Buyer’s Guide to Emerging Neighbourhoods in Toronto and Vancouver

Neighbourhood location is the first thing that comes to mind when planning your next move, and for good reason. For homebuyers in the Greater Toronto and Greater Vancouver areas, the search often begins with homes in popular neighbourhoods. While these areas have strong appeal, they also have a higher price tag. But not every great neighbourhood starts on everyone’s radar, and that’s where an experienced REMAX agent comes in, helping buyers spot these up-and-coming neighbourhoods ahead of the curve.

Plenty of emerging neighbourhoods are now gaining momentum. Fortunately, for those planning to buy a home with their sights set on an affordable price, a convenient location and less competition, a great time to move into a community is before it achieves “hot spot” status. Several neighbourhoods in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and the Greater Vancouver Area (GVA) fall into this category and could be your “next neighbourhood.” Backed by insights from REMAX Canada’s 2025 Next Neighbourhoods Report, we’ve outlined some key trends homebuyers should look for when exploring areas across the GTA and GVA.

Population Growth Is a Sign of What’s Coming

Population growth can be a clear indicator that a neighbourhood is on the rise. Greater Toronto and Greater Vancouver are each experiencing population growth of up to three percent annually (well above the average growth rate of one per cent), which is prompting significant investment in infrastructure across what have previously been undervalued neighbourhoods, both in the urban core and the suburbs.

So, what does this mean for buyers? Infrastructure developments like new transit are often accompanied by new residential development, reflecting increased housing demand. That’s why up-and-coming neighbourhoods often present the best long-term value. For homebuyers in the GTA, a standout example is Seaton in Pickering, which is set to house over 61,000 residents, with projected growth to 70,000, according to the City of Pickering. If you’re curious about what’s available in this growing community, explore listings in Seaton now.

Another up-and-comer is Scarborough, which remains one of the most undervalued areas in the region because of outdated misconceptions about the neighbourhood’s safety. However, it is safe and offers diversity in the housing stock.

New Homes, New Opportunities

For buyers looking to get into a neighbourhood early, when deals can still be found, planned and active housing development indicates a rising neighbourhood. New energy and improved affordability in a community often begin with master-planned developments and infill projects. Increasing residential construction often indicates that that a neighbourhood is gaining momentum and is worth paying attention to.

Governments at all levels are making residential investments to combat the housing shortage. These initiatives are introducing thousands of new homes to the market and in previously overlooked areas, they are creating opportunities for buyers seeking value and long-term growth. The Government of Canada and the City of Toronto’s collaborative effort to fast-track housing construction across key areas is a good example.

“Rapid development of construction has improved affordability in Scarborough communities. The average price of a Leaside/Don Mills home — a neighbourhood that’s seeing thousands of units coming onto the market — costs a lot more than Clairlea-Birchmount, easily upwards of $300,000,” says Cameron Forbes, RE/MAX Realtron Realty Inc.

Transit Brings Growth to a Community

Another signal that a neighbourhood might be the next “hot spot” is transit. Transit expansion it often means more housing, more business, and more opportunities are on the way. Why does transit equal growth? It can be a sign that a neighbourhood is being prioritized for future development. Don’t be afraid to move into an area where transit construction is underway, as homes located near public transit tend to see stronger demand and long-term value, especially as commuting becomes a key priority for more homebuyers.

Transit improves commuter connectivity and gives people better access to the downtown core, making an area more livable and desirable. For example, SkyTrain extensions in the Greater Vancouver Area are driving development in Surrey and Coquitlam.

“As populations grow, especially in places like Surrey, which is adding about 2,000 residents each month, transit is essential for long-term sustainability,” says Don Kottick, President of REMAX Canada. “These short-term growing pains will ultimately strengthen communities by supporting shorter commutes and creating more time to connect within neighbourhoods.”

Transit also plays a significant role in boosting the local economy and lifestyle. With more transit in a neighbourhood, foot traffic improves, and demand for local amenities increases. Small businesses — cafés, shops, and services near stations — start to pop up, adding vibrancy and walkability to emerging communities.

Affordability Still Exists—You Have to Look for Hidden Gems

Even when a community grows and gains popularity, finding affordability is still possible — if you know where to look. Hidden gems across the GTA and GVA offer below-average pricing compared to surrounding areas. These neighbourhoods, like Scarborough in the GTA and Bridgeport in the GVA, are often overlooked due to outdated perceptions. Scarborough is safe, well-connected, and full of community assets. Meanwhile, Bridgeport homes average $300K less than nearby Steveston, while offering the same access benefits.

If you’re asking yourself what makes a hidden gem, here are a few things to watch for:

• Walkable communities with transit access
• Diverse housing stock (older homes, newer condos, family-friendly layouts)
• Access to local businesses, schools, parks, and cultural hubs
• Early signs of revitalization (infrastructure improvements, new developments)

Hidden gems often carry substantial long-term value — especially when new transit or housing projects are underway. These neighbourhoods may not be on everyone’s list, but if buyers are willing to look beyond the usual hotspots, there’s still a lot of opportunity to be found.

Ready to start your home search in an emerging neighbourhood? Contact a REMAX agent who knows the area inside and out.