Welcome to Essa – Where Town and Country Meet

Just west and south of Barrie in Simcoe County—about 100 km north of Toronto—Essa Township spans roughly 280 km² and is home to around 21,000 residents. The township’s motto, “Where Town and Country Meet,” reflects its peaceful agricultural landscape combined with expanding urban-style amenities.

Communities and Character

Essa includes several distinct communities:

• Angus: The largest hub, home to schools, library branches, recreation centres, shops, and easy access to CFB Borden.
  
• Thornton and Baxter: Smaller but growing village communities with local charm.
  
• Rural hamlets like Cedargrove, Egbert, Ivy, Colwell, Utopia, and West Essa add to the township’s diverse rural character.

Strong Agricultural Roots

Essa is well-known for its thriving agricultural sector—especially potato farming. Rolling fields dominate much of the landscape, while the nearby CFB Borden brings a sizeable military and francophone community.

Outdoor Recreation & Amenities

Essa offers an impressive range of recreational opportunities:

• Parks & Trails: Over 27 parks, 20 playgrounds, and more than 250 km of public trails—perfect year-round for walking, cycling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
  
• Fishing Areas: Designated spots in local parks support trout and bass angling.
  
• Community Recreation: Programs include summer camps, pickleball, skateparks, splash pads, and events at the Angus and Thornton arenas.

Education, Services, and Infrastructure

Angus is home to Nottawasaga Pines Secondary School and a number of elementary schools. The township provides two volunteer fire stations, police services through the Ontario Provincial Police, and essential public works.

Population Trends & Growth Strategy

Essa is projected to grow significantly in the coming decades, with the population expected to reach 35,000 by 2051. The township is actively planning for future development through infrastructure upgrades and community input on new residential and commercial growth.

Real Estate and Lifestyle Appeal

Essa’s mix of farmland, quiet rural areas, and newer subdivisions is attracting families and professionals. Many residents are drawn to the area for its lower property taxes, spacious lots, and relaxed lifestyle—all within a short drive to Barrie or Highway 400 for commuting to the Greater Toronto Area.

Why Essa Stands Out

Feature & Highlights

• Balanced Rural Living | Wide open farmland, natural beauty, and agricultural tradition

• Strong Recreation | Network Parks, trails, fishing sites, camps, pickleball, skate parks

• Community Infrastructure | Schools, libraries, arenas, fire stations, and local services

• Growing & Affordable | Family-friendly housing, lower taxes, and expanding infrastructure

• Connected to Region | Close to Barrie for urban amenities; commutable to GTA and airports



• Smart Planning | Official Plan updates, strategic growth, and investment in utilities

Essa offers the perfect blend of small-town values, open space, and a growing future. Whether you're raising a family, investing in property, or looking for rural tranquility with access to city convenience, Essa makes it easy to feel at home.