recreation, several adult fitness and after-school programs are available. Pickleball, ball hockey, baseball, and basketball are just a few ways to get your heart pumping. And no discussion about outdoor activity would be complete without mentioning Norfolk County’s incredible golf courses!
Living in the country no longer means limited access to fantastic dining, at least not in Norfolk County! The region is home to countless restaurants, pubs, and cafes. From beachfront food trucks with fresh french fries and the best ice cream ever to grace your tastebuds to Italian eateries, pastry shops, and fine dining establishments, something delicious awaits around every corner.
No township knows how to hold a festival like Norfolk County! Visitors come from far and wide to experience an array of fun events, including the Norfolk County Fair and Horse Show, Waterford Lions Pumpkinfest, Rockton World’s Fair, and Norfolk Oktoberfest, to name a few. The annual Simcoe Christmas Panorama deserves a special mention. Starting December 1st, the more than 60,000 festive displays and 200,000 lights adorning Wellington Park are sure to turn your head!
Norfolk Neighbourhoods
With over 40 communities, there is something for everyone in Norfolk County! Whether you prefer a condo near the beaches of Port Dover, a rural farm in Tillsonburg, or to be part of a bustling community in Simcoe, you will find a high quality of life here that offers the perfect combination of peaceful relaxation, excitement, and adventure!
Most Common Property Types in Norfolk
Sprawling farms on multi-acre lots, modern condos in new developments, spacious detached family homes, and modest bungalows; you will find it all in Norfolk County, and at prices GTA residents can only dream about.
Though real estate prices are trending up all over the country, Norfolk County remains one of the most affordable places in the province to set down roots. Whether you’re a first-time buyer ready to break into the market, a family looking for more space, or a retiree in search of an active lifestyle, Norfolk County is an excellent choice.
Norfolk FAQ
It depends on the broker. Some specialize only in certain areas, while others expand their knowledge to many regions outside of the Hamilton area, including Norfolk County. What matters most is that your real estate agent takes the time to understand your wants and needs and can recommend a town or community that offers the lifestyle you are looking for.
No matter where you’re looking, real estate prices will fluctuate depending on supply and demand and the season. However, the market in Norfolk tends to move a little more slowly than that of Hamilton or Toronto, while prices over the long term are on the rise.
The real estate market will always fluctuate, and it can be difficult when trying to time it perfectly. That’s why the best time to buy or sell always depends on your lifestyle. Are you ready for a change? Then now is a great time! As a respected local brokerage, Michael St. Jean Realty works year-round to help our clients buy and sell their homes whenever they decide the time is right.
Does your family like fun, excitement, and a world of nature to explore? If so, you couldn’t ask for a better place to raise a family. As a safe and peaceful community that is full of support and new experiences, Norfolk County is perfect for families of all ages.
With relatively affordable housing, strong support systems, and a high quality of life, many people are selling their homes in Hamilton to retire in Norfolk County. Let’s not forget the beautiful wineries and scenic golf courses that give you the chance to socialize and mingle while maintaining an active lifestyle.
There was a time when we might have advised first-time buyers away from Norfolk County. Yes, housing prices were and are lower than other regions, but employment opportunities were also limited. However, in light of recent economic development and more companies adopting a work-from-home model, Norfolk County has become an excellent option for many people to get into the real estate market.
On a good day, you can reach Toronto in just under two hours. The City of Hamilton is approximately 90 minutes away. Brantford is even closer at just 45 minutes by car, which is why many residents commute for work or to attend the Brantford campus of Wilfrid Laurier University. You can also reach Kitchener or Waterloo in about 90 minutes via Hwy 401 or Regional Road 4.
If you don’t love beaches, live entertainment, beautiful scenery, fabulous festivals, and delicious eateries, then you may find it a little boring. However, with so many bustling little towns full of unique shops, galleries, museums, and restaurants, most people find life in Norfolk County rich and fulfilling.
Finding a local, experienced real estate broker is critical when making such a life-changing decision. The best course of action is to find an agent with a stellar reputation in the community you are interested in. Ask friends and family for referrals, look at existing lawn signs and listings in the area, and always feel empowered to reach out to agents and conduct “interviews” to find the Hamilton real estate brokerage that meets your needs. Additionally, you can check the broker’s website to get an idea of the type of service they provide.
