Toronto is an amazing place to live. But different parts of the city have their character, which means you have to find one that suits you. So, where are the best places to live in Toronto with a family?
Some of the most family-friendly places in Toronto include Allenby, Deer Park, Davisville Village, Don Mills, The Beaches, Humber Summit, Bloor West, Thornhill, Bedford Park, Leslieville, and Rockcliffe-Smythe. These areas are relatively secure and quiet with outdoor space and excellent schools.
However, your choice might be limited depending on whether you’re renting or buying. Some of these areas don’t have homes for rent. This article examines the best places to live with a family in Toronto.
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1. Allenby
Many regard Allenby as the most family-friendly neighbourhood in the city. It’s filled with families of all ages, and the schools here are quite great. Allenby public school, Marshall McLuhan Catholic school, and North Preparatory are high-ranking schools in this neighbourhood. The area also has several nice homes that complement its serene atmosphere. The only challenge with staying here is that you most likely need to buy a house. Nothing is for rent in this area.
2. Deer Park
This is one of the expensive neighbourhoods in the city. But if you can afford it, it’s a good place to settle down with your family. Schools in this area are very good, and it’s quite safe too. Home in Deer Park is generally big and well kept. However, while it’s a good place to buy a house, renting is a little tricky.
3. Don Mills
This is a suburb of Toronto, and like the other neighbourhoods above, rent options are limited. But it’s a good place for families as several schools are in the community. There are also shopping facilities that can meet all the demands of families that live within the area.
4. Davisville Village
Amenities for every age group and the laid-back atmosphere is what make Davisville Village the ideal place to raise your kids. Security is excellent here, and local schools rank high. There are two elementary schools, two middle schools, and a few private schools within the neighbourhood. The housing options here cater to everyone’s needs, and you can easily buy or rent.
One of the best public schools in midtown, Maurice Cody Junior Public School, is right in the area. Several buildings with old architecture are here, and you can also find high-rise apartments for young families that prefer condo living. There are multiple recreational facilities, and the Mount Pleasant Road shopping district is close.
5. The Beaches
As the name suggests, this is one of the prime areas in the city. Residents get a stunning view of the lake, and the place is close to the downtown. The crime rate is low, and you’re close enough to the city center to access the amazing options it offers. Although home prices are on the high side here, the houses and environment are quite stunning that you can say it’s worth the price.
6. Humber Summit
If you want to live far away from downtown, Humber Summit is an ideal place for you. The family-friendly neighbourhood has tons of parks where kids and adults can have a wonderful time. Another thing that makes this place great is that renters will have more options than in most parts of the city. There are several big houses at affordable prices in Humber Summit. In terms of schools, both public and Catholic school systems offer great options here, and there are still other alternatives that are a few minutes away. The neighbourhood is also more diverse than others.
7. Bloor West
This neighbourhood offers the best of both worlds for residents. It’s family-friendly and residential while having several restaurants, shops, and cafes. It ticks all the boxes for what to look out for in a family-friendly community, and these are good schools, safety, and a great outdoor environment. Bloor West is also close to High Park, one of the largest parks in North America with lots of kid-friendly amenities.
8. York Mills
York Mills is the preferred neighbourhood for many who live in Toronto. Families love it because of how safe it is and its proximity to great public and private schools. Even though it’s expensive, if you want a neighbourhood where your child can walk to the school or park without any worry, this is it for you. It’s also accessible for public transport which means your teenagers don’t have to ask you for rides every time. There are a lot of walking trails in this neighbourhood, and it’s quite scenic too.
9. Thornhill
This is a suburban neighbourhood almost on the outskirts of the city. As far as family-friendly places go, this is one of the best. The crime rate is very low, and there are several schools around. It’s a quiet community where homes are more affordable.
10. Rockcliffe-Smythe
If you’re looking for affordable detached homes in Toronto while still close to downtown, this neighbourhood is a good choice. It’s well connected, and the St Clair streetcar line is close. There are several quiet residential streets here and green spaces, especially around the Black Creek Valley. So, if you’re looking for a neighbourhood where you can get a house with parking and a backyard in Toronto, check this place.
11. Bedford Park
This is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Toronto, with many homes built since World War II. It’s very safe and, along with the surrounding neighbourhoods, known for being family-friendly. Over the past three decades, new construction in the area means more housing options for residents, from semi-detached to detached homes. The schools in this neighbourhood are also excellent. This area also has an excellent park system, offering you and your family plenty of outdoor space.
12. Leslieville
This neighbourhood is on the east of downtown, and due to the various transformations over the last few decades, it has become a vibrant, family-friendly community with lots of hip places to check out. Homes here come in varieties which include apartments, midrise condos, townhouses, and detached homes. Young families often prefer to live here due to the access to various entertainment and shopping options and ease of getting downtown.
In Conclusion
If you’re planning to move to Toronto with your family, you need to look out for things in a neighbourhood such as safety, schools, a serene environment, etc. All the neighbourhoods above have these qualities.