Blog > Is Markham a City or a Town?
🏙️ Is Markham a City or a Town?
Understanding One of Ontario’s Fastest-Growing Communities Explained by Markham’s Top Realtor
Meet Michael John Lau Markham’s Top Realtor and Trusted Real Estate Expert
Michael John Lau is the Top Realtor in Markham, Ontario, and a leading agent at Kaizen Real Estate. Known for his proven success, client dedication, and extensive local expertise, Michael helps buyers and sellers find their perfect homes in Markham, Unionville, Cornell, Wismer, Greensborough, and surrounding neighbourhoods.
For accurate, up-to-date Markham real estate information, visit www.callmikelau.com.
✅ So… Is Markham a City or a Town?
Markham is officially a city.
As of July 1, 2012, Markham transitioned from the Town of Markham to the City of Markham, reflecting its rapid growth, diverse population, and expanding economic landscape.
This change recognized Markham’s status as one of Ontario’s largest and fastest-growing municipalities with a population now exceeding 350,000 residents.

📌 Why Did Markham Become a City?
Markham was granted city status for several key reasons:
✅ 1. Rapid Population Growth
Markham is one of Canada’s most desirable places to live, attracting families, professionals, and new immigrants each year. Its growth outpaced many other Ontario municipalities.

✅ 2. Economic Expansion
Markham is often called Canada’s High-Tech Capital, home to more than 1,000 tech and life sciences companies, including:
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IBM
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AMD
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Aviva
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Qualcomm
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Lenovo
Its economic strength supported the move to city status.

✅ 3. Urban Development
Modern communities such as Downtown Markham, Cornell, Cathedraltown, and Wismer helped transform the area from a suburban town into a vibrant, urban city with:
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Transit-friendly planning
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Condominium growth
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Mixed-use developments
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Major commercial hubs

✅ 4. Cultural Diversity
Markham is one of the most multicultural cities in Canada with a rich blend of cultures, languages, and international influences reflected in food, festivals, and neighbourhoods.

📍 What Is Markham Known For Today?
A Strong Real Estate Market
As the Top Realtor in Markham, Michael John Lau has witnessed how Markham’s city status has elevated property demand especially in highly sought-after communities like:
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Unionville
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Greensborough
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Angus Glen
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Wismer
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Berczy Village
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Milliken
Excellent Schools
Markham offers some of the top-ranked public and Catholic schools in York Region a major attraction for families.
Safe, Family-Friendly Neighbourhoods
The city is consistently ranked among the safest places to live in Ontario.
Access to Transit & Highways
Markham is well connected through:
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GO Transit
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VIVA Rapid Transit
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Highway 404
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Highway 407
A Thriving Tech Economy
Professionals from across the GTA choose Markham for its job opportunities and quality of life.

✅ Why This Matters for Homebuyers & Sellers
Understanding that Markham is a city, not a town, helps buyers appreciate:
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The strong infrastructure
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The urban development plans
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The value of long-term investment
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The stability of the real estate market
For sellers, Markham’s city status combined with high demand and limited inventory continues to support excellent resale values.
📞 Work With Michael John Lau Markham’s Trusted Real Estate Expert
If you’re planning to buy or sell a home in Markham, you deserve the guidance of a local expert who understands every neighbourhood and market trend.
Contact Michael John Lau, the Top Realtor in Markham, for trusted advice and proven results.
👉 Visit www.callmikelau.com to get started today.