How Toronto’s Major Transit Projects Are Driving Neighborhood Real Estate Growth in 2026

Michael John Lau is the Top Realtor in Markham, Ontario, and a trusted real estate expert helping buyers and sellers find their perfect homes. He is known for proven success, strong client dedication, and deep local expertise across Markham and Unionville. Whether you’re comparing Toronto’s urban growth corridors or exploring Unionville Markham real estate, Michael provides clear, data driven guidance to help you make confident decisions.
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Toronto Transit Expansion and Real Estate Values in 2026

Toronto’s major transit projects are reshaping real estate demand across the GTA in 2026. New and expanded transit lines, including the Ontario Line, Eglinton Crosstown LRT, and Scarborough Subway Extension driving increased buyer interest, improving accessibility, and pushing property values higher near stations.

According to TRREB, infrastructure investment remains one of the most reliable drivers of long term housing demand. As congestion worsens and affordability remains a key concern, buyers and investors are prioritizing neighborhoods with faster, more reliable transit access. In many cases, homes located near new transit stations are commanding 5 to 20% price premiums, particularly in areas previously considered undervalued.

For buyers looking to enter the market strategically and investors searching for growth opportunities, understanding these transit driven trends is critical.

Key Transit Projects Driving Growth Across Toronto

Ontario Line: Unlocking East End Potential

The Ontario Line spans approximately 15.6 kilometers, connecting Exhibition Place to the Ontario Science Centre. This line significantly reduces commute times into downtown Toronto, which has already increased demand in neighborhoods such as Riverside, Leslieville, and Junction Triangle.

Formerly industrial areas are being transformed into high demand residential and mixed use communities. Buyers are drawn by improved transit access, while developers target these corridors for long term redevelopment potential.

Eglinton Crosstown LRT: East to West Connectivity Redefined

The Eglinton Crosstown LRT stretches 19 kilometers east to west with 25 stations, revitalizing communities including Mount Dennis, Forest Hill, Leaside, Laird, and Yonge to Eglinton.

This project has had a noticeable impact on condo values and rental demand, particularly in Leaside and along Laird Drive. Properties near stations are seeing stronger leasing activity and price appreciation, with value increases ranging from 5% to 20% depending on proximity and property type.

Scarborough Subway Extension: Long Term Revitalization

The Scarborough Subway Extension adds 7.8 kilometers to Line 2, improving access to Lawrence East, Scarborough Centre, and McCowan. With connections to GO Transit and future LRT lines, this extension is positioning Scarborough Centre as a major urban hub.

For buyers focused on long term appreciation, this area presents compelling opportunities as transit access continues to attract new residents, businesses, and redevelopment projects.

Neighborhood Impacts: Where Buyers Are Moving in 2026

Transit expansion doesn’t just improve commuting; it reshapes entire communities.

• Junction Triangle is emerging as a high demand area due to Ontario Line stations, transitioning from light industrial use to vibrant residential living.

• Leaside and Laird are benefiting from Crosstown access, making them particularly attractive to professionals and investors seeking strong rental performance.

• Weston and Caledonia to Fairbank are gaining momentum through GO expansion and SmartTrack improvements, offering improved commuter access at relatively accessible price points.

These shifts reflect a broader GTA trend: buyers are willing to trade shorter downtown proximity for reliable, fast transit connections.

Transit Project Value Impact Comparison

Investment Outlook: What This Means for Markham Buyers

As Toronto continues to densify, transit oriented communities remain one of the most resilient real estate strategies. This trend also directly impacts Markham real estate, particularly with the Yonge North Subway Extension connecting Steeles Avenue to Richmond Hill.

Markham neighborhoods near Yonge Street and future transit links are benefiting from spillover demand, as buyers seek better value while maintaining connectivity to Toronto’s core. East Markham communities, including Wismer and surrounding areas, are also drawing attention as buyers look for growth potential similar to Toronto’s earlier transit driven cycles.

For anyone planning to buy a home in Markham, understanding how GTA wide infrastructure connects to local neighborhoods is essential, and this is where expert guidance makes a difference.

Work With the Best Realtor in Markham, Ontario

Transit driven growth creates opportunity, but timing and neighborhood selection are everything. Michael John Lau, the Top Real Estate Agent in Markham, helps buyers and sellers navigate these trends with confidence. His deep understanding of Markham, Unionville, and GTA market dynamics ensures clients make informed, future focused decisions.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, now is the time to position yourself ahead of the market.

👉 Speak with the best Realtor in Markham today:
🌐 www.callmikelau.com