Living in Port Union (Centennial), Scarborough: A Waterfront Neighbourhood Guide

Watch the Port Union neighbourhood tour video above, then dive into the details below for a deeper look at life in this lakeside community.

Welcome to Port Union, also known as Centennial Scarborough — a family-friendly, waterfront neighbourhood tucked into the southeast corner of Toronto. Bordered by Kingston Road to the north, Port Union Road to the east, Highland Creek to the west and Lake Ontario to the south, this community blends quiet, residential streets with outstanding access to parks, trails, schools and transit. 

Covering roughly 2.12 square kilometres, Port Union has that rare “small town by the lake” feel while still being firmly inside the City of Toronto.

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Port Union at a Glance

• Alternate name: Centennial Scarborough

• Municipality: City of Toronto, Scarborough district 

• Livability score: Port Union earns an impressive 83/100 on Areavibes, rated exceptional and ranking among the better-performing neighbourhoods in Toronto. 

• Crime & safety: Reported crime rates are significantly lower than the Toronto average, contributing to the area’s family-friendly reputation. 

• Income & demographics: Median household income sits well above the Canadian average, and unemployment is notably lower, reflecting a stable, established community. 

• Average home price (2025): Approximately $1,176,800 (all housing types).

If you’re looking for a neighbourhood that feels calm, safe and well cared for, Port Union consistently scores high on livability metrics and local satisfaction surveys. 

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Homes & Real Estate in Port Union

Housing in Port Union is classic “east-end Toronto suburb” with a lakeside twist.

You’ll find:

• 1950s–1960s detached bungalows and back-splits on mature, tree-lined streets

• Larger two-storey family homes on wider lots

• Custom infill builds dotted throughout the area

• Townhomes closer to the lake, especially in the newer Port Union Village pocket

The neighbourhood is considered affluent, with a very high rate of home ownership — over 90% of residences are owner-occupied. 

If you’re shopping in the $1.1M–$1.3M range (as of late 2025), Port Union often delivers good value for detached homes compared with many central Toronto neighbourhoods, while still offering a straightforward commute downtown.

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Schools: A Big Draw for Families

Port Union is especially popular with families thanks to its well-regarded public schools and walkable catchment areas.

Key neighbourhood schools include:

• Charlottetown Public School (TDSB) – junior school serving local families

• Centennial Road Public School (TDSB) – long-established elementary option with strong community involvement 

• Sir Oliver Mowat Collegiate Institute (TDSB) – a respected high school known for strong academic and technical programs

In addition to these, the area also has Catholic and French-language options such as St. Brendan Catholic School and École élémentaire catholique Saint-Michel, giving families multiple pathways from kindergarten through high school. 

Areavibes notes that overall school test scores in Port Union are above the national average, reinforcing the neighbourhood’s reputation as a solid choice for education-focused buyers. 

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Parks, Trails and Outdoor Lifestyle

Life in Port Union is very much built around the outdoors. Even if the video focuses on a few key parks, the wider area has a surprisingly rich network of green spaces.

Adams Park

Located toward the north end of the neighbourhood, Adams Park is one of Port Union’s largest and most popular parks. It offers:

• Athletic fields and baseball diamonds

• A sizeable toboggan hill in winter 

• Multiple playgrounds

• Covered picnic areas and washrooms

• A splash pad / wading pool for hot summer days

It’s a true “all-ages” park and a go-to spot for local families, outdoor birthday parties, and weekend sports.

Bill Hancox Park

Bill Hancox Park adds more green space and play areas to the mix, with:

• Soccer fields and open grassy areas

• Playgrounds for younger kids

• Walking paths that tie into surrounding residential streets

It’s a quieter alternative to Adams Park and a great option if you’re looking for a local field or playground that’s still close to home.

Charlottetown Park & the Community Hub

Behind the Port Union Community Centre and Library, you’ll find a vibrant outdoor hub:

• A popular skatepark

• A full basketball court

• Charlottetown Park, which adds kids’ playgrounds, swings and tennis courts

This cluster of amenities makes the community centre one of the busiest and most active corners of the neighbourhood, especially after school and on weekends.

