Located just over 47 kilometres east of downtown Toronto, Ajax offers suburban living to its residents, while its close proximity to the downtown core provides great accessibility to Toronto’s vast array of amenities. But is Ajax a good place to live? This article has all the information potential homeowners need to know before moving to Ajax.
Here are a few reasons why Ajax is a good place to live
Affordability and real estate options
Ajax offers relatively more affordable housing compared to other cities in the Greater Toronto Area. This makes it an attractive option for families and first-time homebuyers looking to enter the property market. The median list price for a single-family home Ajax during summer 2024 was just over $939,000, according to Houseful. By comparison, the same type of home cost $1.3 million in Toronto, according to CREA. Ajax provides a range of housing options, from cozy condos to spacious family homes, catering to different preferences and budgets. The growing community has seen significant development over the years, with new neighbourhoods and housing projects continually emerging to meet the increasing demand.
Family-friendly environment
Ajax is known for its family-oriented atmosphere, making it an ideal place to raise children. The town boasts excellent schools, with many institutions ranking well in educational assessments. Institutions such as J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate and St. Francis de Sales Catholic School are noted for their academic excellence and supportive learning environments. These schools offer a variety of programs, including advanced placement courses and extracurricular activities, which cater to diverse interests and talents. There are numerous parks, recreational facilities, and community centres that offer various activities for children and adults alike. The strong sense of community in Ajax fosters a safe and welcoming environment for families to thrive and build lasting connections with neighbours.
Strategic location and connectivity
Ajax benefits from its prime location within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Situated between Pickering and Whitby, it offers easy access to major highways like the 401, making commuting to Toronto and other nearby cities convenient. The town is well-served by public transit, including GO Transit services, which provide efficient connections to downtown Toronto and other parts of the GTA. This accessibility makes Ajax an attractive option for those who work in the city but prefer a suburban lifestyle.
Natural beauty and outdoor recreation
Ajax boasts proximity to Lake Ontario, offering residents access to beautiful waterfront areas. The area features two distinct waterfronts: One on the west side with elevated views of Lake Ontario, and another on the east side with Paradise Beach, a popular spot for relaxation and water activities. The Waterfront Trail connects these areas, providing opportunities for walking, cycling, and enjoying nature. The abundance of green spaces and parks throughout Ajax allows residents to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle while appreciating the natural surroundings.
Cultural diversity and evolving food scene
Ajax has become increasingly multicultural over the years, contributing to a vibrant and diverse community. Ajax has a highly diverse population with visible minorities comprising 60 per cent of the total population, according to the 2021 Canadian census. This makes Ajax one of the most diverse municipalities in Ontario, ranking fifth among municipalities with over 5,000 residents. This cultural richness is reflected in the growing food scene, with an expanding variety of ethnic cuisines and restaurants available throughout the area, including South Asian, Jamaican, Chinese, Filipino, and many more.
Fun activities for families to explore after moving to Ajax
Ajax Waterfront Park
Ajax Waterfront Park is a premiere destination for families looking to enjoy outdoor activities. The park features a waterfront area with walking and biking trails, picnic spots, and playgrounds for children. Families can spend the day enjoying the scenic views of Lake Ontario, participating in recreational activities such as cycling or rollerblading along the waterfront trail, or simply relaxing on the beach. The park also hosts the Ajax Waterfront Festival that encourages community participation and provides entertainment for all ages, making it a vibrant hub for family outings.
Rotary Park
Rotary Park is another excellent family-friendly location, known for its extensive recreational facilities. This park includes sports fields, a splash pad, and multiple playgrounds designed for children of various ages. The splash pad is particularly popular during the summer months, offering a fun way for kids to cool off. Families can also enjoy picnicking in the green spaces or participating in organized sports activities. The park’s well-maintained facilities and family-oriented atmosphere make it a go-to spot for weekend outings.
Greenwood Conservation Area
For families who enjoy nature and outdoor exploration, Greenwood Conservation Area offers a fantastic escape. This natural area features hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation. Families can engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying a day in nature. The conservation area is an excellent place for educational experiences, as children can learn about local ecosystems and the importance of conservation. The serene environment provides a perfect backdrop for family bonding and outdoor adventures.
Family story time and musical programs
The Ajax Public Library offers engaging programs such as family story time and musical activities for young children. These programs are designed to foster a love of reading and music in a fun and interactive way. For example, the Audley library branch hosts story time sessions where children can listen to captivating tales, participate in crafts, and enjoy musical activities tailored for preschoolers. These events not only promote literacy but also provide a wonderful opportunity for families to connect with each other and other community members in a nurturing environment.
Endless Fun Indoor Play Centre
Endless Fun is an indoor play centre that provides a safe and entertaining environment for children. With various attractions such as climbing structures, ball pits, and arcade games, it caters to kids of all ages. This facility is perfect for family outings, especially during inclement weather when outdoor activities may not be feasible. Parents can relax in the designated seating areas while their children play, ensuring a fun-filled day for the whole family. The center also offers party packages, making it a popular choice for birthday celebrations and special events.
Finding a job in Ajax
The economy of Ajax is diverse, with careers available in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, retail, logistics and more. Here’s a short list of some of the biggest industries in Ajax.
Advanced Manufacturing
Historically Ajax’s strongest sector, with clusters in aerospace, automotive, automation, and innovative technologies. This sector employs approximately 3,500 people and is the largest labor force outside of retail trade.
Healthcare
Lakeridge Health Ajax Pickering Hospital is the top employer in Ajax, providing nearly 1,800 jobs.
Education
Both the Durham District School Board and Durham Catholic District School Board are major employers, each providing over 1,200 jobs.
Retail
Several large retailers are significant employers, including Loblaw Companies Limited, Costco Wholesale, and Walmart Supercentre.
Logistics and Warehousing
This is described as the fastest-growing sector in Ajax, with Amazon Fulfillment Centre being a major employer.
Automotive
Companies such as Volkswagen Canada Inc. and Lear Corporation are notable employers in this industry.
Aerospace
Safran Landing Systems Canada Inc. is a significant employer, providing nearly 750 jobs.