For families looking to escape the intensity of Toronto without giving up convenience, education, or community, Durham Region and Northumberland County are leading the way in 2025.
Whether you're a young family buying your first home or you're relocating for more space and a better lifestyle, these towns and neighborhoods offer the perfect mix of safety, schools, nature, and long-term value.
At Team Prata Real Estate, we’ve helped hundreds of families make the move east and these are the neighborhoods we consistently recommend.
Best Family-Friendly Neighborhoods in Durham Region
1. Brooklin (Whitby)
Why families love it: Top-rated schools, new parks, and a small-town feel with big-city access
Highlights: Modern homes, walkable plazas, and quick 407/412 access
Perfect for: Commuting families and young professionals with kids
2. North Oshawa (Windfields / Taunton)
Why families love it: Affordable detached homes, nearby schools, and brand-new infrastructure
Highlights: Costco, Durham College, and growing retail options
Perfect for: Growing families who want space and value
3. Courtice
Why families love it: Quiet streets, great schools, and a true community feel
Highlights: New parks, family events, and great access to Highway 401
Perfect for: Families moving from the GTA who want more house for their money
4. Bowmanville
Why families love it: Mix of new and mature neighbourhoods with sports fields, libraries, and trails
Highlights: Family-focused developments and a strong sense of community
Perfect for: Active families, sports-loving kids, and those seeking a safe small-town vibe
Best Family-Friendly Neighborhoods in Northumberland County
1. Cobourg – West End & East Village
Why families love it: Beach life, great schools, and a walkable downtown
Highlights: Victoria Park Beach, local events, and safe residential pockets
Perfect for: Families wanting charm, safety, and nature without sacrificing amenities
2. Port Hope – Penryn Village & Downtown Core
Why families love it: Heritage charm, top schools, and a slower pace of life
Highlights: Beautiful older homes and access to VIA Rail for commuters
Perfect for: Families who value culture, walkability, and character
3. Brighton
Why families love it: Affordable homes, friendly people, and great outdoor recreation
Highlights: Presqu’ile Provincial Park, great schools, and community involvement
Perfect for: Families who love lakes, trails, and cottage-country vibes
4. Campbellford
Why families love it: Riverfront access, tight-knit schools, and room to grow
Highlights: Small-town values with room to play and grow
Perfect for: Nature-focused families or those moving from Toronto looking to slow life down
What Makes These Neighborhoods Great for Families?
Every family is different but here’s what our clients consistently look for:
Top-rated schools
Access to parks, sports, and nature
Safe, low-traffic streets
Community events and involvement
Walkability and transit options
At Team Prata, we help families match their needs to the right community with insights you won’t find on Google or Realtor.ca.
Let’s Find the Right Fit for Your Family
Whether you're buying your first home or making a big lifestyle shift, the best move you can make is one that serves your family’s lifestyle, budget, and future.
Team Prata Real Estate, led by Mark and Lorraine Prata, is your local, AI-powered, family-first team serving Durham Region, Northumberland County, and the East GTA.
We know the schools. We know the streets. And we know what matters most when you're choosing where to raise your family.
Book a family relocation strategy session today and let’s find the right home in the right community for your next chapter.