From its picturesque location on the Lake Ontario shores, Pickering attracts more residents every year. According to 2021 Census data, Pickering’s population reached 99,186, up from 91,771 in 2016.

But while Pickering is growing, the city retains its charm. Within it, you’ll find idyllic hamlets, a harbor setting ideal for water sports, a downtown bustling with activity, and a rich history. Whether you’re looking for the perfect place to raise your family or are ready to retire in a relaxing location, Pickering might be the perfect destination for several reasons.

Ideal Location

Pickering’s location makes it ideal for commuting, visiting surrounding cities, and more. Toronto is just a half-hour drive away, so Pickering residents can enjoy a quieter lifestyle not far from the larger, busier city.

Pickering’s location also provides easy access to other destinations like Niagara Falls. There are five United States border crossings within less than a day’s drive, too.

Employment Opportunities in Pickering

With Toronto a short drive away, Pickering residents may choose to commute to jobs in the city. However, there are also plenty of employment opportunities in town.

Pickering has a thriving economy, with manufacturing, environment and engineering, and information communications technology being major industries. A few of the city’s biggest employers include:

• Aspect Retail Logistics
• Municipal Property Assessment Corporation
• Ontario Power Generation
• Rogers Communication
• Search Engine People
• Trench Ltd.

Schools in Pickering

Families with children will find plenty of education options in and around Pickering. The Durham District School Board provides education in Pickering and surrounding areas, encompassing 135 elementary schools, secondary schools, and learning centers. The district employs 10,000 teaching and educational services staff to ensure that the more than 79,000 students receive a quality, personalized education.

There are also numerous private schools within easy driving distance of Pickering:

• Pickering Christian School
• Blaisdale Montessori School
• Montessori Learning Centre
• F4T Ecole Montessori
• Cambridge International Academy
• St. Mary Catholic Secondary School

Several colleges and universities also serve the Pickering area:

• Pickering College
• Durham College
• University of Toronto
• University of Ontario Institute of Technology
• Durham Business Computer College
• Toronto Business College
• Diamond Institute of Business & Computer Technology

Amenities

You’ll find fantastic amenities for a rich and rewarding life in Pickering. Parents and children can enjoy the numerous family-friendly spaces, including parks, playgrounds, and destinations like the Fun Factory and Ajax Rock Oasis.

Pickering is home to a variety of restaurants, including fast food options and eat-in dining establishments. You’ll find everything from a hibachi grill to modern Mexican fare and several fine dining establishments.

Want a view with your meal? Port, a dining establishment located on Frenchman’s Bay, offers fresh pasta and other dishes served up with a beautiful waterfront vista. If you’re not quite sure what you want to eat, head over to Eastend Pub & Grill. Their eclectic menu, which features everything from pizzas to Irish dishes to schnitzels and more, will allow your whole family to find something they like.

Pickering offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beauty of nature, too:

• Explore the 2,000-acre Rouge National Urban Park or participate in one of the free guided walks.
• Visit the 53-hectare Altona Forest, home to songbirds, foxes, coyotes, and other wildlife.
• Hike the 12.9-km Seaton Trail and explore the historic hunting and fishing routes along the Green River.
• Enjoy outdoor recreation at the Chestnut Hills Development Recreation Complex. The complex is equipped with a full gym, a 25-meter pool, a skating rink, and courts for racquet sports, so there are plenty of activities to participate in year-round.

Plus, you can spend plenty of time on the water with Lake Ontario minutes away.

Make Pickering Your Home

You can make Pickering your home with Brookfield Residential’s New Seaton Community. This vibrant, interconnected urban community blends modern living with Pickering’s natural beauty. You’ll enjoy plenty of amenities, including over 4,000 acres of trails across 42 community parks and bikeways. You’ll also have convenient access to everything Pickering and the surrounding area offer.

Our sales team is excited to help you find your dream home in your dream location with Brookfield Residential’s New Seaton Community. Explore the community and connect with our sales team when you’re ready to learn more. We’ll be expecting you!