6 great places to live in the Toronto area

Life in Toronto and the large surrounding towns can be very busy and congested. But if you’re dreaming of a life that blends peaceful countryside living with easy access to the city, you might want to look beyond the usual suburbs. There are small towns and hamlets northeast of Toronto that are some of the GTA’s best-kept secrets. Mount Albert, Udora, Pefferlaw, Zephyr, Leaskdale, and Greenbank are very nice places to live in the Toronto area. Here are several important reasons why you should consider moving there.

Gorgeous commutes and scenic drives.
One of the first things you will notice when living in these areas is how beautiful your daily drive can be. Forget bumper-to-bumper traffic on major highways. Here, your commute might take you along winding country roads past rolling hills, forests, and open fields. Whether you are heading into Toronto or a nearby town like Newmarket, Uxbridge, or Oshawa, there are multiple routes to choose from, each with its own scenic charm. Sunrises and sunsets over the farmland are a daily treat.

Surrounded by nature and wildlife.
These towns are nestled in some of the most picturesque parts of southern Ontario. You will find yourself surrounded by forests, rivers, and conservation areas. It’s not unusual to spot deer, foxes, wild turkeys, or even bears on your way home. If you love hiking, biking, or simply being outdoors, you will have endless trails and parks to explore.

Real country living with farms all around.
There’s something special about living in a place where you can buy fresh eggs or vegetables right from your neighbor’s farm stand. These communities are dotted with family farms, horse stables, and orchards. In the fall, you can pick your own apples or pumpkins. In the spring, you will see fields of wildflowers and newborn calves. It’s a lifestyle that feels a world away from the city, yet you’re still close enough for a quick trip to the mall, a concert, Pearson Airport, or just a night out in the city.

Peaceful, tight-knit communities.
Small-town living means you actually know your neighbors. There’s always something happening to bring people together. Kids can play outside safely, and there’s a real sense of looking out for one another. These places are underrated and often a bit more affordable.

While everyone else is fighting over homes in the big suburbs, these towns offer more space, privacy, and better value for your money. They’re often overlooked simply because they’re a bit further out, but that’s exactly what makes them so appealing. You truly get the best of both worlds: peace and quiet at home, and easy access to the city when you need it.

Access to Toronto and beyond.
Despite their rural feel, these towns are surprisingly well connected. You can reach Toronto, Markham, Newmarket, or Oshawa by car in under an hour, traffic willing, and there are GO stations and highways nearby for longer commutes. Plus, the drive itself is a pleasure. No concrete jungle—just open skies and green fields.

Here’s a more detailed look at each of these wonderful communities, highlighting what makes them special and why they are underrated gems near Toronto.

Mount Albert is a friendly village in East Gwillimbury with about 5,700 residents. It has a small-town feel, active community groups, and a revitalized downtown with new businesses and services. It sits on the edge of the Oak Ridges Moraine, where you’ll find rolling hills, forests, and waterways—perfect for hiking, cycling, and spotting local wildlife. The town is surrounded by farms and agricultural land, offering fresh local produce and seasonal farm events. It is well connected by York Region’s Viva Rapid Transit and close to Highway 404, making it easy to reach Toronto or other major towns.

Udora is a small, close-knit rural community situated between the York and Durham regions, with the community hall serving as its social hub. The Pefferlaw River flows through the area, providing opportunities for kayaking and fishing. Wildlife is abundant, including deer and various bird species. Surrounded by farmland, Udora honors its agricultural heritage through local events and markets. It is located approximately 80 km north of Toronto near Highways 48 and 12.

Pefferlaw is a peaceful spot in Georgina, on the edge of York Region just south of Lake Simcoe. It has a high livability index, with amenities such as restaurants, convenience stores, a library, a community center, and more. The area is surrounded by forests and the Pefferlaw River, with the Pefferlaw Dam Conservation Area nearby for wildlife watching and outdoor activities. It’s close to Highway 48 and the proposed Highway 404 extension, making travel to Toronto and other regions easier.

Zephyr is a tranquil village in Uxbridge Township, known for its friendly vibe and community events at the Zephyr Community Centre. The area is surrounded by rolling hills, wildflower meadows, and scenic trails, perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. It’s located about an hour’s drive from Toronto, with peaceful country roads and beautiful views along the way.

Leaskdale is renowned as the home of Lucy Maud Montgomery, the beloved Canadian author. This rural community boasts a rich historical heritage. The Leaskdale Manse National Historic Site and Museum is a key attraction, surrounded by farmland. The area is near the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail, offering many peaceful walking paths and bird-watching opportunities. Real estate here includes historic homes and farms, ideal for hobby farming or equestrian activities. Located about an hour from Toronto, Leaskdale provides convenient access to Uxbridge for shopping and services.

Greenbank is a small, peaceful community in Scugog Township, home to approximately 584 residents. Most amenities are available in nearby Port Perry, just 10 km away. The area is surrounded by rolling farmlands, forests, and wetlands, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife watchers. Dotted with farms, Greenbank offers fresh local goods and a genuine rural atmosphere. It’s roughly an hour’s drive from Toronto and about 30 minutes from Oshawa, making it an ideal home base for commuters seeking tranquility.

Each of these communities offers a unique blend of rural charm, natural beauty, and a welcoming atmosphere, along with surprisingly good access to Toronto and other major towns. If you’re looking for a peaceful lifestyle with rolling hills, wildlife, and a real sense of community, these underrated hamlets are hard to beat.