The Regional Municipality of York is Canada’s fastest growing municipality. That rapid growth is due in part to an attractive quality of life, economic vibrancy and proximity to the City of Toronto. York Region is one of five upper-tier municipalities in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

Between 1996 and 2002, the GTA’s population grew by approximately 500,000. During this time York Region’s population grew by 180,000, experiencing the most rapid growth within the GTA. Strong population growth is just one indicator of York Region’s economy. The Region’s employment has clearly kept pace with the population growth, reflecting an unemployment rate of 5.7% at the end of 2002.

York Region continues to lead the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) in rate of population growth, increasing by 41,800 persons (5.3%) to an estimated total of 826,000 residents by December 31, 2002. Source: York Region Planning and Development Services.

Source: Toronto Economic Indicators, 2001 and 2002. Note: Based on unadjusted 3-month moving averages.

Aurora		43,700
East Gwillimbury		21,700
Georgina		43,000
King		19,500
Markham		234,700
Newmarket		71,100
Richmond Hill		152,000
Whitchurch-Stouffville		23,700
York Region Total		825,500
Source: York Region Planning and Development Services Department, 2002.

York Region is home to an estimated total of 826,000 residents and over 25,000 businesses, all of whom turn to the Region for delivering these essential services:

Water Treatment Environmental Protection Police Services Regional Planning and Growth Management Emergency Medical Services Regional Transit System Court Administration Garbage Disposal Sewage Treatment Public Health Services

Long Term Care Social Assistance Housing Services Family and Children’s Services Emergency Planning Arterial Roads Community Development Financial Management Economic Development and Tourism