Community Guide
Living in Pickering, Ontario
Lake Ontario waterfront, lush conservation areas, and family-friendly neighbourhoods: all minutes from Toronto.
By Keith Williams & Lisa C. Follows, Brokers, Willows Realty Group
Local Answer
Who is the best realtor in Pickering?
The best realtor in Pickering depends on your needs, but Keith Williams and Lisa C. Follows of Willows Realty Group bring deep expertise across the entire Durham Region market, including Pickering. Both are licensed Brokers at Royal LePage Frank Real Estate with over 30 years of combined real estate experience and more than 1,000 homes sold across Durham Region, Kawartha Lakes, and Northumberland County. Read reviews from past clients and learn more about Keith and Lisa. Whether you are buying waterfront on Lake Ontario, a family home in the Woodlands, or a townhome near the GO station, we can help.
Where city convenience meets lakeside living
Pickering is the western gateway to Durham Region, offering a rare blend of urban accessibility and natural beauty. With its stunning Lake Ontario waterfront, extensive park system, and quick access to both Toronto and Pearson International Airport, Pickering has become one of the most desirable communities in the GTA.
The city features a variety of neighbourhoods, from the lakefront Frenchman's Bay community with its marina and waterfront trail, to family-friendly suburban subdivisions with excellent schools, to the rural countryside in the north near Claremont. The Pickering GO Train station provides a seamless 30-minute rail commute to Union Station in Toronto.
Compare Pickering with nearby communities like Ajax and Whitby. For current pricing trends, read our Durham Region home prices 2026 market update.
Quick Facts
Lifestyle
What it is like to live in Pickering
A lakeside city with exceptional parkland, top schools, and unmatched Toronto transit access.
Parks & Nature
Pickering is home to some of the finest conservation areas in Durham Region. Greenwood Conservation Area covers over 340 hectares along Duffins Creek with hiking trails, fishing spots, canoeing, picnic areas, and a camping facility that draws families from across the GTA. Petticoat Creek Conservation Area offers a waterfall, forest trails, and a large outdoor pool. Frenchman's Bay is a protected harbour with a marina, boardwalk, and boat launches that anchor the waterfront community.
The Lake Ontario Waterfront Trail runs through Pickering, providing scenic cycling and walking routes along the shoreline from Frenchman's Bay to the Ajax border.
Community & Commuting
Pickering's GO Train station makes it one of the most commuter-friendly cities in Durham Region, with trains reaching Union Station in about 30 minutes. Highway 401 runs through the city, and Highway 407 provides quick access to Pearson Airport and the western GTA. The Pickering Town Centre is the city's major shopping destination, while local plazas along Whites Road and Kingston Road offer everyday conveniences.
The city hosts community events including the Pickering Markets, Canada Day celebrations at Esplanade Park, waterfront festivals, and seasonal farmers' markets that bring residents together throughout the year.
Greenwood Conservation Area
340+ hectares of trails, fishing, camping.
Frenchman's Bay Marina
Protected harbour with boardwalk and boat launches.
GO Train to Toronto
Roughly 30 minutes to Union Station.
Waterfront Trail
Lake Ontario trail system along the shoreline.
Real Estate
Housing types in Pickering
Pickering offers a full spectrum of housing, from Lake Ontario waterfront homes to executive family subdivisions, modern townhomes, and rural estates in the north.
Waterfront Homes
Lake Ontario properties on Frenchman's Bay and the shoreline with stunning lake views and private access.
Executive Family Homes
Spacious detached homes in sought-after suburbs like Woodlands, Bay Ridges, and Liverpool.
Townhomes & Condos
Modern attached homes and condominiums near the 401 corridor and GO station for commuters.
Country Estates
Rural properties and hobby farms in north Pickering and the Claremont area with acreage and privacy.
Bungalows
Single-level living options in mature neighbourhoods with tree-lined streets and character.
Price Range
Roughly $850,000 to over $1.1 million for detached homes. Townhomes and condos available at lower entry points.
Exact pricing varies by market conditions. For current listings and recent sales data, visit our Durham Region market snapshot or contact our team.
Local Businesses
Shopping, dining & services in Pickering
Pickering offers a full range of shopping and dining options, from the Pickering Town Centre to independent restaurants and cafes along Kingston Road and Whites Road.
Dining & Shopping
- Pickering Town Centre is the city's largest shopping destination with major retailers, dining, and entertainment.
