The Greater Toronto Area is undergoing a massive transit expansion that is fundamentally changing where and how housing is built. Transit-oriented development (TOD) — dense, mixed-use communities built around transit hubs — is becoming the dominant model for new housing in the region.
Major Transit Projects Driving Development
Ontario Line
The 15.6-km subway line connecting the Ontario Science Centre to Exhibition Place through downtown Toronto will add 15 new stations. Development applications along the corridor have surged, with land values near future stations already reflecting the expected connectivity.
GO Expansion (Previously RER)
The transformation of the GO rail network into a frequent, all-day service is creating development opportunities at stations across the GTA — from Oakville to Barrie to Hamilton. Station areas are being designated as priority development zones with increased density allowances.
Eglinton Crosstown LRT
Though delayed, the Eglinton Crosstown continues to drive development along the Eglinton Avenue corridor. Condo and mixed-use projects are clustered around future stations, anticipating the improved transit access.
Provincial Policy Support
Ontario's Bill 60 and related policies have given the province power to override municipal zoning near major transit stations, allowing increased density. The government's transit-oriented communities program designates specific station areas for accelerated development with pre-approved zoning and density.
What This Means for Buyers
Properties near future transit stations often appreciate in value as construction progresses and service launch dates approach. Savvy buyers who purchase early in areas like the Ontario Line corridor can benefit from both improved connectivity and capital appreciation.
However, caution is warranted — construction timelines in the GTA are notoriously unreliable, and not all transit projects have performed as expected from a real estate value perspective.
Interested in properties along transit corridors? Browse our listings or talk to our team about transit-oriented buying strategies.