Although it sits right next to the Greater Toronto Area, Durham Region is so much more than simply a big city suburb. In fact, Durham Region is one of the most unique municipalities in all of Ontario.
If you’re thinking about moving to Durham Region, there are a few things about life in our neck of the woods that might surprise you! In this blog, we’ll touch on three things you may not have realized about Durham Region.
1. It’s (Really) Big
When some people think about Durham Region, they really just think about the larger cities and towns right outside of Toronto. In reality, there’s much more to Durham Region than just Oshawa or Ajax. Durham Region is big…2,500+ square kilometres big to be exact!
Durham Region sits immediately east of Toronto, stretching all the way to Northumberland County. With Lake Ontario to the south, it reaches as far north as the eastern shores of Lake Simcoe. Altogether it’s home to about 700,000 people.
Spotlight on North Durham
As lifelong locals, we appreciate every part of Durham Region. However, in this blog post, we want to give a special shoutout to North Durham.
In conversations about Durham Region, North Durham is often overlooked. In our opinion, it’s underrated! While a mostly rural area, you’ll find a quaint collection of charming communities, incredible scenery, waterfront playgrounds, and more.
If you’re looking to buy a home in Durham Region, we recommend getting to know North Durham. The local quality of life is unbeatable. North Durham communities include Beaverton, Little Britain, Port Perry, Seagrave, and Uxbridge.
Thinking about moving to Durham Region? Explore these other blogs for helpful insights about buying a home.
- Tips For Transitioning to Life in a Smaller Town
- What Are My Mortgage Options in Today’s Market?
- How to Purchase a Home With a Family Member
2. It’s Well Connected
Being just a short drive from Toronto, Durham Region is already quite commuter-friendly. However, the area’s expanding transit network is adding even more options for getting around.
Many people are surprised to learn that Durham Region has a strong public transit system, but it’s true! Durham Region Transit (DRT) operates an extensive bus network that serves both local and regional routes – keeping Durham residents connected to wherever they need to go.
Additionally, GO Transit provides commuters with seamless connections to various communities across Durham Region, the Greater Toronto Area, and ultimately Downtown Toronto.
Plus, the upcoming expansion of GO services to Bowmanville further improves transit accessibility, reducing commute times for residents. On top of this, the upcoming Durham-Scarborough BRT Project will give a handful of local communities even faster access to central Toronto.
If you’re looking to buy a home in Ontario, venturing out beyond the Greater Toronto Area can help you check off more boxes on your home wishlist. Click here to learn more.
3. It’s a Hub of Culture & Nightlife
Another fact about Durham Region that may surprise you is that it’s a total hub of arts, culture, and nightlife. You won’t need to drive into Toronto to enjoy a day (or night) on the town.
Uxbridge, which is known across Ontario for its arts and theatre district, has carved out its own niche as a cultural hub. Around town, various art galleries like the Blue Heron Studio showcase the works of local artists and host unique exhibitions throughout the year. Another local favourite is the vintage Roxy Theatre, a beautifully restored 50s-style cinema that plays classic movies 7 days a week.
Port Perry is another cultural hotspot – one that’s notably popular with artists and creative types. The town’s historic downtown area comes alive with cultural events, live music, and festivals throughout the year. There’s plenty of opportunity to catch local talent or get out and be creative yourself (if that’s your thing).
Finding Your Dream Home in Durham Region
With Durham Region’s exciting communities, great (and affordable) homes, and unbeatable quality of life, there’s something here for everyone! That said, if you’re not super familiar with the area, finding the right home for you can be a challenge. Luckily, we’re here to help!
As a multi-generational real estate team we have more than 175 years of combined experience in our market. We know everything there is to know about local homes and properties. Whatever you’re looking for, we can help you find it.
Considering a move to Durham Region? Puckrin & Latreille can help you find the perfect home. Ready to get started? Call 905-985-7300 to reach our team or click here to send us an email.
Stay Connected
With local real estate when you sign up for our newsletter. Join our mailing list here to get updates on the latest listings and expert insights.
