St. Thomas is not a one-size-fits-all market. Buyers tend to choose based on commute direction (London vs 401), school zones, new-build vs mature lots, and trail/park access. Here are several of the neighbourhoods and new-home communities that come up repeatedly in real searches and conversations.

Best for: newer homes, trail access, families who want “suburban quiet” with quick access back to London.

Shaw Valley is a large master-planned community on the south side of St. Thomas, known for newer construction, larger lots in pockets, and proximity to green space/trails. It’s often chosen by buyers who want a modern layout and a neighbourhood feel that’s still minutes from everyday amenities. 

Best for: buyers who want a “close to everything” feel—amenities, schools, and quick highway access.

Orchard Park (and the “Orchard Park South” references you’ll see online) is consistently positioned as a desirable southeast/south area for its access to amenities and commute routes, with a mix of home styles that appeals to move-up buyers and young families. 

Best for: buyers who want a newer-build community with mainstream housing types (towns, semis, detached).

Orchard Park Meadows is a newer community name you’ll see directly from builders marketing new inventory in south St. Thomas—useful because it signals “current/active” development, not a vague idea. 

Best for: buyers who want newer builds and a more “edge-of-town / countryside-adjacent” lifestyle.

“The Ridge” is frequently referenced as a newer development-style community in St. Thomas, typically appealing to buyers who want modern homes but value a less urban feel. 

Best for: convenience-first buyers—quick errands, established streets, and strong “north end” access patterns.

Locals will often refer to “Dalewood / the north end” as a practical, convenient side of town for day-to-day living. If your clients prioritize proximity to shopping and straightforward navigation, this area tends to come up. 

Best for: buyers who want walkability to trails/green space and a calmer, park-adjacent vibe.

Lake Margaret is a well-known natural anchor in the city, and the Lake Margaret Trail / park-adjacent lifestyle is a legitimate draw for active households. (This is also an easy place for you to insert your own photos/video clips to prove “local expert.”) 

Best for: character-home buyers, people who want a more walkable, older-city feel.

If you’ve got clients who like heritage architecture, older lots, and being close to the downtown commercial spine, the Talbot/downtown core is the natural conversation. (This is also where you can showcase “before/after” renovation stories and value-add opportunities.)

Pinafore is one of St. Thomas’ signature parks—known for trails, courts, sports field amenities, a splash pad, playground equipment, and bandshell programming. It’s a real lifestyle driver for families and active buyers. 

The Elevated Park is a unique local asset at the west end of the city and is specifically positioned near the Jumbo Memorial, which is one of the city’s best-known landmarks. 

Waterworks Park is another established green space that gets mentioned for quieter walks and garden-style park enjoyment.