Milliken Mills West Markham – Milliken Mills West, located in the city of Markham, is a thriving neighbourhood known for its convenient commute and vibrant multicultural community. With its proximity to major highways, an array of Eastern-inspired marketplaces, and a unique blend of residential and commercial properties, this neighbourhood has much to offer. Whether you are looking for a place to settle down or are interested in exploring the cultural diversity, Milliken Mills West provides a rich experience.
Neighbourhood at a Glance
Milliken Mills West is a predominantly Asian community, where cultural influences are strongly felt in the local markets, restaurants, and shops. For anyone working in Toronto or surrounding areas, the neighbourhood’s key selling point is its excellent accessibility. Located at the border of Toronto, Milliken Mills West is framed by Highways 404 and 407, offering quick and easy commuting options.
Average Commute Time
- Car Commute: About 25 minutes to Union Station.
- Public Transit: Between 35 minutes and an hour, depending on the time of day and route.
With its strategic location, commuting to downtown Toronto is a breeze, whether you’re taking public transit or driving. Milliken GO Station is also nearby, providing another convenient transit option.
Lifestyle in Milliken Mills West
Life in Milliken Mills West is influenced by the neighbourhood’s rich cultural diversity. The area is a blend of residential and commercial spaces, with detached homes built mainly in the 1980s. Though the lots are smaller compared to other parts of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), the neighbourhood’s proximity to major highways and business areas makes it ideal for professionals seeking a quick commute.
The area is dominated by Eastern-inspired grocery stores and restaurants, reflecting the vibrant Asian community. Whether you are looking for authentic ingredients at Pacific Mall or enjoying a meal at one of the many Japanese eateries in J-Town, the neighbourhood offers an eclectic mix of cultural experiences.
The Housing Market in Milliken Mills West
Real estate in Milliken Mills West offers a range of housing types, from single detached homes to condominiums. The area’s housing market is a reflection of the strong demand for properties in Markham, although prices vary based on the property type.
Average Home Prices:
- Single Detached Homes: CA$1,450,000 (19% higher than the GTA median)
- Semi-Detached Homes: CA$960,000 (2% lower than the GTA median)
- Condominiums: CA$615,900 (5% lower than the GTA median)
- Townhouses: CA$918,000 (11% higher than the GTA median)
These price points make Milliken Mills West competitive yet affordable in comparison to other GTA neighbourhoods. It’s particularly attractive to families and individuals who value convenience, cultural diversity, and quick commuting options.
For more detailed information on real estate opportunities in the area, visit MLS Listings in Milliken Mills West on Wedu.
Stay updated on the latest Markham real estate trends in 2024 to make informed decisions when buying or selling property in Milliken Mills West.
What You’ll Love About Milliken Mills West
Milliken Mills West offers several perks for residents. From its cultural marketplace to its easy commute, here’s what sets the neighbourhood apart:
- Major Highways: Being bordered by Highways 404 and 407, the neighbourhood has excellent road connectivity.
- Eastern-Inspired Shops and Restaurants: You’ll find a large selection of Asian grocery stores, restaurants, and cafes.
- Green Spaces: Multiple parks and recreational areas make it a family-friendly spot.
What Not to Expect
If you are used to a traditional North American marketplace, you might find Milliken Mills West unique in its offerings. While it has some Western-style establishments, the area is heavily influenced by Eastern culture. The shopping centres, like Pacific Mall and J-Town, offer a wide array of Asian-themed shops and groceries.
Additionally, while the neighbourhood is rich in amenities, it lacks the vibrant nightlife found in downtown Toronto. Bars and nightclubs are few and far between, making it a quieter area compared to other parts of the GTA.
Schools in Milliken Mills West
Education is a priority for families in Milliken Mills West. The neighbourhood is home to a number of private and public schools, making it ideal for families with children.
Primary Schools:
- Ais Elementary School (Private)
- Sunrise Montessori School (Private)
- Milliken Mills Public School (Public)
High Schools:
- Milliken Mills High School (Public)
- Town Centre Private Schools (Private)
- Forest Heights School (Private)
The area also features specialty schools like Aspiration Academy, which focuses on unique educational programs.
Shopping, Food, and Nightlife
Milliken Mills West has a wide variety of shopping destinations and food options. It may not be the most pedestrian-friendly neighbourhood, but there are several notable spots within driving or walking distance.
Shopping:
- Pacific Mall: A famous Asian marketplace with over 100 shops.
- J-Town: A Japanese-inspired shopping mall that offers unique groceries, bookstores, and ramen restaurants.
- Warden Centre: A practical strip mall with a grocery store, a hair salon, a pharmacy, and banking services.
Shoppers will love exploring Markham’s variety of retail destinations, as highlighted in Markham: A Shopper’s Paradise, which showcases the best places to shop in the area.
Restaurants:
- Tanuki: A Japanese-Western fusion restaurant in J-Town.
- John Anderson Hamburgers: An iconic hamburger spot on 14th Avenue.
- Silver Star BBQ: A popular Chinese restaurant specializing in halal dishes.
If you’re a food lover, Milliken Mills West offers an excellent variety of Eastern cuisines, from sushi to halal BBQ.
For food lovers, the Markham Food Scene offers a rich culinary experience that reflects the diverse culture of the city.
Parks and Recreation
Milliken Mills West is home to several green spaces, making it a great place for outdoor activities.
Notable Parks:
- Milliken Mills Park: A sprawling 31-hectare park featuring baseball diamonds, soccer fields, and an off-leash dog park.
- Highgate Park: A sports lover’s haven with tennis courts, basketball courts, and a lighted baseball diamond.
The Milliken Mills Community Centre is a focal point of recreation, offering an indoor pool, gym facilities, and an ice rink.
If you’re looking for nature spots, don’t miss Top Family-Friendly Nature Attractions in Markham to discover outdoor adventures perfect for families.
Transportation and Commute
Milliken Mills West is an ideal location for commuters. With Highways 404 and 407 just a short drive away, residents can access downtown Toronto in about 25 minutes. The area is also serviced by the Milliken GO Station, offering an efficient way to reach Union Station within 35 minutes.
Though cycling infrastructure is minimal, the neighbourhood is quite car-friendly, with ample parking and easy access to freeways.
Things to Do in Milliken Mills West
From arts and culture to outdoor festivals, Milliken Mills West offers plenty to see and do:
- Markham Village Music Festival: Organized by the Markham Arts Council, featuring pop-up art festivals and live entertainment.
- Theatre: Experience performances at Markham Little Theatre or the Unionville Theatre Company.
- Shopping in Pacific Mall: The largest Asian indoor mall in Canada, featuring a unique marketplace-style shopping experience.
Conclusion
Milliken Mills West, Markham, stands out as a highly accessible and culturally rich neighbourhood. Its proximity to major highways, diverse housing market, and vibrant community make it an attractive option for commuters and families alike. While the neighbourhood is quieter than downtown Toronto, its ethnic markets, recreational amenities, and convenient commute make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to live in Markham.
For more insights on Markham’s best communities, check out this Markville Community Guide to explore another popular neighbourhood.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Milliken Mills West, Markham, known for?
Milliken Mills West is known for its diverse Asian-inspired markets and restaurants, as well as its proximity to major highways, making it ideal for commuters.
2. Why is it called Milliken Mills?
The neighbourhood is named after Norman Milliken, a United Empire Loyalist who settled in the area in 1807 and established a sawmill on the Little Rouge River.
3. How long does it take to commute to downtown Toronto from Milliken Mills West?
By car, the commute to Union Station takes about 25 minutes. Public transit options can take between 35 minutes to an hour.