Today, many people feel that Etobicoke is getting too busy. If you drive down one of the main arteries, you can understand why. Lots of new high rises and condos are being built, not only changing how Etobicoke looks and feels but adding to the non-stop traffic congestion in our once quiet part of the city.
They say things have changed – that it doesn’t feel like the quiet Etobicoke that they grew up in anymore.
But here’s a little secret. Etobicoke is still home to some of the safest neighbourhoods in Toronto and the best suburbs of Toronto.
Turn into any one of the following neighbourhoods, and it is like the hustle and bustle doesn’t exist. You can insulate yourself from the city feel that is becoming our main streets, leaving the stress and noise behind you. After all, that is the main appeal of the suburbs – quiet, tree-lined streets, where you can get more space, and leave your work worries behind.
Here are some of my favourites to do just that:
Princess-Rosethorn
I’ve been spending plenty of time in this community the past year, after selling homes on both Ashford and multiple on Farningham. The canopy of trees in this area is straight out of a picture book.
In the winter, you feel like you’re in a real live snow globe. Part of the reason for this, are the home types that abound. Ranch bungalows on 60ft wide lots give a wide spread out feeling that lets the trees and landscaping speak for themselves.
I call it the “Palm Springs” of Etobicoke, as there are so many stunning bungalows, and it has the retirees to match! Part of the appeal of this neighbourhood is the fact that there are so many spacious bungalows that downsizers find desirable. It’s also one of the best places to live in the GTA for families.
There are many two stories being built in the areas well, should you need more room. However, it comes with a hefty price tag, as there isn’t much turnover in this area, thus creating competition and higher prices. So if you’re looking for a bungalow that’s a little cheaper, let me introduce you to the next neighbourhood on my list.
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Etobicoke-Willowridge-Martingrove-Richview
That’s the fancy MLS title for the neighbourhoods that many people will call Richview Gardens, or the “La Rose” area, the Father-Serra Catchment area, or “South of Westway”.
I joke that we should protect these areas from builders at all costs, and then leave the bungalows to families starting out who are desperate to get into the Father Serra School Catchment area, and for retirees who live in larger homes in the area and are hoping to downsize.
Similar to Princess Rosethorn, you have a smattering of 2-storey new builds going in, but the majority of the neighbourhood is defined by bungalows and side and back splits.
A safe and community-focused neighbourhood, where going for an evening stroll is met by the presence of manicured gardens. More affordable than Princess Rosethorn, the yards are not as sprawling, but a real suburban community exists.
Alderwood
I find Alderwood to be one of the most underrated communities in South Etobicoke. Split in two by Brown’s Line, Alderwood is another mature tree-lined community, but at a fraction of the cost of the above neighbourhoods.
One of the main reasons is that the perimeter of these areas is surrounded by industrial buildings and the 427/QEW, but tuck yourself into these communities, and you will find the calm serenity you crave from the suburbs. A mix of wartime bungalows and modern two stories, the price point is more attractive, but still very much community vibes.
Having the shops and restaurants of Sherway Gardens close by is another major bonus, as quick access to both the QEW and 427 makes commuting back into the city life very quick and easy.
Sunnylea
Another Idyllic Suburban community is Sunnylea. I once took a client who lived downtown to look at homes here and she said it was “too quiet”. A suburbanite’s dream!
Canopied tree living, you are steps to nature with the Humber River and Toronto Yacht Club to the East, and Mimico Creek to the West. Want to get back to people-watching? You can re-emerge into city living with the access and convenience that Bloor Street to the north has to offer. Many of the streets here do not have sidewalks, so it still has that charm that old neighbourhoods bring.
Searching for advice on buying a family home? I’ve got plenty more advice-filled blogs.
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Markland Woods
The only neighbourhood on the West side of the 427 to make this list is Markland Woods – one of the best neighbourhoods in Toronto for families. Traditional two-story family homes abound here surrounded by, you guessed it, a canopy of trees. Called “the loop” by locals, the Mimico and Rathburn Creek encircle this neighbourhood, creating a true barrier to the outside world.
Honourable Mentions
I could add Chestnut Hills, The Kingsway and Humber Valley to this list as they technically are in the suburbs…but the price point doesn’t feel that way! In these neighbourhoods, you will also be greeted with a dense tree canopy, wide lots, and the escapism of the burbs, but the homes here are estate-like…with the price point to match.
Searching for a home in Etobicoke? I can help! Reach us at 416.837.9676 or steph@stephaniek.ca to start your journey.
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