The Ultimate List of the Best Toronto Neighborhoods for US Expats

Since you’re moving to Canada, you should know that this is one of the friendliest countries in the world. Toronto is among the best places to live in Canada and is the capital of its province Ontario. Located on Lake Ontario’s shores, the Six is the 5th largest city in North America, right after New York, Mexico, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Ontario capital is also known as the second-best business-friendly city. You’re in luck if your international move is employee relocation-related. Just remember to prepare a list of relocation questions to ask the employer. Since you’re moving here, you should remember that the official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). You’ll probably be able to cover some expenses with US dollars, but remember to convert your savings as soon as you settle.

What Are the 6 Areas of Toronto?

We have already said that Ontario capital is also known as the Six. This name was popularized in 2016 when Drake released an album titled Views From The 6. He derived the number from the city’s 416 area code and the six boroughs that amalgamated into the current city in 1998. North York, York, East York, Etobicoke, Scarborough, and Toronto are those six areas. Now without further ado, let’s see the list of the best neighborhoods in Toronto you should keep an eye out for.

What Is the Best Neighborhood to Live in Toronto?

Whether you’re moving to Toronto for a couple of months or you’re planning to stay much longer, know that this is a pretty diverse place. The Six is among the most multicultural cities in the world, and that’s the main reason for its diversity. There are more than 200 ethnic groups with around 140 spoken languages. Some of the largest cultural communities come from China, Italy, the UK, and Ireland, while smaller ones include people from the Netherlands, Iran, Nepal, and Romania. That’s why you’ll find neighborhoods such as Greektown, Chinatown, Little Italy, Little India, and Roncesvalles Village (Little Poland.) Keep reading to find out what are the best ones and decide to start your relocation process today!

Kensington Is Among Iconic and Unique Toronto Neighborhoods

Kensington is a neighborhood we are sure you’ll simply adore! You’ll maybe need to catch a streetcar to get around, but it’s definitely worth it. Apart from enjoying charming Kensington’s architecture, you’ll find the best food in the whole city here. This is a multicultural area, with immigrants leaving their mark in many ways. It can be mostly seen in the mixture of cafes and restaurants, vintage shops, and dynamic market booths. If you decide to settle in Kensington, you’ll be close to Chinatown, another great neighborhood for shopping.

Little Italy Is Known for Expensive Housing

According to Getwhatyouwant.ca, the average property price in Little Italy is around 1,486,500 CAD ($1,125,438), which is expensive. The median monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment is about $2,300. When you add basic utility expenses and the internet service, your monthly bill could add up to $2,437. Many apartments are pet-friendly, which surely means a lot to those moving with cats. Little Italy has a lot to offer. This beautiful neighborhood is home to some of the most charming restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. No matter where you settle, you simply must attend Little Italy’s annual Taste of Little Italy summer street festival.

Rent Prices Decreased in High Park North

If you’re looking for a cheaper place to settle, consider High Park North. According to Zumper.com, the median monthly rent price for a one-bedroom apartment is around $1,813, which is 19% lower than last year. This neighborhood is also great for those who want to live closer to the downtown area but avoid its hustle and bustle. The real gem of the High Park North neighborhood is the High Park itself. With over 400 acres, it’s the biggest park in North America, offering various activities and amenities.

Where Do Hipsters Live in Toronto?

Whether you’re moving abroad alone or not, you should know that the Six can offer world-class restaurants, cutting-edge bars, excellent galleries and museums, exciting attractions, and many entertainment districts.

High End Lifestyle in Downtown’s Distillery District

The Distillery District is one of the most desirable Toronto districts. Yet, in order to afford the rent, utilities, and internet service, you’ll either need a well-paid job or a roommate. According to Rentals.ca, the median rent per month for a one-bedroom apartment is around $1,800. If you plan to move in with a roommate into a two-bedroom apartment, you’ll have to split up the rent of about $2,300 a month, and when we add utility bills, the cost of renting a place could add up to $1,200. Thus, the Distillery District is pretty expensive. However, it is totally worth it. Among the picturesque Victorian-style buildings, you’ll find many galleries, artsy boutiques, hip restaurants, and coffee shops. Moving internationally is a big step, and you would want to choose the right place to suit your needs and preferences.

King West: Enjoying the Best Fashion in the City

Living in Toronto’s King West means being in the city’s entertainment and fashion district. If you’re crazy about fashion, you should start preparing your moving abroad checklist and move to this neighborhood. As soon as you settle, head down to Coal Miner’s Daughter to shop for some fantastic clothes and locally sourced jewelry. King West is also known for its costliness. A more expensive side of Toronto cost of living is present here as well as in The Distillery District. According to zumper.com, the median rent for a condo is around 1,900 CAD ($1,500). The good news is that your apartment building will come with available parking and a gym. And in case you’re moving with pets, you’ll have no problem finding a pet-friendly apartment in King West.

