For many Canadians, owning a cottage means spending summers and long weekends relaxing by the lake or enjoying recreational water sports. However, a growing number of Canadians are considering purchasing a cottage property as their main residence, especially those looking to get away from congested and pricey cities.
RE/MAX’s 2025 Canadian Cabin & Cottage Trends Report states that 30% of Canadians who are looking to purchase a cottage in the next two years see a cabin or cottage as a viable primary residence, and 29% say housing shortages make a cottage a viable primary residence to consider.
Additionally, the report shows a demographic shift in the recreational market. In 2018, retirees made up for 91% of markets. Now, families represent the driving force in 83% of markets surveyed, with retirees making up 70%. This shift could signify a change in mindset for family buyers, who may now see cottages as a permanent living solution.
Why are Canadians suddenly looking to make their recreational properties their permanent residence?
Affordability Issues
Affordability issues are at forefront of homebuyers' minds across the country, with a 2025 Leger survey revealing that 57% of Canadians consider it their top priority. Compare this to 46% in 2024, and 43% in 2023.With housing costs rising across the province, many are finding it difficult to afford their standard of living. Those who are finding themselves priced out of city markets may be turning to recreational markets that are more suitable to the balance of lifestyle they’re seeking.
While this wasn’t a viable option in the past, the rise of remote work can make recreational living a reality.
Remote Work
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many industries shifted towards a remote work or hybrid model. Employees could now both complete their work and enjoy more time at home. For many Canadians, this change also shifted their attitudes towards work-life balance. If you’re going to be working from home anyway, you may as well do it with a lake view!
Appealing Lifestyle
The charm of cottage living is more appealing than ever. Many Canadians are rethinking their work-life balance and aiming to spend more time with their families and being active. A cottage lifestyle lends itself to being slower paced, more in-tune with nature and opens up the door to many enjoyable recreational activities.Additionally, many Canadians are leaning towards “stay-cations” as their holiday destinations. A Leger survey on Impacts of Political Tensions says 48% of Canadians surveyed said they’re less likely to travel to the US in 2025.
Investment Appeal
Real estate continues to look like a safer investment option to many Canadians who are put off by the recent volatility in the stock market. 34% of Canadians consider a recreational property to be a good investment, however, looming tariff threats continue to keep potential buyers on the sidelines.For many, the appeal of cottage living is shifting from fun in the summer to full-time living. If you’re interested in a breakdown of the recreational market by region, check out the full report here. For more information on purchasing a cottage, check out our articles on 8 Things to Consider When Buying a Cottage and What to Look for in a Waterfront Property Inspection.
