Letitia-Heights, Simcoe

Letitia Heights in northwest Barrie is a well-established neighbourhood that combines older, character-filled homes with newer developments. This entire setup is all against the backdrop of surrounding woodlands. The area features streets named after famous authors, including Shakespeare, Browning, Burns, and Leacock, which serve as the main road through the neighbourhood. This community, developed mostly in the 1980s, offers a range of housing types, such as detached homes, semi-detached houses, row housing, and apartments, blending historical charm with modern conveniences.

The neighbourhood is home to a diverse population, with residents from 69 different ethnic backgrounds. It attracts a mix of families, couples, and individuals across various age groups, particularly those in their 20s, 30s, 50s, and 60s. The area is known for its abundance of parks, playgrounds, and sports facilities, including the recently upgraded Lampman Lane Park, which has become a popular spot for outdoor activities. The nearby woodlands offer trails that provide residents with opportunities for walking and connecting with nature. This makes Letitia Heights a desirable location for those seeking a balanced and engaging community lifestyle.

Letitia Heights has a crime rate that is slightly better than the national average, with overall crime being 5% lower. Violent crime in the area is 1% below the national average, making it relatively safer than many places. Compared to other cities in Ontario, Letitia Heights is safer than about 21% of them. On a positive note, crime in Barrie, where Letitia Heights is located, has seen an 18% decrease over the past year, reflecting ongoing improvements in community safety efforts.

Letitia Heights is a culturally diverse neighbourhood. The community includes 3.58% Black residents, contributing to the area's rich social fabric. South Asians make up 2.17% of the population, adding their unique traditions and customs to the mix. Moreover, the neighbourhood includes 1.22% Chinese residents, further enhancing the cultural variety of Letitia Heights. The language most commonly used in the neighbourhood is English.

Employment in Letitia Heights shows a mixed economic landscape. The median household income is slightly below the national average by 6%. The unemployment rate is 15% lower, indicating relatively stable job opportunities in the area. Income distribution highlights that 5.4% of residents earn $20,000 or less, while a significant portion, 13.0%, earns between $80,000 and $100,000. A smaller group, about 2.1%, earns $300,000 or more, reflecting a range of economic circumstances among residents.

Neighbourhoods near Letitia Heights are characterised by their blend of older and newer homes, providing a variety of living options for residents. These areas feature quiet, tree-lined streets, local parks, and easy access to essential amenities like schools, shops, and recreational facilities. Some of the major neighbourhoods nearby are:

• Sunnidale
• Edgehill Drive
• Bayfield
• Forest Hills Estate
• Tail Oaks
• Codrington

Schools

Schools near Letitia Heights provide quality education with a range of programmes for various age groups. They offer supportive environments and a mix of extracurricular activities, including sports and arts. Moreover, The schools have favourable ratings, reflecting strong community involvement and educational standards. Some of the nearest schools to the neighbourhood are mentioned below:

• St. Mary’s Catholic School
• Andrew Hunter Elementary School
• Portage View Public School
• Emma King Elementary School
• The Good Shepherd Catholic School

Restaurants

The area surrounding Letitia Heights features an array of dining options, ranging from casual eateries to more refined restaurants, offering a wide selection of cuisines to suit various tastes. Whether you’re craving international dishes or local favourites, there’s always a place nearby that fits the bill. The diverse food scene ensures a satisfying experience for every palate. Some of the popular dining spots include:

• Yang’s Chinese Restaurant
• Little Ds Family Restaurant
• Lagos Mainland Restaurant
• Casano’s Italian Restaurant and Catering
• Pita Land Shawarma

Shopping Malls

Near Letitia Heights, shopping centres offer several retail options, including fashion, electronics, and everyday essentials. These malls feature a mix of speciality stores, food courts, and entertainment, providing a convenient and enjoyable shopping experience for residents. Mentioned are some of the shopping malls in the region:

• Wellington Plaza
• Bayfield Mall
• Barrie By the Bay
• Kozlov Mall
• SPringwater Market Place

Hospitals

Hospitals near Letitia Heights offer comprehensive healthcare services, including emergency care, specialised treatments, and outpatient facilities. These centres are equipped with modern technology and skilled professionals, providing convenient access to quality medical care for the community. Some of the hospitals nearby include:

• Medlife Medical Centre
• Sunnidale Medical Centre
• Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre
• The Oral Health Centre
• Barrie Immigration Medical Centre

Letitia Heights and its nearby areas have engaging attractions, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re into art, nature, or family activities. From scenic parks and iconic sculptures to interactive farms and art centres, plenty of places exist to explore and enjoy. Some of them are:

• Spirit Catcher Sculpture: This impressive 21-metre-tall steel sculpture, originally built for the Vancouver Expo in 1986, now stands proudly on the Barrie waterfront. It’s a striking piece of public art and a cultural symbol of the city, often serving as a backdrop for selfies, family photos, and community events. The kinetic design allows the 16 dangling quills to sway gently with the wind, adding a dynamic element that fascinates visitors​.
• Heritage Park and Waterfront Trails: Located along Kempenfelt Bay, Heritage Park features beautifully maintained green spaces, walking and cycling paths, and stunning views of the waterfront. This area is a favourite spot for families, fitness enthusiasts, and those looking to relax by the lake. The park is also home to seasonal events and provides access to the nearly 40-kilometre-long Oro-Medonte Rail Trail, ideal for longer cycling adventures.
• MacLaren Art Centre: Nestled in downtown Barrie, the MacLaren Art Centre is a cultural hub featuring both permanent and temporary exhibits of Canadian and local artwork. Housed in a historic building, the centre also offers art workshops, summer camps, and a delightful on-site café and gift shop. It’s a must-visit for art lovers looking to engage with the region’s creative spirit​.

