Overview of Public Transit in Markham

Markham’s transit system is built around three main services:

• York Region Transit (YRT/Viva) – The primary local transit service throughout Markham

• Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) – Limited bus service connecting Markham to Toronto’s subway system

• GO Transit – Regional train and bus service connecting Markham to downtown Toronto and the Greater Golden Horseshoe

All three systems accept PRESTO cards and contactless payments, making transfers simpler for riders.

York Region Transit (YRT & Viva) in Markham

What Is YRT?

York Region Transit is the main public transit provider in Markham. It operates local bus routes, express routes, and Viva rapid transit buses, which run more frequently along major corridors.

Major YRT Routes in Markham

Some of the most important YRT routes serving Markham include:

• Highway 7 Corridor (Route 1 & Viva Purple) – East-west service through Markham Village, Unionville, and Markham Centre

• Bur Oak Avenue (Route 18) – Connects Mount Joy, Markham GO Station, and surrounding communities

• Kennedy Road (Route 8) – North-south service through central and eastern Markham

• Express Routes (300-series) – Peak-hour service connecting Markham to Finch Transit Hub

YRT buses typically run every 10 to 20 minutes on major routes, with reduced frequency late at night and on weekends.

YRT Fares

• Adult fare (PRESTO): $4.12

• Youth, senior, and child fares are discounted

• Monthly passes and fare capping are available through PRESTO

Transfers on YRT

YRT offers free two-hour transfers when using PRESTO. Riders transferring from TTC or GO Transit may qualify for free or discounted co-fares through Ontario’s One Fare program.

Accessibility on YRT

• All buses are low-floor and wheelchair accessible

• Audio and visual stop announcements on every vehicle

• Priority seating and securement areas for mobility devices

• Specialized Mobility On-Request service for eligible riders

TTC Service in Markham

Does the TTC Operate in Markham?

Yes, but in a limited capacity.

The TTC Route 102 Markham Road is the only TTC bus that operates north of Steeles Avenue into Markham. It connects riders to Warden Subway Station (Line 2 – Bloor–Danforth) in Toronto.

North of Steeles Avenue, this same route operates as YRT Route 102D, but buses are still operated by the TTC.

TTC Fares in Markham

• Adult fare: $3.35 (lower with PRESTO)

• Free transfers to YRT when using PRESTO under the One Fare program

• Children 12 and under ride free

Who Should Use TTC in Markham?

TTC service is best for riders who:

• Live near Markham Road

• Commute directly to Toronto subway stations

• Prefer bus-to-subway travel instead of GO Transit

GO Transit in Markham

GO Train Service

Markham is served by the Stouffville GO Train Line, which provides fast, reliable service to downtown Toronto.

There are two GO train stations in Markham:

• Markham GO Station – Located near Main Street Markham

• Mount Joy GO Station – Located in northeast Markham near Bur Oak Avenue

During weekday peak hours, trains run frequently in both directions. Off-peak and weekend service is supplemented by GO buses.

GO Bus Service

GO buses also serve Markham, providing connections to:

• Union Station

• Finch Transit Hub

• Highway 407 corridor

• Other York Region communities

GO Transit Fares

• Distance-based pricing

• PRESTO tap-on and tap-off required

• Monthly passes available for frequent commuters

GO Transit is generally the fastest option for commuting to downtown Toronto.

Accessibility on GO Transit

• Fully accessible stations and trains

• Elevators, ramps, and tactile signage

• Priority seating and designated mobility spaces

• On-site staff assistance at major stations

Transfers Between TTC, YRT, and GO

Thanks to Ontario’s fare integration, transferring between systems is easier than ever.

One Fare Program Highlights

• TTC to YRT transfers are free when using PRESTO

• YRT to GO transfers are free or discounted through Ride to GO

• PRESTO automatically calculates the lowest eligible fare

Tip: Always use the same PRESTO card when transferring to avoid paying extra.

How to Plan a Trip in Markham

Best Tools for Riders

• Built-in trip planners on mobile maps apps

• PRESTO app to manage fares and passes

• Real-time bus arrival displays at Viva stations

Service Hours (General)

• YRT: Early morning to late night, with limited overnight service

• TTC buses: Early morning with overnight Blue Night routes

• GO Transit: Peak-hour trains, all-day buses

Schedules vary by route and day.

Accessibility Across All Transit Systems

Markham’s public transit network prioritizes inclusive travel:

• Low-floor buses across TTC and YRT

• Wheelchair-accessible GO trains and platforms

• Visual and audio announcements

• Priority seating and support services

Riders with disabilities can travel independently across most of Markham’s transit network.

Future Transit Improvements in Markham

Several major improvements are planned or underway:

• Increased GO Train frequency under Regional Express Rail

• Planned subway extension bringing TTC Line 1 into York Region

• Ongoing YRT route expansions to support growing communities

• Improved rapid transit along Highway 7

These projects aim to reduce commute times and improve regional connectivity.

Quick Comparison: TTC vs YRT vs GO Transit

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the best way to get from Markham to downtown Toronto?
GO Train is the fastest and most reliable option during peak hours.

Does Markham have a subway?
No, Markham does not currently have a subway line.

Can I use one PRESTO card for all transit systems?
Yes, PRESTO works on TTC, YRT, and GO Transit.

Is public transit in Markham accessible?
Yes, all systems provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stations.

Which transit system should I use within Markham?
YRT is the primary system for local travel within Markham.

Final Thoughts

Markham’s public transit system offers flexible, accessible, and increasingly connected options for getting around the city and beyond. Whether you rely on YRT for daily errands, TTC for subway access, or GO Transit for downtown commutes, understanding how these systems work together can save you time and money.

If you’re new to Markham or planning a move, knowing your transit options is an important step toward choosing the right neighbourhood and lifestyle.

If you’re planning to buy or sell a home in Markham, transit access matters more than ever. Properties near GO stations, Viva corridors, and major routes often offer better long-term value, stronger demand, and easier commutes.

Michael and Neeraj help you:

• Choose neighbourhoods based on commute and lifestyle

• Understand how transit affects home prices and resale value

• Navigate Markham’s market with confidence and clarity

Whether you’re relocating, upsizing, downsizing, or just exploring your options, their local insight can help you make the right move at the right time.