A view of the Nautical Village in Pickering, Ontario, along with cars passing by and residents walking

Is Pickering a Good Place to Live?

Is Pickering a Good Place to Live? Pickering, Ontario, is quickly becoming a favorite spot for those looking to enjoy the perks of city living without the hustle and bustle of Toronto. With its mix of green spaces, friendly neighborhoods, and vibrant community life, it’s easy to see why so many people are drawn to this city. If you’re one of those who are wondering, “Is Pickering a good place to live?”, it’s worth taking the time to explore the different neighborhoods. Each one has its advantages, so finding the right fit for your lifestyle is key to enjoying everything the city has to offer. Pickering’s Commitment to Safer Neighborhoods Ensuring public safety is a key priority for Pickering, Ontario. The city’s Community Safety and Well-Being (CSWB) Plan outlines a strategic approach to tackle issues such as mental health, homelessness, and substance use. Pickering enhances safety through various services, including community engagement initiatives and support programs tailored to address local needs. Platforms like “Let’s Talk Pickering” facilitate resident input and help shape effective safety measures. The city’s proactive stance involves continuous collaboration with stakeholders to maintain and improve safety standards, striving to offer a secure and supportive environment for its residents. How Affordable Is Pickering? Living costs in Pickering are notably advantageous. According to AreaVibes, the city’s cost of living is approximately 10% lower than Ontario’s average, aligning with the national average. Housing is particularly budget-friendly, with prices about 20% below the national average. The average home price is around $988,000, which, while higher than the national average, is relatively affordable for the area. Additionally, everyday costs such as groceries and healthcare are typically in line with or slightly less than national averages, making Pickering a cost-effective choice for many residents. Top Neighborhoods to Live in Pickering, Ontario Choosing a neighborhood in Pickering, Ontario, can be a challenging task due to the city’s wide array of options. With everything from tranquil suburban settings to bustling urban areas, it’s important to find a neighborhood that matches your needs and way of living. You’ll find that each neighborhood in the city offers its own set of benefits, whether you’re looking for proximity to numerous parks, top-rated public and private schools, or convenient access to Toronto. We understand how overwhelming it can be to narrow down your choices, so we’ll provide detailed information about some of the top neighborhoods in Pickering to help you make an informed decision about where to settle down. Let’s explore why so many people like to live in Pickering. Amberlea Source One highly regarded neighborhood in the city of Pickering is called Amberlea. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a family-friendly neighborhood with affordability and convenience. The neighborhood is surrounded by beautiful green spaces like Altona Forest and the Rouge-Duffins Wildlife Corridor, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Real estate in Amberlea is competitively priced, with single-detached homes costing approximately 16% less than the GTA median. Residents enjoy easy access to the Amberlea Shopping Center, which houses a variety of essential stores and popular dining options such as Sakada Sushi Teriyaki and Big Bite Gourmet Burgers. The neighborhood also offers facilities for recreation and leisure, including Shadybrook Park, which makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle in Pickering. West Shore Source With a thriving community known for its serene landscapes and strong local culture, West Shore is another highly sought-after neighborhood. It features a variety of housing types, including single-detached homes and row houses, catering to a wide range of budgets and preferences. Notable local spots include the Petticoat Creek Conservation Area and Rotary Frenchman’s Bay West Park, perfect for weekend outings. The area’s well-connected location near Highway 401 ensures quick commutes to surrounding areas, while local amenities like shopping plazas and schools meet everyday needs. Rougemount Source If you’re seeking a neighborhood with natural beauty and modern conveniences, Rougemount might be the perfect place. The area is bordered by the Rouge River and Petticoat Creek, which offers residents numerous outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching. Rougemount Square is a local favorite, providing a range of shops, restaurants, and essential services. Housing options mainly consist of single-detached homes on spacious lots, contributing to the area’s suburban charm. The neighborhood’s population stands at 3,275, making it a tight-knit community ideal for families. The presence of well-rated schools and recreational spaces further enhances Rougemount’s appeal as a top choice for those looking to move to Pickering. Highbush Source Located along the Toronto-Pickering border, Highbush offers a unique living experience with a blend of urban amenities and lush natural surroundings. This neighborhood is bordered by the Rouge National Urban Park and Petticoat Creek, offering abundant green spaces and hiking opportunities. Valleyview Park, known for its seasonal outdoor skating rink, is a local favorite. Housing options include affordable detached, semi-detached, and townhomes, with most homes built in the 1980s and 1990s. With a population of approximately 6,765, Highbush is characterized by its family-friendly environment and proximity to amenities like The Gates Plaza and George Ashe Library. Liverpool Source Another top choice for young professionals in Pickering is a neighborhood called Liverpool, thanks to its central location and rich array of amenities. This well-established neighborhood features a variety of home types, with single-detached houses averaging CAD 1,100,000, making it an affordable option compared to the Greater Toronto Area. The neighborhood is home to popular spots like David Farr Memorial Park, offering extensive recreational facilities including sports fields and playgrounds. Residents enjoy easy access to major roads and public transit, with a commute to downtown Toronto taking around 30 minutes. Brock Ridge Source Located on the Pickering-Ajax border, the Brock Ridge neighborhood is distinguished by its hilly terrain and proximity to the West and East Duffins Creek. Residents appreciate the expansive Brock Ridge Community Park, which offers baseball diamonds, soccer fields, and picturesque walking trails. Additionally, the Brock North Plaza provides convenient access to various shops and dining options. Housing in Brock Ridge features a mix

Is Pickering a Good Place to Live? Read More »