Why Should I live in Pickering?

Living in Pickering: A Complete Local Guide

What's so great about Pickering?

Pickering, Ontario is a diverse and well-connected city located in western Durham Region, offering a blend of lakeside living, established neighbourhoods, growing communities, and excellent access to Toronto. With its mix of urban convenience, family-friendly areas, and proximity to nature, Pickering appeals to a wide range of buyers at different life stages.

This guide explores what it’s really like to live in Pickering — including neighbourhoods, housing, schools, commuting, amenities, and lifestyle considerations.

Where is Pickering Located?

Pickering sits directly east of Toronto and west of Ajax, making it one of the most strategically located cities in Durham Region. Its southern edge borders Lake Ontario, while its northern areas transition into greener, more rural communities.

Residents benefit from:

  • Immediate access to Highway 401

  • Highway 407 for east–west travel

  • GO Train service into downtown Toronto

  • Proximity to Toronto, Scarborough, and York Region

Pickering’s location makes it especially attractive to commuters and buyers who want to stay close to the city.

Why People Choose to Live in Pickering

Pickering consistently attracts buyers because of:

  • Excellent access to Toronto and the GTA

  • A wide range of neighbourhoods and housing types

  • Waterfront parks and recreational space

  • Strong public transit options

  • Ongoing development and infrastructure investment

  • Long-term real estate stability

It offers a balance between urban convenience and suburban livability that’s hard to match.

Neighbourhoods in Pickering

Pickering is made up of several distinct areas, each offering a different lifestyle.

Bay Ridges

Located near the waterfront, Bay Ridges is known for its established homes, proximity to Lake Ontario, and access to trails and parks. It appeals to buyers who value outdoor living and a quieter residential feel close to the lake.

Liverpool & Town Centre

This area is the city’s most urban pocket, featuring condos, townhomes, shopping, and transit access. It’s popular with commuters, first-time buyers, and those seeking walkability to amenities and GO Transit.

Amberlea

A well-established family neighbourhood with detached homes, parks, and schools. Amberlea is known for its community feel and accessibility to shopping and transit.

Dunbarton & Fairport

These neighbourhoods offer a mix of older detached homes, larger lots, and proximity to schools and green space, appealing to families and move-up buyers.

North Pickering

The northern part of the city includes communities like Claremont and surrounding rural areas, offering larger lots, estate homes, and a quieter, countryside feel while remaining connected to the city.

Schools in Pickering

Pickering is served by both the Durham District School Board and the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Families benefit from:

  • A wide range of elementary and secondary schools

  • French Immersion options

  • Access to private and specialized programs nearby

School quality and choice contribute significantly to buyer demand, particularly in established family neighbourhoods.

Housing and Real Estate in Pickering

Pickering offers one of the most diverse housing markets in Durham Region.

Buyers can find:

  • Condominiums near transit and the city centre

  • Townhouses and semis in established and newer areas

  • Detached homes across a wide range of price points

  • Larger properties and estate homes in north Pickering

Home prices vary widely by neighbourhood, proximity to the lake or transit, and property type. This diversity makes Pickering accessible to first-time buyers, families, and downsizers alike.

Commuting and Transportation

Pickering is one of Durham Region’s most commuter-friendly cities.

Transportation options include:

  • Pickering GO Station with direct service to Toronto

  • Highway 401 access through multiple interchanges

  • Highway 407 connections

  • Durham Region Transit and GO Bus routes

Commute times to downtown Toronto are among the shortest in Durham Region, making Pickering a popular choice for professionals.

Parks, Trails, and Waterfront Living

Outdoor living is a major part of Pickering’s appeal.

Residents enjoy:

  • Pickering Waterfront Trail and parks

  • Beachfront access along Lake Ontario

  • Conservation areas and green spaces

  • Easy access to Rouge National Urban Park

Pickering offers a rare combination of waterfront living and urban convenience.

Shopping, Dining, and Amenities

Pickering provides strong retail and service options.

Residents have access to:

  • Pickering Town Centre and surrounding retail hubs

  • A growing restaurant and dining scene

  • Healthcare facilities and community centres

  • Recreation complexes and libraries

The city continues to evolve, with ongoing development bringing new amenities and infrastructure.

Is Pickering a Good Place to Live?

Pickering is an excellent choice if you’re looking for:

  • Easy access to Toronto

  • Strong transit and highway connectivity

  • A mix of urban and suburban lifestyles

  • Waterfront parks and outdoor space

  • A city with long-term growth potential

It appeals to first-time buyers, families, professionals, and downsizers looking for flexibility and convenience.

Thinking About Buying or Selling in Pickering?

Pickering real estate varies significantly by neighbourhood, housing type, and proximity to transit or the lake. Local insight is critical when navigating pricing, demand, and timing.

If you’re considering a move to Pickering or want to understand your home’s value in today’s market, a conversation grounded in local knowledge can help you make confident decisions.

Feel free to reach out to discuss available homes, market trends, or how Pickering compares to nearby communities like Ajax, Whitby, or Claremont.

Ready When You Are

No pressure. Just a conversation.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling — now or later — I’m happy to answer questions and help you understand your options.


This website may only be used by consumers that have a bona fide interest in the purchase, sale, or lease of real estate of the type being offered via the website. The data relating to real estate on this website comes in part from the MLS® Reciprocity program of the PropTx MLS®. The data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed to be accurate.