What is it Like to Live in Pickering, Ontario?

Pickering sits on the shores of Lake Ontario and is only minutes away from Toronto. It is one of the GTA’s fastest-growing cities, attracting families, young professionals, and newcomers.

But living here is another topic to discuss; that’s why you asked: “What is it like to live in Pickering, Ontario?” 

This city offers a blend of suburban charm, expanding job opportunities, and scenic waterfront living that many Canadians are now seeking.

Now, if you’re considering living in Pickering, understanding the city’s cost of living, quality of life, and long-term potential is essential.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about what it is like to live in Pickering, Ontario.

Brief Facts About Pickering

Originally, Pickering was inhabited by the Wyandot (Huron) people, an Iroquoian-speaking Indigenous group whose presence in the region dates back centuries.

European settlement accelerated in the early 1800s. Between 1801 and 1807, Timothy Rogers, a Quaker coloniser, led a group of settlers who established a settlement at the crossing of Danforth Road and Duffin’s Creek.

By the late 1870s, the community had officially adopted the name “Pickering.”. In 1953, it was incorporated as a village, and after regional restructuring in 1974, part of the original Pickering Township became what is known today as Pickering Village (now within Ajax).

The remaining township evolved into the Town of Pickering, and in 2000, it achieved full city status, marking its new chapter of urban growth and development.

Cost of Living

Living in Pickering offers a relatively balanced cost of living, especially when compared to other parts of Ontario. 

Pickering’s overall cost of living index is 10% lower than the provincial average, which means that, broadly speaking, everyday expenses are more manageable here than in many other Ontario cities.

Here’s a quick comparison of the cost of living in Toronto, Markham, and Ajax.

Source: Numbeo

Median Home Price and Rental Cost

When it comes to buying a home, Pickering’s real estate market is decidedly strong. The average housing price in this town is $937,000. 

Here’s a quick table of different types of homes if you’re considering buying.

Notes: Housing prices in Milton can fluctuate over time due to changes in market conditions, demand, location, and economic factors. This data reflects the condition as of November 2025.

For those not ready or willing to buy, renting is a solid alternative. 

Here’s a quick overview of average rental prices in Pickering and their monthly price ranges.

Note: The rent range is calculated using a ±15% variation around the average. Price may fluctuate due to market changes, and this data reflects conditions as of November 2025.

Crime Rate and Safety

Safety is a top concern for anyone thinking of moving to Pickering. Pickering’s total crime is estimated at 2,512 incidents per 100,000 people, which is notably lower than the Ontario average of 3,086.

Violent crime in Pickering is also lower than the provincial average, estimated at 645 per 100,000, and property crime at 1,867 per 100,000 compared to 2,294 provincially. 

Based on these estimates, your chance of being a victim of any crime in Pickering is about 1 in 40, while the possibility of being a victim of violent crime is roughly 1 in 156.

Crime doesn’t impact all parts of Pickering equally. Some neighbourhoods are notably safer than others, while a few have higher crime rates.

Here is a breakdown of relatively safer neighbourhoods and five areas with higher crime estimates.

Pickering is actively addressing public safety. According to the City’s 2022 community safety report, there are 15 Community Safety Zones across Pickering, and as of that year, 262 security cameras were operational in key spots around town. These efforts aim to reduce crime through visibility and data-driven policing.

Schools and Education

If you’re moving to Pickering with a family or planning long-term, the quality of schools is one of the most important factors.

Pickering’s education system is served by two major school boards: the Durham District School Board (DDSB) for public schools, and the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) for catholic schools.

Primary

Altona Forest Public School is frequently recommended by parents for its community focus and well-rounded programming. The school emphasises active learning and parent involvement.

Elizabeth B. Phin Public School is another strong neighbourhood elementary that shows up in local school rankings for consistent student performance and a close-knit school community.

Highbush Public School is also noted for its sizable student body and steady academic results, serving the growing Amberlea area and offering a range of extracurricular activities that help build community ties.

Secondary School

Pine Ridge Secondary School has been serving the Pickering area since 1992. Students here are encouraged to partake in the numerous programs available to them. Students are set up to move on to post-secondary education or to go into trades or right into the workforce after they graduate.

Pickering High School is located in neighbouring Ajax, Ontario. Situated about five minutes from Pickering. The school aims to provide students with the skills to become responsible, educated, and active citizens who will engage in lifelong learning. Whatever path students choose for their future, PHS intends to prepare them.

St. Mary Catholic Secondary School is a Catholic secondary school and was established in 1987. And it’s the only Catholic high school located in Pickering. Faith is at the core of the curriculum, as students are encouraged to embrace their talents and create excellence “in the light of Christ.”

College

There are no colleges and universities in Pickering, but there are nearby higher educational institutions that are accessible to the residents.

Durham College (Oshawa) is the region’s main college, offering career-focused diplomas and certificate programs across a wide range of fields.

Ontario Tech University in Oshawa is also nearby, which focuses on technology, engineering, and applied science programs with a strong emphasis on industry partnerships and work-integrated learning.

Hospitals and Healthcare Services

When it comes to healthcare, Pickering is primarily served by the Ajax Pickering Hospital, which is part of the Lakeridge Health network. 

This hospital handles over 75,000 emergency department visits annually. It offers a broad range of medical services, including inpatient and outpatient surgery, women’s and children’s health, critical care, diagnostic imaging, cardiac care, and laboratory services.

The hospital also has a 22-bed inpatient mental health unit, which was added in Fall 2019 better to address the growing mental health needs in Durham Region.

