Welcome to Ridgetown, a charming community nestled in southwestern Ontario, Canada. With its picturesque rural landscapes and friendly atmosphere, Ridgetown offers a welcoming experience for residents and visitors. Known for its strong agricultural heritage, this tight-knit community takes pride in its farming traditions and close community ties. Explore the local attractions and enjoy the serene beauty of the surrounding natural areas. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or a friendly community to call home, Ridgetown has something special to offer.
Livability & Lifestyle of Ridgetown
The following table showcases a snapshot of Ridgetown's overall livability and lifestyle score.
Liveability
63%
Amenities
F
Cost of Living
A+
Employment
D-
Housing
A+
Schools
B
Crime Rate
D-
As far as safety is concerned, Ridgetown is a neighbourhood with a crime rate lower than the city’s average. The community has a strong, engaged neighbourhood watch where residents feel secure and comfortable.
Index
Ridgetown (100k)
Total Crime
5,004
Violent Crime
1,285
Property Crime
3,720
People and Culture of Ridgetown
Ridgetown is characterised by its close-knit community and friendly atmosphere. The residents take pride in their agricultural heritage and have a strong sense of community. The town embraces its history and values preserving its past. Ridgetown's rural setting and proximity to natural areas contribute to a culture that appreciates outdoor activities and the region's natural beauty.
To know a particular culture, it's important to know its economy and language barriers. Here are some statistics that will give you an idea about the lifestyle of the town.
Median Household Income
36,000
Unemployment Rate
100
Labour participation rate
52.7
This is an approximate value showing the number of people that speak the language in the city -
English
2,850
French
40
Ridgetown Neighbourhood Nearby
The beautiful town of Ridgetown has more to offer than you think, here are some of the important locations that may come in hand while you are in the city.
Schools
Ridgetown is home to a few schools that provide education to its residents. Parents and students can visit the respective school websites or contact the schools directly for more information on programs, enrollment, and other details.
Ridgetown District High School, located at 21 Main St E, serves students in grades 9-12. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum, extracurricular activities, and various resources to support students in their academic and personal development.
For younger students, Ridgetown Central Public School, situated at 27 Erie St S, accommodates students from JK to grade 8. The school focuses on creating a nurturing learning environment and delivering a well-rounded education.
Restaurants
Ridgetown is home to a variety of dining options, offering a range of culinary experiences. Some popular restaurants in Ridgetown include:
The Downtown Chatham Centre: Offering a variety of cuisines.
The Urban Parisian: Specialising in French-inspired dishes.
Churrasqueira Ria Do Mira: Known for its Portuguese cuisine.
You can also find locations like -
Bayside Brewing Co.
Chef Ma Cuisine
East Side Mario's
Mamma Maria's Ristorante
My-Thai Ridgetown
Subway
Tim Hortons
Wendy's
Shopping Malls
Ridgetown does not have large shopping malls, but the downtown area offers local shops and boutiques for clothing, accessories, and home goods.
Ridgetown Plaza provides convenience with a few stores and services.
For more options, the Chatham-Kent Shopping Centre in nearby Chatham offers department stores and fashion boutiques.
During the growing season, local farm stands and markets offer fresh produce and homemade goods.
While there are no large malls, Ridgetown emphasises local businesses and speciality stores for a unique shopping experience.
Hospitals
Ridgetown does not have its own hospital, but residents can access healthcare services at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Chatham site, located in nearby Chatham.
Top Attractions and Places to Visit in Ridgetown
Ridgetown is a charming community in Ontario, offers a variety of places to visit that showcase its local charm. Here are some must-see locations:
Ridge House Museum
Take a deep dive in local history at the Ridge House Museum. Take a guided tour and explore exhibits showing the town's heritage.
Victoria Park
Enjoy a leisurely stroll or a picnic at Victoria Park. Its serene green space with open areas and a playground, will relax you from within.
Downtown Ridgetown
Discover the heart of the town by exploring downtown Ridgetown. Browse through local shops, boutiques, and cafes, and soak up the small-town ambiance.
Farm Stands and Markets
Experience the region's agricultural showcased by farm stands and markets during the growing season. Discover fresh produce, homemade goods, and interact with local farmers.
Ridgetown Community Centre
Attend events, fitness classes, or workshops at the Ridgetown Community Centre, a hub for various activities in the community.
Watson Grove Conservation Area
Enjoy the serenity of nature at the Watson Grove Conservation Area. Explore the quiet trails and engage in outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching.
Memorial Park and Creek Street Park
Relax and unwind in Memorial Park or Creek Street Park, two peaceful green spaces with walking paths and recreational opportunities.
