How Immigration Is Changing GTA Real Estate in 2025
Immigration is Rewiring Where People Buy Homes
Immigration is reshaping where homes are being bought in the Greater Toronto Area. Over 485,000 newcomers entered Canada in 2024, according to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). A large portion settled in the GTA, making it the top destination for new Canadians.
But the GTA real estate story is no longer about downtown condos.
It’s about families moving into suburban homes in places like Brampton, Milton, and Durham.
They’re prioritizing space, schools, and security — not skyscrapers.
Why People Are Moving to the GTA
1. Jobs and Opportunity
The GTA remains Canada’s economic engine. Toronto alone adds thousands of jobs yearly across tech, finance, healthcare, and trades. According to Toronto Global, the region is home to over 800,000 businesses and accounts for 20% of Canada’s GDP.
2. Public Schools
Strong education systems drive real estate choices. In communities like Milton and Durham, new school builds and top-rated programs are attracting families. Fraser Institute’s school rankings confirm rising test scores in these suburbs.
3. Cultural Connection
New Canadians often settle where they find community. That’s not always downtown. Suburbs now feature mosques, temples, cultural centres, and supermarkets that reflect the needs of growing communities.
These areas aren’t temporary stops — they’re destinations.
Where Immigration Is Reshaping GTA Real Estate
Brampton
Known for its large South Asian population, Brampton is now a centre for multigenerational housing. Builders are designing larger detached homes and duplexes to meet cultural preferences. The city’s population is expected to hit 900,000 by 2031, according to Brampton.ca.
Milton
One of the fastest-growing municipalities in Canada. Milton’s population has more than doubled since 2006. With new GO train access, strong French immersion schools, and a focus on green space, it’s a magnet for young families.
Durham Region
Oshawa, Ajax, and Whitby are no longer commuter towns. Newcomers are turning these areas into self-sustaining hubs. Durham saw over 20,000 new residents in 2023 alone. Real estate prices remain lower than Toronto — yet access to transit and amenities is growing.
How Builders Are Responding
Developers are shifting designs in response to demand for GTA real estate.
You’re seeing more:
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Townhomes with separate rental suites
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Detached homes with up to six bedrooms
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Mixed-use developments near transit hubs
According to the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD), 2024 saw a 12% rise in larger-format housing starts across the GTA.
Builders are watching immigration numbers closely — and adjusting fast.
What It Means for Buyers and Sellers
For Buyers
You’re not competing for the same downtown condo anymore. You’re competing for a 4-bedroom home in a school district with high EQAO scores.
This shift means:
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You need to look beyond Toronto’s core
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You should act early in growth regions
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You must understand zoning, schools, and local demand
For Sellers
If you own property in Brampton, Milton, or Durham — you’re in demand.
Immigrant families are bringing stable income, multi-generational buying power, and strong motivation. Pricing your home right and presenting it well can lead to fast, competitive offers.
The Future of GTA Real Estate Is Suburban and Multicultural
Immigration isn’t temporary. Canada’s targets remain high through 2026. That means the GTA real estate market will keep evolving.
Look at where schools are being built.
Watch where transit is expanding.
Follow where communities are thriving in GTA real estate.
That’s where value is moving next.
For expert insights on home value, market trends, selling strategies, staging advice, negotiating tips and real estate videos, visit LifestyleVideos.com to browse properties, real estate videos, neighbourhoods insights, real estate market trends, and connect with local agents.
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