The Toronto Neighbourhoods Buyers Love Most Right Now

The best neighbourhoods in Toronto tend to share three things: homes people can actually afford, good green space, and easy access to transit. That is the short version of a report RE/MAX put out in July 2024, which lays out where the most-wanted neighbourhoods in the city are and, more importantly, why.

I am Moe Asgarian, Principal Real Estate Broker in Toronto and ranked #47 worldwide at RE/MAX. Let me walk you through what made the list and what those areas have in common.

What Even Makes a Neighbourhood "Good"?

A good neighbourhood means something different to everyone. For a family with two kids, it is good schools, parks and places to shop and play. For an older couple, it might be quiet streets and access to healthcare. But across all those different lives there are shared factors that matter to young and old alike: homes people can buy without stretching too far, real green space, and easy access to the places they need. That is why RE/MAX surveys people on this regularly. Reading these reports does two things. It shows you the good parts of the city, and it shows you what people actually value, which matters whether you are buying or selling.

The Neighbourhoods That Topped the List

For buyers, the most-wanted Toronto neighbourhoods came in roughly this order: Leaside, York, Trinity Bellwoods, Beaches, Leslieville, Davisville, Midtown and Bloor West. Honestly, these are some of my own favourite parts of the city to live in and to invest in. You might ask why an area like Post Road, Forest Hill or Rosedale did not make it. The answer is affordability. It was one of the biggest criteria in the ranking. Take affordability out of the picture and Forest Hill or Rosedale are easily among the finest areas in Toronto.

Character Homes and a Sense of Community

The report says the homes in these areas have character. Most are well maintained and renovated, modern enough for the way we live today. Established Toronto neighbourhoods, especially the pockets with modern homes, are among the most popular parts of the city. Being close to local businesses gives residents a feeling that they are part of a community. And even though many people started working from home after Covid, the report shows a slow drift back toward the office. Living in one of these areas makes that commute easy, which is part of the appeal.

Who Is Looking, and What They Worry About

Three groups are drawn to these neighbourhoods: families with kids who love city living, families moving in from the suburbs, and first-time buyers. RE/MAX also asked its own agents and brokers what concerns them most. The answers were affordability, low housing supply and crime rates. As for what buyers rank highest, two things led: having a park nearby for the family, and being able to walk to restaurants and businesses instead of driving everywhere.

Where the Value Is, and How to Buy Smart

On affordability, three areas stood out as the more reasonable picks: Trinity Bellwoods, King West and Queen West. Semi-detached homes and townhouses are the most affordable options there. RE/MAX advises buyers not to treat their first purchase as a home they will keep forever. Be realistic. Work with a professional who knows the different parts of the city and can match you to a home based on your real needs. Focus on what you need today, keep an eye on prices, and be ready to step in at the right moment. Over the years I have bought and sold homes for many clients across Toronto and the GTA, and I know how much experience and knowledge that takes. If you have a question about buying or selling, fill out the form at the bottom of this page or book a free consultation, and we can talk it through together. Stay well and take care.