Also on Lake Ontario's north shore, just east of Oshawa, the municipality of Clarington is a collection of communities including Bowmanville, Courtice, Newcastle and Orono, as well as over a dozen small villages and hamlets.

Currently home to nearly 78,000 residents, Clarington's population is expected to climb as more homebuyers discover the charms of this unspoiled community. Certainly, affordable housing prices have much to do with the attraction; homes in Bowmanville, for example, are substantially lower than in Toronto.

An older community, much of Bow-manville's historic downtown is intact. With good schools, and an extensive network of youth sports opportunities, this town is appealing to young families.

Courtice and Newcastle are also popular choices. The former, a family-oriented community of over 15,000, boasts a host of new amenities that's constantly expanding.

Meanwhile, Newcastle offers smalltown living. Encompassing the original harbour community known as Bond Head, Newcastle's heritage flavour and picturesque waterfront and marina draw new residents.

Though Orono is too far east to attract many commuters to Toronto, this charming community is favoured by retirees and families who yearn for a lifestyle reminiscent of an earlier era.