10 Best Suburbs of Toronto for Families on a Budget

Feeling overwhelmed by Toronto’s high cost of living? While the city offers endless opportunities, it can be challenging for families—especially newcomers—to find affordable, family-friendly spaces. Don’t worry!

The suburbs of Greater Toronto Area (GTA) provide the perfect alternative, offering more space, affordable homes, and safe neighborhoods where your family can thrive.

Whether you’re starting fresh in Canada or simply looking for a better lifestyle, this guide will help you discover the 10 best Toronto suburbs for families on a budget.

Read on to find the perfect place to call home!

Key Factors for Choosing a Family-Friendly Suburb

When choosing a suburb near Toronto, it’s essential to evaluate several factors. Families, especially newcomers to Canada, often prioritize affordability, access to amenities, commute times, and safety.

Here’s how these factors can influence your decision:

Affordability

Affordability is one of the most important factors for families on a budget. Housing costs in Toronto are significantly higher than in the suburbs.

The average price of a home in Toronto often exceeds $1 million, while suburban areas like Oshawa or Ajax offer homes in the $700,000-$800,000 range.

Platforms like MLS (Multiple Listing Service) are valuable for exploring housing options and tracking pricing trends in these areas.

Renting is also more affordable in the suburbs, with prices often 20-30% lower than in the city.

Tips for Finding Budget-Friendly Homes

• Research the best rental sites in Canada to ensure you’re getting the most up-to-date listings and competitive prices.
• Use real estate websites like Realtor.ca, Rentals.ca, or Zolo.ca to compare prices and find a variety of housing options. These platforms provide up-to-date listings for both buying and renting homes in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
• Look into programs and tools offered by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), such as the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive, to help with affordability and financial planning.
• Consider recent housing market trends in the GTA, which show that suburban areas like Oshawa and Milton are becoming increasingly popular due to their affordability compared to Toronto’s rising housing costs.

By prioritizing affordability, you can stretch your budget further and find a home that suits your family’s needs.

Amenities for Families

Family-friendly suburbs must offer essential amenities that make life easier for parents and children. Look for suburbs with access to:

• Schools: Check the availability of public, Catholic, and private schools, as well as French immersion options.
• Parks and Recreational Facilities: Green spaces, playgrounds, and sports centers are crucial for children’s activities and family outings.
• Healthcare: Access to family doctors, pediatricians, and hospitals should be a priority. Suburbs like Milton and Burlington have excellent healthcare services.
• Libraries and Community Centers: These are great for children’s programs, events, and community engagement.

Suburbs with well-developed family amenities provide a better quality of life and create a sense of belonging.

Commute and Accessibility

Proximity to Toronto is a key consideration for families with working parents who commute to the city. Some suburbs are better connected than others. Here’s what to look for:

• Public Transit: Check for GO Train stations or local transit options. Suburbs like Pickering and Vaughan are connected to Toronto via the GO Train or subway.
• Highways: Look for easy access to major highways like the 401, 403, or 407 for quicker commutes.
• Commute Times: Consider how long it will take to get to downtown Toronto. Suburbs within a 30-60 minute commute are ideal for families balancing work and home life.

By prioritizing accessibility, you can save time and avoid the stress of long commutes.

Safety and Community

Safety is a top priority for families. Suburbs with low crime rates and family-oriented neighborhoods provide peace of mind and a supportive environment for raising children. When evaluating a suburb:

• Crime Rates: Research crime statistics online through resources like the Crime Severity Index (CSI) or local police websites.
• Community Feel: Look for areas that host events, support cultural diversity, and have active community groups.
• Walkability: Suburbs with safe sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike paths are ideal for children.

A safe and welcoming community can make your move to a new suburb smoother and more enjoyable.

By keeping these key factors in mind, you can narrow down the best suburbs for your family and make a more confident decision. Let’s now go into the 10 Best places to live near Toronto for families and see how they measure up.

Top 10 Best Suburbs of Toronto for Families on a Budget

1. Ajax

Ajax is located in Durham Region, east of Toronto. It is one of the most affordable suburbs with plenty of options for families.

