Best Neighborhoods in Toronto for Families [2023]

Home » Featured » Best Neighborhoods in Toronto for Families

We conduct thorough testing and research on all the services that we review. We are based in Toronto and here is why you can rely on our reviews.

Choosing the right neighborhood for your family is a critical decision that may greatly impact your quality of life. In a city as large and diverse as Toronto, there are many options to consider, each of which with its own unique characteristics and attractions. From parks and schools (including some of the best private schools in Toronto) to safety and affordability, there are several factors to take into account when deciding where to settle down with your family.

In this discussion, we’ll be exploring some of the best neighborhoods in Toronto for families based on the aforementioned criteria.

Let’s dive right in!

1) The Beaches:

This neighborhood in the east end of Toronto is well known for its beautiful beaches (including some of the best we previously listed), parks, and community feel. As well as being home to the popular Woodbine Beach, the neighborhood also harbors some of the city’s top-ranking schools including Kew Beach Junior Public School, Balmy Beach Community School, and Glen Ames Senior Public School. It’s also home to Kew Gardens, a popular park that features walking trails, playgrounds, and a wading pool. The Beaches is generally considered an upscale neighborhood, with higher-than-average housing prices. However, there is a range of housing options available, including single-family homes, apartments, and condos. For families who already have established social connections in the city, this location may be a desirable neighborhood due to its close proximity to other popular neighborhoods and attractions, including downtown Toronto and the Toronto Islands.The Beaches is home to a variety of services, including healthcare providers, childcare centers, and grocery stores. It’s also located close to other neighborhoods with additional services and amenities. Additionally, The Beaches is a diverse neighborhood with a welcoming attitude towards all residents. It’s home to a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees from a range of backgrounds and cultures. The Beaches is generally considered a safe neighborhood. It has a low crime rate, good lighting, and pedestrian-friendly streets.

2) Leslieville:

Located just east of downtown Toronto, Leslieville is known for its family-friendly amenities, including parks, community centers, and a wide range of restaurants and shops. Leslieville is generally considered a safe neighborhood, with a low crime rate and strong sense of community. The neighborhood is known for its walkable streets and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.Some of the top-ranked schools in the area include Morse Street Junior Public School, Leslieville Junior Public School, and Riverdale Collegiate Institute. Leslieville is home to several parks and green spaces, including Greenwood Park, Jimmie Simpson Park, and Withrow Park. These parks offer walking trails, playgrounds, and sports facilities. Leslieville is generally considered an affordable neighborhood compared to other areas in Toronto, with housing options that range from single-family homes to apartments and condos. Leslieville is well-served by public transportation, including several bus and streetcar routes. The neighborhood is also located near major highways and arterial roads.

instagram

3) Davisville Village:

This midtown neighborhood is known for its good schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities, including a community center with a pool, a hockey rink, and a splash pad. Davisville Village is home to some of the top-rated public schools in Toronto, including Maurice Cody Junior Public School and Hodgson Senior Public School. As Davisville is close to the downtown area, consider checking out our list on the best elementary schools in downtown. There are also several private schools in the area. The neighborhood has several parks, including the popular Beltline Trail and the Davisville Park. The parks provide a variety of recreational activities, such as tennis courts, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Davisville Village is considered a safe neighborhood, with a low crime rate and a strong sense of community. The neighborhood is well-served by public transportation, with several bus routes and the Davisville subway station nearby. It’s also easily accessible to major roads such as Yonge Street and Mount Pleasant Road. Davisville Village is home to plenty of family-friendly amenities, including a community center, library, and an ice rink, as well as many shops, cafes, and restaurants. For families who have established social connections in the city, Davisville Village is close to other popular neighborhoods and attractions, such as Yonge and Eglinton, Midtown, and downtown Toronto.

instagram

4) Bloor West Village:

