Toronto is a city that offers a unique blend of urban and natural beauty. The downtown core is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in Canada, such as the CN Tower, the Rogers Centre, and the Toronto Islands. These attractions provide endless entertainment options, from visiting the top of the CN Tower for a panoramic view of the city, to catching a baseball game at the Rogers Centre, to taking a ferry to the Toronto Islands for a day of relaxation and fun.
Beyond the downtown core, Toronto is also home to many diverse neighbourhoods, each with their own distinct character and charm. From the trendy streets of Queen West to the bustling multicultural neighborhoods of Little Italy and Greektown, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, Toronto is home to many green spaces and parks, such as High Park, Trinity Bellwoods Park and the Don Valley Trail, which provide residents with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors with friends or their pets and escape the hustle and bustle of the city without actually having to leave the city.
In terms of housing options, Toronto offers a wide range of options, from high-rise condos in the downtown core, uniquely converted lofts from old commercial factories, to charming single-family homes in the suburbs. The cost of housing can vary greatly depending on location and type of housing, but it’s generally more expensive compared to other cities in Ontario and across Canada. However, with the city’s excellent public transportation system and bike-sharing program, residents can easily get around the city without needing to rely on a car, which can save money on transportation costs.
Overall, Toronto offers a high quality of life, with plenty of entertainment, cultural, and recreational options to choose from. The city’s diverse population, abundance of green spaces, and excellent public transportation system make it an ideal place to live, work, and play. Planning on living in Toronto one day? Let’s explore further on what it’s like living in Toronto.
Is Toronto A Good Place To Live?
Toronto is generally considered to be a good place to live.
It’s got a diverse population, a booming economy, and a good overall standard of living. There’s always something to do, from checking out cultural events, to going out for entertainment, to hitting up one of the many parks and green spaces around the city. Plus, getting around is a breeze with all the public transportation and bike-sharing options. Sure, it can be a bit pricey compared to other Canadian cities, but the job market and economic opportunities make it worth it. Overall, Toronto is a dynamic and exciting city that has a lot to offer, making it a great place to call home.
Is Toronto Safe?
Toronto is generally considered to be a safe place to live, work and visit.
Like any large city, it has areas that are safer than others, and crime does occur. However, the overall crime rate in Toronto is lower than many other major cities in North America. The Toronto Police Service (TPS) works to keep the city safe and has a number of community policing initiatives in place to help prevent crime.
Additionally, the city has a number of emergency services available, such as 911 and 311, to respond to any incidents that may occur. It is also worth noting that, like any major city, visitors should take the usual precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings, avoiding carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, and not leaving personal belongings unattended.
Homes In Toronto
Toronto offers a wide variety of housing options, including:
High-rise condos: These are popular in the downtown core, where space is limited, and they offer residents access to many amenities and a view of the city.
Townhouses: Townhouses are a popular option in many Toronto neighborhoods, especially on the east and west sides of the city like Etobicoke. They offer more space than a condo, but less maintenance than a single-family home.
Single-family homes: These are typically found in the suburbs of Toronto like Etobicoke and offer more space and privacy than a condo or townhouse.
Semi-detached homes: These are similar to single-family homes, but are attached to another home on one side. You’ll typically find semi-detached homes in neighbourhoods closer to the downtown core like The Annex.
Duplexes: Duplexes are a type of multifamily housing that consists of two separate units under one roof. A lot of old homes which were once single-family homes have been converted to duplexes to help fight against the low inventory of homes in Toronto.
Apartment: There are a variety of apartments available in Toronto, from old brick buildings to new high-rise towers.
Lofts: Lofts are typically found in converted industrial buildings and offer a unique, open-concept living space with high ceilings and exposed brick or ductwork.
Co-living spaces: Co-living spaces are becoming more popular in Toronto, providing residents with private bedrooms and shared common areas, such as kitchens and living rooms.
It’s worth noting that the housing options and availability can vary greatly depending on the location. The cost of housing can also vary greatly depending on the type of housing, location, and amenities.
No matter the housing option you’re looking for, consider using an experienced Toronto real estate agent to help you navigate the Toronto real estate market. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or rent real estate in Toronto, Marco Pedri, Broker with Shoreline Realty Corp., Brokerage will work with you to get you into your dream home.
Things To Do In Toronto
Toronto is a vibrant city with a wide range of things to see and do. From iconic landmarks to natural beauty, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can take in panoramic views of the city from the CN Tower, escape to the peaceful Toronto Islands, stroll through the historic Distillery District, or explore one of the many museums and art galleries. Toronto is also home to a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, as well as professional sports teams. Shopping enthusiasts can indulge in luxury boutiques and trendy vintage shops, while foodies can indulge in the city’s diverse and vibrant food scene. Entertainment options abound, from live music to theatre, comedy and more. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, relaxation, or simply a good time, Toronto has something to offer.
At a height of 553.3 metres (1,815 ft), the CN Tower was the tallest free-standing structure in the world from 1976 until 2010. Visitors can take the elevator to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city, or take the EdgeWalk, a hands-free walk around the roof of the tower. The CN Tower also features a revolving restaurant, a glass floor observation deck, and a virtual reality experience. It’s an iconic landmark that is widely considered as a must-visit attraction in Toronto.
Toronto Islands:
The Toronto Islands are a chain of small islands located in Lake Ontario, just a short ferry ride from downtown Toronto. The Islands are a popular spot for visitors and locals alike, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful beaches, parks, and bike trails, as well as the various recreational activities like kayaking and paddle-boating. The islands are also home to a variety of attractions such as the Centreville Amusement Park, the Far Enough Farm, and the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse.
