Where to Live in Toronto

As Canada’s largest city, Toronto has the most unique range of neighbourhoods and communities. No matter what you are looking for, there is likely an area of the city that will meet your needs and your wants.

As luxury real estate experts in Etobicoke, we’ve helped countless homeowners in Toronto find their havens. In this post, we’re breaking down the best areas to live in Toronto based on your unique requirements.

Want to stay up to date with the latest in Toronto real estate? Get news about our latest listings and insights on the market by subscribing to our newsletter right here.

First of All, Is Toronto a Good Place to Live?

Overall, yes! Consistently ranked as one of the best cities to live in, Toronto enjoys a reputation for safety, cleanliness, diversity, and excitement! It’s one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the world, and every year, Toronto seems to gain more notoriety and respect as one of the best cities on the planet.

How Many Neighbourhoods in Toronto?

The City of Toronto says there are 158 neighbourhoods in Toronto. So, you can imagine that ranking these neighbourhoods would be fairly time-consuming.

Even if there weren’t 158 of them, ranking the best neighbourhoods to live in Toronto would be next to impossible because the concept of “best” is subjective. What’s best for you might be completely different from what’s best for someone else.

So instead, let’s talk about some specific examples.

Best Toronto Neighbourhoods if You’re Looking for Exclusivity and Privacy

Toronto has its fair share of luxurious neighbourhoods. So much so that some might say the word ‘luxurious’ has become slightly diluted in the GTA.

So what makes a luxurious neighbourhood in Toronto? In our opinion, established communities with mature trees, expansive lots, plenty of privacy, unique architecture, and beautiful homes are just a few of the features that come to mind.

Here are a few of our favourites that fit the bill:

Edenbridge-Humber Valley

This established Etobicoke neighbourhood features luxurious homes on expansive lots. You’ll find mature trees and manicured lawns. Nearby, there are beautiful parks and gardens, a tennis club, golf courses, and more.

The Kingsway

Technically, The Kingsway is part of Edenbridge-Humber Valley, but we’re giving it its own space simply for its prestige. With proximity to amazing shopping and restaurants, The Kingsway is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a luxurious home in what is known to many as Toronto’s best neighbourhood. Featuring large lots, mature trees, and gorgeous Old English-style architecture, The Kingsway is the perfect blend of history and modern luxury.

Discover luxury living in The Kingsway with our quick guide right here.

Princess Anne Manor

With history dating back to the 1950’s Princess Anne Manor offers residents privacy and exclusivity in a gorgeous setting. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of homes from beautiful mid-century bungalows to Georgian revival family homes, new custom builds, and more. The lots are expansive and private, giving homeowners here the privacy and tranquillity they crave.

Explore Princess Anne Manor and Princess Gardens with our quick guide here.

Discover true luxury real estate in Etobicoke with these posts next:

Best Toronto Neighbourhoods if You Care About Proximity to Amenities

Do you want to be within walking distance to restaurants, shops, or transit? Do you crave walkability or an easy commute? Etobicoke has numerous pockets that are easily among the top neighbourhoods in Toronto for convenience without sacrificing charm.

Some of our favourites include:

New Toronto

If staying active is most important to you, New Toronto has exactly what you are looking for. Nestled between Mimico and Long Branch, New Toronto boasts access to parks and trails along the waterfront. Community amenities like tennis and pickleball courts, skating rinks, and community centres are also plentiful here.

Learn more about living in New Toronto with our quick guide right here.

Islington-City Centre

With a little bit of everything, Islington-City Centre has a lot to offer. With a growing number of condo buildings, this neighbourhood certainly prioritizes accessibility. A vibrant commercial sector, parks, public pools, and public transportation are just a few of the conveniences you can enjoy.

Mimico

Quickly becoming one of the most popular neighbourhoods for young professionals, families, and retirees alike, Mimico offers excellent proximity and accessibility to Toronto’s downtown, all while maintaining a small-town charm rich in community amenities such as parks, pools, rinks, and more.

Learn more about living in Mimico with our quick guide here.

Humber Bay

With a big condo presence, Humber Bay was designed for convenience. In addition to amazing building amenities, you’ll find restaurants, shops, trails, parks, and more. Commuting from Humber Bay is also easy with direct access to Lake Shore Blvd., the Gardiner Expressway, and streetcar access.

Long Branch

This waterfront community features a diverse range of beautiful properties with spectacular lakefront views, along with some luxury homes, modest family homes, condos, and townhomes. Long Branch also has a lot of amenities nearby. Here you’ll find Humber College’s Lakeshore campus, numerous restaurants, wine bars, shops, parks, beaches, cycling trails, and more. Proximity to downtown means commuting from Long Branch is easy, especially with a GO Station, TTC, and easy access to the Gardiner Expressway.

Learn more about some of our favourite Etobicoke neighbourhoods with these posts next:

Best Neighbourhoods in Toronto For Families

Some of the nicest Toronto neighbourhoods for families can be found in Etobicoke. What makes a neighbourhood good for families? Look for things like proximity to great schools, access to community services, parks, and a general overall friendly community vibe.

Here are some notable family-friendly neighbourhoods you should know:

The Queensway

Featuring bungalows and 1.5-storey homes dating back to the 1960’s The Queensway is a classic example of a family-friendly Toronto neighbourhood. With highly rated schools, beautiful parks, fantastic amenities, and proximity to downtown, it truly offers the best of both worlds for families who want the ease of urban living with the tranquillity and charm of living in a smaller community.

Sunnylea

With the Mimico Creek bisecting the neighbourhood, Sunnylea offers a great blend of natural amenities and urban function. Here, you’ll find gorgeous parks, playgrounds, fantastic schools, and more, making Sunnylea a popular neighbourhood for dynamic families. Homes here are large and beautiful, with many of them featuring expansive lots, long driveways, garages, and more.

Alderwood

Known for its charming bungalows and large lots, Alderwood is popular with young families for its affordable prices and fantastic amenities. The community boasts two community centres and a fantastic public library. Grocery stores, dine-in restaurants, quick bites, and a variety of shops make living in Alderwood convenient, but the established overall feel of the community is what makes it popular.

Are you thinking about buying or selling a house in Toronto? Explore the potential with our Toronto Luxury Real Estate Agents. Reach out to ana@asantos.ca or call us at 647.232.7317 to learn more.