There are several interesting things to do in Letitia Heights. Some of them are:

• Funvilla Indoor Playground: Funvilla is a popular indoor playground near Letitia Heights, which is designed to entertain kids of all ages. It features giant castles, arcade games, a ninja course, wall climbing, and a special toddler area. This venue is perfect for families looking to burn off energy, providing a safe and fun environment for children to play and explore​.
• Seasonal Festivals at Chappell Farms: Chappell Farms, a short drive from Letitia Heights, is known for its seasonal festivals, including the Fall and Spring Festivals. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly activities such as hayrides, animal interactions, corn mazes, and pumpkin picking, making it a favourite spot for outdoor fun across different seasons​.
• Creative Arts at Creative Café: Creative Café, located near Letitia Heights, offers a creative space where visitors can paint clay figurines and other craft items. It’s an ideal venue for families, friends, or anyone seeking artistic expression. The café also hosts birthday parties and group events, providing a unique and fun way to spend an afternoon crafting​.

Letitia Heights is conveniently located, offering easy access to various popular destinations within Barrie. Here are some key locations and their approximate distances from the neighbourhood:

• The Lake Simcoe Regional Airport is almost 22.5 km away.
• Downtown Barrie is 4.1 km away from the locality.
• The Georgian College is approximately 8.1 km away.
• Healthcare facilities like Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre and Sunnidale Medical Centre are just 7-10 minutes away.
• For shopping enthusiasts, Park Place Mall is just 8.1 km away from the neighbourhood.
• Educational Institutions like St. Mary’s Catholic School and Portage View Public School are just a km away.
• The Arboretum Sunnidale Park is approximately 1.9 km away from Letitia Heights.
• For daily needs things, residents can reach Centra Food Market which is 3 km away.

Centra Food Market

Centra Food Market is a multi-ethnic supermarket located at 320 Bayfield Street, Barrie, Ontario. It offers a diverse range of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and grocery items sourced from around the world, including Europe, Asia, and South America. The market is known for its wide selection of international foods, including speciality products and unique ingredients not commonly found in other supermarkets. Centra Food Market aims to cater to the diverse tastes of the local community, providing a convenient shopping experience with fresh and quality goods at reasonable prices​.

Barrie Farmers Market

Barrie Farmers' Market, established in 1846, is one of the oldest farmers' markets in the area, operating on the same land since its inception. It features over 60 vendors, including local farmers, artisans, and bakers, who provide a variety of fresh produce, handmade goods, and organic products. The market is known for its community atmosphere, live music, and regular special events, making it a vibrant spot for locals and visitors alike. Open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., it offers a unique shopping experience that goes beyond what typical stores can provide​.

Letitia Heights has a significantly higher population density than the rest of Barrie, which is 143% more crowded. This indicates a more compact and bustling community environment with more residents living within a smaller area. The median age in Letitia Heights is slightly older, being 3% higher than the average for Barrie, suggesting a mature demographic mix of young families, middle-aged residents, and older adults. Other demographics of Letitia Heights are mentioned below:

There are ample of places for the pets and kids to enjoy and spend their leisure time. Some of them are mentioned below:

• Sunnidale Park is a popular and spacious park featuring vast green areas, walking and cycling trails, and dedicated dog off-leash zones. It's perfect for picnics, family walks, and playtime with pets, offering everyone a peaceful and engaging outdoor experience.
• Chappell Farms: Known for its fun seasonal events, this farm hosts spring and fall festivals with activities like hayrides, petting zoos, corn mazes, and pumpkin picking. It’s a great spot for families with kids, and the farm’s animal encounters make it pet-friendly, creating memorable outings.
• In Play Inc.: An indoor entertainment centre that offers a variety of attractions for kids, including arcade games, indoor playgrounds, and special party packages. It’s designed to keep children engaged and active, providing a safe and fun environment for all ages.​

The cost of living in Letitia Heights is affordable, being 18% lower than the Barrie average and 9% below the national average. Housing costs are particularly low, at 51% less than the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking budget-friendly living without compromising on amenities. Below is the detailed view:

The real estate market in Letitia Heights offers a range of housing options with a current sale price between $739,000 and $1.28 million. This variety includes single-family homes, townhouses, and some multi-family properties. The area is known for its affordability compared to other parts of Barrie, with housing prices significantly lower than the national average. Rent prices typically range from $2,000 to $3,000 per month, reflecting the neighbourhood's appeal for families and professionals looking for budget-friendly living.