- Kingston Road and Whites Road are lined with local and chain restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and pubs.
- The Frenchman's Bay waterfront area offers lakeside dining and seasonal patios with beautiful views.
Services & Amenities
- Pickering has excellent healthcare access with the Pickering Medical Centre, walk-in clinics, and nearby Ajax-Pickering Hospital.
- The Pickering Recreation Centre offers pools, fitness, arenas, and community programming for all ages.
- The Pickering Public Library is a modern, well-regarded facility with branches across the city.
Local Economy
Pickering's growing business community
Pickering has a diverse and growing economy anchored by the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station, Durham Region's largest industrial area, and a thriving small business community. The Pickering Business Improvement Area supports downtown merchants, while the Pickering Innovation Corridor along the 401 attracts technology and logistics companies.
The Pickering Markets, a weekly farmers' market at Esplanade Park, is a beloved community tradition offering local produce, artisan goods, and prepared foods from spring through fall.
Education
Schools serving Pickering
Pickering is served by excellent public and Catholic schools through the Durham District School Board and the Durham Catholic District School Board, with numerous elementary and secondary options across the city.
Pickering High School
Public (DDSB) · Grades 9-12
A comprehensive secondary school serving the Pickering community with a strong academic and extracurricular program.
Pine Ridge Secondary School
Public (DDSB) · Grades 9-12
A well-regarded secondary school serving the north Pickering area with specialized programs and strong community support.
St. Mary Catholic Secondary School
Catholic (DCDSB) · Grades 9-12
Pickering's Catholic secondary school, offering high-quality education in a faith-based environment for the community.
Elementary Schools
DDSB & DCDSB · JK-8
Pickering has over a dozen public elementary schools including Altona Forest PS, Frenchman's Bay PS, Elizabeth B. Phin PS, and Catholic schools including St. Elizabeth Seton and St. Monica.
Indigenous Heritage
Land Acknowledgement
Pickering is located on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe, Huron-Wendat, and Haudenosaunee peoples. This land is covered under the Williams Treaties of 1923 and is the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation and other Mississauga and Chippewa communities.
Acknowledging the Land
The City of Pickering acknowledges that the land on which the city now stands is part of the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe people, including the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation. This territory was also home to the Huron-Wendat and Haudenosaunee peoples and is covered under the Williams Treaties.
We recognize and respect the enduring presence and deep connection of Indigenous peoples to this land. We are committed to reconciliation and honouring the contributions of First Nations communities to the region.
Williams Treaty Territory
1923 Treaty covering this area
The Williams Treaties of 1923 were signed between the Crown and several Mississauga and Chippewa First Nations, including the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation. These treaties cover vast territories in south-central Ontario, including the land now known as Pickering and the surrounding Durham Region communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about living in Pickering, answered by local experts.
What is it like to live in Pickering?
How far is Pickering from Toronto?
Is Pickering good for families?
What neighbourhoods are in Pickering?
What is the average home price in Pickering?
What schools serve Pickering?
What is the commute like from Pickering?
Who are the best realtors in Pickering?
Questions for Buyers
Buying in Pickering: what you need to know
Whether you are a first-time buyer or moving up, Pickering offers opportunities across every price point.
How long is the commute?
Pickering offers one of the best commutes in Durham Region. The GO Train to Union Station takes about 30 minutes. Highway 401 access is excellent from most neighbourhoods. Many buyers specifically choose Pickering for its transit connectivity.
What about new development?
Pickering continues to grow with new subdivisions in Duffin Heights and the Seaton area. The city has a well-managed growth plan that balances new development with conservation. We track upcoming projects and can help you navigate pre-construction opportunities.
Which school catchment?
Pickering has multiple school catchments. We verify the specific school assignment for each property directly with the DDSB or DCDSB before making an offer, ensuring you know exactly which schools your children will attend.
Is Pickering good value?
Compared to Toronto and even neighbouring Scarborough, Pickering offers exceptional value for the waterfront, parkland, and schools it provides. It is one of the most accessible Durham communities to Toronto, making it a smart choice for buyers who want a shorter commute.
Questions for Sellers
Selling in Pickering: what to expect
From waterfront homes to family subdivisions, selling in Pickering demands a strategic approach and market knowledge.
What is my waterfront worth?
