Looking to move near transit in Toronto? Here are the places in the GTA where you can find the most affordable homes with good transit access.

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $2,215
• Average property buying cost: $750,000
• Commute Time (by car): 14–30 minutes
• Commute Time (public transit): 50–60 minutes

Etobicoke, located west of Toronto’s downtown core with Lake Ontario to the south, provides scenic waterfront views and recreational activities like walks and cycling. Residents love its green spaces, including parks like Colonel Samuel Smith Park, Centennial Park, and various golf courses. Etobicoke City Centre seamlessly combines city and suburban living, offering diverse dining, shopping, and local businesses.The commute to Downtown Toronto is quick, taking just 14 to 40 minutes by car in rush hour via the Gardiner Expressway or Lake Shore Boulevard West. Alternatively, it takes around 50 to 60 minutes by public transit, using a combination of train and bus. Good news, it’s just a 10-minute drive to Toronto Pearson International Airport via ON-427 North. Housing options in Etobicoke include apartments with more than 5 floors and single-detached homes. 

Local Logic (Oct 2024), Rentals.ca & Redfin (Oct 2024)

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,663
• Average property buying cost: $875,000
• Commute Time (by car): 35–60 minutes
• Commute Time (public transit): 60–80 minutes

Ajax, a waterfront town located between Whitby and Pickering, offers many amenities despite its small size. Surrounded by nature, including Greenwood and Lynde Shores conservation areas, as well as Lake Ontario’s shores featuring Ajax Waterfront Park and Paradise Beach, residents enjoy different recreational activities.The town has excellent connectivity with easy access to major transportation routes, allowing a 35 to 60-minute drive during rush hour to downtown Toronto via the ON-401 Expressway. Moreover, convenient public transportation is provided by GO Transit, linking Ajax GO Station to Toronto City Hall within 60 to 80 minutes.

Local Logic (Oct 2024), Zumper (Oct 2024) & Redfin (Oct 2024)

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,574
• Average property buying cost: $948,000
• Commute Time (by car): 30–55 minutes
• Commute Time (public transit): 65–95 minutes

Pickering seamlessly blends urban amenities with natural beauty, featuring a scenic waterfront along Lake Ontario and abundant green spaces. Ideal for golf enthusiasts, it offers over 6 courses, including Whitevale Golf Club and Pickering Golf Club. With easy access to major highways like the ON 401 Express and Kingston Rd, commuting to Downtown Toronto takes about 30 to 50 minutes by car departing from Pickering Town Center and 65 to 95 minutes by public transportation during rush hour.It is an ideal family-friendly place to live in the Durham Region, characterized by its small-town charm and secure community, offering high quality services and programs for the whole family. 

City of Pickering (Oct 2024), Zumper (Oct 2024) & Redfin (Oct 2024)

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,700
• Average property buying cost: $926,000
• Commute Time (by car): 45–70 minutes
• Commute Time (public transit): 70–88 minutes

Located east of Toronto within the GTA, Whitby offers an affordable living option for those seeking convenient access to Downtown Toronto. Housing choices include single-detached homes, apartments, and condominiums. As of December 2023, the average property cost is $957,000, and the monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment averages $1,848.Whitby’s charm goes beyond its real estate affordability compared to nearby GTA cities. Residents delight in outdoor activities within its green spaces, including parks and trails like Heber Down Conservation Area, Thickson’s Woods, and the Lake Ontario shoreline.Thanks to its strategic location, Whitby offers easy access to Downtown Toronto through the GO train, connecting to Toronto City Hall with an approximate travel time of 70 to 88 minutes in rush hour. Driving, on the other hand, typically takes about 45 to 70 minutes via the ON-401 Express highway.

Local Logic (Oct 2024), Zumper (Oct 2024) & Redfin (Oct 2024)

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,684
• Average property buying cost: $757,000
• Commute Time (by car): 45–70 minutes
• Commute Time (public transit): 70–88 minutes

Our top choice is Oshawa, one of the cheapest places to live near Toronto. Located in the eastern part of the Greater Toronto Area along Lake Ontario, it offers a convenient and tranquil lifestyle. Residents value its proximity to downtown Toronto, easily accessible via Go Transit (train or bus) or Via Rail, with a 70 to 88 minute commute. Also, it is connected to the 401 highway, making a 45 to 70-minute drive easy.Noted by many locals, it is advisable to avoid the downtown Oshawa area due to an increase in homelessness. Nevertheless, they appreciate the peaceful green areas, such as Lakeview Park and Lakefront West Park, which promote outdoor recreation and family-friendly activities. Housing in Oshawa mainly consists of apartments and some semi detached homes.

Local Logic (Oct 2024), Zumper (Oct 2024) & Redfin (Oct 2024)