Cedar Grove, a picturesque neighbourhood in the southeast corner of Markham, Ontario, offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and agricultural charm. Surrounded by sprawling farmlands and the pristine Rouge National Urban Park, this area is a peaceful escape from urban hustle while remaining connected to the amenities of Markham’s suburban centres. This detailed guide explores everything you need to know about Cedar Grove, from its lifestyle and housing market to its history, demographics, and recreational opportunities.
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Neighbourhood Overview: At a Glance
- Average Commute Time: Downtown Toronto is a 40-minute drive by car or over two hours by public transit.
- Lifestyle: Rural living with quick access to urban amenities in Markham.
- Housing Market: Dominated by single- and two-storey homes on large plots of land, often owned by farming families.
- What You’ll Love: Expansive parkland, quiet charm, and a tight-knit farming community.
- What Not to Expect: Limited dining, shopping, and public transit options.
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The Rural Charm of Cedar Grove
Cedar Grove is a neighbourhood where life revolves around nature and agriculture. Despite its quiet, rural setting, it’s only a short drive to the bustling shops and restaurants of Markham. The community’s unique character stems from its historical roots and its connection to Rouge National Urban Park, Canada’s first national urban park.
Lifestyle
Life in Cedar Grove is defined by tranquility and simplicity. With farmlands as the backdrop, residents enjoy wide-open spaces and the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature. Although daily conveniences such as grocery stores and cafes are not within walking distance, the proximity to Markham’s amenities ensures that residents are never too far from what they need.
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Housing Market
The Cedar Grove housing market features spacious, detached homes, many of which belong to farming families. Property values here are relatively high due to the large lot sizes and scenic surroundings. As of now:
- Single Detached Homes: Average price of CA$1,610,888 (32% higher than the GTA median).
- Semi-Detached Homes: Average price of CA$1,088,000 (12% higher than the GTA median).
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These homes often blend modern comforts with traditional rural aesthetics, making them attractive to families seeking space and tranquility.
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The Heart of Cedar Grove: Rouge National Urban Park
Cedar Grove’s most notable feature is its location within Rouge National Urban Park. This vast protected area is a patchwork of farmlands, forests, marshes, and cultural heritage sites, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and conservationists alike. The park is home to diverse ecosystems and is Toronto’s only national park, boasting over 20 kilometers of hiking trails.
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Highlights of Rouge National Urban Park include:
- Trail Systems: Hike through meadows, ponds, and woodlands.
- Wildlife: Spot native species like deer, beavers, and migratory birds.
- Events: Participate in educational activities such as National Flight of the Monarch Day.
For residents of Cedar Grove, the park offers year-round opportunities for outdoor recreation and learning.
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History of Cedar Grove
Cedar Grove’s roots date back to the early 1800s, when settlers from France, the United States, Germany, and the British Isles arrived in the area. Initially, the community was built around mills powered by the Little Rouge Creek, which produced lumber, grist, and wool. The Mennonite Reesor family played a significant role in the development of Cedar Grove, constructing key buildings such as a stone house and a log schoolhouse.
By the late 1800s, Cedar Grove had grown into a thriving hamlet with:
- Five mills
- A hotel
- A post office
- A blacksmith shop
However, as industrialization drew labour to urban centres, Cedar Grove’s prominence declined. Today, the neighbourhood preserves its heritage through landmarks like Lapp’s Cider Mill and the Cedar Grove Schoolhouse, both of which reflect its rich history.
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Demographics and Community
Cedar Grove is a family-oriented neighbourhood with a diverse population. Its demographics reveal a strong sense of community:
- Families with Children: 70% of households.
- Ethnic Origins: Predominantly East Indian, Sri Lankan, and Chinese.
- Education: 43% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
- Employment: Residents often work in professional, scientific, technical services, healthcare, or finance.
The neighbourhood’s population is evenly distributed across age groups, making it a vibrant mix of families, professionals, and retirees.
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Education in Cedar Grove
Despite its rural nature, Cedar Grove offers access to excellent educational facilities. There are six public schools and four Catholic schools serving the area, with specialized programs including:
- International Baccalaureate (IB)
- Advanced Placement (AP)
- French Immersion
These programs cater to a variety of learning needs and ensure that Cedar Grove’s young residents have access to quality education.
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Recreation and Parks
Residents of Cedar Grove enjoy access to multiple recreational facilities, thanks to nearby parks and the Cornell Community Centre.
Local Parks
Cedar Grove has four main parks with amenities like:
- Trails
- Playgrounds
- Campgrounds
- Fishing locations
The Rouge National Urban Park also provides countless opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and educational programs.
Cornell Community Centre
Just a short drive away, this state-of-the-art facility offers:
- A triple gym
- Health and fitness centres
- Pools with therapy and water slides
- An indoor playground
This centre serves as a hub for sports, learning, and social activities.
Transportation and Accessibility
Cedar Grove is a car-dependent community, with most residents commuting by vehicle. Public transit options are limited, but plans for improved connectivity could make the neighbourhood more accessible in the future.
Commute Statistics
- Vehicle Commuters: 83%
- Transit Commuters: 14%
While a car is essential for daily life, the neighbourhood’s proximity to major highways ensures smooth access to downtown Toronto and other parts of the GTA.
Dining and Shopping
Cedar Grove’s dining and shopping options are modest, but nearby areas provide ample choices.
Shopping
- Boxgrove Centre: Includes Longo’s, Rexall, and other daily essentials.
- CF Markville: A larger mall featuring clothing stores, specialty shops, and a second Walmart Supercentre.
Dining
Restaurants are sparse within Cedar Grove itself, but nearby options include:
- Fire Wing Station: A popular chicken wings spot.
- Bodira Café: Serving Italian classics like ravioli and eggplant parmigiana.
For a broader selection, Markham Road offers a mix of chain and independent eateries.
Why Live in Cedar Grove?
Cedar Grove is a hidden gem for those seeking a balance between rural charm and urban convenience. It offers:
- Proximity to natural parks and green spaces.
- A strong sense of community.
- High-quality educational options.
However, potential residents should be prepared for limited public transit and fewer nearby amenities compared to urban areas.
Final Thoughts
Cedar Grove is a unique neighbourhood that captures the essence of rural living while staying connected to the modern world. Its combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and community-focused living makes it an attractive choice for families and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re exploring Rouge National Urban Park, visiting heritage landmarks, or simply enjoying the quiet charm of this farming community, Cedar Grove offers a lifestyle like no other.