Is living in Oshawa still affordable in 2025?

Oshawa, a city located in the Greater Toronto Area, continues to attract new residents. Many people now wonder if living in Oshawa still affordable in 2025. Rising home prices, higher living costs, and shifting job markets make this a valid question.  Oshawa offers different options for buyers, renters, families, and singles. However, knowing what to expect is very important before making a decision. Affordability often depends on several factors, such as housing type, job income, and lifestyle habits. With the right choices, Oshawa can still offer an accessible lifestyle. If you are planning a move soon, finding reliable movers near me can make the process much easier. Keep reading to find out how prices have changed and where opportunities still exist in 2025. This guide will help you decide if Oshawa should be your next home.

How Oshawa’s housing market has changed by 2025

Oshawa’s housing market has seen major changes over the past five years. Average home prices have increased compared to 2020, but more slowly than in Toronto. In 2025, detached houses are often priced between $700,000 and $800,000. Condos and townhomes usually start around $500,000. Rental prices have also climbed, with two-bedroom apartments averaging $2,000 per month. New housing developments across the city helped balance some of the rising demand. Many people from Toronto continue to move east to Oshawa for better prices.

Compared to nearby cities like Pickering and Whitby, Oshawa remains relatively more affordable. Real estate experts note that newer neighborhoods offer good value for first-time buyers. However, competition for homes near transit and major highways can still drive up prices. To settle in quickly, many newcomers also hire residential movers who know the local neighborhoods well. Overall, the housing market shows a slower, more manageable growth in 2025.

Cost of living beyond housing: What to expect in Oshawa in 2025

Living costs in Oshawa cover more than just rent or mortgage payments. In 2025, grocery costs have increased by about 5% compared to last year. Basic food items like milk, bread, and produce cost slightly more than the national average. Utility bills have also risen, with electricity and water bills costing about $200 monthly. Internet and mobile services average $100 per month for basic plans. Transportation costs remain manageable if you use public transit, which costs about $150 monthly.

Car owners face higher expenses, including insurance and gas prices. Healthcare remains accessible, although some specialized services might include small fees. Dining out and entertainment options are affordable compared to downtown Toronto. Monthly gym memberships and movie tickets still cost less than in larger cities. Managing daily expenses with a budget is key to living well here. Many families also seek an affordable storage solution to manage seasonal belongings and avoid clutter at home.

Jobs and salaries: Can residents keep up with rising costs?

Oshawa’s job market continues to grow and change in 2025. Average salaries for many common jobs have risen slightly since 2023. Workers in healthcare, education, and technology now earn about $50,000 to $70,000 yearly. Automotive and manufacturing industries still provide steady employment with competitive salaries. However, service jobs offer lower wages, often ranging from $32,000 to $40,000 yearly. Remote work opportunities have expanded, giving residents access to better-paying Toronto jobs without commuting. Income support programs and provincial wage increases help offset higher living costs.

Workers in Oshawa tend to keep pace with expenses if they budget carefully. Skilled trades, healthcare workers, and IT professionals find especially strong demand. Local employers often offer hiring bonuses and flexible work conditions. Many residents use experienced movers in Oshawa to settle near work hubs quickly. Residents who adapt to market needs can maintain a good standard of living. Overall, wage growth and job opportunities still make Oshawa an appealing choice in 2025.

Neighborhoods where living in Oshawa is still affordable in 2025

Oshawa continues offering new developments around Simcoe Street North and Conlin Road. Homes here usually start from $700,000 for detached houses and $500,000 for townhomes. Meanwhile, Central Oshawa remains appealing to first-time buyers, with condo units starting at $400,000. Near King Street East and Ritson Road South, older bungalows sometimes list under $650,000. South Oshawa offers the lowest prices, especially near Park Road South and Philip Murray Avenue. Entry-level homes here often sell below $600,000, making it popular among young families.