Pickering waterfront homes command a premium, especially on Frenchman's Bay and Lake Ontario. Value depends on lot size, views, condition, and neighbourhood desirability. We provide a comprehensive market analysis based on recent comparable sales.
How long to sell in Pickering?
Pickering's market moves at a steady pace thanks to its commuter appeal. Well-priced homes in desirable neighbourhoods like Bay Ridges and Woodlands typically sell within 30 to 60 days. Waterfront properties may sell faster in peak season.
Which updates add most value?
Kitchen and bathroom renovations, finished basements, and curb appeal improvements typically deliver the best return in Pickering's family-oriented market. We can advise which updates make sense for your specific home and price point.
What is my home worth right now?
Contact Keith and Lisa for a free, personalized home valuation. We will review recent sales in your neighbourhood and give you a realistic price range with no obligation.
Why Pickering
Reasons people move to Pickering
Every year families, professionals, and waterfront enthusiasts choose Pickering for its unique combination of transit, nature, and community.
Waterfront Living
Lake Ontario shoreline at Frenchman's Bay with marinas, trails, and lake views make Pickering one of the best waterfront communities in the GTA.
Transit & Commuting
A 30-minute GO Train commute to Toronto is the number one reason many buyers choose Pickering. Highway 401 and 407 provide additional flexibility.
Conservation & Parks
Greenwood Conservation Area, Petticoat Creek, and the Waterfront Trail offer exceptional outdoor recreation year-round, minutes from the city.
Top Schools
Pickering's DDSB and DCDSB schools are among the best in Durham Region, with high Fraser Institute ratings and strong community support.
Airport Access
Pickering's position near Highway 407 provides quick access to Pearson International Airport, ideal for frequent travellers.
Strong Community
Pickering has a strong sense of community with active local events, sports leagues, arts programming, and a welcoming small-city atmosphere.
Whether you are drawn by the waterfront, the commute, or the family community, Pickering welcomes you home. Call or email us to start your Pickering journey.
Community Spotlight
Featuring The Big M Drive In
Curated by Keith Williams of Willows Realty Group. Each week we spotlight an independent business that makes Pickering a better place to call home.
A Pickering icon serving nostalgia since 1965
Some businesses become landmarks simply by staying true to what they do for generations. The Big M Drive In has been serving Pickering since 1965, which makes it older than the city itself and one of the last true drive-in style burger joints in Ontario.
The menu is classic and unpretentious: homemade burgers, the Famous Steak on a Kaiser, crispy onion rings, and the kind of simple, satisfying food that people crave. What sets the experience apart is the atmosphere. The retro drive-in styling, the nostalgic vibe, and the sense of stepping back in time make every visit feel like a small event.
The Big M has stayed in the family for decades, and that continuity shows. The staff know their regulars, the recipes have stood the test of time, and the restaurant has become woven into the memory of generations of Pickering families.
Generations of families have made The Big M part of their summer routine, and the restaurant proudly keeps the drive-in tradition alive. It is the kind of place where parents bring their kids to share a taste of their own childhood, which is exactly why it stays a favourite as Pickering grows around it.
Who would love it? Anyone who appreciates real food, real history, and a strong sense of place. For people considering a move to Pickering, a meal at The Big M is a delicious way to understand why residents love their city. Read more in our Pickering community guide, check out other Community Spotlights, or talk to Keith and Lisa about making Pickering your home.
Curated by Keith Williams
Willows Realty Group, local broker and community supporter
The Big M Drive In
Drive-In Restaurant | Pickering
| Address | 711 Krosno Blvd, Pickering, ON L1W 1S1 |
| Rating | |
| Hours | Mon - Sat 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM Sun Closed |
| Phone | (905) 837-9332 |
| Website | thebigm.ca |
| Directions | Open in Google Maps |
Is Your Business the Next Spotlight?
We love featuring local businesses that make Pickering special. If you own or manage a business and would like to be featured, we would love to hear from you.
Request to Be FeaturedFrequently Asked Questions
What is The Big M Drive In known for?
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Proud to spotlight The Big M Drive In in Pickering.
Call today to talk about your next move! Call Lisa or Keith at 905-985-9898.
Ready to explore Pickering?
Whether you are drawn to the waterfront, the commute, or the family communities: we know Pickering inside and out.
Call today to talk about your next move! Call Lisa or Keith at 905-447-5842 or the brokerage at 905-985-9898.
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