Belleville

Belleville, Ontario: The Hub of the Bay of Quinte

Belleville is a vibrant mid-sized city located along the Bay of Quinte in southeastern Ontario. Known for its waterfront beauty, historic charm, and strong economy, Belleville is the largest city in Hastings County and serves as the regional commercial, cultural, and economic hub.

Situated conveniently along Highway 401, Belleville is:

1.5 hours east of Toronto
1 hour west of Kingston
20 minutes from Prince Edward County and Quinte West

Its strategic location, growing job market, and excellent amenities make it a desirable place to live, work, and visit.

History & Heritage

Belleville was first settled in the late 18th century and became a significant hub for lumber, shipping, and railway transport. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it had evolved into a manufacturing and commercial center.

Today, Belleville maintains its historic charm through heritage buildings, museums, and restored waterfront districts, while also embracing modern development and urban growth.

Geography & Natural Attractions

Belleville’s waterfront setting along the Bay of Quinte makes it a beautiful and active place to live and explore. Key attractions include:

1. The Belleville Waterfront & Harbour

Features a picturesque marina, waterfront trails, and beautiful parks.
Home to Zwick’s Park, a popular spot for walking, cycling, and festivals.
A great location for boating, fishing, and water sports.

2. The Moira River & Riverside Trails

The Moira River runs through Belleville, offering scenic walking paths and recreational spaces.
Riverside trails connect to downtown and waterfront parks, making it ideal for jogging, biking, and nature walks.

3. Proximity to Prince Edward County & Sandbanks

Just a short drive from Prince Edward County, known for its wineries, beaches, and farm-to-table dining.
Sandbanks Provincial Park is nearby, offering some of Ontario’s best sandy beaches and dunes.

Community & Lifestyle

Belleville has a strong sense of community, with a blend of long-time residents, young families, professionals, and retirees.

Events & Festivals

Belleville Waterfront & Multicultural Festival – A major summer event featuring food, music, and cultural performances.
Winter Wonderland in Zwick’s Park – A holiday light display and seasonal festival.
Downtown Belleville Farmers’ Market – Operating year-round with local produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts.
Empire Theatre Concerts & Shows – A top venue for live music, theatre, and comedy.

Local Amenities & Services

Belleville offers a full range of urban amenities while still maintaining its small-town feel.

Shopping & Dining – A mix of big-box stores, local boutiques, and waterfront dining.
Schools & Healthcare – Home to Loyalist College, multiple public and Catholic schools, and Belleville General Hospital.
Recreation & Sports – Includes hockey arenas, soccer fields, golf courses, and community centers.

Belleville also has a growing arts and culture scene, with galleries, theaters, and live music venues adding to the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Economy & Job Market

Belleville has a diverse economy, with major industries including:

Manufacturing & Distribution – Major employers include Procter & Gamble, Kellogg’s, and Parmalat.
Retail & Commercial Services – With Quinte Mall and major shopping districts.
Education & Healthcare – Home to Loyalist College and Belleville General Hospital.
Tourism & Hospitality – Driven by the city’s waterfront location and proximity to Prince Edward County.

The city is also seeing growth in remote work and entrepreneurship, attracting professionals looking for a balanced lifestyle.

Real Estate & Housing

Belleville offers a mix of housing options, making it an attractive choice for families, retirees, and investors. Housing types include:

Historic homes in East Hill – A charming neighborhood with tree-lined streets and century homes.
Modern subdivisions & townhomes – Growing in the north and west ends of the city.
Waterfront condos & apartments – Along the Bay of Quinte and Moira River.
Rural properties & acreages – Just outside the city, offering space and tranquility.

With a lower cost of living compared to larger cities like Toronto or Ottawa, Belleville has become a popular choice for homebuyers looking for affordability and quality of life.

Why Live in or Visit Belleville?

Scenic waterfront, parks, and outdoor recreation.
Affordable real estate and cost of living.
Strong economy with job opportunities in manufacturing, healthcare, and education.
A growing arts, culture, and dining scene.
Proximity to Prince Edward County, Sandbanks, and major highways.