Living in Unionville: Historic Main Street, Schools and Family Life
From the preserved Main Street to Ontario's top-ranked schools and the parks that surround them, here is what daily life in Unionville, Markham is like.
Unionville is the rare suburb that feels like a small town. Its historic Main Street, top-ranked schools and abundant parks give it a character all its own within Markham and York Region. Here is a guide to what living in Unionville is actually like.
The historic Main Street
Unionville's preserved Main Street is the heart of the community, a walkable, heritage stretch of shops, cafes and restaurants that keeps the area's small-town character intact. It hosts events and festivals through the year and is the place residents and visitors gather, a genuine centre rather than just a commercial strip.
Schools that rank among Ontario's best
Unionville's schools are one of its biggest draws. Several public and secondary schools post consistently high provincial scores, and strong academics combined with established catchments make the area a magnet for parents. For many families, the schools are the reason they start looking here in the first place.
Parks and green space
Beyond Main Street, Unionville offers parks, trails and green space that support an active, family-oriented lifestyle. Toogood Pond and the surrounding trails are well used, and the overall setting is quieter and greener than the inner city, part of the trade families are making when they move north.
Getting around
Unionville is built for commuters who want space without being cut off. Highway 407 and GO Transit connect the area to Toronto and the wider region, while the local layout is comfortable for driving and walking the Main Street core. It is a practical base for households balancing city work with suburban living.
Who lives here
The community draws families seeking space and quality schooling, along with longtime residents who value the heritage character. The result is a settled, established feel: people move to Unionville for the schools and the setting, and many stay for the long term, which supports steady housing demand.
Casa Pronto publishes a daily brief for Unionville covering the local market, news, schools and what is on, plus a free match to a vetted local real estate specialist who knows the area.
Sources
- Casa Pronto neighbourhood profile (as of 2026-06)