Etobicoke is part of Toronto, yet the peaceful atmosphere of this West End suburb makes it feel like a completely separate community. Trees and greenery are everywhere, and Etobicoke is well-known for its many parks and breathtaking trails. Think of it this way; you get all the convenience and the perks of living in the downtown core of Canada’s busiest city, without the drawbacks that typically go along with it.
Fewer crowds, less noise, less traffic, and plentiful parking are just a few of the things Etobicoke residents love, not to mention the outstanding shopping and dining scene. To top it all off, you can visit the gorgeous lakefront anytime, either strolling along the boardwalk as the waves roll in or exploring one of Toronto’s top shopping districts.
Technically, living anywhere in Etobicoke could be considered luxurious, with so many amenities and conveniences to enjoy. But like any suburb, you’ll find a wide range of neighbourhoods, some upcoming, others stunning and upscale. In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into a few of our favourite communities.
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Princess Anne Manor
What better way to start than with Princess Anne Manor, one of the prettiest neighbourhoods anywhere in the West End? As you can imagine, the community was named after real members of the royal family. And if living here doesn’t make you feel like royalty, we don’t know what will.
Princess Anne Manor also has a sister neighbourhood west of Kipling Avenue called Princess Gardens, which is equally beautiful and family-friendly. These twin neighbourhoods fall under the umbrella of the Princess Rosethorn subdivision. Whatever side of Kipling you end up on, you’ll have much to look forward to.
Picture quiet streets meticulously maintained and lined with mature trees and greenery, with parks and playgrounds all around to keep the little ones busy. The homes are typically well-kept and spacious, with architectural styles ranging from Georgian Revival residences to modern new-builds on expansive lots.
This upscale neighbourhood is unique in that it consists almost entirely of detached homes, with few to no condos in sight, although there are a few rentals. In addition, you will find a collection of older bungalows and split-level homes that were mostly built during the 1950s and 1960s.
Parents in either community are thrilled to be within the catchment area of some of Etobicoke’s finest schools, including John G. Althouse Middle School, St George’s Junior School, and St. Gregory Catholic Elementary School.
Are you on the hunt for the perfect home and location for your family? The posts below will help you spot “the one:”
- What Etobicoke Home Is Right for Your Growing Family?
- Etobicoke on the Waterfront: Our Favourite Neighbourhoods
- 7 Signs You’ve Found The Right Home
Edenbridge-Humber Valley
If you’re seeking the highest level of luxury for your family, look no further than Edenbridge-Humber Valley. This area has long been home to some of Toronto’s most affluent residents, and it’s easy to see why. Stunning homes (including many custom-builds), incredible scenery, and a highly desirable location all add up to an enviable lifestyle that can’t be beat.
Superb schools are the hallmark of any high-end neighbourhood, and Edenbridge-Humber Valley offers access to some of the best, including Humber Valley Village Junior Middle School, Etobicoke School of the Arts, and Kingsway College Private School.
Living in Edenbridge-Humber Valley also means being close to spectacular golf courses such as St. George’s Golf and Country Club and Humber Valley Golf Course, as well as access to high-end shopping and dining districts.
Sunnylea
If we head south of Bloor Street, we come to the lovely, family-friendly Sunnylea neighbourhood, one of the most well-known communities in Etobicoke. An abundance of green spaces provides an almost rural feel, but Sunnylea residents are close to every convenience imaginable. Many of the best restaurants and boutiques can be found right along Bloor Street West, which is one of Toronto’s hottest shopping districts.
Sunnylea also lies close to the Humber River, where you’ll often spot families exploring nature or basking in the breathtaking scenery. Houses in Sunnylea range from relatively accessible bungalows and split-level homes to more luxurious two-storey houses and with residences in the Tudor style. As a neighbourhood well-loved by families, Sunnylea provides access to several top-notch schools, such as Sunnylea Junior School and Étienne Brûlé Junior School.
Norseman Heights
Winding residential streets (often without sidewalks) give Norseman Heights a unique and peaceful feel. With a wide mix of housing options from small and modest to spacious and magnificent, this area attracts families from all backgrounds. There are numerous smaller bungalows and storey-and-a-half homes along with impressive Tudor styles, which makes Norseman Heights accessible and luxurious at the same time.
Families also benefit from an abundance of nearby schools, including Etobicoke School for the Arts, Norseman Junior Middle School, and Etobicoke Collegiate Institute.
Once you’ve found your home, your next step is to make it your own. The posts below could give you some inspiration:
- Absolutely Fabulous! Secrets of Gorgeous Curb Appeal for Every Season
- Lighting Techniques That Give Your Home an Instant Facelift
- How Can You Make Your New House a Home?
Stonegate-Queensway
Stonegate-Queensway is another neighbourhood that is both upcoming and luxurious. On the one hand, smaller bungalows make up much of the housing inventory. On the other, many of these have been completely renovated or rebuilt completely. Overall, prices here tend to be more affordable than other Etobicoke neighbourhoods.
However, don’t let the accessibility fool you; this is a fantastic location. An abundance of boutique shops and trendy restaurants await you just along Bloor Street West. Plus, you’ll find tons of amenities and conveniences around Islington Avenue, Royal York Road, and Kipling Avenue. Neighbourhood schools include Castlebar Junior School and Bishop Allen Academy Catholic Secondary School, which means families have everything they need right close to home.
Do you have more questions about which Etobicoke neighbourhood might be right for you? Our experienced real estate experts are happy to help you explore your options. Contact us today at ana@asantos.ca or call us at 647.232.7317 for more information.