Riverdale
Riverdale remains one of the primary choices for families in Toronto. The area features abundant green spaces, notably the sprawling Riverdale Park. This park is conducive to various outdoor activities. Educational institutions in Riverdale consistently receive positive reviews, and the neighbourhood benefits from convenient public transit options. The close proximity to downtown Toronto provides additional advantages, such as easy access to both cultural and commercial hubs. Despite these urban conveniences, Riverdale maintains a tranquil and community-focused atmosphere.
Bloor West Village and Leslieville
Bloor West Village and Leslieville are neighbourhoods that attract families for different reasons.
Bloor West Village is known for its Eastern European influence and strong community feel. High Park, one of Toronto’s largest parks, is nearby and offers extensive recreational facilities and green spaces. The neighbourhood also includes several family-friendly shops, restaurants, and schools. These features make Bloor West Village a viable choice for those looking for a balanced living environment.
Leslieville has a reputation for being one of Toronto’s trendiest neighbourhoods. It combines an urban vibe with amenities that cater to families, such as parks, schools, and community centres. The presence of hip cafes, restaurants, and boutiques adds to the neighbourhood’s appeal. Leslieville’s close-knit community and easy access to downtown Toronto make it an attractive option for raising children.
The Beaches and Leaside
The Beaches and Leaside offer distinct advantages for families looking for homes in Toronto.
The Beaches provide a mix of urban and natural environments with scenic parks, trails, and lakefront access. The area consists of charming single-family homes and townhouses, along with several educational institutions. Cultural events occur throughout the year, contributing to a vibrant community atmosphere.
Leaside is often cited as one of Toronto’s safest neighbourhoods, featuring luxurious properties and ample green spaces. The neighbourhood includes top-rated schools and impressive recreational facilities such as indoor pools, ice rinks, and sporting fields. Additionally, Leaside offers numerous parks and shopping centres that cater to all family members. The availability of various eateries and cafes adds convenience for weekend family dining. Parents considering homes for sale in Toronto often look at Leaside due to these attributes.
Davisville Village, Bedford Park, and Roncesvalles
Davisville Village, Bedford Park, and Roncesvalles all present unique benefits tailored to family living.
Davisville Village, situated in midtown Toronto, features a range of housing options from Edwardian homes to modern high-rise condos. The neighbourhood is home to top public schools, several parks, and a variety of restaurants and theatres. Its central location allows for easy access to various parts of the city, providing practical benefits for family logistics.
Bedford Park in North Toronto consistently ranks as one of the city’s safest neighbourhoods. It has been a popular spot for young families for several decades, offering access to both public and private schools, parks, playgrounds, a local library, and a community center. The majority of homes in Bedford Park are within walking distance of the Lawrence Subway station and Yonge Street’s amenities.
Roncesvalles stands out for its strong sense of community and numerous family-oriented events throughout the year. Top-rated schools, parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities are prominent features of the neighbourhood. Its range of shops, cafes, and restaurants, in addition to excellent public transportation, make Roncesvalles a balanced environment for families.
Real Estate Trends and High-demand Neighbourhoods
In the context of Toronto’s broader real estate trends, the Greater Toronto Area experienced a surge in June 2024, with home listings reaching a 14-year high. The benchmark home price for the GTA in June 2024 stood at $1,110,600, reflecting a 4.6% decrease year-over-year. The average home sold price in the GTA also decreased by 1.7% year-over-year to $1,162,167. Specifically, detached homes saw a 3.3% drop in average price to $1.48 million, while semi-detached homes experienced a 9.2% decrease to $1.10 million. Freehold townhouses and condo apartments also recorded price decreases, mirroring broader market trends.
Orchard Grove is currently one of Toronto’s most in-demand neighbourhoods, with a benchmark home price of $2,261,249. The area has experienced consistent price growth over the past five years, driven by its luxury commercial districts, excellent schools, and easy access to parks and other amenities.
Other high-demand neighbourhoods for family homes in Toronto include Fairlawn, Bedford Park, and Centennial. Each of these neighbourhoods offers unique benefits that appeal to families. Additionally, the Toronto real estate market showed signs of recovery in 2024, marked by an approximate 33% year-over-year increase in home sales as of January. This positive momentum is largely attributed to the Bank of Canada’s decision to maintain steady interest rates, encouraging buyers to re-enter the market. However, the environment remains competitive, with new listings up by about 15% year-over-year, indicating a growing supply of homes for sale.
Peter Abrams is a seasoned real estate analyst and content writer with over a decade of experience in the Toronto housing market. Specializing in family-friendly neighbourhoods, his expertise extends to market analysis, real estate investment, and urban planning, making him a trusted voice for both buyers and industry professionals. When not writing, Peter enjoys exploring Toronto’s diverse neighbourhoods, staying up-to-date with market dynamics, and sharing his knowledge through various real estate publications.