Transportation

Transportation is one of Pickering’s biggest assets, especially for commuters heading into Toronto or navigating Durham Region. 

The city is well served by major highways, regional transit, and future rapid transit plans, making daily travel relatively seamless.

Highways and Road Connectivity

Pickering is served by Highway 401, one of Ontario’s major east-west arteries, providing fast car access to Toronto and other parts of the GTA.

Highway 407, the toll highway, also runs through or near Pickering, which offers an alternate route for longer commutes.

Public Transit

If you prefer public transit, Pickering is very well-integrated into the GO Transit network. The Pickering GO Station on the Lakeshore East Line offers train service into Toronto and other parts of the region.

At the same time, Durham Region Transit provides local and regional bus connectivity. They also run a Rapid Bus line, the DRT Pulse route 900, which travels east-west along Highway 2 (Kingston Road) and connects to Toronto-area transit.

Economy and Job Opportunities

Pickering’s economy is broad and growing and with many supported industries like manufacturing, energy (especially nuclear), technology, and logistics.

This diversification makes it attractive to people who love a city with a strong market for employment, investment, and long-term stability.

Advanced Manufacturing

One of Pickering’s most significant economic anchors is advanced manufacturing. 

According to the City of Pickering’s economic development agenda, this sector has seen around 2 million sq ft. of new commercial and industrial space built in the last few years, signalling strong confidence in its future.

A standout employer is Kubota Canada Ltd., which in 2022 made a major investment of CA$80 million to open its Canadian headquarters, distribution centre, and training facility.

This signals that manufacturing jobs, from logistics and assembly to technical roles, are scaling up in the city.

Nuclear Energy

The nuclear energy industry is a core pillar of Pickering’s economy. The Pickering Nuclear Generating Station, operated by Ontario Power Generation, is huge, and it contributes around 14% of Ontario’s electricity and supports thousands of jobs in the region.

The plant’s ongoing operations contribute roughly  $1.54 billion annually to Ontario’s GDP and support more than 7,500 full-time equivalent jobs, with a large portion of economic activity spilling into construction, engineering, and professional services.

Recreation, Shopping, and Amenities

Living in Pickering isn’t just about the commute and the cost; you can also enjoy the rich mix of nature, waterfronts, parks, and places to hang out.

Here are the most popular hotspots and recreational spaces in the city:

Waterfront Trail and Frechman’s Bay 

One of Pickering’s most beloved natural draws is the Waterfront Trail, which runs along Lake Ontario and winds through peaceful coastal wetlands and conservation areas.

The trail is gorgeous and offers residents a way to bike, walk, or skate with lake views, all while enjoying the outdoors.

Along this route sits Frenchman’s Bay, a scenic lagoon where people gather for boating, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water.

Beachfront Park and Millennium Square 

Beachfront Park gives residents a quiet escape into nature with its marsh and shoreline. The wetlands here are home to birds like herons and terns, and the boardwalks and viewing platforms make it a peaceful place for reflection or bird watching.

Just near the area is the Millennium Square, which becomes a lively gathering spot during the summer. Concerts, picnics, and lakeside hangouts happen here regularly.

Rouge National Urban Park

A short distance from Pickering’s neighbourhoods, the Rouge National Urban Park is a massive green space where forested valleys, meadows, and wetlands meet. 

Locals go here to hike, bird-watch, or spend time in nature without leaving the region.

Chestnut Hill and Other Recreation Centres

Pickering’s recreation infrastructure goes beyond just parks; the Chestnut Hill Development Recreation Complex and other community centres like George Ashe and East Shore offer year-round programs for families, youth, and seniors. These centres host sports, community events, and indoor recreation.

Are You Planning to Move to Pickering, Ontario?

Now, after knowing what it is like to live in Pickering, Ontario, you probably have finalised your decision to move to this peaceful suburban area. 

But before you relocate, it’s better to map out the essentials: your moving budget, the timeline, and whether you prefer a DIY move or hiring professional movers.

A DIY move may save money upfront, but expert movers often handle packing, heavy lifting, and transportation more efficiently, especially if you’re moving long-distance or bringing a lot of belongings.

Whatever your situation, take time to understand the things to consider when moving so you can prepare your move and start your new life in Pickering with confidence and stress-free.

Conclusion

Aside from its proximity to Toronto, Pickering offers many benefits for newcomers, including safety, convenience, career opportunities, and family-friendly amenities.

Life in this suburban area offers so much.

With ongoing developments and a growing population, the city continues to evolve into a desirable place for people considering living in this area.

FAQ

1. How much does it cost to move to Pickering, Ontario?

Moving costs vary depending on distance, how much you’re bringing, and whether you hire professional movers. Local movers can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, while long-distance moves may cost significantly more. Using a moving cost calculator can help you estimate your budget more accurately.

2. Is Pickering a good place for families?

Yes. Pickering is known for its safe neighbourhoods, strong public and Catholic schools, and family-friendly amenities like parks, community centres, and waterfront trails. The city’s steady growth also means improving transit, new housing, and more services for families.

3. What is the commute like from Pickering to Toronto?

Commuting is generally convenient. The Pickering GO Station offers direct trains to Union Station in about 35-45 minutes, and major highways like the 401 and 407 provide fast access to the GTA. Traffic can be heavy during rush hours, but overall, Pickering is one of the better-connected suburbs in Durham Region.

4. What is the best month to move to Pickering?

Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) are often considered the best months to move because of mild weather and moderate demand. Summer is popular but more expensive, while winter moves are cheaper, they come with snow and icy conditions, which you need to consider.