Markham homeowners are living under a $677.9-million municipal budget this year, one that raises the property tax rate by 3.90 per cent — roughly $54.99 annually for the average Markham home, according to the City of Markham.

Mayor Frank Scarpitti presented the plan, branded "Markham Racing Forward: Budget 2026," on Oct. 1, 2025, and council adopted it at the end of that month, on Oct. 31.

Where the money goes

The city says the budget keeps a focus on community building while working to keep Markham affordable. A key theme is managing growth through infrastructure that supports what the city describes as complete, safe and connected communities.

Among the concrete investments, $89.3 million of the 2026 capital budget is devoted to keeping existing assets in a state of good repair, preparing for changing climate conditions and advancing the city's goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.

The city also points to ongoing efforts to be welcoming, inclusive and accessible to serve Markham's diverse population.

A long track record of budget recognition

For 26 consecutive years, the City of Markham's annual budget document has earned the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Financial Officers Association (GFOA).

The city's annual reports — which include audited financial statements along with an accounting of how the city spends money and delivers services — have received the Canadian Award for Excellence in Financial Reporting for 24 years in a row, also from the GFOA.

Tracking value for tax dollars

Ontario's Municipal Performance Measurement Program, a provincial initiative, requires cities to measure their performance across a range of service areas and share the results with taxpayers. The program is designed to help residents understand what they get for their tax dollars and to let municipalities compare results with one another.

Markham submits its results to the province each year and also publishes a report with its findings, according to the City of Markham.

Federal gas tax funding

The city also relies on the federal Gas Tax Fund, a permanent source of infrastructure funding established in 2005 that currently transfers $2.1 billion annually to Canadian municipalities.

Between 2005 and 2017, Markham received more than $85 million through the fund. In Ontario, the money is distributed by the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) on a per capita basis to all municipalities except Toronto.

The city says that predictable funding has allowed it to plan ahead and address local priorities. To date, Markham has put its share into 64 projects — including extending district energy plants to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, building new paths and trails to expand cycling and walking opportunities, and keeping municipal infrastructure in good repair.

Residents with questions about the budget or financial reports can contact the city's Financial Services Department at 905-477-7000.