Northern Ontario Map
Detailed map of Northern Ontario with all communities.
Ontario's Five Regions
Ontario is traditionally divided into five distinct geographic regions, each with its own character, economy, and cultural identity. These regions help organize the province's vast geography spanning over one million square kilometers. Understanding these regions is essential for comprehending Ontario's economic development, population distribution, tourism opportunities, and environmental diversity.
Northern Ontario comprises approximately 90% of the province's land area but contains only about 6% of its population. Major cities include Thunder Bay, Sudbury, Timmins, and North Bay. Southern Ontario is the most densely populated region, home to Toronto, Hamilton, and the Niagara Peninsula. Eastern Ontario includes Ottawa (the national capital), Kingston, and Cornwall. Western Ontario features London, Windsor, Kitchener-Waterloo, and Sarnia. Central Ontario encompasses the Greater Toronto Area, Barrie, Muskoka, and cottage country.
What This Map Shows
- Clear boundaries of all five Ontario regions
- Major cities located within each region
- Geographic extent and relative size of each region
- Regional capitals and economic centers
- Water bodies and natural boundaries separating regions
Best For
- Understanding Ontario's geographic and cultural organization
- Educational purposes - teaching regional geography
- Business planning and market territory definition
- Tourism planning by region
- Real estate market analysis and regional comparison
- Government and administrative reference
Regional Characteristics
Northern Ontario is characterized by vast forests, mining operations, and rugged wilderness. The region's economy relies on natural resources including mining, forestry, and tourism. Southern Ontario is the agricultural and industrial heartland, producing most of Canada's automotive manufacturing and much of its food. Eastern Ontario balances government employment in Ottawa with agriculture, tourism, and technology sectors. Western Ontario features diverse manufacturing, agriculture, and international trade through Windsor's border crossing. Central Ontario is the financial and commercial center of Canada, home to Toronto's stock exchange and major corporate headquarters, plus extensive cottage country recreational areas.