Best Areas to Buy a Home and Where to Invest

Durham Region continues to attract buyers and investors looking for strong growth, proximity to Toronto, and better value than core GTA markets. With major transit expansions like GO Transit improvements and new residential developments, the region offers several neighborhoods ideal for property investment or home purchase in 2026.

Investors should consider the neighborhoods to invest in Durham Region due to their promising growth.

Additionally, the neighborhoods to invest in Durham Region have shown consistent appreciation over the years.

In this guide, we cover top neighborhoods to invest in Durham Region, top areas to invest in Durham Region, and the best place to buy a home in Pickering with the latest market insights.

Why Invest in Durham Region in 2026?

Durham Region offers a combination of affordability, growth potential, and accessibility:

• Homes are more affordable than the GTA core, with median prices around $900,000.
• Population growth is expected through 2050, fueled by infrastructure projects and transit expansions.
• Easy commuter access to Toronto via GO Transit and Highway 401 makes it attractive for buyers and renters.

Whether you are seeking your first home, a family home, or an investment property, Durham Region offers options across urban, suburban, and semi-rural communities.

Top Neighborhoods to Invest

1. Oshawa – Affordable Entry and Growth Potential

Understanding the neighborhoods to invest in Durham Region can enhance your investment strategies.

Oshawa is among the top neighborhoods to invest in Durham Region, providing excellent returns.

Investors should also look into Ajax as one of the best neighborhoods to invest in Durham Region.

Oshawa provides the most affordable entry point in Durham while experiencing revitalization in its downtown core. Its strong rental demand and ongoing community improvements make it ideal for first-time buyers and investors.

Who It’s Best For: First-time buyers, young families, investors chasing value.

2. Ajax – Waterfront Living and Transit Access

Ajax combines commuter convenience with lakeside lifestyle. Central Ajax, North Ajax, and lakeside communities are seeing consistent demand, making it one of the top areas to invest in Durham Region.

Whitby ranks high among the neighborhoods to invest in Durham Region for families.

3. Whitby – Family-Oriented and Stable Growth

Whitby’s neighborhoods such as Brooklin, Port Whitby, and Downtown Whitby consistently show strong price stability. It’s highly sought after by families, making it a solid investment option.

Pickering remains a top contender in neighborhoods to invest in Durham Region due to its growth.

4. Pickering – Best Place to Buy a Home in Pickering for 2026

Pickering is a key investment location with continued development near Pickering Town Centre and transit hubs. Areas like Town Centre, Dunbarton, West Shore, and Amberlea are in high demand.

Clarington is emerging as one of the neighborhoods to invest in Durham Region with potential.

Why Buy in Pickering: Close to Toronto, strong rental demand, and future growth near transit.

Scugog offers unique opportunities among the neighborhoods to invest in Durham Region.

5. Clarington (Courtice & Bowmanville) – Space and New Builds

Clarington offers larger lots and newer homes, attracting families and investors looking for future growth. Courtice and Bowmanville are emerging as investment hotspots.

Investing in the neighborhoods to invest in Durham Region can yield long-term benefits.

6. Scugog & Brock Township – Lifestyle and Value

For those seeking rural charm and affordable homes, Port Perry in Scugog and Brock Township provide lifestyle appeal with room for property appreciation.

FAQs About Durham Region Real Estate

Is Durham good for property investment?

Yes. Durham Region offers affordability, strong rental demand, and price growth potential, especially near GO Transit stations and major highways.

Are house prices dropping in Durham Region?

House prices have softened slightly in 2025, creating a balanced market. This presents opportunities for buyers to negotiate and investors to enter before long-term growth resumes.

What are the richest parts of Durham?

Many people are recognizing the neighborhoods to invest in Durham Region for their affordability.

The wealthiest areas include Uxbridge, Whitby (Brooklin and Whitby Shores), and Pickering (West Shore). These neighborhoods feature premium homes, strong amenities, and high resale value.

The neighborhoods to invest in Durham Region feature amenities that attract families.

What is the best part of Durham to live in?

Top areas for living include Whitby, Pickering, and Ajax. Whitby is family-friendly with excellent schools, Pickering offers commuter convenience, and Ajax has lakeside amenities.

What is the first home scheme in Durham?

Durham participates in the Ontario First-Time Home Buyer Incentive, which helps eligible buyers reduce monthly mortgage costs. This program provides shared equity support for first-time homebuyers in Durham Region.

Is Durham a good place to buy property?

Yes. Durham is a growing market with affordability compared to Toronto, solid rental demand, and long-term potential in key neighborhoods.

Best areas in Durham to buy a first home

Top choices for first-time buyers include Oshawa, Pickering, Ajax, and Whitby, offering a mix of affordability, transit access, and family-friendly amenities.

Investors should always consider the neighborhoods to invest in Durham Region for future opportunities.

With the right knowledge, the neighborhoods to invest in Durham Region can provide excellent returns.

Tips for Buyers and Investors

• Prioritize neighborhoods near GO stations or highways for higher rental and resale demand.
• Assess local school zones if targeting families for rental or resale.
• Consider emerging neighborhoods near new development projects for potential appreciation.

Conclusion

Durham Region offers a mix of affordability, growth, and lifestyle appeal. From Pickering’s commuter-friendly neighborhoods to Whitby’s family-oriented communities, there are multiple top neighborhoods to invest in Durham Region for 2026. By targeting the right areas and understanding local market trends, buyers and investors can make smart, future-proof property decisions.

If you’re ready to explore the best areas to buy a home in Pickering or want personalized guidance on the top neighborhoods to invest in Durham Region, contact our team today. We can help you find the perfect property and make confident investment decisions.

First time home buyer incentives and programs
• First‑Time Home Buyer Incentive (Government of Canada)
https://www.placetocallhome.ca/fthbi/first‑time‑homebuyer‑incentive
• Home Buyers’ Plan (Canada Revenue Agency)
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue‑agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/about‑your‑tax‑return/tax‑return/completing‑a‑tax‑return/deductions‑credits‑amounts/line‑312‑home‑buyers‑plan.html
• Land Transfer Tax Refund for First Time Home Buyers (Ontario government)
https://www.ontario.ca/page/land‑transfer‑tax‑refund‑first‑time‑home‑buyers

Market Data and Regional Resources

Durham Region market statistics and insights
• Durham Region Housing Market Reports (Durham Real Estate Board)
https://www.durhamrealestate.org/market‑stats
• City of Pickering Housing and Planning
https://www.pickering.ca/en/city‑hall/housing‑and‑planning.aspx
• Durham Region Official Plan and Growth Forecasts
https://www.durham.ca/en/regional‑government/services/planning‑and‑economic‑development/planning‑policy.aspx

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