Moving to Markham from Toronto: Commute, Housing Budget, Schools and Lifestyle Compared
Moving to Markham from Toronto: Commute, Housing Budget, Schools and Lifestyle Compared
Many families who move to Markham start in Toronto. They come for more space, strong schools, and a calmer pace. Here is an honest comparison to help you decide.
The Short Answer
In September 2026, TRREB reported average prices in Markham of $1,534,139 for detached homes, $1,019,322 for semis, $977,959 for freehold townhouses and $574,612 for condo apartments. Toronto averages were $1,562,966, $1,207,884, $1,104,629 and $640,248. That makes semis, townhouses and condos noticeably less expensive in Markham, while detached prices are similar. Markham buyers also pay only the Ontario land transfer tax, while Toronto buyers pay a second municipal one. Markham offers four GO stations, Highway 7 rapid transit, sought after schools, and large parks.
Neeraj Moolchandani and the Kaizen Real Estate Team, one of the teams families moving to Markham often call first, help relocating clients understand the city street by street. Here is what most people want to know.
Home Prices: Markham and Toronto
| Home Type | Markham Average | Toronto Average | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Detached | $1,534,139 | $1,562,966 | About 2% lower in Markham |
| Semi detached | $1,019,322 | $1,207,884 | About 16% lower in Markham |
| Freehold townhouse | $977,959 | $1,104,629 | About 11% lower in Markham |
| Condo townhouse | $829,470 | $749,653 | About 11% higher in Markham |
| Condo apartment | $574,612 | $640,248 | About 10% lower in Markham |
Source: TRREB Market Watch, September 2026, Markham and City of Toronto averages. Averages vary by neighbourhood and month.
The biggest savings show up in semis, freehold townhouses, and condo apartments. Detached prices are similar on average, but in Markham you often get a newer home or a larger lot for the money. Condo townhouses are one exception, averaging more in Markham.
Land Transfer Tax: A Real Saving
Toronto buyers pay two land transfer taxes: the Ontario tax and the Toronto municipal tax. As of October 2026, Toronto is the only Ontario municipality with its own land transfer tax, so Markham buyers pay only the Ontario tax.
Example: a $1,000,000 home
Ontario land transfer tax is $16,475. In Toronto, the municipal tax adds about another $16,475, before any first time buyer rebates. Buying in Markham avoids that second tax. Figures are illustrative; confirm with your lawyer.
Moving from Toronto? Neeraj can help you compare neighbourhoods before you even visit. Call or text Neeraj at (647) 370 8885.
Commute and Getting Around
- GO train. Markham has four GO stations: Unionville, Centennial, Markham and Mount Joy, with service to Union Station. Metrolinx is working toward more frequent, all day service to Unionville.
- Rapid transit. Viva buses run along Highway 7 through Markham Centre.
- Highways. Highways 404, 407 and 401 are close to most neighbourhoods. Highway 407 is a toll road.
- Subway. The Yonge North Subway Extension is under construction along Markham's western edge.
Test your commute at rush hour from any neighbourhood you are considering. The right street can save you a lot of time every week.
Schools
For many families, schools are the main reason to move. Markham is known for sought after school catchments, including areas served by Unionville High School, Pierre Elliott Trudeau High School, Bur Oak Secondary School and Markville Secondary School. Boundaries can change, so confirm the catchment for any address. See Markham homes near top schools.
Lifestyle: What Daily Life Feels Like
- Space. More homes with yards, garages, and finished basements.
- Nature. Rouge National Urban Park, Toogood Pond, and Milne Dam Conservation Park.
- Food and shopping. A wide range of Asian dining, plus CF Markville, Pacific Mall, and Main Street Unionville.
- Community. Modern community centres, the Markham Pan Am Centre, and the Flato Markham Theatre.
- Pace. Quieter streets, with city amenities still close by.
Want to see what your Toronto budget buys in Markham? Call or text Neeraj at (647) 370 8885.
Which Markham Neighbourhood Fits a Toronto Mover?
- Love walkable character? Look at Unionville.
- Want condo living near transit? Look at Downtown Markham and Markham Centre.
- Need space and schools? Look at Berczy and Wismer.
- Want newer homes for the budget? Look at Cornell and Box Grove.
Relocating is a big step. Let us make it simple. Call or text Neeraj at (647) 370 8885.
Moving to Markham Questions, Answered
Is Markham cheaper than Toronto?
For most home types, yes. In September 2026, TRREB averages were about 16 percent lower in Markham for semis, 11 percent lower for freehold townhouses, and 10 percent lower for condo apartments. Detached averages were similar, and condo townhouses averaged more in Markham.
Does Markham have a land transfer tax?
Markham buyers pay the Ontario land transfer tax only. As of October 2026, Toronto is the only Ontario municipality that charges its own land transfer tax.
How do people commute from Markham to downtown Toronto?
Many use GO trains from Unionville, Centennial, Markham or Mount Joy stations to Union Station. Others drive using Highways 404, 407 and 401, or use Viva rapid transit along Highway 7 to connect to other routes.
Is Markham a good place to live?
Many families choose Markham for its schools, parks, diverse dining, community centres, GO train access, and range of home types.
What are the best Markham neighbourhoods for people moving from Toronto?
Unionville suits buyers who want walkable character, Downtown Markham suits condo buyers near transit, Berczy and Wismer suit families focused on schools, and Cornell and Box Grove offer newer homes for the budget.
Your Move North Starts Here
Tell Neeraj what you love about where you live now. He will help you find the Markham neighbourhood that keeps it, and adds more.
Call or text (647) 370 8885 · info@kaizenrealestate.ca
Kaizen Real Estate Team, eXp Realty, Brokerage · 9763 Markham Rd, Markham, ON L6E 1A4
Market statistics: TRREB Market Watch, Markham, September 2026, released October 6, 2026. Figures are rounded and subject to revision. This article is general information, not legal, tax, mortgage, or financial advice. Market commentary describes current conditions and is not a promise of future prices. Information is believed accurate but should be independently verified. Not intended to solicit properties currently under contract.
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