Toronto best areas to stay offer comfort, convenience, and community for anyone planning to make the city their long-term home. It does not matter if it is for work, educational purposes, or simply because you need a fresh start. The city boasts a diverse range of Toronto neighborhoods that cater to every preference and lifestyle. Moreover, Toronto is home to calm and family-friendly suburban communities and fast-paced city settings that offer rich culture and exciting nightlife.
Each area offers a unique character and blend of features to help you make the best decision. If you're looking to rent a comfortable apartment and enjoy the benefits of city living, you're at the right place. I have highlighted some of the top neighborhoods that offer convenience, entertainment, safety, and an excellent quality of life for any intending residents. Let's check out some of the most popular places.
1. Downtown East
This general region stretches eastward to the River Don from Toronto's Downtown area. It includes the areas of Trefann Court, Corktown, Regent Park, and Cabbagetown. Corktown Common is a beautiful green area on the riverbanks that is primarily residential. Cabbagetown is a larger neighborhood with more green space, including the expansive Riverdale Park. Downtown East is home to the Distillery Historic District, a charming area with converted warehouses, boutiques, and restaurants.
This historic farm is a favorite place to go ice skating and sledding in the winter. In addition, Trefann Court and Regent Park are low-rise residential neighborhoods built in the 1940s. Church and Wellesley, also called “The Village,” is another neighborhood in this east Downtown area, home to a significant percentage of Toronto's LGBT community.
This is the spot for Toronto's Pride festivities and a fun and welcoming Halloween experience. Stay in downtown Toronto and enjoy the convenience of being near Royal Bank Plaza, with its corporate headquarters and financial services. There are several options for lodging in this vast area, including budget chain hotels, hostels, guesthouses, and boutique facilities. Studio apartments in Downtown East typically go for $1600.
2. The Junction
The Junction is another trendy area in the west end, struggling with gentrification as its reputation rises. It’s among Toronto's best areas to stay. It is a popular neighborhood to call home and a destination for strangers to visit and hang out. It boasts a great bar scene, especially for those who enjoy craft beers, yet it's not too bustling to be uncomfortable.
Furthermore, The Junction has a mood similar to many of the surrounding Toronto neighborhoods, including Queen West and Roncesvalles, which are its southern neighbors. Its selling points include its trendy independent food shops and galleries, and its transit options, which include Keele Station and Dundas West Station, which will get you downtown in 20 minutes. Studio apartments in The Junction typically go for $2000 monthly.
3. The Harbourfront
The Harbourfront is a lively waterfront neighborhood that families will enjoy. The region is home to lovely parks, marinas, and boutique hotels. You'll also find the magnificent Toronto Music Garden, which cellist Yo-Yo Ma helped create. The Harbourfront keeps the area active and interesting for guests of all ages throughout the year by hosting seasonal activities like outdoor movie screenings and Christmas markets.
You're sure to have a luxurious experience here. Usually taking place during long weekends, the HarbourKIDS festival features kid-friendly activities, workshops, and interactive performances. Furthermore, The Toronto Music Garden hosts free concerts over the summer as part of the Summer Music in the Garden series, which is ideal for a family picnic. The neighborhood has a vibrant yet relaxing vibe. Enjoy a picnic, stroll, or watch the boats go by on the boardwalk along the water's edge. Studio apartments in The Harbourfront typically go for $1600.
4. Downtown Toronto
This is one of Toronto's best areas to stay for first-timers. Downtown Toronto is the dynamic hub of this multicultural city. It's packed with cultural attractions, Canada's tallest skyscrapers, 5-star hotels, luxurious shopping malls, and numerous restaurants serving various foreign cuisines. In addition, this vibrant neighborhood features Jarvis Street and Bathurst Street which combines business, arts, retail, and entertainment to provide tourists with high-end shopping and a one-of-a-kind urban experience.
Downtown Toronto is alive day and night, with a constant buzz of activity, especially at the St Lawrence Market. As Toronto's commercial and business center, it is teeming with skyscrapers that house multinational corporations' headquarters, signifying Canada's booming economy. Offering a captivating fusion of history and culture, visitors may take in the breathtaking architectural designs, explore the many Toronto museums and art galleries, or even engage in top-notch ballet or opera performances.
