When you think of all of the excitement and the endless activities available in Etobicoke, you might believe the city is primarily for the young. Close proximity to downtown Toronto means plenty of career opportunities for budding professionals, and a fantastic schooling system attracts many couples with young children.
All that said, there is one demographic that must not be forgotten. Older adults and retirees love Etobicoke! Often, it’s for the same reasons that attracts the younger crowds. The shops, restaurants, scenery and waterfront are all to die for. In this post, we’ll talk about everything empty-nesters love about Etobicoke.
Dreaming about condo life? Learn all about our condo expertise right here.
Busy – but not too Busy
For a city person, Etobicoke is tough to beat. It’s hard not to get caught up in the excitement of all the comings-and-goings on – but it’s not so crowded that you feel cramped or overwhelmed by the noise. Outside, the streets are bustling and there is always something to do.
Nevertheless, you can escape to the sanctuary of your home or a local park when you need some peace and quiet. If you love your privacy while still being close to the action, Etobicoke may just be everything you want in your retirement location.
Are you ready to think about downsizing your home? The posts below can help with the planning stages:
- Why Downsizers Should Consider Pre-Construction
- Where Do Toronto Downsizers Go?
- Should You Retire Near The Waterfront In Etobicoke?
Convenient and Fun
Etobicoke is both a convenient and a fun place to live. The streets are car-friendly, with plenty of parking and much less traffic than in downtown Toronto. If you prefer not to drive, public transit is also readily accessible and inexpensive.
City buses regularly travel the main streets, and there are subway stations at Kipling, Islington, Royal York, and Old Mill. Etobicoke also boasts Go Stations at Mimico and Long Branch, which make it easy to get in and out of Toronto without worrying about rush hour.
Local entertainment options are right at your fingertips, thanks to the countless shopping centres, independent boutiques, and restaurants right in the city. Whenever you feel the need to expand your horizons, downtown Toronto is just 13 km away.
Opportunities to Connect
Isolation is a concern for many seniors, but it’s easy to forge new friendships and connections in Etobicoke. Do you want to learn a new skill or reignite your passion for an old hobby? You’ll have many opportunities through the various recreational centres around, including some with specialized programming for adults over 55.
Horner Avenue Seniors Centre offers visual arts workshops as well as various dance, yoga, cardio, tai chi, and pilates classes. This is a great place to stay fit while connecting with other active retirees in your area.
Want to stay up to date on your computer and technology know-how? Pop in for a workshop at the Islington Seniors Centre, where you can also learn new languages and participate in social events, such as dinner parties, bingo games, and other live entertainment.
Franklin Horner Community Centre offers a host of activities such as line dancing, Zumba, pickleball, and yoga. They also organize several day trips throughout the year, which provides the chance to meet new friends while exploring new adventures. If you’re looking for a regular outing, come on by for a weekly meal prepared by staff and volunteers.
With so much going on, you’ll never have a moment to feel bored or lonely. The long list of senior-friendly activities is one of the most compelling reasons why empty-nesters have fallen head over heels for Etobicoke!
Want to know even more about living in Etobicoke? Here is some related reading you may enjoy:
- What Are The Best Parks In Etobicoke For Leisure And Relaxation?
- Etobicoke on the Waterfront: Our Favourite Neighbourhoods
Natural Beauty Everywhere
City living doesn’t mean being far away from nature, not when you make Etobicoke your new home. Stunning waterfront trails, lush parks, and beautiful community gardens await you nearly everywhere you look. If you’re up for a thrilling bike ride or leisurely stroll, you can’t beat the Martin Goodman Trail. This 56 km stretch begins at the Humber Bay Arch Bridge and runs all the way to the Rouge River in East Toronto. You’ll also enjoy the breathtaking views of the lake as you go.
James Gardens is another local favourite due to its elegant flower beds and stone pathways that weave through sparkling streams. Follow the trails far enough and you’ll reach the banks of the Humber River; plus, you can see all the way to downtown Toronto from the Humber Bay Lookout. Parking is plentiful, and admission is free at this serene botanical paradise.
If your retirement dreams include long afternoons on the greens, you will find yourself right at home in Etobicoke. Local ranges such as Lambton Golf & Country Club, Islington Golf Club, and Markland Wood Golf Club are immaculate and pristine. You can experience some of the most picturesque courses in Southern Ontario without leaving your own neighbourhood.
If selling your existing home is part of the plan, the resources below will help you earn the best return:
- 5 Reasons You Should Stage Your Home To Sell
- How Can You Sell A House In A Tough Market?
- Elevate Your Lifestyle By Maximizing The Sale Of Your Current Home
A Diverse Housing Market
Etobicoke’s wide range of housing options makes it the ideal location for empty nesters. If you prefer little to no outdoor maintenance, a condo or a townhouse could be the perfect choice, perhaps something right next to the gorgeous waterfront! You’ll also find outstanding assisted living centres where you can enjoy an independent lifestyle with an incredible support system to help with your day-to-day tasks.
If you can’t abide the thought of living without a backyard, a smaller bungalow in one of the older neighbourhoods just might fit the bill perfectly. Just imagine, everything all on one level, no more trekking up and down stairs every day, less maintenance to worry about, while still enjoying all of the outdoor space and creature comforts of a family home. Whatever your empty-nester lifestyle looks like, Etobicoke is the perfect place to make it happen.
Are you ready to start the downsizing process? Our expert team is here to help every step of the way. Reach out to ana@asantos.ca or call 647.232.7317 to take the first step.