Northcrest, Peterborough

Northcrest is an established neighbourhood promoting a community-oriented environment in the northern part of Peterborough. This neighbourhood hosts numerous housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and rental properties, making it an appealing choice for diverse residents, from families to professionals. It is surrounded by parks, schools, and recreational facilities, including the popular Riverview Park and Zoo, offering various outdoor activities. Northcrest's location provides easy access to local shopping centres, dining options, and essential services. The area is also well-connected to major roadways, facilitating easy commutes to downtown Peterborough and surrounding areas. Northcrest is highly sought-after by those seeking urban conveniences in quieter surroundings due to its balance of affordability and livability.

Northcrest in Peterborough offers a well-rounded lifestyle to its residents, as reflected in its favourable livability score of 66. Although it experiences a slightly higher crime rate, about 5% above the average of Peterborough, it remains a popular choice due to its access to local services, parks, and schools, fostering a strong community feel. Additionally, residents benefit from the cost of living 1% below the city’s average, making it a practical and affordable area for many households.

In Northcrest, Peterborough, crime rates are 7% above the national average. Violent crimes occur more frequently, sitting 12% above the national level, indicating the need for some vigilance. Although Northcrest remains safer than 16% of cities in Ontario, residents have about a 1 in 23 likelihood of becoming a victim of crime. Additionally, the overall crime rate in Peterborough has increased by 14% yearly, contributing to the general rise in incidents across the city.

Northcrest, Peterborough, reflects a diverse socio-economic profile. The median household income is 24% below the national average, reflecting modest income levels. The neighbourhood shows a relatively stable job market but a lower % unemployment rate of 21% than Canada’s average. Income distribution shows that 11.8% of residents earn $20,000 or less, while 11.1% earn between $80,000 and $100,000. A small percentage, 0.8%, of residents earn $300,000 or more, indicating a diverse but predominantly middle-to-lower-income community.

Northcrest, Peterborough, has a population density of 28% higher than the city average, reflecting a more compact and community-oriented environment. The median age is also higher, indicating an older demographic than Peterborough's rest. Although the area is not widely diverse, it does include small cultural communities, including Filipino, Chinese, and South Asian communities. This combination of an older population and a modest cultural diversity makes Northcrest a stable, established neighbourhood with a welcoming atmosphere for its residents​.

Northcrest, located in the northern section of Peterborough, is surrounded by several notable neighbourhoods that offer a variety of amenities and attractions. Some of them are below:

• Ashburnham
• Downtown Peterborough
• Monaghan
• Otonabee

Schools

Northcrest, Peterborough, offers solid educational opportunities, with school test scores matching the national average. The area has three public schools that serve the local community. Regarding educational attainment, 15% of residents have not completed formal certification, 84.7% have finished high school, and 20.4% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. This data demonstrates a well-educated population focusing on secondary and post-secondary achievement. Some of the reputed educational institutions are listed below:

• Edmison Heights Public School
• Highland Heights Public School
• R F Downey Public School
• Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School
• Evergreen Education
• Prince of Wales Public School
• Queen Elizabeth Public School

Restaurants

Northcrest, Peterborough, offers a range of dining spots to satisfy various cravings. Whether you're in the mood for Mediterranean flavours, Middle Eastern delights, or classic comfort food, the area has plenty of choices. Here are some of the top local eateries:

• Nostumo By The Original Greek
• Tacheena Middle Eastern Cuisine
• Stacked Pancake & Breakfast House Peterborough
• Chef Basel Cuisine
• North End Diner
• D Spot Dessert Cafe Peterborough

Shopping Malls

Northcrest, Peterborough, is conveniently located near several shopping malls and retail centres that offer a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Some of the notable malls and retail spots nearby include:

• Northcrest Plaza
• Chemong Park Plaza
• Portage Place
• Brookdale Plaza
• Peterborough Square
• Willowcreek Centre

Hospitals

Northcrest, Peterborough, is well-served by several hospitals and healthcare facilities that provide various medical services to the community. Residents can access nearby hospitals for emergency care and routine medical needs. Notable hospitals include:

• Peterborough Regional Health Centre
• Ross Memorial Hospital
• Northumberland Hills Hospital

Northcrest, Peterborough, offers a variety of attractions and scenic spots that highlight the area's natural beauty and cultural richness. Here are some top places to visit:

Riverview Park & Zoo

Riverview Park & Zoo is one of Peterborough’s most beloved attractions, offering a family-friendly zoo and beautiful parkland along the Otonabee River. It is home to different species, including lemurs, otters, and exotic birds. A nearby park offers picnic areas, a splash pad, and scenic walking trails, perfect for a relaxing day outdoors. A miniature train runs through the park, providing a unique way to explore the area. The free admission and mini train ride make it ideal for a fun, budget-friendly day outdoors, which adds to its appeal as a budget-friendly activity for families.

The Canadian Canoe Museum

The Canadian Canoe Museum is a fascinating attraction that delves into Canada's rich history of canoes. It holds the world’s largest collection of canoes, kayaks, and paddled watercraft, representing various Indigenous, early settler, and modern traditions. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits showcasing these watercraft's role in shaping Canada’s history and culture. The museum also offers hands-on workshops and demonstrations, making it an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

Little Lake

Located in the heart of Peterborough, Little Lake is a picturesque body of water surrounded by parks and walking paths. It’s a favourite spot for locals and visitors. It is a hub for community events such as summer festivals and fireworks, making it a perfect place for relaxation and entertainment.

