Moving to Ajax: A New Beginning in a Thriving Community
Explore why Ajax, Ontario, is a great place to live, with a thriving community, top schools, and a growing real estate market.
Moving to a new city is a significant decision, and Ajax, Ontario, has become an increasingly popular choice for individuals and families looking for a vibrant and well-connected place to call home. Known for its stunning waterfront, diverse communities, and close proximity to Toronto, Ajax offers a balanced lifestyle that combines urban convenience with suburban charm. Whether you’re seeking career opportunities, excellent schools, or a welcoming neighborhood, Ajax has something to offer everyone.
Why Choose Ajax?
Ajax is one of the fastest-growing municipalities in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), making it an attractive destination for homebuyers, young professionals, and families. In 2021, Ajax’s population reached 126,666 (a 5.7% increase from 2016) (Statistics Canada). Its robust economy, high quality of life, and proximity to Toronto have made it an increasingly sought-after location for a diverse range of residents, including newcomers to Canada.
Ajax’s multicultural community is one of its standout features. Over 50% of the population identifies as visible minorities, highlighting the town’s diversity and inclusiveness (Statistics Canada, 2021 Census). The town celebrates its cultural richness through events, international cuisines, and various heritage festivals.
Growing Population and Diversity
Ajax is experiencing rapid population growth, largely due to its appeal to families and young professionals. With a 5.7% population increase since the last census in 2016, the town is becoming an even more dynamic and vibrant community (Statistics Canada, 2021 Census).
Diversity – 25% Sample Data, 2020
Its diverse demographics reflect its multicultural heritage, and the town attracts people from all over the world. This blend of cultures creates a unique environment where new residents can quickly find community and belonging, whether through local cultural organizations or ethnic markets and restaurants that reflect the town’s diversity.
Thriving Real Estate Market
The real estate market in Ajax is thriving, with an average home price of approximately $900,000 in 2023 (Toronto Regional Real Estate Board). Detached homes in Ajax tend to average around $1.1 million, but there are also more affordable options, including townhouses and condos, for those looking for a more budget-friendly living arrangement.
The housing market is especially attractive for families and retirees due to the availability of spacious homes in well-planned communities. The growing number of rental properties, including condos and apartments, makes Ajax an attractive destination for investors looking to capitalize on the increasing demand for housing.
Proximity to Toronto
Ajax’s location along Highway 401 makes it an ideal destination for commuters, with easy access to Toronto’s vibrant job market. The town is served by GO Transit, with a commute time of approximately 35-40 minutes to downtown Toronto (Metrolinx). This makes it an attractive option for professionals who work in the city but prefer the quieter lifestyle of the suburbs.
Being so close to Toronto means that residents can easily take advantage of all that the city offers, including world-class dining, entertainment, shopping, and cultural experiences. Whether attending events at Scotiabank Arena, enjoying local arts and theatre, or taking in one of Toronto’s many festivals, living in Ajax provides easy access to the GTA’s many amenities. The proximity to major cities and Canada-US borders should also be noted as a convenience, if anything.
Cost of Living Comparison
The cost of living in Ajax is significantly lower than downtown Toronto, making it an appealing option for individuals and families who wish to benefit from Toronto’s opportunities but at a more affordable price point. For example, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Ajax is approximately $2,100 compared to $2,500+ in Toronto (Rentals.ca).
In addition to more affordable housing, Ajax residents also benefit from lower costs in groceries, utilities, and transportation, with overall savings of 10-15% when compared to Toronto prices. Property taxes in Ajax are also lower than those in the city, making homeownership in Ajax a financially viable option for many buyers.
Living cost comparison between Ajax and Vancouver, from Livingcost
The city of Ajax also has a lower overall cost of living compared to Vancouver, particularly for families, where expenses total $4869 compared to Vancouver’s $5527. While renting for an individual is slightly more expensive in Ajax ($1718 vs. $1579), family rent is more affordable at $2392 compared to Vancouver’s $2615. Food and transportation costs are also cheaper in Ajax, with food expenses at $527 and transport at $73.5, significantly lower than Vancouver’s $615 and $143, respectively. Despite these lower costs, the monthly salary after tax is slightly higher in Ajax at $3305, compared to Vancouver’s $3246. Additionally, Ajax has a much smaller population of 127K, making it a less crowded and potentially quieter alternative to the bustling city of Vancouver, which has 662K residents.
