If you’re curious about how many real estate agents in Ontario are currently working. I used to wonder the same when I bought my first home.
With Ontario’s booming real estate market, it’s natural to ask questions like how many realtors are in Ontario or how many real estate agents are there in Canada.
From Toronto’s busy streets to small Ontario towns, you’ll find thousands of licensed realtors ready to help buyers and sellers.
But how many are there, exactly? In this blog, I’ll explore real numbers, interesting facts, and what this means if you’re thinking of working in real estate or buying/selling a property.
Let’s dive into the number of real estate agents in Ontario and discover what it means for you.
Let’s Start with the Bigger Picture
Before we look at the actual number of real estate agents in Ontario, it’s helpful to understand why there are so many—and why that number keeps growing.
Ontario’s Real Estate Market Is Booming
Ontario is the most populous province in Canada, and its cities are expanding quickly. Places like Toronto, Ottawa, Mississauga, and Hamilton are constantly growing with new residents, businesses, and developments. As more people move in, the demand for homes rises—whether it’s houses, condos, or apartments.
It’s Not Just Big Cities
While large cities get most of the attention, small towns and rural communities across Ontario also need real estate services. People buy and sell all kinds of properties—from downtown condos to farmhouses in the countryside. That means local real estate agents play an important role all over the province, not just in urban areas.
Why the Number of Realtors Keeps Growing
Because of this high demand, more people are choosing to become real estate agents in Ontario. Helping buyers and sellers is a steady business, especially in a fast-moving housing market. Plus, many are drawn to real estate because of the flexible work schedule and income potential.
So, whether it’s helping a young family buy their first home in Toronto or guiding retirees through a downsizing move in a small town, real estate agents are needed all across Ontario—and that’s why their numbers continue to grow each year.
The Role of Real Estate Agents in Ontario
Real estate agents in Ontario do much more than just help people buy and sell houses. They play an important role in making the whole process smooth and stress-free. Here’s what they do:
What Real Estate Agents Help With:
- Guide Buyers – They help homebuyers find the right property, arrange viewings, and answer questions along the way.
- Support Sellers – They help homeowners prepare and market their property so it sells quickly and at a good price.
- Negotiate Deals – They handle offers and counteroffers to get the best deal for their client.
- Manage Legal Steps – Agents make sure all paperwork is completed properly and deadlines are met, reducing mistakes and delays.
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Why Agents Matter in Ontario?
Ontario’s housing market moves fast, and prices can change quickly. That’s why having a knowledgeable and experienced agent is so helpful, especially in busy cities like Toronto.
With strong real estate activity across the province, people often ask: How many realtors in Ontario are working? The answer is—a lot.
And that number continues to grow every year as more people choose real estate as a career.
How Many Real Estate Agents Are in Ontario?
So, how many real estate agents are there in Ontario?
1. Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO)
RECO is the official body that licenses real estate agents. As of their latest reports, there are over 86,000 licensed real estate agents in Ontario.
This number has been rising steadily. Every year, more people are obtaining their real estate license in Ontario.
2. Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA)
OREA represents over 82,000 REALTORS® in Ontario. They work with RECO to ensure agents stay updated with new rules, training, and ethical standards.
3. Local Boards & Associations
Every city or region in Ontario has its real estate board. For example:
- Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB)
- Ottawa Real Estate Board (OREB)
- Hamilton-Burlington Board (RAHB)
These boards keep track of how many real estate agents in Toronto and other regions are actively working.
4. Industry Reports
Surveys often show that the real estate agents in Ontario continue to grow due to high demand in the housing market and flexible career opportunities.
Now, let’s zoom out. How many realtors in Canada overall?
According to the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), there are over 160,000 REALTORS® in Canada. That means Ontario holds more than half of the country’s real estate professionals.
So, if you’re wondering how many real estate agents there are in Canada, Ontario is the biggest player in this number.
How Many Real Estate Agents Are in Toronto?
Let’s focus on the GTA. How many real estate agents in Toronto are active?
Toronto, being Ontario’s largest city, has a massive number of agents. The Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) represents over 70,000 members. That’s a huge share of Ontario’s total realtors.
This large number creates a competitive market, but also means buyers and sellers have many choices. Before starting a real estate career, it’s smart to know how many realtors in Toronto are in the industry.
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Factors Influencing the Number of Real Estate Agents in Ontario
Why is the number of realtors in Ontario so high? Let’s look at the reasons:
1. Population Growth
Ontario’s population is growing fast. More people mean more housing needs, which increases the demand for real estate agents.
2. Career Flexibility
Real estate offers flexible working hours and unlimited income potential. That’s why many people are attracted to the profession.
3. Economic Conditions
When the economy is strong, more people invest in real estate. This boosts the number of real estate agents in Ontario.
4. Technology Advancements
Online listings, virtual tours, and digital paperwork have made it easier for agents to work efficiently.