Port Union Village Common & the Waterfront Trail

Right along the shores of Lake Ontario, Port Union Village Common is the neighbourhood’s signature waterfront park. Here you’ll find:

• A splash pad

• Children’s playground

• Washrooms and plenty of parking

• Direct access to roughly 4 km of the Waterfront Trail, which then connects to the larger multi-city trail network 

Port Union Village Common also acts as a recreational hub, linking to East Point Park and Rouge Beach via pedestrian tunnels and lakeside trails. Whether you’re biking, walking the dog, or just enjoying a lakeside picnic, this is where the community comes to unwind.

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Rouge National Urban Park: Nature on Your Doorstep

One of the biggest bonuses of living in Port Union is how close you are to Rouge National Urban Park — Canada’s first national urban park and one of the largest urban protected areas in North America, stretching over 79 square kilometres from Lake Ontario up to the Oak Ridges Moraine. 

A short drive or bike ride from Port Union gives you access to:

• Scenic hiking trails through forests and river valleys

• Opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing

• Paddling on sections of the Rouge River

• Seasonal programs and guided activities run by Parks Canada 

For outdoor enthusiasts, it’s hard to beat having both the Waterfront Trail and a national urban park within such easy reach.

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Shopping, Dining & Everyday Conveniences

Port Union doesn’t have huge malls within its borders, but it offers just enough local retail to handle daily needs — with larger shopping centres only a short drive away.

Centennial Plaza

At Port Union Road and Lawrence Avenue East, Centennial Plaza is a busy, community-focused hub filled with:

• A café and several take-out and dine-in options

• LCBO and Beer Store

• Medical and dental offices

• Pharmacy, professional services and independent shops 

It’s walkable for many residents and acts as a natural “meeting point” for the neighbourhood.

Lawson Plaza

At the north end of Port Union, Lawson Plaza is a smaller convenience centre with:

• A gas station

• Convenience store

• Dental clinic and health services

• Fish & chips, nail salon and a Montessori school, among other small businesses 

Between these plazas and nearby centres in West Rouge and Highland Creek, most everyday needs are easy to cover without a long drive.

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Transit & Commuting: Rouge Hill GO

Port Union is particularly appealing for commuters thanks to Rouge Hill GO Station, located at the southern edge of the community.

• Rouge Hill sits on GO Transit’s Lakeshore East line.

• Direct trains to Union Station run roughly every 30 minutes, with typical travel times around 38 minutes to downtown Toronto. 

Coupled with nearby access to Highway 401, this makes Port Union a strong option for buyers who want more space, parks and quiet streets without giving up a reasonable commute.

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Is Port Union the Right Neighbourhood for You?

If you’re looking for:

• A family-friendly neighbourhood with strong schools

• A mix of mid-century homes, newer builds and lakeside townhomes

• Quick access to Lake Ontario, the Waterfront Trail and Rouge National Urban Park

• A manageable GO train commute into downtown Toronto

• And a community that consistently scores high on livability and safety

…then Port Union (Centennial) is absolutely worth a closer look.

With an average home price around $1,176,800 and a strong base of long-term owners, this is a neighbourhood that feels stable, established and loved by the people who live there.

Thinking About Moving to Port Union?

If the video and this guide have you picturing life in this lakeside community, I’d love to help you take the next step.

Ready to explore homes in Port Union?

Visit soldwithanna.com to start your journey — and let’s find your next home, right here in Port Union, Scarborough.

Living in Bay Ridges, Pickering: A Waterfront Neighbourhood Guide

Nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario and Frenchman’s Bay, Bay Ridges is one of Pickering’s original waterfront neighbourhoods. It combines marina views, beaches, and trails with easy access to shopping, schools, and transit — all within roughly 3.6–3.8 square kilometres. 

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Watch the Bay Ridges neighbourhood tour video above, then explore the details below for a deeper look at life in this lakeside community.

Bordered by Frenchman’s Bay to the west, Lake Ontario to the south, Highway 401 to the north, and a hydro corridor to the east, Bay Ridges feels like a self-contained waterfront village, yet it’s still firmly connected to the rest of the GTA. 

