Best Neighborhoods for Families in Toronto

Toronto, a vibrant city known for its diversity and cultural richness, offers a variety of neighborhoods that cater to the unique needs of expats and digital nomads with families. From the bustling streets of downtown to the serene parks of the suburbs, Toronto's neighborhoods provide a blend of urban convenience and family-friendly amenities. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Toronto for families looking to find their new home.

Leaside

Leaside is a well-established neighborhood known for its strong sense of community and family-oriented atmosphere. Families in Leaside enjoy a variety of recreational activities, with numerous parks, playgrounds, and sports fields. The area boasts some of the city's top-rated schools, making it an educational hub for children. On weekends, families can explore the local boutiques, visit the Leaside Memorial Community Gardens, or take a leisurely stroll along the serene trails of Serena Gundy Park.

Location: East of downtown Toronto, bordered by Bayview Avenue, Eglinton Avenue East, and the Don River Valley.
Real Estate: Leaside offers a mix of detached and semi-detached homes, with average rental prices for a 3-bedroom home ranging from CAD 3,000 to CAD 4,500 per month. The average purchase price for a home is around CAD 1.5 million to CAD 2 million.
International Schools: While there are no specific international schools in Leaside, the neighborhood is home to highly regarded public and private schools offering various programs.
Where to Eat: Leaside has a diverse selection of eateries, from cozy cafes like Aroma Espresso Bar to family-friendly restaurants such as Local Public Eatery.
Interesting History: Leaside was named after William Lea and the Lea family, who settled there in the early 19th century. The Leaside Railway Station, a historical site, reflects the area's transportation heritage.
Parks: Trace Manes Park is a popular spot among locals, featuring a playground, tennis courts, and a baseball diamond.

High Park

High Park is a dream neighborhood for families who love nature and outdoor activities. The area is anchored by the expansive High Park, Toronto's largest public park, which offers a zoo, playgrounds, hiking trails, and picnic areas. The community is also known for its excellent schools and family-friendly events, such as the annual Cherry Blossom Festival. Cultural experiences are never far away, with the High Park Amphitheatre hosting Shakespeare in the Park performances during the summer.

Location: West Toronto, encompassing the park of the same name.
Real Estate: The neighborhood features a mix of Victorian and Edwardian homes, with rental prices for a 3-bedroom ranging from CAD 2,500 to CAD 3,500 per month. Buying a home in High Park can cost between CAD 1 million to CAD 2 million.
International Schools: High Park doesn't have international schools, but it does have reputable public and private schools with diverse programs.
Where to Eat: The area is home to various dining options, including family-friendly spots like The Grenadier Café, located within High Park.
Interesting History: High Park was opened to the public in 1876 and has since been a cornerstone of Toronto's park system.
Parks: High Park itself is the neighborhood's crown jewel, offering a plethora of activities for families to enjoy.

The Beaches

The Beaches, with its laid-back atmosphere and picturesque lakeside location, is perfect for families who enjoy a blend of city life and relaxation by the water. The neighborhood's boardwalk, sandy beaches, and Kew Gardens provide ample space for family outings and community events. The area's schools are well-regarded, and Queen Street East offers a charming selection of shops and eateries.

Location: East Toronto, along the shores of Lake Ontario.
Real Estate: The Beaches feature a variety of housing options, with rental prices for a 3-bedroom home averaging CAD 2,800 to CAD 4,000 per month. The purchase price for homes ranges from CAD 1 million to over CAD 2 million.
International Schools: While there are no international schools directly in The Beaches, nearby neighborhoods offer options such as the Toronto French School.
Where to Eat: The neighborhood is dotted with family-friendly restaurants, including The Beacher Café and Ed's Real Scoop for delightful ice cream treats.
Interesting History: The Beaches community was originally a popular summer resort area in the late 19th century.
Parks: Kew Gardens is a central gathering place, hosting festivals and markets, while Woodbine Beach offers a spacious park with a playground and volleyball courts.

Bloor West Village

Bloor West Village is renowned for its family-friendly vibe and strong Eastern European influence, reflected in its diverse culinary scene. The neighborhood is home to excellent schools, including Runnymede Public School, and offers a variety of kid-friendly activities. The close proximity to High Park provides families with endless outdoor opportunities, while Bloor Street's shops and bakeries offer a taste of local life.

Location: West Toronto, along Bloor Street between Jane Street and Ellis Park Road.
Real Estate: Housing mainly consists of detached and semi-detached homes, with rental prices for a 3-bedroom averaging CAD 2,700 to CAD 3,600 per month. Home purchase prices typically range from CAD 1 million to CAD 1.8 million.
International Schools: Bloor West Village doesn't have its own international schools, but nearby neighborhoods provide options for globally-minded families.
Where to Eat: The neighborhood boasts a variety of eateries, such as Bread & Roses Bakery Café and Queen's Pasta Café, which are perfect for family dining.
Interesting History: Bloor West Village was originally developed to house the workers of the nearby meatpacking industry in the early 20th century.
Parks: Beresford Park is a local favorite, featuring a playground and sports facilities.

