Ajax Neighborhood Guide: Top Schools, Amenities, and Commuting to Toronto

Education: Top-Tier Schooling

Ajax is served by the Durham District School Board (DDSB) and the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB), offering diverse pathways including French Immersion and Advanced Placement (AP).

• High Schools: Pickering High School is widely recognized for its academic excellence and specialized programming. Notre Dame Catholic Secondary also ranks highly for both its curriculum and community involvement.

• Elementary Schools: Families often flock to the catchment areas of Vimy Ridge Public School (North Ajax) and St. Teresa of Calcutta, both of which consistently perform well in EQAO testing and Fraser Institute rankings.

Amenities: The Best of Lifestyle & Leisure

Ajax offers a unique "Lakeside Suburban" feel that is rare in the GTA.

• The Waterfront: Spanning 7km, the Ajax Waterfront Park is the town’s crown jewel, featuring paved trails, the popular Rotary Park (with its splash pad and beach access), and scenic views of Lake Ontario.

• Recreation: The Audley Recreation Centre is a modern hub featuring a state-of-the-art library, skate park, and swimming pools. For shopping, the RioCan Durham Centre provides nearly 1 million square feet of retail, including major big-box stores and diverse dining options.

• Culture: The St. Francis Centre offers a boutique venue for arts and performances, while Historic Pickering Village (located in Ajax) provides a charming, walkable area with local boutiques and cafes.

Commuting: The Gateway to Toronto

Ajax is one of the most transit-friendly municipalities in the Durham Region, making it a top choice for those working in downtown Toronto.

• GO Transit: The Ajax GO Station is a major transit hub on the Lakeshore East line. Commuters can reach Union Station in approximately 45–50 minutes, with trains running every 15–30 minutes during peak hours.

• Highway Access: Centrally located on the Highway 401 corridor, Ajax offers direct access to the city and the Highway 412/407 connector, providing flexible routes for drivers heading west to Toronto or east toward Kingston.