Are you searching for the best area to live in Markham, Ontario?
You want a welcoming community, safe streets, great schools, and a place that feels like home. Perhaps you’re concerned about the cost, finding a suitable school for your children, or simply unsure about where you’ll fit in. You might be asking:
- Is Markham a good place to live?
- Is Markham safe to live?
- Which is the best area to live in Markham?
- What’s the cost of living there?
These are important questions—and you’re not alone in asking them.
Markham is a beautiful, growing city with schools, parks, and job opportunities.
However, each area in Markham has its vibe. Some are perfect for families. Others are ideal for professionals. And some are more affordable for students and first-time homebuyers.
Let’s find the perfect spot for you to call home.
Overview of Markham, Ontario
Markham sits just north of Toronto, in Ontario’s York Region. It’s close enough to Toronto for easy trips in and out, but peaceful and suburban. If you want quiet comfort and access to city perks, this is a great pick.
Population & Demographics
Markham is one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada. Right now, around 368,000 people call it home. One thing I love about Markham is its diversity. You meet people from all over the world. Markham has large Chinese, Indian, and Filipino communities.
Location & Accessibility
Markham is in York Region, just 30 minutes from downtown Toronto.
It’s easy to get around:
- Highways 404 and 407 connect you to the GTA.
- GO Transit and YRT buses make commuting smooth.
- Close to Pearson International Airport.
Economic Growth & Job Opportunities
Markham is called Canada’s High-Tech Capital. You’ll find offices for companies like:
- IBM
- AMD
- Huawei
- Aviva
- Honeywell
Whether you’re in tech, finance, health, or education—job prospects are strong.
If you want to build a career, you’ll find options to grow. Partner with the best real estate brokerage in Markham to explore great opportunities.
Is Markham a Good Place to Live?
1. Quality of Life
Yes, Markham is a fantastic place to live.
Why?
- Clean streets and green parks
- Safe neighborhoods
- Reliable public transport
- Tons of shops and restaurants
It’s a perfect mix of urban excitement and suburban comfort.
2. Education & Schools
If you’re wondering Markham is a good place to live for families, the answer is a big yes—especially because of the education options.
Top-rated public schools
Markham is home to some of Ontario’s most respected high schools, including:
- Unionville High School (known for its arts program)
- Pierre Elliott Trudeau High School
- Bur Oak Secondary School
Access to higher education
Markham has a campus of York University and is minutes away from Seneca College. That means post-secondary options are right in your backyard.
Parents can feel confident knowing their kids are getting a solid education from kindergarten all the way through university.
3. Healthcare Facilities
Healthcare is another reason why Markham is a good place to live.
The Markham Stouffville Hospital is highly regarded for its emergency services, maternity care, and cancer treatment programs.
In addition, there are countless walk-in clinics, dental offices, and family doctors throughout the city.
You’ll never have to travel far for excellent medical care.
4. Cultural Diversity & Community
Markham’s diversity is one of its biggest strengths—and one of the reasons people love living here.
A true cultural mosaic
More than half the population identifies as visible minorities, creating a rich blend of cultures and traditions. You’ll feel welcome no matter where you’re from.
Vibrant festivals and events
Community life is alive and well, with events like:
- Markham Lunar Fest
- Night It Up! Asian Night Market
- Taste of Asia Festival
These celebrations bring the city to life and showcase its multicultural spirit.
World-class cuisine
Craving dim sum, butter chicken, ramen, or wood-fired pizza? Markham’s food scene is legendary. It’s like taking a global food tour without leaving your neighborhood.
Is Markham Safe to Live?
Crime Rates & Safety Statistics
Let’s get to that burning question: Is Markham Safe to Live? Yes, it is. Markham gets ranked as one of Canada’s safest cities, safer than most places in the Greater Toronto Area.
Violent crime is rare, and the city supports neighborhood watch programs and community policing.
“Markham is considered 86% safer than other cities throughout Canada and the odds of experiencing or witnessing a violent crime in Markham are 30% lower than the Canadian average.”
- Markham is ranked the 2nd safest city in Canada by major surveys.
- Daytime and nighttime walks are considered very safe here.
- Community programs help keep crime low and neighbors connected.
Good news—Markham is safer than Toronto. It has low violent crime rates and strong community policing.
Families and seniors feel safe walking in their neighborhoods, even at night.
Safest Neighborhoods in Markham
Some of the safest areas in Markham include:
- Unionville – Family-friendly and well-lit streets
- Wismer – Peaceful, with low crime rates
- Berczy Village – Clean and quiet
Is Markham safe to live? The answer is yes—and especially in these areas.
5 Best Places to Live in Markham
So, where’s the best area to live in Markham? Let me introduce you to the most popular neighborhoods.
Each offers something unique, and as someone who has explored them all, I’ll point out their highlights.
Let’s explore the top areas to live in Markham, Ontario. Each has its charm.
1. Unionville – Historic & Family-Friendly
Unionville is the heart of old Markham. You’ll fall in love with its Main Street — shops, cafes, and old charm. It feels like a small town inside a big city.
- Beautiful historic Main Street
- Parks, trails, and playgrounds
- Unionville High School – one of the best
However, homes are more expensive, but the resale value is strong.
2. Cornell – Affordable & Up-and-Coming
Cornell is full of newer homes and townhouses, perfect for young families or first-time buyers.
