Meaford is located on the southern shore of Georgian Bay in Grey County, Ontario, Canada, along Nottawasaga Bay. It sits between Owen Sound and the Town of Blue Mountains, accessible via Highway 26, with proximity to the 4th Canadian Division Training Centre Meaford (4 CDTC).
The Blend of Heritage and Modernity
Meaford combines historic charm with natural beauty, featuring a vibrant waterfront, apple orchards, trails, parks, and a restored downtown with Meaford Hall Arts and Culture Centre. Known for its four-season appeal, it attracts retirees, families, and tourists with affordable living, cultural events, and outdoor recreation.
History
Meaford's history began in 1837 as part of St. Vincent Township, with the townsite laid out in 1845 and incorporated as a town in 1874. It grew as a port on Georgian Bay, hosting mills, factories, and railways by the 1880s, and is linked to figures like artist Tom Thomson and the novel "Beautiful Joe."
Meaford Advantages
Meaford serves as a regional hub for healthcare with Grey Bruce Health Services - Meaford Hospital, education including Georgian Bay Community School, and military training at 4 CDTC. It offers agribusiness in apples and organics, tourism via the Apple Pie Trail, and amenities like marinas and trails.
Weather
Spring (March to May)
Temperatures rise from around -1°C to 10°C, with moderate humidity and rain supporting outdoor activities.
Summer (June to August)
Warm weather peaks at 20-28°C, ideal for beaches, hiking, and festivals with average humidity around 78%.
Fall (September to November)
Moderate highs of 15-22°C in September cool to 0-6°C by November, showcasing fall colors and harvest events.
Winter (December to February)
Cold temperatures range from -5°C to -15°C or lower, with snow and flurries creating opportunities for winter recreation.
SOURCE: Weather averages from historical data (worldweatheronline.com).
Population Characteristics
Demographics
The Municipality of Meaford has approximately 11,858 residents as of the 2021 census, with a density of 19.5/km² across 587.57 km², including diverse ages and a growing retiree population. It encompasses urban and rural areas with villages like Annan, Bognor, Leith, and Woodford. (The main urban settlement—had a 2021 census population of 5,078 residents across 5.9 km². This denser area (860.7/km²) features the downtown, waterfront, and core services.)
Future Projection
Population estimates reached 12,423 by recent years, with Grey County projected to grow significantly by 2046, supporting Meaford's expansion.
Language
English
Predominantly English-speaking, used in daily life, education, government, and business.
French
French services support the Francophone community, promoting bilingualism in civic participation.
Indigenous Languages
In the traditional territory of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation, languages like Ojibwe hold cultural significance.
Public Safety
Keeping Meaford Safe
Policed by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Meaford emphasizes community safety through emergency services and collaboration.
Crime Statistics and Trends
Meaford's Crime Severity Index is low at around 45.1, below provincial averages, with declines in some non-violent crimes.
SOURCE: Statistics Canada and local reports.
Online Police Assistance
OPP provides reporting tools; follow Grey Bruce OPP for updates.
Traffic Safety & Daily Commute
Roads are maintained with initiatives like speed reductions on concessions for safety near schools and rural areas. Highway 26 supports commutes, with educational enforcement by OPP.
Community Safety Zones
Zones protect pedestrians near schools; speed limits adjusted in neighborhoods.
Road Closures & Delays
Check municipal site for updates on construction or events.
SOURCE: Municipality of Meaford and OPP reports.
Neighborhoods
Downtown Meaford
Historic core with shops, cafes, Meaford Hall, waterfront parks, and walkable amenities.
Beachvale Subdivision
Family-friendly area near Georgian Bay, Meaford Memorial Park, schools, and shops.
Rural Villages (Annan, Bognor, Leith, Woodford)
Countryside settings with trails, farms, historic sites like Tom Thomson's resting place, and natural areas.
Rockford
Serves Owen Sound market along Highways 6/10, with growth potential.
