Toronto is one of Canada’s most vibrant and diverse cities, attracting thousands of new residents each year. Finding a place to rent in Toronto can be a challenge, especially in popular neighbourhoods where demand is high. Whether you’re a young professional, a family or a student, it’s essential to understand the specifics of each neighbourhood before making a decision.
In this article, we’ll explore the most popular neighbourhoods for renting an apartment in Toronto, highlighting their strengths, the types of housing available and what makes them attractive to different types of renters.
1. Downtown Toronto: The Economic and Cultural Heart
Downtown Toronto is undoubtedly one of the most popular places to find a place to rent. This central neighbourhood is home to many of the city’s economic, cultural and educational centres, making it an ideal choice for young professionals and students.
Pros:
● Proximity to offices: For those working in the financial district, Downtown offers direct access to major skyscrapers and businesses.
● Cultural life: The area is full of museums, theatres, and events, not to mention numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars.
● Public transportation: The subway and streetcar network is very dense, making it easy to travel to other areas.
Types of housing available:
● High-rise apartments: Modern high-rises are plentiful, with options ranging from modest apartments to luxury condos with views of Lake Ontario.
● Studios and furnished apartments: Studios are ideal for renters looking for a more affordable place to live, while furnished apartments are popular among expats and young professionals.
Cons:
● High cost: Living downtown comes at a price, and rents can be much higher than in other Toronto neighbourhoods.
2. Yorkville: Luxury and Elegance
If you’re looking for a chic neighbourhood with high-end boutiques and Michelin-star restaurants, Yorkville or York is a great choice. Known for its art galleries, luxury fashion boutiques and five-star hotels, Yorkville is often called Toronto’s most glamorous neighbourhood.
Pros:
● Luxurious lifestyle: Yorkville attracts a wealthy clientele, with high-end condos and luxury apartments.
● Proximity to shops and services: Here you’ll find exclusive boutiques and world-class establishments.
● Safe neighbourhood: It’s one of the safest neighbourhoods in the city, making it an attractive option for families and professionals.
Types of accommodation available:
● Modern condos and luxury apartments: Accommodation in Yorkville is often located in newer buildings with amenities such as pools, gyms and concierge services.
Cons:
● Exorbitant prices: Rents in this area are among the highest in Toronto, which can exclude many tenants looking for affordable housing.
3. The Annex: A Student and Cultural Neighbourhood
Located near the University of Toronto, The Annex is a diverse and lively neighbourhood, particularly popular with students and young professionals. This neighbourhood is an excellent compromise between urban dynamism and a more residential atmosphere.
Pros:
● Proximity to the University of Toronto: Ideal for students looking to live close to their campus.
● Lively and artistic atmosphere: The Annex is full of bars, cafés and small independent shops, attracting a young and creative population.
● More affordable rents: Compared to Downtown or Yorkville, rents in The Annex are more reasonable, while offering easy access to the city centre.
Types of accommodation available:
● Apartments in Victorian houses: This neighbourhood is famous for its Victorian houses converted into apartments and shared accommodation.
● Studios and furnished rooms: Popular among students, these accommodations are a budget-friendly option in a central area.
Cons:
● Noise and bustle: Due to its proximity to bars and restaurants, The Annex can be a noisy neighbourhood, especially at night.
4. Queen West: The Creative District
Recently named one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world, Queen West or East York attracts a creative and alternative population. With its art galleries, independent fashion boutiques and many cafes, Queen West is a popular place for artists, designers and entrepreneurs.
Pros:
● Creative and artistic vibe: If you love art, music and cultural events, this neighbourhood is for you.
● Vibrant nightlife: Trendy bars, clubs and music events are at the heart of Queen West’s nightlife.
● Proximity to green spaces: Trinity Bellwoods Park is a popular gathering place for locals.
Types of housing available:
● Industrial lofts: Many buildings in this neighbourhood have been converted into lofts, with large open spaces and an industrial style.
● Apartments in historic buildings: You can find apartments in renovated historic buildings, often at more affordable prices than in more central neighbourhoods.
Cons:
● Variable rents: Depending on the specific location in Queen West, rents can vary considerably, with higher prices near the trendiest areas.
5. Liberty Village: A Modern and Hip Neighbourhood
Liberty Village is one of Toronto’s fastest growing neighbourhoods, attracting many people due to its vibrancy and many modern amenities. Located west of the city centre, it offers a residential yet lively atmosphere.
Pros:
● Modern architecture: Liberty Village is mainly made up of modern condos and lofts, with newer buildings and coworking spaces.
● Community Life: The neighbourhood is known for its community spirit, with many shared spaces and social events.
● Proximity to the Lake: Liberty Village offers quick access to the shores of Lake Ontario, perfect for outdoor activities.
Types of Housing Available:
● Modern Condos and Apartments: The majority of housing units are newer condos with amenities such as gyms, pools and common areas.
Cons:
● Lack of Direct Access to the Subway: While the neighbourhood is well-served by streetcars, it is not directly connected to the subway system, which can be a problem for some commutes.
6. Leslieville: A Family-Friendly and Trendy Neighbourhood
If you are looking for a quieter, but equally trendy neighbourhood, Leslieville is a great option. Located in east Toronto, this neighbourhood offers a friendly, family-friendly atmosphere while remaining close to the city centre.
Pros:
● Cozy neighbourhood: Leslieville has retained a small-town feel, with local shops, artisan cafes and parks.
● Easy access to downtown: Although it is further from the centre, Leslieville is well-served by streetcars and provides quick access to the heart of Toronto.
Types of housing available:
● Single-family homes and apartments: Unlike the central neighbourhoods, Leslieville offers single-family homes as well as apartments in converted homes.
Cons:
● Less lively at night: This neighbourhood is quieter than other areas of Toronto, which can be a plus for families, but less appealing for those looking for an active nightlife.
Conclusion
Depending on your priorities, whether it’s proximity to work, an artistic vibe, or a family-friendly environment, Toronto offers a wide variety of popular neighbourhoods to find a place to rent. Whether you’re looking for an apartment for rent in Toronto in upscale Yorkville, or a more affordable studio in The Annex, the city has a multitude of options to suit every budget and lifestyle. Make sure you know what you need before you start looking, and be prepared to act quickly in a competitive market.