Founded in 1791, Markham has a rich history that reflects its evolution from a rural farming community to a bustling urban centre. Located just over 30 kilometres northeast of Toronto’s downtown core, Markham offers suburban living in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) while remaining within close proximity of Toronto’s numerous amenities. But is Markham a good place to live? This article has all the information potential homebuyers need to know before moving to Markham.
Here are a few reasons why Markham is a good place to live
Markham is ethnically diverse
Markham is known for its rich diversity, with a population of over 353,000 that includes various ethnic groups such as Chinese, South Asian, Filipino, and Italian communities. This multicultural environment fosters a vibrant community atmosphere, making it a welcoming place for families and individuals from different backgrounds.
Markham is conveniently located for accessibility across the GTA
Strategically located just northeast of Toronto, Markham offers easy access to major highways (404, 407, and 401), making commuting to Toronto convenient—typically within 30 minutes. The city is also well-served by public transit options, including GO Transit and York Region Transit, enhancing its appeal for commuters.
Abundant green space and recreation
Markham boasts over 300 parks and 22 kilometres of scenic pathways, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and golfing. Notable parks include Toogood Pond Park and Milne Dam Conservation Park, which offer beautiful natural settings for relaxation and recreation. The city also features numerous recreational facilities, community centres, and sports clubs, catering to a variety of interests and age groups.
Strong educational opportunities
For families, Markham presents excellent educational options, including public, private, and French immersion schools. The upcoming York University Markham Centre Campus is set to enhance local educational offerings further, making it an attractive location for families with children.
Markham is a safe and family-friendly environment
Markham is recognized for its low crime rates and safe neighborhoods, contributing to its reputation as a family-friendly city. The community is known for its friendly residents, making it a comfortable place for families to settle down.
Economic growth and employment opportunities
As one of the fastest-growing municipalities in Ontario, Markham has a robust economy with a strong presence of technology and life sciences companies. This economic vitality translates into a high employment rate and diverse job opportunities, appealing to professionals and families alike.
Where to get a job in Markham
Markham is home to over 650 headquartered companies and more than 1,500 high tech and life science companies. The city has a strong presence in various sectors including information and communications technology, automotive technology, advanced manufacturing, financial services, insurance, and more.
Here is a list of some of the major employers in Markham.
AMD Canada (Advanced Micro Devices)
AMD develops computer processors and related technologies for business and consumer markets.
Aviva Canada Inc.
Aviva Canada Inc. is a Canadian property and casualty insurance company.
IBM Canada
IBM Canada Ltd manufactures and distributes computers, computer systems, and software.
TD Bank Group
One of Canada’s major banks.
Honda Canada
Honda Canada’s headquarters are in Markham.
General Motors
The Canadian GM technical centre is located in Markham.
Huawei Canada
This computer technologies company has headquarters in Markham.
Tesla
Tesla has an automation manufacturing facility in Markham.
Exploring Markham’s various festivals
One of Markham’s unique features is its numerous festivals. The area hosts a variety of events throughout the year, allowing its residents to celebrate its cultural diversity and community spirit.
Here are some notable festivals for residents to enjoy in Markham.
Unionville Festival
A community celebration featuring live music, food, and activities for all ages, held on historic Main Street Unionville.
Markham Village Music Festival
This festival showcases a diverse lineup of musical performances across multiple genres, along with food and family-friendly activities.
Pacific Mall’s Summer Carnival
A family-friendly event with carnival games, rides, and treats, located at Pacific Mall.
Lucky Lion Night Market
An Asian night market featuring street food, unique goods, and live entertainment.
Taste of Asia
A culinary festival that highlights various Asian cuisines, offering a chance to sample a wide range of delicious dishes.
Canada Day celebrations
A festive event with live music, family activities, and fireworks to celebrate Canada Day.
Markham Jazz Festival
A celebration of jazz music featuring performances by local and international artists, typically held in August.