5. Licensing Accessibility
Obtaining a real estate license is a structured process, and with dedication, it can be accomplished smoothly. It involves completing pre-licensing education, passing a licensing exam, and registering with your province’s real estate regulatory authority. If you’re interested, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get your real estate license.
Challenges of Being a Real Estate Agent in Ontario
Even though the number of real estate agents in Ontario is growing, that doesn’t mean success comes easily.
Becoming a realtor is one thing, but staying competitive and building a solid career takes real effort.
1. High Competition
Many agents are working across Ontario, especially in busy markets like Toronto. That means it can be hard to stand out. To succeed, agents need to build a personal brand, offer great service, and be consistent in their marketing.
2. Market Volatility
The real estate market can change quickly. Home prices go up and down, mortgage rates shift, and buyer demand can slow. Good agents need to stay flexible, adjust their strategies, and keep up with trends.
3. Regulatory Compliance
Real estate agents in Ontario must renew their licenses, follow legal rules, and stick to a strict code of ethics. Failing to follow the guidelines can lead to serious trouble, including losing your license.
4. Technology Disruption
New apps, platforms, and tools are changing the way homes are bought and sold. While technology can help agents, it also means they must keep learning to stay current and competitive.
5. How Many Houses Do Realtors Sell a Year in Ontario?
On average, realtors in Ontario sell between 5 to 10 homes per year. Some experienced or top-performing agents may sell 20 or more. But for many new agents, especially in their first year, it’s common to sell fewer than 5 homes while building their client base.
Exciting Career Opportunities for Real Estate Agents in Ontario
If you’re thinking about becoming a real estate agent in Ontario—or already are one—there’s good news.
Even though the market can be competitive, there are still lots of great opportunities out there.
1. Growing Population = More Buyers and Sellers
Ontario is home to many fast-growing cities like Toronto, Ottawa, Mississauga, and Hamilton.
More people moving in means more people buying and selling homes. That’s where realtors come in.
2. Different Types of Properties to Work With
You’re not limited to just houses. Realtors can work with:
- Condos
- Townhomes
- Luxury homes
- New construction
- Commercial spaces
- Rental properties
This gives you the chance to specialize in what interests you most.
3. Real Estate + Technology = More Reach
With social media and online listing platforms, you can reach more clients than ever before. From virtual tours to digital marketing, there are many ways to grow your business, even from home.
4. Build Long-Term Relationships
Helping someone buy or sell a home isn’t just a one-time deal. Many clients come back when they move again, and refer their friends and family. That means one happy client can lead to many more.
5. Flexible Career, Big Potential
Real estate gives you flexibility and freedom. You can choose your schedule, build your brand, and grow at your own pace. Top agents in Ontario earn a great income, but it all starts with effort and consistency.
Realtors can earn a steady income through rentals. Find out how much commission a realtor makes on rental property and understand the commission structure for rental deals in our detailed article.
How to Stand Out in Ontario’s Real Estate Crowd?
With over 86,000 realtors in Ontario, it’s easy to feel like just one of many. But don’t worry—there are smart ways to stand out and grow your real estate career. Here’s how:
1. Pick the Right Brokerage
Your brokerage is your foundation. Choose the best real estate brokerage who can help you get proper training, support, and tools. Look for one that fits your values and gives you room to grow.
2. Build a Strong Personal Brand
People don’t just hire agents—they hire someone they trust. Think about what makes you different. Are you helpful, tech-savvy, or skilled at working with first-time buyers? Share that in your bio, your photos, and your social media.
Building a strong personal brand is crucial for standing out in a competitive market. Learn effective strategies by reading our complete guide on branding yourself as a realtor.
3. Use Smart Marketing
It’s not enough to have a listing—you need to promote it well. Use:
- Social media (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn)
- Email newsletters
- High-quality photos and videos
- Online ads and local community groups
Good marketing helps you reach the right people faster.
4. Focus on Niche Markets
Instead of trying to help everyone, find a special area to focus on. You could become the go-to agent for:
- Luxury homes
- Condo buyers
- Rental properties
- First-time homebuyers
- Seniors downsizing
Being an expert in one niche can help you get more referrals and trust.
5. Keep Learning
The market changes often, and so do the rules. Stay up to date by:
- Taking online real estate courses
- Attending webinars or events
- Following market trends and data
- Learning about new tools and technology
The more you learn, the more confident and professional you’ll become.
Remember: Standing out isn’t about being loud—it’s about being helpful, reliable, and consistent. Keep showing up, keep learning, and success will follow.
Conclusion: The Numbers Will Keep Growing
So, how many realtors are in Ontario? The answer is—many, and the number keeps growing.
Ontario’s real estate landscape is ever-evolving. While having a large number of real estate agents creates competition, it also reflects the strength of the housing market.
Whether you’re buying, selling, or considering a career as a realtor, understanding how many real estate agents in Canada can give you a better perspective on the market dynamics.
If you’re thinking of entering this field or want to advance your career, join a real estate brokerage. Choosing the right brokerage and continuous learning are key.