Ashburnham Memorial Park

Northcrest, Peterborough, offers a variety of activities for visitors and residents. Whether you're interested in exploring nature, learning about local history, or simply enjoying some leisure time, there's something for everyone:

Visit Peterborough Farmers’ Market

The Peterborough Farmers' Market offers fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts every Saturday. It's a great place to experience the region’s agricultural offerings and pick up unique items while supporting local vendors.

Go Golfing at Peterborough Golf and Country Club

Peterborough Golf and Country Club is a historic club with an 18-hole golf course and scenic views of the Otonabee River. It’s ideal for golfers of all levels and features tennis courts, a clubhouse, and dining facilities.

Cycling at the Trans Canada Trail

The Trans Canada Trail provides opportunities for walking, cycling, and running through Peterborough's beautiful natural landscapes. It is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore local greenery and waterways.

Fishing at Otonabee River

The Otonabee River is a favourite spot for anglers. It offers peaceful fishing opportunities for bass, walleye, and pike. It's easily accessible and suitable for both seasoned and casual anglers.

Explore Locat Art at Artspace Peterborough

This contemporary gallery showcases innovative art from local and national artists. With rotating exhibitions and workshops, Artspace is a must-visit for art lovers interested in Canada’s creative scene.

Northcrest, Peterborough, enjoys convenient access to several popular locations, making commuting and travel easy for residents and visitors. Here's a brief overview of distances and commute times from key places:

• Downtown Peterborough is approximately 5 km from Northcrest and takes around a 10-minute drive via Chemong Road or Water Street.
• Trent University is just 5 km north of Northcrest and is a 10-minute drive via Water Street.
• Peterborough Airport is about 14 km south of Northcrest. It is a 20-minute drive via Lansdowne Street West.
• Lansdowne Place is a major shopping centre about 6 km from Northcrest. It is 12 minutes away by car via Chemong Road or Parkhill Road West.

Northcrest, Peterborough, is home to several popular markets that offer fresh produce, local goods, and a unique shopping experience. Here are some notable markets in the area:

PTBO Regional Farmers’ Market

The PTBO Regional Farmers’ Market is a community hub where local farmers and artisans come together to offer a wide range of fresh, locally sourced produce, meats, cheeses, and handmade goods. The market is known for its diverse selection of organic and pesticide-free products, making it a popular destination for health-conscious shoppers. Visitors can also find artisanal bread, honey, jams, and handcrafted gifts.

Peterborough Regional Farmers’ Market

The Peterborough Regional Farmers' Market is held on Saturdays and offers a broad selection of fresh, farm-to-table produce, organic meats, baked goods, and dairy products. Besides food items, visitors can browse stalls featuring locally made crafts, clothing, and personal care items. The market is known for its lively atmosphere, where shoppers can enjoy live music and sample gourmet treats while exploring the various offerings.

Leahy’s Farm and Market

Leahy’s Farm and Market is a family-run business that has been serving the Peterborough community with fresh produce for many years. This market is especially popular during harvest seasons for its fresh corn, berries, and tomatoes and is known for its wide selection of seasonal fruits and vegetables. Visitors can expect a friendly, welcoming environment and an opportunity to buy directly from the farm.

Stenson’s Family Market

Stenson’s Family Market is another beloved local spot offering a variety of fresh produce, meats, and dairy products. It’s a smaller, family-owned market where visitors can purchase locally sourced fruits and vegetables directly from the farmers. The market is known for its friendly staff and high-quality produce, making it a great option for those looking to support local farms.

Saturday Farmers’ Market

The Saturday Farmers' Market in Peterborough offers a vibrant selection of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade goods. Open every Saturday, it's a great place to shop local and experience Peterborough's community spirit.

Northcrest is densely populated, with a density of 28% more than Peterborough’s overall average. It also has an older demographic whose median age is 28% above the city’s average, indicating a larger population of older adults. Despite being primarily Canadian-born, Northcrest displays some cultural diversity with small but significant groups, including 1.19% of residents being Filipino, 0.79% Chinese, and 0.66% South Asian, contributing to the cultural variety within the area. These figures reflect a community that is both mature and modestly diverse.

People can enjoy many fun-filled activities with kids and pets in Northcrest, Peterborough. Some of them are:

Nicholls Oval Park

Nicholls Oval Park is a perfect spot for families, offering a large open space for various activities. For those with pets, the expansive green areas and walking paths are ideal for strolls or letting dogs roam. Nicholls Oval Park frequently hosts community events; you can enjoy a local fair or festival during your visit.

Liftlock & the River Cruises

A unique attraction in Peterborough is the Liftlock & River Cruises, which offers an educational and scenic boat tour through the iconic Peterborough Lift Lock, one of the highest hydraulic lift locks in the world. While pets may not be allowed on the boat, the experience is engaging for families with children, who can learn about engineering while enjoying the captivating views.

Great Swap National Wildlife Refuge

The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge offers nature lovers a beautiful escape outside Peterborough. This wildlife refuge is fantastic for families to explore with kids and pets. It's an educational experience for kids as they can spot various bird species, amphibians, and other animals native to the area.

Northcrest, Peterborough, is an affordable neighbourhood, with the cost of living notably lower than city and national averages. Living expenses in this area are 18% below Peterborough’s average and 9% lower than the national average, primarily due to significantly reduced housing costs, which are 51% lower than the national average. While residents face a 33% higher sales tax than the national average in Ontario, the state income tax is 40% lower, offering some financial relief. Overall, Northcrest provides a cost-effective living environment, especially for those seeking affordable housing options.

Northcrest, Peterborough, has an active real estate market with steady new listings and property sales growth. Homes in the area tend to attract interest from various buyers, particularly families and professionals. The market sees consistent demand, with properties selling close to their asking price.