Transient receptor potential melastatin 7 (TRPM7) plays a key role in the pathophysiological response of multiple cell types. However, the role of TRPM7 channels in ox‐LDL‐induced proliferation and migration of VSMC remains unclear. This study used the thoracic aorta VSMCs to explore the effects of ox‐LDL on cell proliferation and migration and to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways. Data demonstrated that ox‐LDL significantly increased TRPM7 activity, and induced VSMC proliferation and migration. VSMC proliferation and migration were inhibited by nonspecific TRPM7 blocker 2‐APB or synthetic siRNA targeting TRPM7. Furthermore, the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and MEK1/2 associated with cell proliferation and migration decreased in TRPM7‐deficient VSMC. Therefore, TRPM7 may constitute a useful target for the treatment of atherosclerosis.