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Bay Ridges at a Glance

• City: Pickering, Ontario (Durham Region) 

• Livability score: Bay Ridges earns 83/100 on AreaVibes — rated exceptional and ranking among the better-performing neighbourhoods in Pickering. 

• Population: Approximately 8,200 residents 

• Area: About 3.6–3.8 km², including the eastern portion of Frenchman’s Bay 

• Crime & safety: Crime rates are about 27% lower than the Canadian average, with violent crime roughly 24% lower, contributing to a generally safe, family-friendly feel. 

• Cost of living: Estimated 15% lower than the Pickering average and 5% lower than the national average, which is unusual for a GTA waterfront community. 

Bay Ridges often appeals to buyers who want waterfront lifestyle, a walkable village feel, and a manageable commute into Toronto.

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Bay Ridges Homes & Real Estate

According to local neighbourhood stats, Bay Ridges offers a mix of home types: 

• Single-detached houses: ~39%

• Semis & duplexes: ~21% combined

• Row / townhomes: ~15%

• Low- and high-rise condos: ~23% total

Most of the area was developed after 1960, with over half of the housing stock built between 1961 and 1980, and newer infill and condo projects sprinkled in afterward. 

You’ll see:

• Classic 1960s–70s detached homes and semis on mature, tree-lined streets

• Townhomes and condos near the lake and around the GO station

• Nautical-themed homes and newer low- to mid-rise buildings in and around Nautical Village and San Francisco by the Bay developments 

Overall Pickering’s median sale price sits around the mid–$800,000s (late 2025), with Bay Ridges typically trading in a similar or slightly higher range due to its waterfront location and proximity to GO transit. 

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Schools in Bay Ridges

Key nearby schools include: 

• Bayview Heights Public School – public elementary school

• Biidassige Mandamin Public School – French immersion public school option

• Other public schools serving parts of Bay Ridges: Fairport Beach PS, Pine Ridge Secondary School, Dunbarton High School

• Catholic & French Catholic options such as Father Fénelon Catholic School, St. Mary Catholic Secondary, and regional French Catholic schools

Serving the Bay Ridges neighbourhood area, there are:

• 7 public schools

• 4 Catholic schools

• 1 private school, including a local Montessori option 

Special programs in the broader catchment area include French Immersion, Advanced Placement, IB, Montessori, and Fine Arts, giving families lots of choice beyond the basic neighbourhood offerings. 

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Parks, Waterfront & Outdoor Lifestyle

The neighbourhood is rich with parks and recreational facilities:

• 10 parks and roughly 45 recreation facilities in total

• Amenities include playgrounds, tennis and basketball courts, ball diamonds, sports fields, a splash pad, a beach, boating facilities, fishing spots, and trails 

Signature outdoor spots include:

Beachfront Park

• A sandy beach, splash pad, and lakeside picnic areas

• Access to paddleboarding, kayaking, and boating on Frenchman’s Bay

• Marina and yacht club facilities nearby 

Nautical Village & Millennium Square

At the south end of Liverpool Road, Nautical Village is the heart of the waterfront:

• Millennium Square, with its open plaza and lake views

• Seasonal events, concerts, and festivals in the warmer months

• Ice cream shops, cafés, patios, and boutique-style businesses along Liverpool Road 

It’s an easy place to spend an evening: ice cream in hand, strolling along the pier, or listening to live music by the water.

Waterfront Trail & Local Parks

Bay Ridges sits on a segment of the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, offering a continuous route for walking, running, and cycling that connects west toward Toronto and east through Durham Region. 

Neighbourhood parks add even more options, with:

• Sports fields and ball diamonds for organized sports

• Playgrounds and splash pad for younger kids

• A mix of ravine trails (like Douglas Ravine) and open green spaces for everyday walks 

For many residents, “life in Bay Ridges” really does revolve around the water, trails, and parks.

