7 Toronto Neighbourhoods Perfect for Young Families
As Canada’s largest city, each of Toronto’s neighbourhoods have a unique character that can appeal to a variety of people from students to young professionals, retirees, or families. If you’re looking to relocate in Toronto and are searching for the perfect neighbourhood for your family, we’ve listed seven of Toronto’s top neighbourhoods for young families.
1190 Dundas St E #1101, Toronto, ON
Leslieville & Riverdale
Leslieville is one of the city’s trendiest neighbourhoods, dotted with hip cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. For those looking for a bustling neighbourhood with an urban vibe that still offers the greenspaces, schools, and other family-friendly amenities as other neighbourhoods on this list, Leslieville is an ideal pick.
Just north of Leslieville and located east of the Don Valley, Riverdale is one of the city’s largest neighbourhoods. With abundant greenspaces, including the Riverdale Park, convenient public transit, and tranquil tree-lined streets, it’s considered a vibrant and welcoming community for young families. The neighbourhood has several great schools at both the elementary and high school levels, and is in close proximity to some of the downtown core’s best shopping, dining, and art galleries.
79 Mcrae Dr, Toronto, ON
Leaside
One of the city’s most desirable areas, Leaside is known as one of the city’s safest neighbourhoods. Along with some of Toronto’s most luxurious properties, Leaside offers abundant greenspaces, top schools, and impressive recreational facilities including indoor pools, ice rinks, and sporting fields.
The Beaches
With plenty of exciting cultural events throughout the year, scenic parks and trails, lively shops and restaurants, and of course access to the city’s sprawling lakefront, The Beaches neighbourhood is one of the city’s most exciting locations for families. Here you’ll find charming single family homes and townhouses, along with over a dozen schools.
3085 Bloor St W #207, Toronto, ON
Bloor West Village
Bloor West Village offers residents the feel of a quiet residential community within close proximity to downtown Toronto’s best amenities. One of the biggest draws for families is its access to one of Toronto’s largest parks, the 400-acre High Park. With direct access to the Bloor-Danforth TTC line, residents here can enjoy all the shopping, restaurants, and entertainment of Bloor Street.
272 Cranbrooke Ave, Toronto, ON
Bedford Park
Bedford Park in North Toronto is considered one of the city’s safest neighbourhoods and has been a popular spot for young families for several decades. The neighbourhood offers top public and private schools, along with several parks and playgrounds, a local library, and community centre. Most homes in the area are within walking distance of the Lawrence Subway station and Yonge Street’s shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
225 Merton St #220, Toronto, ON
Davisville Village
Centrally located in midtown Toronto, Davisville Village features a range of housing options including charming Edwardian homes and modern high-rise condos. With some of the city’s top public schools, several parks, and a vibrant selection of restaurants, theatres, and recreational facilities, this neighbourhood appeals to a wide range of families.
15 Rusholme Park Cres, Toronto, ON
Bickford Park
Bickford’s family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to various amenities make the neighbourhood ideal for young families. The area is known for its beautiful park, which offers plenty of green space for children to play and for families to enjoy outdoor activities. With its tree-lined streets, safe environment, and vibrant community, Bickford Park provides a welcoming setting for raising children. Additionally, the neighbourhood boasts good schools, easy access to public transportation, and a variety of local shops and restaurants, making daily life convenient and enjoyable for families.
Roncesvalles
is another great choice for young families, offering a charming, village-like feel within the bustling city of Toronto. The neighbourhood is known for its strong sense of community, with numerous family-oriented events and activities throughout the year. Roncesvalles is home to several top-rated schools, making it an attractive option for parents. The area also features many parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities, ensuring that children have plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. With its diverse range of shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as excellent public transportation links, Roncesvalles provides a balanced and enriching environment for young families.
This article was originally published in Sotheby’s International Realty Canada Insight The Art of Living Blog in May 2024