Education in Ajax
Ajax is home to many highly rated schools and educational institutions, providing families with excellent opportunities for their children’s education. The Durham District School Board (DDSB) and Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) operate a wide array of elementary and secondary schools in Ajax, all of which consistently perform well in provincial rankings (Ontario Ministry of Education).
Top-Ranked Secondary Schools
Some of the top-rated secondary schools in Ajax include:
- Pickering High School – Known for its academic excellence and extracurricular programs. It is consistently ranked among the best schools in Durham Region (Fraser Institute).
- J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate – Offers strong STEM programs and has an active student life with various clubs and athletic teams.
- Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School – A highly-ranked Catholic high school that excels in academics and provides a nurturing environment for students.
Ajax High School, By MrKasprzak – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Post-Secondary Education and Nearby Universities
Ajax is within commuting distance of several renowned universities, including:
- University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC) – Located just 25 minutes away, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
- Ontario Tech University (Oshawa) – A prominent institution offering specialized programs in technology and engineering.
- Durham College – A local institution providing career-focused diploma and certificate programs that equip students with practical skills for the workforce.
Specialized Programs and Private Schools
Ajax offers various specialized programs such as French Immersion, International Baccalaureate (IB), and Advanced Placement (AP). Additionally, private schools like Cambridge International Academy provide alternative education options for families who prefer smaller class sizes and a more personalized learning environment.
Recreation and Community Programs
Parks and Outdoor Activities
Ajax is home to an extensive network of parks and green spaces, making it an excellent location for outdoor activities. With over 90 parks and 140 km of trails, residents have ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature. Notable outdoor spots include:
- Waterfront Trail – A picturesque trail stretching along Lake Ontario, ideal for cycling or walking.
- Greenwood Conservation Area – Perfect for hiking and nature walks.
- Rotary Park – Features picnic areas and splash pads for families with children.
Commemorative stonehenge at the old Ajax water treatment plant site on Lake Ontario. Source: Adobe Stock
Shopping and Malls
Ajax boasts several shopping destinations, including:
- RioCan Durham Centre – The largest shopping complex in Ajax, with retailers like Walmart, Winners, and The Home Depot.
- Pickering Town Centre – Just a short drive away, this mall offers over 200 stores and a movie theatre for entertainment.
RioCan Durham Centre. Souce: RioCan Website
Moving with Takeoff Moving
Personalized Moving Plans
Takeoff Moving offers customized moving services tailored to your needs, ensuring a stress-free and professional relocation experience at no hidden cost! Whether you’re moving across the street or across town, our expert team will work closely with you to create a seamless moving plan that fits your schedule and budget. From the initial consultation to the final delivery, we take care of every detail so you can focus on settling into your new space. Our flexible plans are perfect for individuals, families, and businesses alike, making relocation smooth and worry-free.
Packing and Unpacking Services
We provide professional packing services to protect your belongings, making your move efficient and organized. Our experienced staff uses high-quality materials and careful techniques to ensure that every item, from delicate glassware to bulky furniture, is securely packed and unpacked with precision. We label and categorize everything for easy access, reducing the chaos and confusion of moving day. You can rely on our team to treat your items with the utmost respect and care from start to finish.
Storage Solutions
Need extra space? Takeoff Moving offers secure and climate-controlled storage solutions for short- or long-term needs. With flexible options and 24/7 monitoring, you can trust that your possessions will be safe and accessible whenever you need them. Whether you’re downsizing, renovating, or just in between homes, our storage facilities provide a convenient solution for your belongings. We even offer easy pickup and delivery from storage to your door, making the process completely hassle-free.
Conclusion
Ajax offers a perfect balance of affordability, accessibility, and community living, making it an ideal place for families, professionals, and retirees. Whether you’re drawn by its strong economy, high-quality schools, or beautiful green spaces, Ajax is a city with endless opportunities. Ready to move? Contact Takeoff Moving today to start your journey to Ajax!
