5 Affordable Neighbourhoods in the GTA with Great Schools Nearby

There are many reasons millions of people from all over the world come to Canada – opportunity, new beginnings and a welcoming place to raise a family. Finding the right community to raise a family will depend on each family’s particular needs. Those needs can range from affordable housing, to great schools, to accessible services.

But when a family is new to Canada, where should they live? How do they decide which community to call home? Knowing which community will meet your family’s needs and budget is the first step.

Here are five neighbourhoods that are both affordable and have great schools for new Canadian families:

1. Uptown Burlington: This is quickly becoming the go-to neighbourhood for today’s modern family. Just 45 minutes from downtown Toronto, this suburb has one of North America’s largest botanical gardens. As of 2015, the average price of a home in Burlington is $465,000. Also, there are 29 public elementary schools and 14 Catholic elementary schools in the community.
2. Newmarket: Located between downtown Toronto and cottage country, this subdivision offers a great balance of city life and small-town charm. According to the community’s website, low crimes rates in this suburb consistently make it one of the safest communities in the city. As of 2015, the average home price in Newmarket is $531,000. Also, there are 32 elementary schools with more than 1,154 teachers to bring knowledge to tomorrow’s young minds.
3. Flemingdon Park: This multicultural community is located in the Eglinton Avenue East and Don Mills Road area of North York. It has served as the first home for many new Canadians looking for affordable housing close to the center of the city. The Flemingdon Park Community Centre focuses on families with young children and offers a variety of after-school programs. The average home price in the Flemingdon Park area is $340,000.
4. Danforth Village: Described by the Globe and Mail as an up-and-coming neighbourhood, this authentic and vibrant suburb is grabbing the attention of many new Canadian families. Some of its most desirable features include a close proximity to the subway line, less traffic congestion than other parts of the GTA and its stunning surrounding natural environment. The average home price in the Danforth Village area is $539,000 (but quickly rising).
5. Milliken: This neighbourhood in the Markham and Steeles Avenue area is home to high-scoring academic schools and a vibrant Asian community. This north Scarborough suburb boasts many independent businesses and franchises. Milliken Park is a beautiful green space with bicycle trails and a recreation centre. The average home price in Milliken is $445,000.