People in the region value liveability. The educational element of having some of the highest-ranking schools is a big factor in people choosing to move here when they have young children. York University is likely to drive more people to the region in the years to come as well. Safety is a concern for some homebuyers, and York Region has been a very safe place over the years. Larger homes/lots and ample green space/parks is a desirable quality that the region boasts. There are great health care facilities in Newmarket, Markham, Richmond Hill and Vaughan, which is an attraction to those with young children and also seniors. With ease of commute via Viva Transit, the Vaughan Subway, and major highways (404, 400, 427 and 407), the commuting experience to the city of Toronto has been enhanced. GO Transit also has many stops in the region, further enhancing livability and making it easier for those working in and around the GTA to commute.
One of the best neighbourhoods in York Region is Downtown Markham, the area bordered by Kennedy Road to the East, Warden Avenue to the West, Highway 7 to the north and Highway 407 to the south. Markham was the number one region for the pre-construction condominium market in 2023 with 1522 sales. Downtown Markham’s Union City project contributed 1200 of those sales. Markham led the second place city by almost 500 units. Fifth Place on the list was also a York Region city, with Vaughan selling 820 units in 2023. The demand for Downtown Markham condos saw the average price for condos climb 0.3 per cent year-over-year for Q4, it was the only city in the GTA to show price appreciation in condos year over year.
Downtown Markham is the new home of York University. Investors looking to buy units will often rent out to York University students. The area has the Pan Am Centre, Markham’s entertainment district, and features movie theatres and great restaurants including Ruth’s Chris Steak House and Milestones. Residents are only minutes away to the top-ranked Unionville High School, Bill Crothers Secondary School, Markham Theatre for the Arts, and Markville Mall with convenient access to Go Trains/B, Viva Transit and highway 407 for commuters. Downtown Markham is also the site of many pre-construction condominium buildings which will increase supply and are offered at an affordable price point, making it a great place for first-time homebuyers. Home to many major headquarters such as Aviva Insurance and the new Marriott Hotel, Downtown Markham will be a hotspot for years to come.
Demand is being driven by suburban families/move-up buyers, luxury seekers and new Canadians. The rental market remains very strong with limited inventory across the region.
We asked RE/MAX brokers and agents to weigh in on their market, and help identify some trends and the best neighbourhoods in York Region. Here’s what they said.
Top concerns for homebuyers in York Region are:
- Diversity/sense of community
- Affordability
- Low housing supply
Top 3 liveability qualities buyers seek in York Region are:
- Quality of education/schools
- Overall diversity
- Green space
Best Neighbourhoods in York Region
Top 3 most affordable neighbourhoods:
- Georgina
- East Gwillimbury
- Newmarket
Top 3 up-and-coming neighbourhoods:
- Downtown Markham Area
- Vaughan Metropolitan Area
- Mount Albert (East Gwillimbury)
Top 3 most luxurious neighbourhoods:
- King
- Unionville
- Kleinburg