• Affordability: The average home price in Ajax is lower than Toronto, making it a cost-effective choice for families. Rentals are also reasonably priced.
• Family-Friendly Features: Ajax is served by the Durham District School Board and offers great public and Catholic school options, including French immersion programs. Community centers in Ajax host sports leagues, swimming lessons, and family-friendly events throughout the year.The Ajax Waterfront Park is a favorite for families.
• Transportation: Ajax is well-connected through the GO Train. The commute to downtown Toronto takes about 40-50 minutes.
• Why It’s Great for Families: Affordable housing, strong community vibes, and access to outdoor spaces make Ajax ideal for families.

If you’re looking for an affordable and peaceful place, Ajax should be on your list. Next, let’s look at Oshawa, another budget-friendly option.

2. Oshawa

Oshawa is further east of Ajax and offers a mix of affordability and convenience. It’s a growing hub for families and newcomers.

• Affordability: Oshawa has some of the most affordable housing in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). It’s perfect for first-time homebuyers or renters.
• Family-Friendly Features: Oshawa is home to several well-rated schools and Durham College. Families enjoy Lakeview Park and the Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens.
• Transportation: The GO Train connects Oshawa to Toronto. Driving to Toronto takes about an hour.
• Why It’s Great for Families: Affordable housing and access to family-friendly activities make Oshawa a great choice for those on a budget.

Oshawa is a growing suburb with a lot to offer. Let’s now head west to Milton.

3. Milton

Milton is a highly sought-after suburb located in Halton Region, west of Toronto. It’s known for its safe neighborhoods and excellent amenities, making it one of the best Toronto suburbs for families.

• Affordability: Home prices in Milton are higher than Ajax or Oshawa but still more affordable than in Toronto. Rental options are plenty.
• Family-Friendly Features: Milton is perfect for families with children. It has top-rated schools and plenty of parks. Kelso Conservation Area is a popular spot for outdoor activities.
• Transportation: Milton is connected to Toronto via the GO Train. Driving takes about 45 minutes during non-peak hours.
• Why It’s Great for Families: Milton offers a balance of affordability and high-quality amenities. It’s a safe and welcoming community.

Milton is ideal for families who want a mix of affordability and excellent amenities. Let’s now move to Pickering.

4. Pickering

Pickering is located in Durham Region, close to Toronto, making it a convenient choice for families who want to stay connected to the city.

Its proximity to Lake Ontario provides access to beautiful waterfront living.

• Affordability: Pickering offers affordable homes and rentals compared to Toronto. It’s a great option for families starting out.
• Family-Friendly Features: The city has excellent schools, libraries, and community centers. Waterfront living is a bonus, with Frenchman’s Bay Marina and waterfront trails offering scenic views.
• Transportation: Pickering is only a 30-minute drive from Toronto and is serviced by the GO Train.
• Why It’s Great for Families: Affordable housing, proximity to Toronto, and access to waterfront activities make Pickering a great choice.

Pickering is perfect for families who want affordability and easy access to the city. Next, let’s look at Brampton.

5. Brampton

Brampton is part of Peel Region and is one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada. It’s diverse and has many amenities for families.

• Affordability: Brampton’s housing market is affordable compared to Toronto. Rentals are also widely available.
• Family-Friendly Features: Brampton offers great schools, cultural diversity, and plenty of community events. Gage Park and Heart Lake Conservation Area are popular spots for families.
• Transportation: The city is well-connected by public transit, including the GO Train and Brampton Transit.
• Why It’s Great for Families: Brampton’s affordability, diversity, and amenities make it a great option for newcomers and families.

Brampton is a vibrant city with something for everyone. Let’s now explore Whitby.

6. Whitby

Whitby is another Durham Region suburb known for its charm and affordability.

• Affordability: Homes and rentals in Whitby are reasonably priced, making it an attractive option for families.
• Family-Friendly Features: Whitby boasts excellent schools, family-friendly parks, and a vibrant downtown. Lynde Shores Conservation Area is a favorite spot for nature-loving families.
• Transportation: Whitby is connected to Toronto via the GO Train. The commute takes about 45 minutes.
• Why It’s Great for Families: Affordable housing and access to quality schools make Whitby a top choice for families.

