You may have heard that Durham is the fastest growing region in the GTA, and there are many compelling reasons for this development. The City of Pickering makes up a significant portion of this growth, thanks to vast new construction adding to the availability and affordability of houses – not to mention all of the conveniences that go along with being so close (but not in) Toronto.

Officially, Pickering spans 231 km and is bordered by Toronto and Markham on the West and Ajax and Whitby on the East. This location is as convenient as it is beautiful, with numerous parks and a gorgeous waterfront adding to its rich scenery.

As you can probably tell, we are in love with the entire city and could go on all day about all of the benefits of living here. To shorten the conversation slightly, we’ll narrow our focus in today’s post to North Pickering. Here is everything you ever wanted to know but were too shy to ask!

Do you want to stay current with unique insights into Pickering real estate? Tune into our informative-yet-entertaining podcast right here.

Where Is North Pickering?

North Pickering lies just south of Uxbridge, Ontario. Though it primarily consists of a large rural area, you’ll also find notable Pickering communities like Claremont, Brougham, and Whitevale nestled to the north.

Arguably, you could also place the Duffin Heights neighbourhood here, although it is a little more centrally located. In other words, this relatively new and family-friendly community is located just south of the north!

Once it’s fully developed, Seaton will encompass the largest part of North Pickering, spanning more than 7,000 acres and feature enough beautiful homes to accommodate approximately 70,000 residents. Perhaps most notably, you’ll also find our offices in the northern end of the city!

Get to know a few of Pickering’s fantastic communities even better in the related reads below:

• What Are Pickering’s Best Neighbourhoods?
• Is Seaton, Ontario a Good Place to Live?

What Is There to Do in North Pickering?

Though its population is growing, the sheer size of North Pickering gives it a peaceful, rural feel. As such, it’s not surprising that many activities revolve around nature and the great outdoors.

50% of Seaton’s land will be dedicated to green space, providing a network of trails and paths for cycling and hiking. In addition, this area is home to numerous must-visit attractions, including:

• Pickering Farmer’s Market: Open seasonally, the Pickering Farmer’s Market attracts countless visitors each year thanks to its festive vibe and outstanding produce and baked goods.
• Pickering Golf Club: Are you ready to take your golf skills to a new level? The Pickering Golf Club has been a local favourite since 1953.
• Claremont Nature Centre: If you love nature, check out Claremont Nature Centre, a 160-hectare oasis nestled between forests and meadows.

Get a closer look at Pickering-Seaton with this video right here:

Does North Pickering Have Good Schools?

North Pickering may have a limited number of schools for the time being, but those available are top-notch. Claremont Public School serves students from Kindergarten to Grade 8 and consistently earns high rankings from the Fraser Institute.

Beyond that, many students take school buses into neighbouring communities. However, the upcoming Seaton community stands to change the face of education in North Pickering, with multiple public and Catholic schools set to open their doors starting in 2026. This is the perfect opportunity for young families to take part in one of Canada’s biggest developments in history!

What Are the Best Parks in North Pickering?

Green spaces are North Pickering’s primary claim to fame! This area is well-loved by nature enthusiasts who enjoy spending endless hours hitting the trails. Numerous parks provide beautiful picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields. Who has time for screens and TV when there are so many fun things to do outside? Below are just a few of the top parks nearby:

• Grand Valley Park: Expansive trails make this a great place to explore nature and immerse yourself in picturesque beauty.
• Whitevale Park: A sports field, playground, and splash pad make Whitevale Park an oasis of fun for families of all ages.
• Altona Forest: Altona Forest consists of 53 sprawling acres of wooded areas and greenery. Be sure to keep your eyes open and your camera ready for some wildlife sightings!

Are you curious about your options in Pickering real estate? Learn more about buying a home here in the posts below:

• What You Need to Know About Pickering’s Hot Condo Market
• What to Consider When Buying a Pickering Home
• Pickering Vs Toronto: Where Should You Buy a Home?

Is North Pickering Safe?

North Pickering is quiet and relatively affluent, making it one of the safest places you and your family can be. There’s less traffic and far less crime than in urban areas, and a strong sense of community means everyone is watching out for each other. A peaceful and tranquil environment is just one more aspect of North Pickering that families have come to know and love.

Do you want to know more about living in Pickering? Our local real estate agents are happy to give you the grand tour! Connect with us at info@teamrajpal.com or call 647-875-8000 with any questions.

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