The Ultimate Guide to Moving to Amherstburg, Ontario (2026)

The Charm of Amherstburg

Amherstburg is a hidden gem located on the western edge of Essex County. Known for its rich history, waterfront parks, and peaceful atmosphere, it's an excellent choice for those who want a break from the city without giving up convenience.

The town features a vibrant historic downtown core, beautiful colonial architecture, and friendly neighborhoods. It's an ideal spot for retirees, families, and anyone who appreciates "small-town Canada" with easy access to Windsor (via Highway 401 or County Rd. 20).

Housing & Real Estate

Amherstburg offers a diverse housing market, from century homes to new builds.

• Historic Homes: The downtown area is lined with beautiful brick homes from the 1800s. These require careful transport if you're moving furniture in.
• New Subdivisions: New developments are popping up on the north side of town, offering modern semi-detached and detached homes.
• Waterfront: Properties near the river or Gibson Lake command a premium, but offer stunning views.

Lifestyle & Community

Life in Amherstburg is community-oriented. Expect annual festivals, a strong local business scene, and very low crime rates. It's a place where neighbours know each other.

The town is famous for its historic downtown, filled with unique boutiques, cafes, and antique shops. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Amherstburg waterfront along the Detroit River offers stunning views, walking trails, and access to parks like King's Navy Yard Park. The nearby Fort Malden National Historic Site provides a deep dive into the region's military history.

Dining, Shopping & Amenities

While Amherstburg maintains its small-town charm, it offers convenient amenities for daily life:

• Groceries: FreshCo and Food Basics serve the town, with larger shopping available in Windsor (Costco, Walmart) just 15 minutes away.
• Healthcare: The Erie Shores Healthcare Hospital is located in Amherstburg, providing 24/7 emergency services. For specialized care, Windsor's major hospitals (Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare, Windsor Regional Hospital) are a short drive.
• Schools: The town is served by the Greater Essex County District School Board and St. Clair Catholic District School Board. Amherstburg has several elementary schools and a high school (Amherstburg Composite High School).
• Recreation: The Libro Centre is the hub for ice hockey, swimming, and fitness programs. The town also has several golf courses and boat launches.

Moving to Amherstburg: Logistics

Moving to Amherstburg from Windsor typically adds travel time to your move. Because it's further from the core, ensure your moving company includes this in their quote accurately. The drive takes approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.

The primary routes from Windsor are Highway 401 (via Highway 3 to Essex, then north) or County Road 20 (also known as County Road 11/Elliott Side Road), which runs along the lake. During rush hour (7:00-9:00 AM and 4:00-6:00 PM), expect slightly longer travel times.

• Parking Permits: If you are moving into the historic downtown area (near Richmond Street), check if you need a temporary parking permit from the town to reserve space in front of your new home.
• Rural Properties: If you are moving to a hobby farm or larger property outside the town limits, ensure your movers are aware of long gravel driveways or shed/barn delivery requirements.
• Utility Setup: Contact Hydro One for electricity and Union Gas for natural gas well in advance. Water is often municipal but check with the town if you are in a new development.