Why Your Dream Home in Southern Ontario Costs More Than a Small Island — And Why Northern New York Is Laughing All the Way to the Bank

In partnership with

Greetings, fellow CanAm dwellers! It’s your favorite dual citizen and part-time real estate philosopher, Ben O’Leary — yes, the guy who’s here to explain why your Southern Ontario dream home is priced like a Tesla, while your Northern New York cousin’s place might as well come with a free cheeseburger. Now let’s hear from today’s sponsor:

What Smart Investors Read Before the Bell Rings

In a world of clickbait headlines and empty hot takes, The Daily Upside delivers what really matters. Written by former bankers and veteran journalists, it brings sharp, actionable insights on markets, business, and the economy — the stories that actually move money and shape decisions.

That’s why over 1 million readers, including CFOs, portfolio managers, and executives from Wall Street to Main Street, rely on The Daily Upside to cut through the noise.

No fluff. No filler. Just clarity that helps you stay ahead.

Subscribe free today.

So, why do these two neighbors build so differently? Well, it’s not just about who’s got better maple syrup or hockey skills. It’s about wood, brick, barns, and a dash of “because we can.”

Let’s break it down.

Southern Ontario: The Brick-and-Mortar Fortress
Here in Southern Ontario, we love our brick veneer slapped over wood frames like it’s haute couture. Why? Because we have the cash, the building codes, and the slightly obsessive need to look like we’re living in a castle — but with modern heating. Brick is the fancy, fire-resistant, “I’m serious about my mortgage” material. Plus, the winters here are cold enough to make your teeth chatter, so insulation matters. And yes, our cities are packed tighter than a Toronto subway at rush hour, so row houses and condos are the norm.

Northern New York: The Barnyard Chic
Cross the border, and you’ll find homes that look like they moonlight as barns — big wooden frames, gabled roofs, and porches perfect for sipping sweet tea (or maple syrup, if you’re feeling wild). Why wood? Because forests are everywhere, it’s cheaper, and frankly, it’s easier to fix when the raccoons have a party in your attic. Plus, those historic brick beauties are mostly in the cities, while the countryside proudly rocks the farmhouse vibe.

Price Tag Shock: The Real Estate Plot Twist
Now, here’s the kicker. That charming brick veneer palace in Southern Ontario? It’ll cost you around $600,000 USD on average — and that’s a bargain compared to Toronto’s million-dollar playground. Meanwhile, your Northern New York neighbor’s barn-inspired abode can be snagged for about $246,000 USD. That’s right, less than half the price for a house that’s just as cozy, minus the fancy brick.

And don’t even get me started on affordability. Southern Ontarians are shelling out over 40% of their income just to keep a roof over their heads, while Northern New Yorkers are barely breaking a sweat at 22%.

So, what’s the moral of this real estate fable?
If you want to live like a king (or queen) in Southern Ontario, prepare to pay like one. But if you prefer a laid-back, barn-chic lifestyle with cash left over for poutine and wings, Northern New York’s got your back.

Ready for more brutally honest, slightly sarcastic takes on CanAm life?
Don’t miss out — subscribe to the CanAmericaNews newsletter today. Because who else will tell you the truth about your neighbor’s overpriced brick fortress or the barn your cousin calls home?

Stay savvy, stay sarcastic, and keep those maple leaves flying!

— Ben O’Leary, your friendly neighborhood dual citizen with a mortgage calculator and a sense of humor

SEO Keywords: Southern Ontario housing prices, Northern New York homes, brick vs wood houses, CanAm real estate comparison, affordable homes Northern New York, expensive homes Southern Ontario