Toronto is a vibrant family-oriented city even if its famous towers and busy financial centre define it most. Many communities outside the urban core provide first-rate living conditions with simple access to parks, family-friendly businesses, and top-notch schools.

Toronto's large geographic size guarantees that, from elementary school through university level, educational possibilities are easily accessible all throughout the city. For people with young children or dogs, the plenty of green areas and close proximity to family-friendly businesses make it a perfect fit.

Riverdale

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East of the Don River, Riverdale is a stunning area known for its well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian houses tucked away on street-bordered trees.

Bound to the north by Danforth Avenue and to the south by Lakeshore Boulevard, this lovely neighborhood exudes a lively communal energy. Riverdale appeals to families looking for a mix of close-knit neighborhoods and modern conveniences.  

Parks and Recreation

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Riverdale Park, a substantial green space featuring sports fields, playgrounds, and an outdoor pool, is a beloved community asset. The park, divided into east and west sections, provides plenty of space for year-round activities such as tobogganing in the winter and picnics in the summer. 

Nearby parks like Withrow Park and Kempton Howard Park further enhance outdoor recreational options for families in the Riverdale neighborhood.

Schools

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The neighbourhood boasts a strong educational infrastructure, with several well-regarded schools. Notable institutions include:

  • Withrow Avenue Junior Public School
  • Jackman Avenue Junior Public School
  • Frankland Community School
  • Riverdale Collegiate Institute (high school)
  • Montcrest School (private)

This variety ensures families have access to quality education within walking distance, which is a significant draw for parents.

Real Estate

According to recent data, the average price for a semi-detached home in Riverdale is around $1.69 million, indicating its high desirability and quality of life. While this represents a premium, the neighborhood's exceptional amenities and a strong sense of community make it a worthwhile investment for many families looking for homes for sale in Toronto. 

Bloor West Village

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Bloor West Village is a charming enclave within a busy metropolis and provides a lovely, family-friendly environment. Families of all stripes will find a friendly community vibe created by tree-lined streets, boutiques, and many food options.

The small-town appeal of the neighborhood is further enhanced by its fruit stalls and local markets, which makes it perfect for family trips.

Parks and Recreation

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Toronto's largest public park, at nearly 400 acres, High Park is very attractive for families. Perfect for family vacations and outdoor activities, this large green area features playgrounds, sports facilities, a small zoo, and thorough bike and pedestrian paths.

Bloor West Village also provides various smaller parks and playgrounds, thereby providing lots of chances for kids to enjoy the surroundings. 

Schools

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Bloor West Village is home to a high concentration of public schools, including:

  • Swansea Junior and Senior Public School
  • Humberside Collegiate Institute
  • Rockcliffe Middle School

These schools are well-regarded and offer quality education, which is a critical factor for families when choosing a neighbourhood.

Real Estate

Bloor West Village offers a diverse range of housing options, from classic Toronto homes with character to modern residences. 

According to the latest statistics, semi-detached homes are priced at around $1.546.429, and detached homes in the area have a median price of around $1.936.368. These premium rates capture the demand of the area and the great quality of living that it provides for households.

The Beaches

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The Beaches, a charming enclave within Toronto, offers a small-town atmosphere. Families will find the neighborhood friendly, with its lovely residential streets, old houses, and a strong sense of community.

The Beaches Jazz Festival and the Winter Stations outdoor art display are among the local events residents can enjoy, therefore strengthening their active community. 

Parks and Recreation

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The Beaches is notable for its four sandy beaches around Lake Ontario; Woodbine Beach is especially kid-friendly.

Among the many parks and leisure venues in the area are Kew Gardens, Ashbridges Bay Park, and the picturesque Martin Goodman Trail. These green areas provide lots of chances for outdoor sports, which helps families to stay active and enjoy the surroundings. 

Schools

Image: ACO Toronto

The Beaches is well-served by a variety of public schools, which is a significant consideration for families. Notable schools in the area include:

  • Williamson Road Junior Public School
  • Balmy Beach Community School
  • Riverdale Collegiate Institute (nearby high school)

With a total of thirteen public schools available, parents have multiple options for their children's education.

Real Estate

From elegant historic buildings to contemporary dwellings, the Beaches provide a wide spectrum of housing choices. According to recent statistics, the average rent for an unfurnished one-bedroom apartment is approximately $1775, a two-bedroom dwelling is $2500, and a three-bedroom dwelling is $3700. 

Although coastal homes usually demand more rent, families can locate appropriate accommodation within their means by looking at choices further inland.

Allenby

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Nestled between Latimer Avenue, Briar Hill Avenue, Avenue Road, and Eglinton Avenue West, Allenby is a little enclave with a strong feeling of community.

The mostly residential aspect of the neighborhood combines modern constructions with old houses. Families find it appealing because of its handy position close to many facilities. 

Parks and Recreation

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Allenby residents have easy access to many parks and leisure activities. Playgrounds, sports fields, and verdant areas for family enjoyment abound at nearby Eglinton Park and Memorial Park.

Popular for family events, the North Toronto Memorial Community Recreation Centre offers many leisure possibilities including swimming and fitness classes. 

Schools

Allenby's strong educational offerings make it an attractive choice for families. The neighborhood features Allenby Junior Public School, renowned for its French Immersion program. Other nearby schools include North Preparatory Junior School, Oriole Park Junior Public School, and St. Monica Catholic Elementary School. 

For high school education, Marshall McLuhan Catholic Secondary School and Forest Hill Collegiate Institute are within easy reach, providing a comprehensive educational pathway for children.

Real Estate

The real estate market in Allenby is competitive, with a mix of older two- and three-bedroom units available. 

While specific rental averages are difficult to pinpoint due to the neighborhood’s size, rents are likely comparable to Downtown Toronto's average of $2040 per month for an unfurnished one-bedroom unit. Families seeking more space may find older homes appealing, as they often offer larger layouts suitable for family living.

Leslieville

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Bound by Carlaw Avenue, Coxwell Avenue, Gerrard Street, and Eastern Avenue, Leslieville is a dynamic community immediately east of Toronto.

Originally a historical region, this hip neighborhood has become a sought-after location for young couples looking for a vibrant yet friendly environment. For those with children, its mix of modern conveniences and small-town charm makes it perfect. 

Parks and Recreation

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Leslieville's many parks and leisure activities provide a variety of family-friendly conveniences.

Greenwood Park is open all year with a playground, splash pad, sports fields, and winter ice rink.

The large sports fields, tennis courts, and recreation center at Jimmy Simpson Park offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor play and community events.

Popular for families in warmer months, Jonathan Ashbridge Park, close to the southern end of Queen Street, boasts tennis courts, a playground, and a wading pool.

These parks give families somewhere to congregate and safe, interesting surroundings for kids to play in. 

Schools

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Leslieville is home to a robust selection of schools, making it appealing for families with children. Notable educational institutions include:

  • Leslieville Junior Public School
  • Morse Street Junior Public School
  • Duke of Connaught Junior and Senior Public School
  • Monarch Park Collegiate Institute (high school)

The presence of these schools ensures that families have access to quality education within the neighborhood.

Real Estate

From detached homes to semi-detached houses to condos, Leslieville's real estate scene presents a wide spectrum of choices.

According to recent statistics, the average rent for an unfurnished one-bedroom apartment is over $2088 per month, a two-bedroom apartment is $2800, and a three-bedroom home is $3400. Different family budgets and needs are catered to by this variety of housing supply.