Davisville Village

Davisville Village strikes a balance between bustling city life and suburban tranquility, making it an ideal spot for families. With its top-rated schools, such as Maurice Cody Junior Public School, and family-friendly amenities like June Rowlands Park, the neighborhood is a hub for community engagement. The area also offers a variety of dining and shopping options along Mount Pleasant Road and Bayview Avenue.

Location: Central Toronto, bordered by Eglinton Avenue to the north and Merton Street to the south.
Real Estate: Davisville Village offers a mix of condos, apartments, and detached homes, with rental prices for a 3-bedroom ranging from CAD 2,500 to CAD 3,500 per month. The average purchase price for a home is between CAD 1 million and CAD 1.5 million.
International Schools: While there are no international schools within Davisville Village, the neighborhood is close to several options in the Greater Toronto Area.
Where to Eat: Families can enjoy a variety of cuisines at places like Tabule Middle Eastern Cuisine and The Homeway, a local brunch favorite.
Interesting History: The neighborhood is named after John Davis, who opened the Davisville Pottery Factory in the 1840s, which was the area's first major industry.
Parks: June Rowlands Park is the community's central green space, featuring a playground, splash pad, and tennis courts.

Lawrence Park

Lawrence Park is one of Toronto's most affluent and picturesque neighborhoods, offering winding roads, lush greenery, and stately homes. It's a peaceful enclave that's perfect for families seeking a quiet retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. The area is known for its excellent schools, such as Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute, and its proximity to the beautiful Alexander Muir Memorial Gardens.

Location: North Toronto, bordered by Yonge Street and Bayview Avenue.
Real Estate: Lawrence Park is known for its luxury homes, with rental prices for a 3-bedroom home starting at CAD 4,000 per month and purchase prices often exceeding CAD 2 million.
International Schools: While Lawrence Park itself doesn't host international schools, it is situated near several prestigious institutions, including the Toronto French School.
Where to Eat: The neighborhood offers upscale dining experiences at restaurants like The Abbot Pub & Fare and C'est Bon Chinese Restaurant.
Interesting History: Lawrence Park was one of Toronto's first planned garden suburbs, developed in the early 20th century.
Parks: Alexander Muir Memorial Gardens is a popular spot for family picnics and leisurely walks among its beautifully landscaped gardens.

Roncesvalles

Roncesvalles, affectionately known as "Roncy" by locals, is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood that's perfect for families with a creative spirit. The area is known for its strong Polish heritage, which is celebrated through various cultural events and cuisine. Families can enjoy the close-knit community feel, with excellent schools, parks like Sorauren Avenue Park, and the Revue Cinema, Toronto's oldest operating movie theater.

Location: West Toronto, bordered by the tracks west of Lansdowne Avenue and Lake Ontario.
Real Estate: Roncesvalles features a mix of Victorian and Edwardian homes, with rental prices for a 3-bedroom averaging CAD 2,800 to CAD 3,800 per month. Home purchase prices range from CAD 1.2 million to CAD 1.7 million.
International Schools: There are no international schools in Roncesvalles, but the neighborhood's public and private schools offer diverse educational opportunities.
Where to Eat: The area is home to a variety of dining options, including Polish delicacies at Café Polonez and fresh baked goods at Mabel's Bakery.
Interesting History: Roncesvalles is named after the Roncesvalles Gorge in Spain, where a battle took place during the Peninsular War.
Parks: Sorauren Avenue Park is a community hub, featuring a farmers' market, playground, and off-leash dog area.

Leslieville

Leslieville offers a hip and family-friendly environment with a small-town feel within the city. Known for its indie shops, brunch spots, and vintage boutiques, the neighborhood is also home to several parks, including the Jonathan Ashbridge Park, which has a playground and tennis courts. The area's schools are well-regarded, and family-oriented events are common, fostering a strong sense of community.

Location: East Toronto, bordered by the Don River and Greenwood Avenue.
Real Estate: Leslieville's real estate market includes a mix of row houses, semi-detached homes, and lofts, with rental prices for a 3-bedroom averaging CAD 2,600 to CAD 3,400 per month. The average purchase price for a home is between CAD 1 million and CAD 1.5 million.
International Schools: While Leslieville doesn't have its own international schools, there are several options in nearby neighborhoods.
Where to Eat: The neighborhood is known for its food scene, with family-friendly spots like Lady Marmalade for brunch and The Green Wood for comfort food.
Interesting History: Leslieville was named after George Leslie, the owner of the Toronto Nurseries, which contributed to the area's development in the 19th century.
Parks: Jonathan Ashbridge Park is a local favorite, offering a playground, wading pool, and sports facilities.