Best Neighborhoods in Toronto to raise a family

Toronto is better known for its skyscrapers and role as Canada’s de facto financial center, but don’t let this mislead you — the city is filled with fantastic family-friendly areas, many of which are located just outside the downtown area. In reality, primary and secondary schools and some of the nation’s most famous institutions may be found almost anywhere in Toronto’s vast geographic region. In addition to this, the metropolitan landscape’s dispersed natural spaces and accessibility to family-friendly businesses make it a perfect location for young children and dogs. Toronto is a big city, both in size and in number of people. As renters look through postings, they will find a wide range of housing options and neighborhoods.

Contrary to what one would assume, many of the most family-friendly neighborhoods are not located on the city’s outskirts, far from the busy central area. Toronto is distinctive in that it has a number of smaller neighborhoods, each with its own particular character and a range of stores and facilities.

Riverdale

Riverdale, a vast area on the east side of Toronto’s Midtown, is bounded on the west by the Don River, on the north by Danforth Avenue, on the east by Leslieville, and on the south by Lakeshore Boulevard. It is best known to Toronto residents as the location of Riverdale Park, a huge green space that is divided into east and west sides, each providing lots of space for a variety of sports and activities, as well as picnicking places. Despite its metropolitan location, Riverdale has a strong sense of community, as seen by its calm streets, older homes, and plenty of retail and dining options.

Bloor West Village

This dynamic neighborhood is the epitome of family-friendliness, with charming streets lined with quaint cafés and restaurants, many parks and schools in close proximity, and exemplary daycare options to serve the area’s numerous families. Bloor West Hamlet is known for the many fruits stands that line the sidewalks. Fresh fruits and vegetables spill out into the street, making it look like a village in the middle of the city.

Allenby

Allenby is a tiny, close-knit residential neighborhood on the western edge of Midtown Toronto. Its limits are defined by Latimer Avenue to the west, Briar Hill Avenue to the north, Avenue Road to the east, and Eglinton Avenue to the south. The neighborhood as it exists now is concentrated around Allenby Public School and the business sector on Eglinton Avenue West, which has several small stores, cafés, and restaurants.

The Beaches

Lake Ontario to the south and Queen Street East between Coxwell Avenue and Victoria Park Avenue define the area. In addition to the beaches, there are several parks and pathways, with Woodbine Beach being the most family-friendly. The community is very active, with events like the Winter Stations outdoor art show and an annual jazz festival in July.