Located in the west end of Toronto, this neighborhood is known for its strong sense of community, good schools, and access to parks and recreational facilities.The neighborhood is home to several parks, including High Park, which is one of the largest and most popular parks in Toronto. Other parks in the area include Beresford Park and Neil McLellan Park. Bloor West Village has many family-friendly amenities, including the Annette Street Public Library, the Swansea Town Hall Community Centre, and several community-run programs for kids and families.The neighborhood has a strong sense of community, with many annual events and festivals, such as the Bloor West Village Ukrainian Festival and the Taste of the Kingsway.Bloor West Village is home to several highly regarded public schools, including Runnymede Junior and Senior Public School and Humbercrest Public School. There are also several private schools in the area.The neighborhood is well-served by public transportation, with several bus routes and subway stations nearby. It’s also easily accessible to major roads such as Bloor Street and the Gardiner Expressway.

5) North Toronto:

This neighborhood, located north of downtown Toronto, is known for its good schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities, including a community center with a pool and a gym.North Toronto has many family-friendly amenities, including the North Toronto Memorial Community Centre, which offers a range of programs available for kids and families, as well as the Northern District Public Library.The neighborhood has several parks, including Eglinton Park, which offers a wide range of recreational facilities, including a playground, swimming pool, and ice rink. There are also several other parks in the area, such as Sherwood Park and Chatsworth Ravine. North Toronto is home to some of the top-rated public schools in Toronto, including North Toronto Collegiate Institute and John Wanless Junior Public School. There are also several private schools in the area.The neighborhood has a strong sense of community, with many annual events and festivals, such as the North Toronto Art Show and the North Toronto Stamp Club Show.

6) Lawrence Park:

This upscale neighborhood in midtown Toronto is known for its good schools, parks, and quiet streets. It’s a popular choice for families who value safety and privacy. Lawrence Park is home to some of the top-rated public schools in Toronto, including Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute and Blythwood Junior Public School. There are also an abundance of private schools in the area. The neighborhood is home to several parks, including Lawrence Park, which offers a large green space with playgrounds, walking trails, and a wading pool. There are also several other parks in the area, such as Sherwood Park and Alexander Muir Memorial Gardens. The neighborhood has a strong sense of community, with many annual events and festivals, such as the Lawrence Park Art Show and the Lawrence Park Community Garden Tour.The neighborhood is welcoming to all residents, with a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees from a diverse range of backgrounds and cultures. Lawrence Park has many family-friendly amenities, including the Yonge Lawrence Village Community Centre, which offers a range of programs for kids and families, as well as the Locke Library.

instagram

7) High Park:

This west-end neighborhood is named after its centerpiece, a large park that features walking trails, a zoo, and playgrounds. It’s a popular choice for families who value access to outdoor space. High Park is one of the largest and most beautiful parks in Toronto, with over 400 acres of green space. The park offers a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a swimming pool. The neighborhood fosters a strong sense of community, with many annual events and festivals, such as the High Park Cherry Blossom Festival (which is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in Toronto) and the High Park Harvest Festival. High Park harbors many family-friendly amenities, including the High Park Children’s Garden, which offers gardening workshops for kids, as well as the High Park Zoo, which is home to a variety of animals, including bison and llamas. High Park is home to several highly-rated public schools, including Runnymede Junior and Senior Public School and Humberside Collegiate Institute. There are also several private schools in the area as well as great access to a variety of services, including healthcare providers, childcare centers, and grocery stores.

It’s worth noting that these are just a few examples of neighborhoods that are often considered family-friendly. Ultimately, the most suitable neighborhood for a family will rely on their specific needs and preferences. Toronto is a vibrant and welcoming city that offers many great neighborhoods for families. Whether you prioritize parks and green spaces, top-rated schools, or a strong sense of community, there is a neighborhood in Toronto that is sure to meet your needs! Remember, it’s not just about finding a place to live, but about finding a place to call home.

If you liked this article, consider checking out our pieces on the best lakeside patios, best daycares, and best home builders in Toronto.