Hold on to your hat – it’s time for another debate about what constitutes the best neighbourhoods in Toronto. Of course, to us, any day ending in “y” is a good one to discuss our favourite topic.
As West End residents ourselves, each member of our team certainly has strong opinions. Grab your popcorn, settle in, and see for yourself which of these ‘hoods in the west might be just right for you.
Are you ready to start your search for your home in West End Toronto neighbourhoods? Learn more about how we help buyers right here.
Roncesvalles: The Epitome of Trendiness
If you like being on the cutting edge of all that is cool and trendy, then Roncesvalles is it. Even the nickname, “Roncy,” has an elegant, yet down-to-earth ring to it.
Cozy, independent coffee shops and boutique shopping experiences are primarily what defines Roncy. Aside from the green spaces, that is. Sorauren Avenue Park is right in the neighbourhood and has quickly become a favourite gathering spot for families and children.
Tennis courts, a giant sports field, a baseball diamond, and an off-leash dog park provide endless opportunities for outdoor fun. This is also the site of famed festivities such as Outdoor Movie nights in the summer, the Sorauren Farmer’s Market, and the Fall Pumpkin Parade. If that’s not enough greenery for you, the glorious foliage of High Park is steps away.
Looking for more resources to buy your next Toronto home? The posts below can help:
- Buying Your First Home: A Guide to Toronto’s West End
- What Is a Loft in Toronto?
- Interview with a First Time Home Buyer
High Park: An Oasis of Nature in the Heart of the City
Are you ever torn between living in the country and the city? Toronto’s High Park is the answer. This secluded ‘hood offers so much green space and parkland that it feels like something out of a fairy tale. Imagine 400 acres of wooded areas, fields, a pond, and even a petting zoo!
Outdoor activities are endless, whether you’re in the mood for some cycling, a leisurely stroll, or want to break out the snowshoes during the colder months. All of that is on one side of Parkside Drive. On the other, you’ve got a world of conveniences, including a multitude of great restaurants and shops.
It’s hard to top the lifestyle you can enjoy in High Park. Settle in here, and you never have to choose between peaceful, scenic beauty and the excitement of the city.
Parkdale: A Tough ‘Hood With Heart
There’s a certain amount of toughness and grit in your average Parkdale resident. However, underneath all of that lies a heart for community, artistry, and scenic beauty. It has a definite upscale vibe, but is down-to-earth enough to not brag about it. What else could you expect from a neighbourhood that borders both High Park and Roncesvalles?
With housing options that range from majestic mansions to starter condos, Parkdale is unsurprisingly one of Toronto’s most diverse neighbourhoods. The community is made up of people of all ages and cultural backgrounds and everyone looks out for each other. This diversity really becomes apparent as you browse the wondrous mix of independent stores and outstanding restaurants. You can sample the flavours from around the world without leaving the block!
Perhaps best of all, Parkdale is close to the waterfront. On any given day, you have your choices cut out for you. Bask by the lake, escape into a natural paradise, or shop and dine until your heart’s content. Tough decisions, but who better to make them than a smart and savvy Parkdale resident?
Swansea: Elegance in the West
If Parkdale is known for its grittiness, Swansea is famous for its gracefulness. This quiet and elegant neighbourhood provides a small-town feel while being close to all of the action.
Swansea’s natural borders include the Humber River, Lake Ontario, and Grenadier Pond, making it one of the most picturesque neighbourhoods around. The shops and amenities of Bloor West Village lie just to the north, with all of the scenery of High Park to the west. In other words, Swansea has it all!
Most homes in Swansea are detached, with plenty of living space for a modern family. Nearby amenities include a public library and a full-service community centre, which provide residents with a non-stop list of activities to enjoy.
There are tennis courts, a giant outdoor ice rink, and a playground complete with wading pool. In addition, Swansea Junior and Senior Public School is one of Toronto’s top schools, further cementing Swansea’s reputation as a family-friendly neighbourhood.
West End Toronto is perfect for people from all walks of life! Should you consider downsizing here? Learn more in Downsizing After Retirement: When is the Best Time to Sell?
Bloor West Village: A Shopping Enthusiasts Paradise
In Bloor West Village, life is all about culture and community. And did we mention the shopping? This tiny enclave boasts more than 400 stores and restaurants within a 15 block radius!
Fruit stands, gourmet grocers, delicatessens, bakeries, and independent shops adorn the streets of Bloor West Village, making it a premier destination for foodies and retail lovers. This isn’t like going to the mall or your standard big box stores; it’s a completely unique experience, and every day boasts a selection of new offerings.
Bloor West Village is known for its vibrant atmosphere, but like many West End neighbourhoods, it’s also full of natural beauty. Children can play and run around with wild abandon at Etienne Brulé Park and Beresford Park – while the grownups rest their weary legs from all that shopping. For even more nature, you could always take a quick walk over to High Park.
Dovercourt Wallace Emerson: A Haven of Affordability and Convenience
Dovercourt Wallace Emerson is popular for first-time buyers and young families thanks to its relative affordability compared to other Toronto neighbourhoods. The housing mix includes a selection of townhouses, semi-detached homes, and condos, all of which can be your ticket to the West End.
Though one of the more affordable areas, Dovercourt Wallace Emerson still offers a high quality of life, along with every convenience you can imagine. The residential area is surrounded by parks and playgrounds, making it an ideal place for a young family.
Wallace Emerson is definitely a neighbourhood to watch. The area is always evolving, and you’ll find plenty of nice bars and restaurants nearby, as well as a selection of shops and services for your everyday needs.
The Junction: A Hip ‘Hood With an Artistic Flair
Calling all creative types; The Junction welcomes you with open arms! Here, you’ll find a happening, dare we say “hip” atmosphere, with an abundance of independent art galleries along Dupont Street, Helens Avenue, and Annette Street.
A hopping shopping district along Dundas Street West provides access to all of the conveniences you could ever hope for and more. Shops and restaurants are all within easy walking distance, and public transit is available to take you anywhere in the city.
Ironically, The Junction was the last “dry” area in Toronto as the sale of alcohol was forbidden right up to the year 2000. You’d never know it today, thanks to the presence of some of the liveliest bars and pubs in the West End. All in all, this is a fantastic place to enjoy great food with great friends, often to the backdrop of live music.
The Junction is located just north of High Park for whenever you need a natural oasis to escape to. That said, you don’t even have to venture that far as the neighbourhood has multiple parks of its own!
Do you want personalized guidance to find the neighbourhood where you’ll feel right at home? Our knowledgeable and enthusiastic West Toronto Realtors® are happy to tell you everything you need to know! Contact us today at 416-788-1823 or email kim@kimkehoe.com to learn more.
