The City of Pickering is a bright light for anyone looking for a home near Toronto. As part of the Durham Region, it’s one of the fastest-growing areas in Ontario for several reasons. Affordability and availability are greater here than anywhere else in the GTA.

That said, money isn’t everything, and Pickering has a lot to offer well beyond an attractive housing market. Safe neighbourhoods, exciting events, bubbling creeks, and a breathtaking waterfront are just a few of the great features to look forward to.

If you decide to make Pickering home, your next decision is where? It turns out, the city is full of family-friendly neighbourhoods just waiting to be discovered. In this post, we’ll explore a few of our favourite communities in Pickering.

Seaton

Welcome to one of the biggest and most significant developments, not just in the GTA, but in all of Canada! Many families are already proud to call this modern enclave home, and more are arriving by the minute. Once completed, this expansive community will actually encompass six separate neighbourhoods, Lamoreaux, Brock-Taunton, Mount Pleasant, Wilson Meadows, Thompson’s Corners, as well as the Pickering Innovation Corridor.

Large enough to accommodate as many as 70,000 households, Seaton will also offer approximately 35,000 jobs while maintaining at least 50% of its land as sustainable green space. If you’ve ever wanted to live in an elegant, state-of-the-art home while surrounded by gorgeous scenery, you may have just found your community!

Learn even more about the vibrant community of Seaton in our post, Is Seaton, Ontario, a Good Place to Live?

Amberlea

With its proximity to Altona Forest, Amberlea’s peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery is tough to beat. It’s about as close as you can get to experiencing the tranquillity of country life without actually living in the country.

That said, the shops, restaurants, and services in the city core are just a short drive away, and some public transit is available. There are also numerous schools within the catchment area, which makes Amberlea a highly sought after area for families.

Why is Pickering attracting so many new residents? The posts below might give you some insight:

• Where are the Places of Worship in Pickering, ON?
• Is Pickering a Good Place to Live
• What Are the Best Parks in Pickering?

Bay Ridges

Frenchman’s Bay lies just to the west of the highly desirable Bay Ridges neighbourhood, providing convenient access to the stunning shores of Lake Ontario. The boardwalk is particularly beautiful in the spring and summer time, when you’ll find people happily strolling along leisurely, cycling, or gliding along on inline skates.

There is no end to the amount of recreation for residents of all ages. The neighbourhood also boasts two elementary schools, a secondary school, a senior’s centre, and more. Fast access to the 401 also makes getting around easy and convenient.

Brock Industrial

Brock Industrial is one of Pickering’s economic powerhouse neighbourhood. It’s home to the Pickering Nuclear Plant, the city’s top employer, as well as the Duffins Creek Water Pollution Control Plant. With numerous places of worship, a skating rink, and four recreational centres, it’s also a friendly and welcoming community for families.

Plenty of parks and green spaces are also nearby, making it easy to forget that you’re in the primary financial sector. If you want a place where you can work close to home, this just may be everything you’re looking for.

Curious about the power plant? Learn all about it in Is It Safe to Buy a House Near Pickering’s Nuclear Power Plant?

Brock Ridge

Located just to the west of the neighbouring City of Ajax, Brock Ridge boasts expansive green spaces and stunning views of Ganatsekiagon Creek which is a great place for hiking, meditating, or bird-watching.

The real estate landscape consists primarily of detached and semi-detached houses that make the neighbourhood popular with families. The townhouses along Clearview Road round out the mix, although several exciting new developments are on the way, which means Brock Ridge is a neighbourhood to watch.

Access to education is just one more benefit for Pickering families. Learn all about it in Does Pickering Have High-Quality Schools?

Duffin Heights

Wide open spaces, a golf course, scenic creekside views (courtesy of East Duffins Creek), and a thriving community are just a few aspects that make Duffin Heights one of Pickering’s top neighbourhoods. Numerous amenities and commercial development ensure every convenience and essential service you could ever want is close by.

You’ll find a health clinic, several restaurants, parks, and shops right close to home, either within walking distance or an easy drive away. In addition, Highway 407, Highway 7, and Highway 401 are all readily accessible, making the neighbourhood a dream for commuters.

Dunbarton

Named after venerated Scottish poet William Dunbar, Dunbarton is a picturesque, family-friendly neighbourhood nestled between Pine Creek Valley and Highway 401. It’s also where you’ll find William Dunbar Public School, which is highly respected among parents and students alike and a major draw to the community.

Residential development took place primarily between 1900 and 1940, and Dunbarton remains a great place to find spacious, older-style homes on generous-sized lots. Easy highway access makes it a breeze to get around, and Dunbarton Creek adds a touch of scenery and natural beauty to the neighbourhood.

Highbush

As one of Pickering’s most well-established neighbourhoods, Highbush is both convenient and picturesque. Amenities include parks and playgrounds, an elementary school, and a thriving shopping district just off Highway 401. Close proximity to Scarborough and East Toronto only adds to the convenience Highbush residents have come to enjoy.

The location between Rouge National Urban Park, Altona Forest, Petticoat Creek, and the Rouge-Duffins Wildlife Corridor makes Highbush a natural paradise. As part of Pickering’s Natural Heritage System, these areas provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

Looking for even more resources for a successful home purchase? The posts below can help:

• How NOT To Buy a House
• Can You Make a Home Offer Appealing Without Paying More Money?
• What Creative Solutions Are Available for First-Time Buyers?

Liverpool

With a population of over 17,000, Liverpool is one of Pickering’s most convenient and highly sought-after neighbourhoods. It is home to numerous reputable schools, and residents have a wide range of shops, restaurants, and other family-friendly activities to enjoy.

The real estate scene is made up primarily of spacious detached and semi-detached homes ideal for family living. However, you’ll also find some townhouses and condos along Kingston Road. Access to Highway 401 and the Pickering Go Centre also make Liverpool a popular spot for commuters.

Is a condo in the heart of downtown right for you? Explore your options further in What You Need to Know About Pickering’s Hot Condo Market

Pickering Town Centre

Pickering Town Centre seamlessly combines a thriving shopping and dining district with peaceful residential living. This is the site of the highly-anticipated condos at Pickering City Centre, where buyers can choose from generous one and two-bedroom floor plans. These new units will feature modern and lavish living spaces as well as a host of building amenities that include a rooftop pool, party rooms, and even a golf simulator for those looking to lower their score.

Pickering Town Centre just might be calling you home, whether you’re a first time buyer looking for an affordable way to enter the market or a retiree who wants to enjoy the excitement of downtown.

We could talk all day about Pickering’s fabulous neighbourhoods, and we haven’t even mentioned them all by a long shot. A few other highly desirable areas include Rosebank, Rouge Park, Rougemount, Rural Pickering, and West Shore. Once you begin exploring all that Pickering has to offer, it’s easy to see why Pickering is one of the fastest-growing cities in the GTA!

Are you looking for the perfect neighbourhood to call home? Our Pickering real estate agents will be happy to give you the virtual tour! Reach out to info@teamrajpal.com or call 647-875-8000 to take the next step.

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