For many Canadians, owning a cottage remains a defining lifestyle goal. It represents a dedicated space to unwind, reconnect, and enjoy time by the water, where weekends feel longer and daily routines fade into the background.
That aspiration is gaining renewed momentum. With cross-border travel becoming less appealing for some and interest rates holding steady, more buyers are shifting their attention toward domestic recreational properties.
According to the Royal LePage 2026 Spring Recreational Property Report,1 40% of recreational property experts reported that the ‘Buy Canadian’ movement has led to an increase in inquiries from domestic buyers of recreational real estate in their area. Similarly, 13% of experts reported an increase in inter-provincial buyers in their region compared to the same time last year; 54% reported approximately the same amount compared to a year ago.
This sustained interest is supporting price growth across many markets. According to Royal LePage, the median price2 of a single-family home in Canada’s recreational regions is forecast to increase 4.0% in 2026 to $604,552, compared to 2025.
With demand holding firm and more Canadians exploring local options, the opportunity to enter the cottage market is worth a closer look.
Start with a clear purpose
Before beginning your search, it is important to define how the property will fit into your lifestyle. This decision will influence everything from location to budget and property type.
Some common use cases include:
- A seasonal family retreat for summer use
- A hybrid living arrangement that supports remote work
- A long-term investment with income potential
If you are already a homeowner, reviewing the equity in your primary residence can also help clarify what is financially achievable. In many cases, that equity can be leveraged to support a second property purchase.
Waterfront comes at a premium
Water access continues to be one of the most significant factors influencing price in recreational markets. True waterfront properties often command a substantial premium. However, properties located a short distance from the water can offer a similar lifestyle at a more accessible price point.
This distinction can create meaningful opportunities:
- Greater purchasing power within your budget
- Access to larger or more updated homes
- Potential for long-term appreciation in emerging areas
Ultimately, the decision comes down to how essential direct water access is to your overall vision.
Exploring ways to offset costs
Many buyers are taking a more strategic approach to ownership by incorporating income-generating options.
Flexible approaches include:
- Co-ownership with family members or trusted partners
- Seasonal rentals during high-demand periods
- A combination of personal use and short-term leasing
In high-demand recreational regions, rental activity can be particularly strong during peak seasons. That said, it is important to understand and comply with local short-term rental regulations before making a purchase decision.
Location flexibility can pay off
Location flexibility remains one of the most effective ways to improve affordability.
Highly sought-after cottage destinations often come with premium pricing. By extending your search to less established areas or properties slightly farther from major urban centres, buyers can often find comparable experiences at a lower cost.
Cottage ownership may seem ambitious at first, but current market conditions suggest it is still within reach for a wide range of buyers. Stable borrowing costs, sustained domestic demand, and creative approaches to ownership are all contributing to increased accessibility.
Want to know more about prices of recreational real estate near you? Check out the Royal LePage 2026 Spring Recreational Property Report for more information.
1A national online survey of 130 brokers and sales representatives serving buyers and sellers in Canada’s recreational property regions was conducted between February 20, 2026, and March 19, 2026.
2Royal LePage’s national and provincial forecasts are weighted medians based on a weighted model using sales in each region.
