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
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
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
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
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
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
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 of traditional and contemporary homes, including detached houses and townhomes.
The neighborhood’s natural beauty, recreational facilities, and practical amenities make it a desirable location for people seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Rosebank
Situated on the shores of Lake Ontario and bordered by lush conservation areas, Rosebank is a popular choice for those seeking a tranquil living environment.
The neighborhood’s charm is accentuated by its proximity to Rouge Park and Petticoat Creek Conservation Area, which offer extensive outdoor activities.
Local favorites include the nearby EGGcellent Diner for breakfast and Harp and Crown Pub & Grill for lively evenings. Although shopping options are limited within Rosebank, the Rougemount Square plaza across Highway 401 provides essential services and dining.
The area’s average home price of approximately CA$1,110,000 reflects its premium location and spacious properties.
Dunbarton
The area of Dunbarton is defined by the tranquil Dunbarton Creek. It features a high percentage of single-detached homes, which make up 88% of its residential offerings.
With an average household size of 3.3 people, Dunbarton attracts those looking for spacious, comfortable living.
Local amenities, such as the Steeple Hill Shopping Centre and the nearby Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex, provide residents with essential shopping, dining, and recreational options within a short distance.
The neighborhood is also located near Highway 401 and several bus routes, which ensures seamless commutes to downtown Toronto and beyond.
Bay Ridges
In Bay Ridges, residents experience a unique waterfront lifestyle enriched by vibrant local attractions.
Millennium Square stands out as a focal point, hosting events such as the PARA waterfront festival, which brings music, food, and entertainment to the welcoming community. This neighborhood offers convenient access to Frenchman’s Bay, with stunning natural views and a selection of unique shops and eateries.
Statistically, Bay Ridges ranks favorably with a quick 30-minute commute to downtown Toronto, enhancing its appeal for those seeking tranquil living and city accessibility.
The nearby Pickering GO Station further simplifies travel, making Bay Ridges a desirable choice for individuals looking for a dynamic yet peaceful place to call home.
Woodlands
With its boundaries defined by Sheppard Avenue, Kingston Road, Whites Road, and the South Petticoat Ravine, Woodlands provides a picturesque setting with access to Steeple Hill Park.
This local gem features a playground and scenic walking paths, while the Steeple Hill Shopping Centre caters to everyday needs with shops like FreshCo and Shoppers Drug Mart.
The neighborhood’s well-established homes, mostly built in the 1980s, attract first-time buyers and families. Woodlands is ideal for commuters, thanks to its proximity to Highway 401 and Whites Road interchange.
The blend of green spaces, shopping convenience, and easy access to major routes makes Woodlands a desirable choice for newcomers.
Key Insights About Pickering Before Your Move
Moving to Pickering offers the chance to experience a city where convenience meets charm.
As you plan your move, consider exploring neighborhoods like Woodlands with its accessible parks and shopping, Amberlea known for its family-friendly vibe, and West Shore offering stunning waterfront views. That way, you can learn more about the unique benefits of each area tailored to different lifestyles before you relocate.
When you’re ready to make the move, our Pickering moving services at Relocation Engineers can simplify the process. Contact us today at 1-87-RELO-CATE to get a free quote and let us help you settle into your ideal neighborhood!
