Is Kingston, Ontario Still Worth It for Real Estate Investors?

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  A ground-level view on cost of living, buying power, and whether it makes sense anymore Let me be straight with you: I’m having a hard time making the numbers work in Ontario right now. And I’m not sure anyone is being honest enough about it. I work in real estate. I’ve seen how things get built, priced, and sold. So when I look at the cost of living in Kingston - and Ontario broadly - and then compare it to what you’re actually getting for your money, something doesn’t add up. This isn’t doom and gloom. It’s just an honest look at what the market is actually doing and what it means if you’re thinking about buying investment property here. The Cost of Living Reality Check Kingston used to be one of those “hidden gem” cities. Smaller than Toronto, cheaper than Ottawa, decent rental market because of Queen’s University and RMC. That story made sense five years ago. Today? Not so much. AVG. HOME PRICE $600K+ Kingston, 2024–25 AVG. RENT (2BR) $2,100+ Per month GROCERY COST HIGH vs. c...
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Summer 2025 in Kingston: Your Ultimate Event Guide

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Kingston is about to have a seriously busy — and seriously fun — summer!

Whether you're a foodie, a music lover, a family adventurer, or just someone looking for an excuse to get outside, the Limestone City has something lined up for you.

Here's a breakdown of some of the best events happening in Kingston this summer:

Major Festivals & Community Events

Spring Into Summer
May 17, 2025
Kick off the season with family-friendly activities and sunny vibes at Lake Ontario Park. It's the perfect way to welcome warmer weather and longer days.

National Indigenous Peoples Day
June 21, 2025
A meaningful celebration of Indigenous culture, featuring performances, art, and educational activities that highlight Kingston’s rich heritage.

Canada Day Celebrations
July 1, 2025
Confederation Park and Springer Market Square will be packed with live music, food vendors, and (of course) a fireworks show to cap off the day.

Rockin’ the Square
July 25, 2025
Grab your lawn chair and head downtown for an evening of free live music under the stars.

Emancipation Day
August 1, 2025
Commemorate the abolition of slavery with cultural events, live performances, and important conversations.

Sheep Dog Trials Festival
August 8–10, 2025
Yes, it’s as adorable as it sounds. Watch some of the most skilled sheepdogs in action and enjoy a full weekend of family-friendly fun.

Intercultural Arts Festival / Welcome to Kingston Day
September 21, 2025
Celebrate Kingston’s vibrant cultural diversity with music, art, dance, and food from around the world.

Pride & Inclusivity

Kingston Pride Week
June 8–15, 2025
A full week of celebration, featuring a colorful parade, a community fair, and events honoring Kingston’s 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

Inclusive Fun Fair
June 7, 2025
Held at Shannon Park, this accessible, all-abilities event includes entertainment, vendors, games, and more.

Food & Drink Festivals

YGK Craft Beer Fest
June 14, 2025
Sample the best craft beers from Kingston and beyond at historic Fort Henry, alongside artisan vendors and live music.

Kingston Ribfest & Craft Beer Show
September 5–7, 2025
Memorial Centre Park transforms into a smoky, savory paradise of ribs, brews, and tunes.

Arts & Entertainment

Kingston Buskers Rendezvous
July 10–13, 2025
Downtown Kingston becomes an outdoor stage with acrobats, magicians, and performers from around the world. Expect the unexpected!

Queen: It’s a Kinda Magic
Date TBD
Catch this epic Queen tribute show at the Kingston Grand Theatre — a must-see for music lovers.

Sports & Recreation

Football Ontario Tackle Provincial Championships
July 25–27, 2025
See the province’s top football teams battle it out at Richardson Stadium.

CORK x Sail Canada Regattas
July–September 2025
Kingston’s waterfront is the place to be for major sailing competitions, drawing athletes from across the country.

Start Planning Your Summer!

With so many incredible events on the horizon, summer 2025 in Kingston is shaping up to be unforgettable.
Mark your calendars, rally your friends and family, and get ready to experience the best the city has to offer.

See you out there!

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