The Durham region has changed a lot over the last two centuries. In its early years, the Durham region was mostly populated by European farmers and loggers. Today, while much farmland still remains in the northern regions of Durham, the southern municipalities have been urbanized and are booming with both factories and businesses. Established in 1974 by the Ontario government, the Durham region is an area of southern Ontario that has a good economy and a growing need for skilled workers, entrepreneurs and new businesses. It has become a very attractive region in which to live for both its older residents and new immigrants to Canada, especially due to its affordable housing and its close proximity to the City of Toronto. Today, the Durham region is one of the fastest growing regions in Canada.