Moving to Toronto (GTA): Where Should You Live?

1. Etobicoke

Crime Rate: 2.42 crimes per 1000 people
Average 1-bed apt rent: $2,215
Average property buying cost: $750,000

Etobicoke, known as a ‘modern suburb’ and located west of Toronto’s downtown core with Lake Ontario to the south, provides scenic waterfront views and recreational activities like walks and cycling. Residents love its green spaces, including parks like Colonel Samuel Smith Park, Centennial Park, and various golf courses. Etobicoke City Centre seamlessly combines city and suburban living, offering diverse dining, shopping, and local businesses. The commute to Downtown Toronto is quick, taking just 14 to 40 minutes by car in rush hour via the Gardiner Expressway or Lake Shore Boulevard West. Alternatively, it takes around 50 to 60 minutes by public transit, using a combination of train and bus. Good news, it’s just a 10-minute drive to Toronto Pearson International Airport via ON-427 North. Housing options in Etobicoke include apartments with more than 5 floors and single-detached homes.

Toronto Police MCI (2023), Statcan (2021), Local Logic (Oct 2024), Rentals.ca & Redfin (Oct 2024)

"As a local expert in Etobicoke, I can confirm all the highlights mentioned above. What truly sets Etobicoke apart is its balance of city conveniences and suburban charm, with parks and Lake Ontario perfect for outdoor lovers. Despite being part of Toronto, it offers a quieter vibe, diverse housing options, and easy access to both downtown and Pearson International Airport, making it ideal for frequent travelers and families alike. All of these aspects contribute to Etobicoke’s high quality of life, whether you're looking for a modern condo or a detached home."

Etobicoke, Toronto, Ontario

2. Davisville Village

Crime Rate: 5.39 crimes per 1000 people
Average 1-bed apt rent: $2,345
Average property buying cost: $810,000

Known as one of the top neighborhoods for public transit in the GTA and Toronto, Davisville Village is a prime spot for those who want easy access to the city, which is why it made our list of the best places to live in Toronto. With Davisville Station on Line 1 (Yonge-University), you’re well-connected to major areas like downtown and the University of Toronto, and there are plenty of bus routes throughout the neighborhood. Davisville Village is also incredibly family-friendly, with parks like Davisville Park offering a pool, tennis courts, and a baseball diamond. There’s even a community center with classes for locals, adding to the sense of community. The area is home to well-regarded schools such as Davisville Junior Public School and Earl Haig Secondary School, making it ideal for families with children. For shopping and dining, you’re just a short walk away from the charming Mount Pleasant Village, where you’ll find great spots to eat and enjoy some entertainment. Davisville really does have something for everyone, though it comes with the downside of being a bit pricey when it comes to housing and rent.

Zumper (Oct 2024), Redfin (Oct 2024), AreaVibes (Oct 2024) & Toronto Police MCI (2023)

Davisville Village, Toronto, Ontario

3. Steeles

Crime Rate: 5.97 crimes per 1000 people
Average 1-bed apt rent: $2,198
Average property buying cost: $1,200,000

Steeles, a small suburban neighborhood in Toronto’s northeastern Scarborough, offers a serene environment ideal for families and is considered one of the best places to live in Toronto. It features big parks like L’Amoreaux North, Terry Fox, and Fundy Bay, providing soccer and tennis fields along with playgrounds. Additionally, Steeles is conveniently close to public schools such as Sir Ernest MacMillan Senior Public School and Terry Fox Public School. Most of the housing in Steeles consists of single-family homes and townhouses on tree-lined streets, making the neighborhood walkable with nearby grocery stores and restaurants. Steeles has a reported crime rate of 5.97 crimes per 1,000 people, offering a secure environment for its residents.

Zumper (Oct 2024), Redfin (Oct 2024), Toronto.ca (2016) & Toronto Police MCI (2023)

Steeles, Toronto, ontario

4. Yonge & St. Clair

Crime Rate: 7.77 crimes per 1000 people
Average 1-bed apt rent: $2,494
Average property buying cost: $1,773,631

Between Avenue Road and Yonge Street, Yonge & St. Clair boasts inviting green spaces like The Beltline Trail, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The bustling main streets are lined with offices, restaurants, shops, and cafés, offering a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It’s a highly desirable place to live in Toronto, though the cost of living here is quite high. In Yonge & St. Clair, tree-lined residential streets and charming homes create a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle. Known for its beautiful greenery and low crime rate, the area offers a mix of condos, apartments, and detached houses. With a reported crime rate of 7.77 per 1,000 people, Yonge & St. Clair is considered one of the safest and most attractive neighborhoods to call home in Toronto.

Zumper (Oct 2024), Zolo (Summer 2024), & Toronto Police MCI (2023)

Yonge & St. Clair, Toronto, Ontario

5. Ajax

Crime Rate: 26.15 crimes per 1000 people
Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,663
Average property buying cost: $875,000

Ajax, a waterfront town nestled between Whitby and Pickering, offers a surprising array of amenities despite its smaller size. Surrounded by nature, it provides access to Greenwood and Lynde Shores conservation areas, along with the scenic shores of Lake Ontario. Residents can enjoy recreational spots like Ajax Waterfront Park and Paradise Beach. One of the unique perks of living in Ajax is the Appjax app, which allows residents to easily report maintenance issues such as potholes or missed trash pickups—often receiving next-day fixes. While the crime rate is generally low compared to Toronto, it is the highest among the areas on this list, placing Ajax last despite its relatively affordable housing and rental options. The town also boasts excellent connectivity, with easy access to major transportation routes. During rush hour, you can expect a 35- to 60-minute drive to downtown Toronto via the ON-401 Expressway. Public transportation is also convenient, with GO Transit linking Ajax GO Station to Toronto City Hall within 60 to 80 minutes.

AreaVibes (Oct 2024), Local Logic (Oct 2024), Zumper (Oct 2024) & Redfin (Oct 2024)

Ajax, Toronto, Ontario

Moving to Toronto (GTA): Where Should You Live? – 2024

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