Areas around Durham College and Ontario Tech University attract renters, with one-bedroom apartments around $1,500 monthly. Courtice, located east of Townline Road North, provides three-bedroom houses starting near $750,000. Although prices rose slightly from 2023, Oshawa neighborhoods still offer better value than Toronto suburbs. New projects around Harmony Road North also create additional affordable choices for buyers. Affordable Oshawa neighborhoods and notable points:

• North Oshawa (Simcoe/Conlin): Newer houses, parks, schools, family-oriented amenities
• Central Oshawa (King/Ritson): Budget condos, older single-family homes, close to downtown services
• South Oshawa (Park/Philip Murray): Lower-cost detached homes, waterfront access, many public parks
• Donevan area (Olive Avenue and Grandview Street South): Affordable semi-detached homes under $650,000
• Courtice (Townline and Nash Road): Family-friendly subdivisions, newer townhouses, quick 401 access
• Eastdale (Townline/Bloor Street): Mid-priced homes, schools nearby, peaceful residential streets
• Lakeview neighborhood (Wentworth and Cedar Street): Cheaper bungalows, waterfront parks, walking trails
• McLaughlin area (Stevenson Road/Olive Avenue): Entry-level detached homes, strong community feel
• Windfields (Simcoe/Britannia): New builds, walkable plazas, easy Durham transit connections
• Kedron (Harmony/Britannia): Large new single-family homes, community centers, new schools opening

Where to seek affordable housing in Oshawa?

Homebuyers focused on affordability often prioritize Donevan, Eastdale, and Lakeview first. These neighborhoods offer walkable access to parks, shops, and key bus routes. Buyers needing fast GO Transit access often choose Courtice and Central Oshawa. Families seeking quieter communities usually prefer Windfields or Kedron because of new schools. New developments north of Taunton Road also create fresh opportunities for young professionals. Some subdivisions offer detached homes under $800,000 with quick access to Highway 407.

In Eastdale, semi-detached homes remain available for about $675,000 depending on condition and size. South Oshawa draws buyers wanting proximity to Lake Ontario without high property taxes. Condos near Simcoe Street South and Gibb Street remain affordable, starting around $375,000. McLaughlin provides central access to shopping centers, schools, and city parks at moderate prices. Housing in Oshawa is expected to grow steadily but remains accessible with smart area selection today.

Tips for keeping life affordable if you move to oshawa

Moving to Oshawa in 2025 can still be affordable with smart planning:

• Choose energy-efficient homes to save on electricity and heating bills.
• Consider using public transit to avoid high car maintenance and gas costs.
• Shop at local farmers’ markets for fresh produce at lower prices.
• Take advantage of free community events for entertainment instead of expensive outings.
• Budget carefully for property taxes and home repairs when buying a house. Joining loyalty programs at local grocery stores helps cut food bills over time.

Comparing internet and phone plans from smaller providers often reduces monthly costs. Sharing a car or using carpool apps can lower transportation expenses. Residents who plan their monthly expenses often find it easier to stay within budget. Affordable living often comes down to good habits and community involvement. Oshawa still offers many opportunities for people who manage their finances well.

Is living in Oshawa still affordable in 2025: The final verdict

Is living in Oshawa still affordable in 2025? The answer depends on your choices and budget. Housing prices have risen but remain lower than many GTA cities. Daily living costs have increased, but many areas remain manageable with smart planning. Job opportunities across healthcare, education, and tech help residents keep up with expenses. Affordable neighborhoods are still available if you are flexible and willing to explore different areas. Careful budgeting, smart commuting choices, and local shopping habits can keep costs down. Overall, Oshawa continues to offer good value for people seeking an affordable lifestyle near Toronto. Researching neighborhoods and tracking market trends before moving helps secure the best deals. Oshawa’s balanced mix of affordability, jobs, and community amenities still makes it appealing. Moving here in 2025 can be a good decision for many families, professionals, and students. With good planning, Oshawa remains a strong option for affordable living near Toronto.