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Shopping, Dining & Local Amenities

Bay Ridges Plaza & Local Plazas

Bay Ridges Plaza, located near Liverpool Road on Bayly Street, has long been a community hub with: 

• Everyday services and shops

• Restaurants and takeout spots

• The famous old-fashioned hamburger drive-up, a local tradition since the 20th century

The broader Bay Ridges area also benefits from nearby retail along Bayly Street and just north of Highway 401, where you’ll find larger-format shopping, groceries, and services a short drive away.

Nautical Village Retail & Dining

Down by the water, Nautical Village offers a more boutique, walkable experience: 

• Cafés, bakeries and ice cream shops

• Waterside patios and restaurants

• Small independent retailers and service businesses

It’s not a big-box shopping district — it’s more of a charming main street by the lake, which is a big part of Bay Ridges’ appeal.

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Transit & Commuting: Pickering GO Station

Pickering GO Station is a major Lakeshore East line hub located just north of Bay Ridges, and it’s one of the neighbourhood’s biggest advantages.

• Direct GO train service to Union Station runs frequently throughout the day

• Typical travel times range from about 35–45 minutes, depending on the specific train and time of day 

For many Bay Ridges residents, that means:

• Walk, bike, drive, or bus to Pickering GO

• Avoid the stress of driving downtown

• Still enjoy waterfront living and suburban calm at home

Easy access to Highway 401, Bayly Street, and regional transit (Durham Region Transit) makes commuting within Durham and across the GTA relatively straightforward as well. 

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Is Bay Ridges the Right Neighbourhood for You?

Bay Ridges might be a great fit if you’re looking for:

• A true waterfront community with marinas, beaches, and lakeside trails

• A mix of detached homes, semis, townhomes, and condos

• An established neighbourhood with mature trees and parks

• Close proximity to Pickering GO Station for commuting

• A lively Nautical Village with dining, events, and a village-like atmosphere

• Livability metrics that rank among the stronger neighbourhoods in Pickering (score of 83/100). 

Whether you’re starting out, upsizing, or downsizing to a more walkable, lifestyle-focused area, Bay Ridges offers a lot of flexibility — especially if you love being near the water.

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Ready to Make Bay Ridges Your Home?

If the video and this guide have you imagining morning walks on the Waterfront Trail or summer evenings in Nautical Village, it might be time to take a closer look at Bay Ridges real estate.

Ready to make Bay Ridges your home?

Visit soldwithanna.com to start your journey — and together, let’s find your perfect slice of waterfront paradise right here in Pickering.

Spacious Living in Sought-After Northwest Ajax

🏡 Welcome to 14 Clapperton Drive –  If you’re looking for a home that balances space, comfort, and a family-friendly neighbourhood, 14 Clapperton Drive checks all the boxes. Situated in one of Northwest Ajax’s most desirable communities, this 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom detached home offers over 3,050 square feet of beautifully designed living space. 

Whether you're a growing family, a multigenerational household, or simply need more room to spread out, this home delivers functionality and flow from top to bottom. 

🛋️ Thoughtfully Designed for Everyday Living From the moment you step into the bright, open-to-above foyer, you’re greeted by a sense of space and light that continues throughout the home. The main floor features two separate family rooms, offering flexibility for both formal and casual living areas. 

💻 Working from home? You’ll appreciate the dedicated main floor office, tucked away for privacy and focus. A well-appointed laundry room with garage access adds convenience to daily life, and the spacious layout ensures that every member of the family has room to relax, work, and connect. 

🍽️ Room to Entertain and Gather Whether you're hosting friends for dinner or enjoying a quiet night in, the open-concept main floor is perfect for entertaining. Multiple living spaces, generous dining areas, and a functional kitchen layout offer plenty of room for conversation and connection. Upstairs, you’ll find four generously sized bedrooms, including a primary suite with ensuite bath and walk-in closet, making this home as restful as it is practical. 