Furthermore, Yonge & Dundas Square is a bustling public space in the heart of downtown Toronto, hosting events and performances throughout the year. Stay in downtown Toronto and enjoy easy access to iconic landmarks like the CN Tower, Ripley's Aquarium, Toronto Railway Museum, Fairmont Royal York, and the Entertainment District. In addition, Downtown Toronto offers various dining options for foodies, from Michelin-starred restaurants to hip coffee shops and street food vendors. Studio apartments in Downtown Toronto typically cost $1600.
5. Midtown
One of Toronto's primary business districts, Midtown is a large, wealthy neighborhood located north of Old Town. Prestigious areas like Deer Park, with its tree-lined lanes that connect to the busy Yonge Street, and Forest Hill, featuring numerous mansions and private schools, are located here. The city center offers different major attractions and accommodation options.
With city conveniences close by and lots of green spaces and parkland to explore, this region offers a mix of entertainment and leisure with affordable options. For instance, there are plenty of green spots to explore in the Moore Park Ravine. This includes the shaded Beltline Trail that leads to the wooded Don Valley Brick Works Park and beyond. Studio apartments in Midtown typically go for $1600.
6. The Annex
The Annex, like many other West End neighborhoods in Toronto, is a gathering place for young individuals and creative professionals. It's among Toronto's best areas to stay. The Annex neighborhood is close to the University of Toronto, the Art Gallery of Ontario, and the historic houses on Bedford Road. This distinct neighborhood, which starts at the northwest edge of what would be regarded as downtown, has historically been home to University of Toronto employees and students.
Furthermore, The Annex is a mix of historic houses, amusement parks, cheap hotels, and green alleys with budget-friendly pubs and trendy restaurants, while the main U of T campus is located at the southeast end of the neighborhood. However, the eclectic neighborhood is not exclusive to students; in recent years, many new businesses have moved into the Bloor strip, making it a desirable place for people of all ages and backgrounds. There are different cozy apartments and fitness centers with cheap accommodation. Studio apartments in The Annex typically go for $1700.
7. Yorkville
Toronto's top upscale neighborhood is Yorkville. It’s one of Toronto's best areas to stay. Experience luxury shopping and dining in Yorkville, located near the upscale Fairmont Royal York and the historic Casa Loma. This coolest neighborhood is a shopping haven, with high-end shops bordering Bloor Street's “Mink Mile.” There are flagship locations for high-end Canadian retailers like Holt Renfrew and well-known fashion labels like Prada, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton.
Two of Yorkville's main attractions are the Royal Ontario Museum, which features natural history and international cultures, and the Gardiner Museum, which focuses on ceramic art. The area also has many galleries, such as the Loch Gallery and Mira Godard Gallery, which are great for art lovers.
Although Yorkville is an elite neighborhood with comfortable hotels, it maintains a relaxed atmosphere. Street-side cafes and outdoor patios are perfect for people-watching and soaking up the chic atmosphere. Studio apartments in Yorkville typically go for $2000.
8. Toronto Waterfront
Toronto's Waterfront, located on the border of Lake Ontario, is a must-see destination with stunning views, tourist attractions, city hall, various food options, luxury hotels, and unique art pieces. It's among Toronto best areas to stay. One of the city's trademark attractions is the breathtaking view of the skyline, which you should not miss. Toronto's Waterfront is a 46-kilometer stretch of breathtaking scenery, panoramic views, and a thriving city.
The region boasts parks, lush greenery, and fantastic pedestrian walkways that both tourists and residents adore. Nonetheless, this area is home to upscale eateries serving a variety of cuisines, stylish shops that are a shopping haven, and galleries that display mind-blowing artwork. Furthermore, the Toronto waterfront offers stunning views and access to attractions such as the Toronto Islands, Harbourfront Centre, and the Music Garden. Studio apartments in Toronto Waterfront typically go for $1900.
9. West End
West End is also among Toronto's best areas to stay. This multicultural, emerging part of the city occupies a significant portion of the land west of Old Toronto, with the Humber River serving as its western boundary and Lake Ontario to the south. With the arrival of migrants to work on Canada's expanding railway, particularly in what is now Little Italy, this sophisticated neighborhood started to flourish at the turn of the 20th century. Portuguese people also reside in Little Portugal, particularly along Rua dos Açores.
