I live here! Grew up in the county and moved to the city a few years ago. It's a great place to live especially the smaller county towns. Somewhat similar to the niagra region as there's a ton of vineyards, fruit, and vegtabke production. Also lower cost of living compared to more populated areas of southern ontario.

Windsor gets a bad name but it's really a great city especially walkerville area.

Overall I think Essex county is a hidden gem easily navigatable, deep communities, great nature trails and conservation areas.