🌳 The Neighbourhood: Northwest Ajax Located in a quiet, family-oriented enclave, 14 Clapperton Drive is close to everything that makes Ajax a top choice for homeowners: 

🏫 Great Schools – Minutes from top-rated public and Catholic schools 

🛝 Parks & Green Spaces – Surrounded by local parks, walking trails, and community playgrounds 

🛍️ Everyday Essentials – Close to shopping plazas, grocery stores, and local amenities 

🚍 Easy Transit Access – Just a short drive to Hwy 401, Hwy 407, and the Ajax GO Station, making commuting a breeze Northwest Ajax is known for its tight-knit community feel, quiet streets, and access to nature—a perfect setting for families looking to plant roots and enjoy a balanced lifestyle.

Discover West Rouge: Toronto’s Hidden Gem in the East End

If you’re searching for a neighbourhood that blends nature, community spirit, and everyday convenience, West Rouge might just be the perfect place to call home. Tucked away in Toronto’s east end, this quiet waterfront community offers a rare mix of peaceful residential streets, top-rated schools, and direct access to some of the most beautiful natural spaces in the city.

Lovingly Maintained & Move-In Ready In Amberlea

Welcome to 1936 Rosebank Road! 

Discover this charming 2+1 bedroom raised bungalow in Pickering's highly sought-after Amberlea neighbourhood lovingly maintained by its original owner. This home offers the perfect balance of comfort, style, and functionality.

Step inside to a bright, open-concept living and dining area featuring hardwood floors, crown moulding, and soaring 9-ft ceilings. 

The kitchen is a true delight with granite countertops, a gas stove, under-cabinet lighting, an eat-in breakfast nook, and ample cabinetry for all your storage needs.

The primary suite boasts a walk-in closet and a 4-piece ensuite bathroom, while the second bedroom and an additional full bathroom complete the main level.

Downstairs, the finished basement offers a spacious recreation room with a cozy gas fireplace, a third bedroom, and another full 4-piece bathroom perfect for guests, teens, or extended family. 

Step outside to your fully fenced backyard, complete with a covered deck, ideal for relaxing or entertaining. 

The double garage and interlock walkway enhance curb appeal, while the driveway offers parking for two more vehicles. 

Enjoy the unbeatable location walking distance to top-rated schools, parks, Altona Forest walking trails, shopping, restaurants, and public transit, with quick access to Hwy 401 & 407 for an easy commute.

Move-In-Ready Home In Oshawa's O'Neill Neighbourhood

Welcome to 111 Oakes Ave in Oshawa's O’Neill neighbourhood!

 

This stylish, move-in-ready home features a renovated maple kitchen with island, open-concept living/dining with hardwood floors, and convenient main floor laundry. 

The basement offers a side entrance, second kitchen, 3pc bath, and third bedroom—ideal for in-law potential.

Upstairs boasts two spacious bedrooms and an updated 4pc bath. Enjoy a private backyard oasis with a large deck, garden, and fenced yard.

Located in a family-friendly neighbourhood near parks, schools, shopping, and transit—this gem won’t last! 

Prime North York Living In This Mid-Town Gem!

Welcome to 238 Doris Avenue #109

This stunning, fully renovated 2-bedroom, 2-bath ground floor suite offers the perfect blend of style, comfort, and convenience—complete with a private entrance from a large, fully fenced terrace. 

Designed for down-sizers or anyone seeking effortless, low-maintenance living, this condo truly feels like a model home.

Inside, you’ll find engineered hardwood flooring throughout, a modern kitchen with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances (2020), custom built-in closets, and a Bosch ventless washer & dryer (2020). 

The oversized kitchen island is enhanced with a sleek fan hood, while remote-controlled sheer blinds add a touch of sophistication to every room. The primary bedroom features a spacious walk-in closet and a private 4-piece ensuite. Thoughtful custom storage solutions are found throughout the unit.

Includes one underground parking spot and exclusive use of a storage locker. Enjoy unbeatable walkability just steps to North York Centre, TTC subway, Earl Haig Secondary, McKee Public School, restaurants, shopping, Loblaws, Metro, and more.

 Quick access to Hwy 401 & 407, top hospitals, and all urban essentials. Located in a well-managed, recently updated building, this is a rare opportunity to enjoy elegant city living in a warm, welcoming community.