You get a modern living, easy access to transit, and parks nearby. If you’re buying your first home, Cornell is a great choice.
- Newer homes and condos
- Walkable neighborhoods
- Close to Markham Stouffville Hospital
It’s ideal for young families.
3. Thornhill – Luxury & Established Community
Looking for upscale living? Check out, Thornhill. It’s filled with beautiful houses, great landscaping, and many private schools.
- Big, beautiful homes
- Private schools
- Easy access to Toronto and Vaughan
If you want space and status, this is for you.
4. Wismer – Great for Families
Wismer is known for highly rated public schools, safe streets, and active community centers. It is calm and family-focused.
- Parks and top-rated schools
- Modern homes with good value
- Easy access to public transit
Families love the suburban lifestyle here.
5. Berczy Village – Modern & Convenient
Berczy Village is popular among professionals. It is new, modern, and always pleasant. You’re close to highways, shopping, and restaurants.
- Newer homes and condos
- Close to Highway 7 and major roads
- Walking distance to shops and restaurants
It offers modern living with convenience.
Curious about the process of buying property in Markham? A property survey is an important step. It shows the boundaries, structures, and legal limits of the land. This helps avoid disputes and ensures you’re making a smart investment.
Best Area to Live in Markham, Ontario for Professionals
If you’re a working professional—especially in tech or business—Markham has some great neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle.
Here are the top areas to consider:
Downtown Markham
Downtown Markham is one of the best places to live if you want everything close by.
- It’s a growing tech and business hub.
- You’ll find modern condos, trendy cafes, restaurants, and co-working spaces.
- The area is walkable, clean, and full of life.
- It’s perfect if you like the idea of living, working, and relaxing in one place.
You won’t need to travel far for daily needs or even for work—many offices and businesses are right there.
Highway 7 Corridor
This area runs through Markham and is great for people who need to commute.
- There are many new condos and townhomes.
- Transit is easy with VIVA buses and nearby GO stations.
- It’s close to major highways like the 404 and 407, so getting to Toronto, Vaughan, or Richmond Hill is fast.
- Plus, you’ll find lots of good restaurants, grocery stores, and gyms nearby.
It’s a smart choice for professionals who work in or near Toronto but want to live somewhere more affordable and less crowded.
A Quick Tip
Looking to compare cities? Contact a top real estate agency in Toronto to explore property options and market trends. They also offer valuable experience beyond Markham’s growing property scene.
Understand the Cost of Living in Markham
Let’s talk money. Markham’s living costs are above the national average, but you do get value for your investment.
Housing Market Trends
| Home Type | Average Price |
| Detached | $1,660,522 |
| Semi-Detached | $1,168,399 |
| Townhouses | $1,136,966 |
| Condos | $698,169 |
Home prices in Markham are strong and stable. Demand is high because so many people want to move here. Detached homes cost the most, but you can find townhouses and condos for less.
Rental Cost
Renting? Expect to pay $2,000–$3,000 a month for a condo or townhouse.
- 1-bedroom condo: $2,000 – $2,400/month
- 2-bedroom condo: $2,500 – $3,000/month
It’s more affordable than Toronto but more expensive than some nearby towns.
Transportation Cost
Markham has great public transit, which helps you save if you don’t drive. Insurance for cars is higher than Canada’s average—plan for that in your budget.
Daily Expense
Groceries, utilities, and day-to-day needs are almost the same as the rest of the Greater Toronto Area. Many shops and local markets help you compare prices and save.
You’ll find:
- Walmart
- T&T Supermarket
- Costco
Best Area to Live in Markham: Pros & Cons
Thinking about moving to Markham? It’s a great city, especially for families and working professionals.
But like any place, it has its ups and downs. Here’s what stands out:
| Pros | Cons |
| Top-rated public & private schools | Housing can be expensive |
| One of the safest cities in Canada | Traffic during peak hours |
| Excellent hospitals and clinics | Property taxes can be high |
| Cultural diversity and vibrant community life | Less nightlife compared to Toronto |
| Strong job market in tech and finance | Some new areas lack mature trees |
Helpful Tip Before You Move
Before buying or renting, make sure you understand the legal requirements for real estate service. Always work with a licensed real estate agent and double-check zoning rules, home inspections, and legal paperwork.
A local expert can help you find the best area to live in Markham based on your lifestyle and budget.
Should You Move to Markham?
So… is Markham a good place to live?
Yes, it is. It’s safe, diverse, and full of opportunity.
Whether you’re a parent, student, newcomer, or tech worker, there’s the best area to live in Markham, Ontario for you.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Families – Unionville, Wismer, Cornell
- Professionals – Downtown Markham, Highway 7
- Luxury seekers – Thornhill
- First-time buyers – Cornell, Berczy Village
Just remember: Home is more than a house. It’s a lifestyle. And Markham offers a lifestyle full of growth, safety, and community.
Conclusion
Choosing the best area to live in Markham is a personal journey. I hope this guide has helped answer your questions in a warm, friendly way.
Whether you want a historic home, a modern condo, or a family-friendly street with parks, Markham has a spot for you.
If you’re new to the market, joining a knowledgeable real estate brokerage is key to learning the market. It helps you gain experience and find the best growth opportunities.