Haileybury is one of Ontario's most dramatic small communities — a town built on red-clay cliffs above Lake Timiskaming, the deep rift-valley lake that forms the Ontario-Quebec border. It rose to prominence during the Cobalt silver rush of the early 1900s, becoming the commercial and administrative capital of the Timiskaming District while Cobalt itself did the mining. Then on October 4, 1922, a firestorm driven by gale-force winds swept through the region and reduced Haileybury to ash in hours. The rebuilt town — now part of the amalgamated city of Temiskaming Shores — carries its rebuilt post-fire heritage with quiet dignity.
The lakefront here is genuinely spectacular: steep clay bluffs plunge to the deep blue of Lake Timiskaming, with Quebec's Laurentian hills forming the horizon. The Northern College of Applied Arts and Technology calls Haileybury home, giving the community a steady institutional anchor. Property prices reflect the quiet northern premium — affordable by Ontario standards but elevated enough from the basement depths to suggest a community that has found its footing.
Lakefront & Bluff Properties
Lake Timiskaming frontage on dramatic clay cliffs — a visual that rivals any Ontario lakefront at a fraction of Muskoka pricing. Rare and coveted.
~$350K–$650K
Heritage Homes
Post-1922 rebuilt homes with the brick and stone craftsmanship of the 1920s–40s era. Character and history built into every lintel and porch.
~$200K–$340K
Condos & Apartments
Northern College proximity keeps a steady rental and condo market alive. Low-maintenance living with surprising lake views from the higher streets.
~$140K–$220K
Haileybury Real Estate — FAQ
What is the average home price in Haileybury?
As part of Temiskaming Shores, the Haileybury area sees homes averaging around $250,000, with lakefront bluff properties considerably higher and inland homes more affordable.
What destroyed Haileybury in 1922?
The Great Fire of 1922 swept through on October 4th, killing an estimated 11 people and leaving 6,000 homeless across the region. Driven by a catastrophic wind event, it burned Haileybury, Cobalt, and surrounding settlements in hours. The town was rebuilt quickly in brick and stone — much of that rebuilt fabric survives today.
Is Haileybury now part of Temiskaming Shores?
Yes. In 2004, Haileybury, New Liskeard, and Dymond Township amalgamated to form the City of Temiskaming Shores. Haileybury retains its distinct identity as the lakefront and institutional district of the combined city.
What is Northern College's role in Haileybury?
Northern College of Applied Arts and Technology has its main campus in Haileybury, offering programs in mining, engineering technology, health sciences, and trades. The college is the community's largest employer and keeps a population of students and faculty in the housing market year-round.
What is Lake Timiskaming?
Lake Timiskaming is a deep rift-valley lake (over 200 m deep) forming the Ontario-Quebec border. At 112 km long and up to 18 km wide, it's a significant northern lake known for dramatic scenery, good walleye and pike fishing, and a distinct micro-climate that supports agriculture unusual for the latitude.
Does Ontario's Land Transfer Tax apply in Haileybury?
Yes. The provincial LTT applies: 0.5% on the first $55,000; 1.0% on $55,001–$250,000; 1.5% on $250,001–$400,000. On a $250,000 purchase that's approximately $2,275. No municipal LTT applies outside Toronto. First-time buyers may claim the provincial FTHB rebate up to $4,000.