Stay in the west end of Toronto and enjoy the small village feel of Bloor West Village, with its unique boutiques and eateries. Toronto's Koreatown is located in the West End, and there's even Little Malta and Ontario Science Center. In addition, Young professionals have recently joined the immigrant community, drawn to the region by affordable rent, contemporary hotels, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife. It's more of a destination to witness Toronto's diverse population than a place with many museums. Studio apartments in the West End typically go for $1612.
10. Kensington
This is also one of Toronto's best areas to stay. Kensington's strong, independent spirit distinguishes it as one of Toronto's most distinct and iconic communities. Kensington Market comprises a network of streets with various bookshops, elegant hotels, cafes, oddball bars, fresh food establishments, amazing views, and thrift stores.
Also, some people find it appealing since it is a haven for bohemians, but others could see it as a reason not to live there. Kensington lies easily on the western edge of Chinatown, between College Street and Dundas Street. It is conveniently located close to the downtown area and two popular streetcar routes: the 506 College route to the north and the 505 Dundas route to the south.
Furthermore, College Street boasts an outstanding mix of record stores, affordable hotels, and indie bars, offering a variety of options for affordable food, cheap drinks, and late-night entertainment. Enjoy a relaxing experience here with a variety of budget ranges. Studio apartments in Kensington rent for $ 1,853.
11. Roncesvalles
Roncesvalles has historically been Toronto's Polish area, but over the last decade, it has become a sanctuary for artistic and hipster types. “Roncy,” as the locals call it, refers to the region surrounding Roncesvalles Avenue, which runs south from Bloor to King Street West in Toronto's west end. One of the most attractive neighborhoods in Toronto is Roncesvalles, which boasts a unique character thanks to its numerous independent stores, pubs, eateries, and coffee shops.
As expected, rents have increased in line with Roncy's popularity, but they are still less expensive than in Toronto districts nearer the city center. However, one disadvantage is that it requires a short commute to downtown. Unless you live in the north end of the neighborhood and can easily access the Dundas West subway station, you will probably have to take a streetcar downtown, which can be a bit annoying because streetcars get very crowded very quickly during rush hour. Studio apartments in Roncesvalles cost $2,000 monthly.
12. Scarborough
Scarborough, a bustling and diverse neighborhood in eastern Toronto, is well-known for its breathtaking natural features and eclectic cultural heritage. It's among Toronto best areas to stay. One of its main attractions is the Toronto Zoo, which is among the largest in the world and offers families and animal lovers an unforgettable experience. Another must-see is the stunning Scarborough Bluffs, whose tall cliffs provide great views of Lake Ontario and provide outdoor enthusiasts with charming parks and hiking routes.
The neighborhood, particularly along Gerrard Street, offers a range of authentic cuisines, making the region a veritable melting pot of cultures. Furthermore, Scarborough is a unique place in Toronto for discovering both natural beauty and diverse flavors, thanks to its blend of city and nature, as well as its multicultural population. Studio apartments in Scarborough cost $ 1,600 per month.
13. High Park North
Last on our list of Toronto best areas to stay is High Park North. High Park North is a village-like neighborhood. Locals see the location as a nice respite from the rush and bustle of downtown. This area is primarily residential, consisting of high-rise flats and houses. High Park, to the south of the region, is one of North America's largest parks, covering 400 acres. Toronto refers to itself as ‘a city within a park'; its more than 1,600 public parks cover around 13% of the city's geographical area, or 8,000 hectares, with High Park being the largest of them all.
Many people have become lost in the park's vast expanses, which are home to a variety of birds, ducks, chipmunks, and squirrels. Furthermore, The Bloor-Danforth TTC subway line serves High Park North through the Dundas West, Keele, and High Park stations, and it will take you a little more than 20 minutes to get to downtown Toronto. Studio apartments in High Park North cost $1800 monthly.
Conclusion
There you have it, Toronto's best areas to stay! Choosing the ideal neighborhood to stay in Toronto is heavily influenced by your interests and the purpose of your trip. Downtown Toronto might be the best option if you're looking to go sightseeing. Shopaholics may find bliss in Yorkville, while foodies may wish to visit Kensington Market. With such a broad choice of communities, you will surely find the ideal setting for your visit. Finally, Toronto is a hub for people of diverse cultures, styles, and activities, making it one of the world's most dynamic travel destinations. Have a pleasant stay!