Public Art and Murals
Take a tour in the rich culture of public art and murals across Ridgetown.
Ridgetown Arena
Enjoy ice skating or catch a hockey game at the Ridgetown Arena, a popular spot for sports and recreational activities.
Local Churches
Explore the architectural beauty and spiritual significance of local churches in Ridgetown, such as St. Michael's Catholic Church or Ridgetown United Church.
Historical Sites
Visit historical sites in the area, including the Kent Branch Library and the Ridgetown Cenotaph, which pay tribute to the town's heritage and sacrifices of the past.
Thames River
Spend some time along the Thames River, enjoying scenic views, nature walks, or fishing opportunities.
Things to Do in Ridgetown
Whether you're a couple looking for a romantic getaway or an individual seeking some solo activities, Ridgetown offers a range of enjoyable experiences. Here are some things to do in Ridgetown:
Ridgetown Golf & Curling Club
If you enjoy golfing or curling, visit the Ridgetown Golf & Curling Club. Play a round of golf on their well-maintained course or try your hand at curling during the winter season.
Ridgetown Arena
The Ridgetown Arena is a popular spot for ice skating and hockey enthusiasts. Lace-up your skates and hit the ice for a fun and active experience.
Local Parks
Ridgetown has several parks and green spaces where you can relax, have a picnic, or enjoy outdoor activities. Explore parks like Memorial Park or Creek Street Park for some leisurely time in nature.
Ridgetown Community Centre
The Ridgetown Community Centre is a hub for various activities and events. Check their schedule for fitness classes, workshops, art exhibitions, or community gatherings that you can participate in.
Ridgetown Library
If you're a book lover or enjoy quiet spaces, visit the Ridgetown Library. Browse through their collection, find a cosy corner, and indulge in some reading or study time.
Nearby Wineries
Take a short drive from Ridgetown to explore the wineries in the region. Visit local vineyards and wineries for wine tastings, tours, and the chance to learn about the winemaking process.
Fishing Opportunities
Ridgetown is located in a region known for excellent fishing opportunities. Whether you prefer freshwater or river fishing, there are nearby lakes and waterways where you can cast your line and try your luck.
Distance and Commute from Popular Locations
While Ridgetown is a smaller community, there are several popular locations and attractions in the surrounding area that residents and visitors can explore. Here are some listings of popular locations around Ridgetown
Rondeau Provincial Park
(Approximately 45 km or 28 miles southeast of Ridgetown)
Located a short drive away from Ridgetown, Rondeau Provincial Park is a scenic natural area known for its sandy beaches, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife. You can enjoy swimming, birdwatching, camping, and exploring the park's natural beauty.
Erieau
(Approximately 48 km or 30 miles southwest of Ridgetown)
Situated on the northern shore of Lake Erie, Erieau is a charming lakeside community known for its picturesque beaches, marina, and fishing opportunities. You can relax on the beach, go boating, or enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants.
Uncle Tom's Cabin Historic Site
(Approximately 24 km or 15 miles northwest of Ridgetown)
Just a short distance from Ridgetown, Uncle Tom's Cabin Historic Site in Dresden is an important historical landmark. It commemorates the life and legacy of Josiah Henson, a former slave and inspiration for the character Uncle Tom in Harriet Beecher Stowe's novel. The site offers educational programs, guided tours, and exhibits that you can enjoy with your friends and family.
Greenview Aviaries Park & Zoo
(Approximately 30 km or 19 miles northwest of Ridgetown)
Located in Chatham-Kent, Greenview Aviaries Park & Zoo is a popular family destination. They have a wide variety of bird species, mammals and reptiles. The park offers educational presentations, interactive experiences, and beautiful paths to walk.
Thamesville
(Approximately 21 km or 13 miles northeast of Ridgetown)
Thamesville is a small community located near Ridgetown, known for its rich history and charming downtown area. Visitors can explore heritage buildings, browse through local shops, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this rural town.
Mitchell's Bay
(Approximately 47 km or 29 miles northwest of Ridgetown)
Situated on the shores of Lake St. Clair, Mitchell's Bay is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and water sports. The bay offers beautiful views, picnic areas, and a marina, making it an ideal location for outdoor recreation.
Popular Markets in Ridgetown
Ridgetown is a smaller community, and it doesn't have large-scale markets or shopping centres. However, there are a few local businesses and smaller markets in the area that residents and visitors can explore for their shopping needs -
Ridgetown Farmers' Market
The Ridgetown Farmers' Market offers a place for local farmers, artisans, and vendors to gather and sell their products. Visitors can find fresh produce, homemade goods, crafts, and other locally sourced items.
