Your Guide to Living and Commuting Along Highway 407
TL;DR
- Highway 407 is an all-electronic toll highway running across the GTA from Burlington into Durham Region.
- It can save commuters time compared with the 401, but tolls are charged per kilometre.
- Communities near the 407, from Oakville to Oshawa, offer condos, townhouses and detached homes.
- Estimate your toll costs and include them in your budget before buying for a 407 commute.
Imagine a calmer drive to your workplace, away from the usual traffic on the 401. That’s what Highway 407 can offer – for a price. The 407 is an electronic toll highway: there are no toll booths, and you pay per kilometre through a transponder or by plate-based billing. It can save time on busy commutes, and then it’s a smoother drive back to your cozy townhouse, where relaxation awaits.
Beyond the City Bustle:
The 407 runs east–west across the top of the GTA, from Burlington (near Hamilton) through Halton, Peel, York and into Durham Region. The section from Burlington to Brock Road in Pickering is the privately operated, tolled 407 ETR, while 407 East through Durham to Highways 35/115 is owned by the Province of Ontario and has its own toll rules, so check current charges for the route you’ll drive. Its interchanges with highways like the 400, 404 and 427 make it easier to head north toward Simcoe County – so if you’re planning a weekend escape to your own cottage, the 407 can be part of the trip.
Real Estate Adventures:
Let’s talk about the exciting part – real estate. Communities near the 407, such as Burlington, Oakville, Milton, Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan, Markham, Pickering, Whitby and Oshawa, offer everything from a modern condo near transit to a spacious bungalow for family gatherings.
Factor Tolls Into Your Budget:
If you plan to commute on the 407 regularly, tolls can add up to a significant monthly cost, depending on distance, time of day and whether you use a transponder. Estimate your trip cost with the 407 ETR toll calculator before choosing a home based on a 407 commute, and compare it with GO Transit or other routes.
Understanding Mortgages with Ease:
Mortgages might seem confusing, but don’t worry. Getting pre-approved by a licensed mortgage professional will show you what you can afford – and remember to include regular commuting costs like tolls in your monthly budget.
So, whether you live in the GTA or are looking at Simcoe County or Hamilton, Highway 407 isn’t just a road – for many commuters, it’s a way to a more relaxed drive. From modern condos to charming cottages, there are homes to suit every style along the corridor.
Ready to take the next step? Browse condos for sale in 407-corridor communities, set up listing alerts, or talk to our condo specialists to begin your journey. Life’s too short for traffic jams, so let’s get you on the road to your new cozy home.
Frequently asked questions
How do tolls work on Highway 407?
There are no toll booths. Cameras and transponders record your trip, and you’re billed per kilometre, with rates varying by time of day, direction and section. Drivers without a transponder pay an extra camera charge per trip. Use the 407 ETR toll calculator to estimate costs.
Where does Highway 407 start and end?
The 407 runs from the QEW and Highway 403 in Burlington east to Highways 35 and 115 in Clarington. The western portion to Brock Road in Pickering is the privately operated 407 ETR, while 407 East through Durham Region is owned by the Province of Ontario.
Is it worth living near the 407?
For drivers who commute across the GTA, living near the 407 can shorten travel times and offer more housing choice than central Toronto. The trade-off is toll costs, which can be substantial for daily commuters. Compare total commuting costs, including tolls, with transit options before deciding.