Whitby combines small-town charm with big-city convenience. Let’s look at Vaughan next.

7. Vaughan

Vaughan is located in York Region, north of Toronto, and is known for its rapid development and family-friendly amenities.

• Affordability: Vaughan is more expensive than other suburbs on this list. However, it still offers better value than Toronto.
• Family-Friendly Features: Vaughan is home to Canada’s Wonderland and Vaughan Mills Mall. There are plenty of schools and green spaces.
• Transportation: Vaughan is uniquely connected to Toronto via the TTC Subway Extension, making it one of the easiest suburbs for commuting into the city. Families also benefit from proximity to Highway 407, which provides quick access across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
• Why It’s Great for Families: Vaughan offers modern amenities, good schools, and an easy commute to Toronto.

Vaughan is ideal for families who want a mix of urban and suburban living. Next is Burlington.

8. Burlington

Burlington is located west of Toronto along Lake Ontario. It’s known for its high quality of life.

• Affordability: Housing prices are higher, but the quality of life makes up for it. Rentals are also available.
• Family-Friendly Features: Burlington has top-rated schools, beautiful parks, and waterfront attractions like Spencer Smith Park.
• Transportation: The GO Train connects Burlington to Toronto in under an hour.
• Why It’s Great for Families: Burlington is perfect for families who prioritize safety, community, and outdoor living.

Burlington offers a peaceful lifestyle with plenty of amenities. Let’s now explore Aurora.

9. Aurora

Aurora is a small, charming suburb in York Region, north of Toronto. It’s ideal for families seeking a quiet lifestyle with access to excellent amenities.

• Affordability: Aurora offers affordable homes compared to Toronto. Rentals are available but limited.
• Family-Friendly Features: Aurora has excellent schools, community centers, and parks. Sheppard’s Bush Conservation Area is great for family outings.
• Transportation: Aurora is connected to Toronto via the GO Train. Driving takes about 45 minutes.
• Why It’s Great for Families: Aurora’s quiet neighborhoods and excellent amenities make it a great choice for families.

Aurora is a hidden gem for families. Finally, let’s talk about Newmarket.

10. Newmarket

Newmarket, located in York Region, is perfect for families looking for affordability and amenities.

• Affordability: Newmarket offers affordable housing, especially for families.
• Family-Friendly Features: The suburb has great schools, parks, and shopping centers. Fairy Lake Park is a popular spot for families.
• Transportation: Newmarket is connected to Toronto via the GO Transit Barrie line, which offers efficient service for daily commuters. Additionally, York Region Transit (YRT) provides comprehensive local transit options, ensuring families can navigate the suburb and connect to nearby regions with ease.
• Why It’s Great for Families: Affordable living, good schools, and green spaces make Newmarket a top pick.

Comparing Suburbs: Which One is Right for Your Family?

Every family has different priorities when choosing a suburb. Some focus on schools, while others prioritize outdoor activities, short commutes, or affordability. Below is a comparison of the best suburbs based on specific family needs.

Best Suburbs for Education

If high-quality education is your top priority, these suburbs stand out for their excellent schools and academic programs:

Suburb	School Highlights
Milton	Highly rated public and Catholic schools; French immersion programs widely available.
Burlington	Top-rated high schools; access to private schools and Montessori programs.
Aurora	Strong STEM and arts programs; high-performing schools in both public and private systems.

Why These Suburbs?
Milton, Burlington, and Aurora consistently rank high for academic achievement and extracurricular opportunities. They are perfect for families who want strong educational foundations for their children.

Best Suburbs for Outdoor Activities

For families who love spending time outdoors, these suburbs offer parks, trails, and recreational spaces:

Suburb	Outdoor Highlights
Ajax	Ajax Waterfront Park offers scenic walking trails, cycling paths, and picnic areas.
Whitby	Lynde Shores Conservation Area is ideal for wildlife watching and family nature walks.
Brampton	Gage Park and Heart Lake Conservation Area offer year-round activities like hiking and fishing.

