Why Live Local?

Why does living local matter? By making choices to eat locally-produced foods, dine in local restaurants, and shop local merchants, it strengthens our local economy and creates more vibrant communities.

When we choose to purchase from locally-owned businesses, we strengthen the local economy in ways that reach beyond their individual success. Successful businesses employ more people – people that live, work, and pay taxes in our communities – and can also offer consumers more choices and greater variety in what they purchase. And when consumers don’t have to drive across town to find what they want, their environmental impact is lessened and everyone’s quality of life is improved.

Living local is about more than where you shop or dine. It’s about learning what your local community has to offer, and looking for ways to keep that community strong and vibrant. And it’s about working together to create responsible, balanced communities that can meet the needs of its citizens today and tomorrow.

Living local is about taking pride in the place we call home. It’s about more choices and better options. And it’s easier than you might think.

It's Easy to Live Local

All it takes is one simple decision – look for a local choice. Whether it’s grabbing a coffee from your local coffee shop or a loaf of bread from your local bakery, living local is easy. Walk to your corner café instead of driving to your favourite restaurant chain. Stroll to the local boutique instead of hitting the mall. Or see a show at a local playhouse instead of driving to one of the big box cinemas. Start by trying it once a month, then once a week. Before long, you’ll find that living local is second nature. And you’ll wonder why you didn’t live local sooner.

Get Started Right Away

Find locally-owned shops, cafes, restaurants, and more by clicking on the buttons below.