Moving to Orillia: frequently asked questions

Short, direct answers to the questions people ask most when they're thinking about moving to Orillia. Each links to the page on this site with the full detail.

The basics

How big is Orillia?

The 2021 Census counted 33,411 people in the City of Orillia, up 7.2% from 2016. The three townships around it add more: Oro-Medonte (23,017), Severn (14,576) and Ramara (10,377).

How far is Orillia from Toronto?

About 135 km from downtown Toronto by Highway 11 and Highway 400, and about 38 km from Barrie. Drive time depends mainly on GTA traffic. Test it at your real hour. See the commuting playbook.

Is an "Orillia" address always in the City of Orillia?

No. Atherley and many addresses in Severn, Oro-Medonte and Ramara use an Orillia mailing address. Check the municipality on the tax bill. It decides your tax rate, services and school boundaries. See which town fits you.

Should I choose Orillia or Barrie?

Barrie is bigger and has two GO stations, which suits daily GTA commuters. Orillia is smaller, quieter and on two lakes, which suits hybrid, remote and retired households. See Orillia vs Barrie.

Commuting

Is there a GO train from Orillia?

No. The nearest GO stations are Allandale Waterfront and Barrie South in Barrie. Most GO commuters drive there and take the train.

What time is the first bus to Toronto?

On Ontario Northland's timetable effective November 1, 2026, the first southbound coach leaves the Orillia Transit stop at 6:07 a.m. and reaches Yorkdale at 8:00 a.m. Coming home, the 7:00 p.m. coach from Union Station arrives in Orillia at 9:14 p.m. All run daily.

Do people really commute from Orillia to Toronto?

Yes, but most go in two or three days a week rather than five. Hybrid work is what makes the distance manageable for most GTA jobs.

Can I work from home in Orillia?

Many people do. Check internet at the exact address on ISED's National Broadband Map, then confirm with providers and the seller. It varies most in the townships. See working remotely.

Money

Are property taxes higher than in Toronto?

The rate is: 1.531692% in Orillia versus 0.767311% in Toronto for 2026. Your bill is the rate times the home's MPAC assessment, still based on 2016 values, so ask for the actual tax bill.

Do I pay land transfer tax in Orillia?

Only Ontario's. You avoid Toronto's municipal land transfer tax, which on an $800,000 home would be another $12,475. See the cost of moving up.

Should I sell my GTA home first or buy first?

Selling first gives you budget certainty; buying first gets you the right house but may mean bridge financing or carrying two homes. Bridge loans generally need a firm sale on your current home. See selling in the GTA, buying here.

Who supplies utilities?

Electricity is Hydro One. Water, sewer and stormwater are billed by the City of Orillia every three months. Township homes often have a private well and septic system instead.

Healthcare and schools

How do I find a family doctor?

Register with Health Care Connect by calling 811 or online, once your health card shows your new postal code. The Province says you don't have to leave your current doctor while you wait. See family doctor and healthcare.

Does Orillia have a hospital?

Yes. Orillia Soldiers' Memorial Hospital at 170 Colborne St. W. has a 24-hour emergency department. Some regional programs are at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre in Barrie.

How do I find my child's school?

Use the SCDSB Home School Locator for public schools. For Catholic schools, the SMCDSB points you to the Simcoe County Student Transportation Consortium's tools. A purchase agreement for your primary residence counts as proof of address for public school registration. See schools and registration.

Will my kids get a school bus?

Not if you live within 1.6 km of the school (JK to Grade 8) or 3.2 km (Grades 9 to 12). Check the specific address with the consortium's eligibility form.

Is Georgian College still in Orillia?

No. Georgian closed its Orillia campus in summer 2026 and moved programs to Barrie. Lakehead University's Orillia campus remains open.

Everyday life

What's the first thing to do after I move?

Update your driver's licence and vehicle permit within 6 days. It's required by law and free. Your health card has a 30-day window. See your first 90 days.

What are winters like?

Real winter, roughly November to April. There's no street parking from midnight to 7 a.m., November 15 to April 15, and the City doesn't clear the windrow the plow leaves at your driveway. See seasons and events.

Do I need a car?

Most households have one, and many have two. Inside the city, Orillia Transit runs six routes for $2 a ride until March 31, 2027. The townships have no local transit beyond LINX county routes.

Is Orillia a good place to retire?

Many people think so: a hospital, a 55+ Active Living Centre, a walkable downtown and accessible transit. Plan for winter and choose a home that will work as you age. See retiring to Orillia.

When is the Mariposa Folk Festival?

Mariposa has announced July 9 to 11, 2027. The festival is held at Tudhope Park in Orillia.

Can I get a library card if I live in a township?

Residents and property owners of Orillia, Oro-Medonte and Severn get free membership at the Orillia Public Library, as do members of Chippewas of Rama First Nation.

How should I plan the whole move?

Start with the 12-month plan, then use a week of visits to scout before you buy.