Leslieville Is for Those Who Are Looking for the Newest Dining Trends

Leslieville is Toronto’s version of NY’s Brooklyn and is known as the hip part of the East End neighborhoods. It’s a real heaven on earth for creative types. Filled with many independent shops, cool bars and restaurants, Leslieville is a great neighborhood that will offer a little of something to everyone. The Six can be on the list of the best vegan cities in Canada, and some of the finest vegan-friendly restaurants are located here. Also, if you’re moving to another country for love and are about to start a new family with your partner, know that Leslieville is a very family-friendly district.

What Are the Costs of Living in Toronto Suburbs?

The higher cost of living and high-rise apartments are not a surprise to anyone who’s thinking about relocating to the Six. However, not every area is expensive. We have great news for those who are looking for more affordable communities.

Eglinton West Offers the Cheapest Home Prices

The most affordable neighborhood in the Six is Eglinton West when it comes to detached house prices. According to Zoocasa.com, the median home price here is around $665,200. You can even find a pretty good and cheaper deal in Eglinton Flats, an area situated in Mount Dennis. If you settle here, you’ll have quick access to Crosstown LRT when it opens next year. There are also many breathtaking amenities at Mount Dennis, including shopping malls, restaurants, fitness centers, soccer fields, hospitals, and a library. The area boasts nature enjoyment as well. For instance, you can spend the whole day exploring the neighborhood’s stunning Humber River, Topham Pond, Pearen Park, and Westlake Memorial Park. If you’re moving with dogs, make sure to take them out with you often because you’ll find several off-leash dog areas.

Consider Markham if You’re Relocating to Canada With Kids

Markham is a suburb known for being home to a large number of corporate offices, science-based companies, and high-tech businesses. The proximity to Toronto’s center is another of its advantages and makes it a great place to purchase a house. The median detached house price in Markham is around $682,209, according to Zolo.ca. Consider investing in the neighborhood’s property if you’re relocating internationally with your family. What makes Markham one of the best places to live abroad with family is the abundance of family-friendly activities. Reesor Farm Market, Milne Dam Conservation Park, and Toogood Pond Park, to name a few.

Find a Home in Pickering and a Job in Toronto’s Downtown

Pickering is situated in the Durham region and is a small suburban neighborhood. Yet, in the past couple of years, this area has seen some growth regarding real estate. You will find a significant number of available properties, and there is more to come in the future. According to Zolo.ca, the median house cost is around $568,507. Such a price is relatively low, considering its proximity to Toronto’s downtown. Commuters can quickly arrive in the city’s downtown in just about 30 minutes.

Where Should I Not Live in Toronto?

It’s important to mention that overall, the Six is a pretty safe place. However, this is a big metropolitan city, and some of its neighborhoods are simply less safe than others. What makes particular areas “bad” are high levels of crime rates and violence. Here are some places you should definitely avoid:

• Regent Park is located in the city’s downtown area. Over the years, this neighborhood had become a home to the poorest, facing challenges such as low-quality education, improper housing, and high crime levels.
• Even though Flemingdon Park has many commercial offices, single-family homes, and available apartments, it’s not the best place for living. Several high schools have a terrible reputation and are known for high crime rates.
• Casa Loma is a neighborhood facing high crime rates as well. On average, Casa Loma comes across a crime rate of 5.92 per 1000 people and 29.20 against 1000 properties.
• The Annex is a densely populated neighborhood with a high level of crime rates. The average crime rate is 8.15 per 1000 people and 23.80 against 1000 properties.

Hire the Best International Moving Company to Relocate You Safely to Canada

And we have come to the end of our list of the best Toronto neighborhoods. Hopefully, you already know which of the communities mentioned above fits your lifestyle the best. When you start preparing documents needed to travel abroad and begin making a list of what to pack when moving abroad, remember to contact reliable international moving services. Relocation during the coronavirus times can be challenging. However, with a professional international moving company, everything will be done in no time and will be a success. You should know that packings services also include full-equipment. Thus, you won’t have to worry about obtaining boxes and moving supplies by yourself. A reputable company can offer clean and climate-controlled storage units and overseas vehicle shipping. Among useful tips for saving money on relocation expenses is to avoid moving during the holidays.

Now that you know how to move to another country, you should look up advice on how to live in another country. Adjusting to a new country could be a bit difficult at the beginning. However, as noted, the Six is an international city, and we are sure that no matter where you settle, you’ll start making new friends easily.