Best Toronto West Communities for Raising Kids
February 27, 2023 | Buying
As local real estate agents, it’s our goal to help buyers find the perfect home for their ideal life. For buyers who are in the process of family planning, there are plenty of details to consider. When it comes to raising kids, the neighbourhood is arguably just as important as the home itself.
In Toronto West, there are plenty of amazing neighbourhoods that make an excellent place to raise a family. These communities feature beautiful homes, reputable schools, kid-friendly activities, spacious parks, easy access to the essentials, and everything in between.
In this post, we’ll take a look at three of our favourites.
Looking for the perfect home to raise your children? Click here to read our list of must-haves in a family home.
Keelesdale
Nestled at the northern edge of Toronto’s west end, Keelesdale is a quiet, family-oriented neighbourhood that’s steadily growing in popularity among all kinds of home buyers. Bordered by two large greenspaces, Coronation Park and Keelesdale Park (North and South), the community has a relaxed, suburban atmosphere while still remaining close to the heart of the city.
Why it Works For Families:
While many parents or future parents are attracted to Keelesdale for its relatively affordable homes, the neighbourhood itself organically offers everything you could want in a family-oriented community. The neighbourhood is home to a number of fantastic schools catering to a wide range of grades and ages, along with many school-aged children, providing ample opportunity for play and socialization.
There are also great recreational amenities, such as Chris Tonks Arena and the New Generation Youth Recreation Centre. Plus, the neighbourhood’s abundance of outdoor space makes it easy to get fresh air.
For parents, Keelesdale’s unique proximity to major highways makes commuting and running errands a breeze.
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The Annex
One of Toronto’s first-ever designated suburban communities, The Annex is a historic and close-knit neighbourhood with a quirky, artistic atmosphere. Known for its selection of eclectic mom-and-pop boutiques, indie coffee shops, bookstores, and galleries, The Annex makes for a lively and unique area to call home.
Why it Works For Families:
A neighbourhood unlike any else in the city, The Annex is an outright Toronto icon. Thanks to the community’s abundance of cultural amenities – ranging from Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema to the Royal Ontario Museum, The Annex is the perfect place to foster curiosity and creativity. As a historic neighbourhood, The Annex is home to some of Toronto’s most reputable schools both public and private. The community also directly borders the University of Toronto, which can make things easy if your kids decide to study there down the line.
The Annex is a great fit for families who are seeking a vehicle-free lifestyle. With essentials like groceries, pharmacies, and healthcare services all located directly in the neighbourhood, many errands can be done on foot. There’s also fantastic transit service as multiple bus, streetcar, and subway routes pass through the community.
Want to learn about other great neighbourhoods in Toronto West that we couldn’t fit on this list? Check out these community guides from our site.
Dovercourt-Wallace Emerson
An exciting, up-and-coming community, Dovercourt-Wallace Emerson is one of Toronto West’s fastest-growing neighbourhoods. Thanks in part to its affordable real estate, the neighbourhood has seen a tremendous increase in local development in recent years. With an array of new businesses, homes, and condos sprouting up in the area, Dovercourt-Wallace Emerson is welcoming a new wave of residents – including young families.
Why it Works For Families:
One of the main reasons families love Dovercourt-Wallace Emerson is the energy and atmosphere. As more like-minded home buyers flock to the area, a passionate and close-knit community dynamic is taking shape, making for an enjoyable place to call home.
Similar to The Annex, Dovercourt-Wallace Emerson’s unique location takes the stress out of everyday errands. The neighbourhood’s main retail area, Bloordale Village, features all of the essential shops and services that you will need.
Along with being remarkably convenient, Dovercourt-Wallace Emerson is also one of Toronto’s most fun communities for kids. Home to Wallace Emerson Park, Dovercourt Park, and just a short walk from Christie Pits Park, it’s a great fit for families who love the outdoors. You’ll also find the Wallace Emerson Community Centre and Dovercourt Boys and Girls Club, which provide a wide range of enriching programs for kids.
READY TO FIND YOUR PERFECT FAMILY HOME IN TORONTO WEST? OUR AWARD-WINNING TEAM CAN HELP! SEND US AN EMAIL OR CALL 647.330.5279 TO GET STARTED.
