Barrie’s finances get top marks again.
S&P Global Ratings has reaffirmed Barrie’s AAA credit rating, maintaining the city’s standing at the highest level possible for a second consecutive year.
The rating reflects the city’s financial management, stable economic outlook and ability to balance infrastructure spending with long-term fiscal stability.
In October 2025, Barrie received the AAA credit rating for the first time. The rating agency said the city is managing growth while maintaining a strong financial position.
The rating allows Barrie to borrow money at lower interest rates, potentially reducing the cost of key infrastructure projects. The lower borrowing costs can help reduce the tax burden while funding major infrastructure projects needed for growth.
Barrie Chief Administrative Officer Michael Prowse said in a press release the city’s sound financial decisions have helped maintain its top credit rating.
“Barrie continues to be one of the few municipalities in the country to have the highest possible credit rating, thanks to continued work by our Mayor and Council,” he said.
“The City makes sound financial decisions, allowing us to maintain this strong credit reputation. Barrie is managing its budget while planning for future growth – this is supported by clear policies, a smart approach to capital planning, and skilled staff to help ensure the City’s debt and available funds are well managed.”
In a social media post, Mayor Alex Nuttall said the rating would help keep borrowing costs down for residents.
“What this means for Barrie families is that our borrowing costs are lower, which reduces the tax burden on the people of Barrie,” he said.
“I want to say thank you to all the incredible city public servants who helped make this possible, and to Barrie City Council for making sound and prudent financial decisions over the last number of years. We again see a stabilization of our credit rating, with support from S&P saying the City of Barrie is in the best financial shape it can be as a municipality.”
S&P cited Barrie’s diverse economy, population growth and proximity to the GTA as strengths, along with its growing professional services and manufacturing sectors.
The report noted the city has limited debt by funding major projects without significant borrowing, a trend expected to continue. Barrie’s 2026 boundary expansion into
Springwater and Oro-Medonte also increases land available for housing and employment.