Why These Suburbs?
Ajax, Whitby, and Brampton provide easy access to green spaces, helping families stay active and connected to nature.

Best Suburbs for Commuting

If you work in Toronto, these suburbs offer convenient transit options and manageable commute times:

Suburb	Commute Highlights
Pickering	30-minute drive to Toronto; well-serviced by the GO Train for easy city access.
Vaughan	Connected to Toronto’s subway system, ensuring a seamless and direct commute.
Milton	GO Train service and highway access provide a 45-minute drive during off-peak hours.

Why These Suburbs?
Pickering, Vaughan, and Milton help balance work in the city with a quieter suburban lifestyle, saving time and reducing commuting stress.

Most Affordable Suburbs

For families on a budget, these suburbs offer the best value for housing and living costs:

Suburb	Affordability Highlights
Oshawa	One of the most affordable suburbs in the GTA; ideal for first-time homebuyers.
Ajax	Affordable housing and rental options with access to family-friendly amenities.
Whitby	Combines reasonable housing costs with excellent schools and recreational spaces.

Why These Suburbs?
Oshawa, Ajax, and Whitby stand out for their housing affordability, making them perfect for families looking to stretch their budgets.

Tips for Budget-Friendly Living in Toronto Suburbs

Once you’ve chosen the right suburb, it’s time to make the most of your move. These tips will help you save money and settle into your new community without breaking the bank.

Finding Affordable Housing

Housing is often the biggest expense for families, but there are ways to save:

• Negotiate Rent: Landlords may be willing to lower rent for long-term tenants or families with good references.
• Look for Deals: Check platforms like Realtor.ca, Rentals.ca, or local Facebook groups for housing opportunities.
• Consider Older Homes: Older properties often have lower purchase prices. With time, you can renovate to suit your needs.
• Leverage Government Programs: Programs like the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive can reduce your down payment costs.

By being proactive, you can find housing that fits your budget while still meeting your family’s needs.

Maximizing Family Amenities

Take full advantage of what your suburb has to offer:

• Check Local Parks: Many suburban parks have free playgrounds, splash pads, and trails for kids to enjoy.
• Visit Libraries and Community Centers: These often host free or low-cost programs like reading clubs, art classes, and sports leagues.
• Attend Community Events: Suburbs like Burlington and Ajax frequently host cultural festivals, farmer’s markets, and outdoor movie nights.

Suburban amenities can provide your family with plenty of entertainment, often at no cost.

Saving Money on Commutes

Commuting can strain your budget, but these tips can help:

• Buy Transit Passes: Monthly passes for GO Transit or local buses save money over single-trip tickets.
• Join Carpools: Many suburbs have carpooling programs or online groups where residents share rides.
• Drive Efficiently: Use apps to avoid traffic and save on gas by driving during off-peak hours.

Planning your commute carefully will help you save time and money.

Making the Move

Moving to a new suburb can be overwhelming. Here’s how to make it easier:

• Scout the Suburb: Spend time exploring the area before your move. Visit schools, parks, and stores to get a feel for the community.
• Connect with Neighbors: Join local Facebook groups or attend community events to meet other families.
• Get Involved: Volunteer at schools or community centers to build connections and feel at home.

Settling into a new suburb is easier when you plan ahead and actively engage with your new neighborhood.

How We Conducted Our Research

To ensure this article provides accurate and helpful recommendations, we followed these steps in our research process:

1. Analyzed Housing Market Data: Reviewed average home prices and rental costs in suburbs around Toronto.
2. Compared Family-Friendly Amenities: Evaluated schools, parks, healthcare facilities, and recreational options for families.
3. Reviewed Safety Statistics: Examined crime rates and community safety reports for each suburb.
4. Assessed Commute Times: Compared public transit options and proximity to Toronto for working parents.
5. Read Local Reviews: Considered opinions from residents and real estate experts to ensure our recommendations align with real-life experiences.

Conclusion

The Toronto suburbs listed above offer a mix of affordability, safety, and family-friendly amenities.

Whether you’re new to Canada or looking for a more affordable lifestyle, these suburbs provide great options.

Take your time to research and pick the one that suits your family’s needs.

Frequently Asked Questions