Country Charm Gift & Craft Shop
Country Charm is a gift and craft shop that offers a variety of unique and handmade items. Visitors can browse through a selection of local crafts, decor, artwork, and speciality gifts.
Ridgetown Thrift Store
The Ridgetown Thrift Store is a place to discover second-hand treasures and bargains. It provides a wide range of items such as clothing, household goods, furniture, and more at affordable prices.
Ridgetown Demographics
Ridgetown, a small community in Chatham-Kent, southwestern Ontario, Canada, has a diverse population with residents from various age groups and ethnic backgrounds. Here are the demographic details of this amazing city -
Statistic
Location
Area Code
591
Population
2797
Population density (sq km)
1025
Median age
50.8, 49.6, 51.6.
Male/Female ratio
1:1:1
Married couples
68%
Families w/ kids at home
33%
Things to Do in Ridgetown with Kids & Pets
The beautiful city has a lot to offer to your kids and pets. Given below is a list of locations that you can visit during your stay in Ridgetown -
Ridge House Museum
For a perfect Sunday, take your family to the Ridge House Museum in Ridgetown. This historic landmark offers guided tours, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities that captivate everyone's attention.
Rondeau Provincial Park
Just a short drive away, Rondeau Provincial Park is a nature lover's paradise. Located near Chatham-Kent, the park features beautiful hiking trails, sandy beaches, and picturesque picnic areas. It is safe for the kids to play in the water, build sandcastles, and even spot some unique wildlife. For your furry ones, designated areas are allowed to keep them safe and happy in the park.
Greenview Aviaries Park & Zoo
Greenview Aviaries Park & Zoo is an exciting destination for the whole family. You can be close to a wide variety of birds, mammals, and reptiles. The park offers educational presentations and interactive experiences for kids, making it a memorable outing spot.
Victoria Park
Visit Victoria Park in Ridgetown to experience a lovely green space with open areas and a playground. You can pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a relaxing meal with your family, pets and dates. Kids can run around while pets stretch their legs.
Frequent Community Events and Festivals
Keep an eye out for family-friendly events and festivals happening in Ridgetown. These can include parades, fairs, and live performances. Check the local event calendars for specific locations and dates.
Thames River
Enjoy a scenic walk along the Thames River in Chatham-Kent. Explore the riverfront trails, beautiful views and peaceful surroundings. Capture some memorable photos along the way and enjoy quality time with your kids and pets.
Average Cost of Living in Ridgetown
The average cost of living in Ridgetown is 63/100. One can easily get the best of groceries, health care, housing, transportation, utilities, and housing needs.
Index
Ridgetown
Cost of living
85
Goods & Services
108
Groceries
100
Health care
103
Housing
29
Transportation
107
Utilities
130
Real Estate Housing Market of Ridgetown
The real estate market of Ridgetown offers a variety of options for homebuyers and investors. Located in Ontario, Ridgetown has a range of residential properties from single-family homes, to townhouses and condos.
The market in Ridgetown is generally stable, it's a mix of old properties and newer ones. Home prices in Ridgetown are relatively affordable compared to larger urban centres in Ontario. It makes it an attractive option for those seeking more affordable housing options.
Ridgetown's real estate market benefits from its easy-to-access amenities such as schools, parks, shopping centres, and recreational facilities. The town's peaceful and friendly atmosphere also adds to its appeal, especially for individuals and families looking for a quieter and close-knit community.
As with any real estate market, it's advisable to work with a knowledgeable local real estate agent who can provide insights, guidance, and assistance throughout the buying or selling process in Ridgetown. They can help you navigate the market, understand current trends, and find the best opportunities that align with your preferences and budget.
Ridgetown - Location Map and Landmarks
Around this property
FAQ
What is the average home price in Ridgetown?
The average selling price of residential homes in Ridgetown was recorded at $910,102.
How much does a rental home cost in Ridgetown?
As of July 2023, the typical cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in Chatham-Kent, ON stands at $1,495 per month.
What are nearby neighbourhoods in Ridgetown?
Nearby cities to Ridgetown, Ontario include Blenheim, Rodney, Chatham, Dresden, West Lorne, Glencoe, Wallaceburg, and Tilbury.
How many homes are for sale in Ridgetown?
23 homes that are available for sale in Ridgetown.
Where does Ridgetown rank among other Ontario neighbourhoods?
Ridgetown, Ontario ranks 486th among the 486th neighbourhoods in Ontario in terms of real estate options available to investors.