The islands are a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, they offer beautiful views of the city skyline and provide an opportunity to enjoy nature. Visitors can take in the island’s beauty by renting a bike and cycling through the island’s network of trails and paths, or by taking a leisurely walk around the island’s perimeter. In summer, the island is a very popular spot for picnickers and sunbathers, while in winter it becomes a popular spot for cross-country skiers and snowshoers. The Toronto Islands are easily accessible by one of the many ferries leaving the mainland from Toronto Harbourfront.
The Distillery District:
The Distillery District is a historic neighborhood located in downtown Toronto, it is known for its Victorian-era architecture, cobblestone streets, and numerous art galleries, shops, and restaurants. The district was once home to the Gooderham and Worts Distillery, which was the largest distillery in the British Empire during the 19th century. Today, the district is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique blend of history and culture. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the streets, admire the architecture, and check out the many art galleries, boutiques, and craft shops. The district is also home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering a diverse range of cuisines and dining experiences.
The district is also home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Toronto Light Festival, the Toronto Christmas Market, and the Distillery Jazz Festival. The Distillery District is a great place to spend a day, it provides a unique experience that combines history, culture, and entertainment in one spot.
The Royal Ontario Museum:
Located right by the neighbourhood of Yorkville, The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is one of the largest museums in North America, located in Toronto, Canada. It is a museum of world culture and natural history, with a collection that includes over 6 million items. The museum’s exhibitions showcase a wide range of artifacts and specimens from different cultures and time periods, including ancient Egypt, China, Greece, and Rome. The ROM also features galleries dedicated to natural history, with exhibits on dinosaurs, minerals, and the natural world. The museum is also known for its special exhibitions, which bring in rare and unique artifacts from around the world.
The ROM’s architecture is also noteworthy, the building was designed by Canadian architect Daniel Libeskind and it features a number of unusual angles and shapes that give it a modern and striking appearance. The building also features a number of outdoor terraces and gardens, providing visitors with a chance to enjoy the natural environment. The museum is a great place to spend a day, it offers a wide variety of exhibits and activities that will appeal to visitors of all ages. The Royal Ontario Museum is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in world cultures, natural history, or architecture.
Art Gallery of Ontario:
The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of Canada’s largest art museums, located in Toronto. The AGO’s collection includes over 95,000 works of art, spanning from the first century to the present day. The museum’s collection includes works by Canadian and international artists, with a particular emphasis on Canadian, European, and contemporary art. The AGO has a significant collection of works by Tom Thomson and the Group of Seven, who were influential Canadian artists in the early 20th century.
The AGO building itself is also noteworthy, it was designed by Canadian architect Frank Gehry, it features a striking design, with undulating walls and a large glass atrium that floods the interior with natural light. The AGO’s features several rotating exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing works from the museum’s permanent collection as well as visiting exhibitions from other institutions. The museum also offers a variety of programs and events, such as lectures, tours, and workshops, making it a great destination for visitors of all ages. The Art Gallery of Ontario is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in art, it offers a great opportunity to view some of the best art from around the world, and explore the amazing architecture of the building.
Toronto's Sports Scene:
Toronto is home to several professional sports teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL), Toronto Raptors (NBA), Toronto Blue Jays (MLB), and Toronto FC (MLS). The city also has a strong history of supporting amateur and collegiate sports. The city is home to several stadiums and arenas, including the Scotiabank Arena, Rogers Centre, and BMO Field. Toronto also host several major sports events such as the Canadian Open Tennis tournament and the Canadian Grand Prix. The city is known for its passionate sports fans, who fill the stadiums and arenas to cheer on their favorite teams. Toronto is also a great destination for sports enthusiasts, there are many sports bars and pubs where fans can gather to watch live games and matches.
Toronto's Festivals and Events:
Toronto is home to a diverse and vibrant arts and culture scene, and as such, the city hosts a wide variety of festivals and events throughout the year. Some of the most popular events include:
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) – One of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, TIFF takes place every September and features a wide range of films from around the globe, as well as appearances from many of the industry’s biggest stars.
Caribana – This festival, which takes place in August, celebrates Caribbean culture with parades, live music, and food. It is one of the largest cultural festivals in North America.
Pride Toronto – This annual festival, which takes place in June, celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with a variety of events, including a parade and live performances.
The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) – This annual event, which takes place in August and September, is an exhibition of Canadian culture and industry with live music, agricultural and industrial displays, arts and crafts, and food.
Toronto's Shopping Scene:
Toronto is a great city for shopping, with a wide variety of options to suit all styles and budgets. The city is home to several large shopping centers and malls, including the Eaton Centre, Yorkdale Shopping Centre, and Sherway Gardens. These malls offer a wide range of stores, from high-end luxury brands to more affordable options. There are also many smaller boutiques and specialty shops located throughout the city, particularly in areas such as Queen Street West, Yorkville, and Kensington Market. These areas offer a more unique and eclectic shopping experience, with a focus on local and independent retailers. Additionally, Toronto is also home to several outdoor markets, such as St. Lawrence Market, which offers a wide range of fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and other local products.
Toronto's Food Scene:
Toronto has a diverse and exciting food scene that reflects the city’s multicultural population. From classic Canadian dishes to international cuisine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the most popular Canadian dishes you can find in Toronto is Poutine, which is fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. You can find it in most restaurants and street vendors.
Toronto also has a large number of ethnic restaurants, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of its residents. You can find everything from Chinese, Indian, Italian, Ethiopian, Caribbean, Greek, and many more.
The city also has a thriving food truck scene, with a wide variety of options available, from gourmet hot dogs to grilled cheese to authentic street tacos.
Farmers markets are also a big part of the food scene in Toronto, where you can find local and seasonal products, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, meats, and more. Some of the most popular farmers markets include the St. Lawrence Market and the Evergreen Brick Works.’
Toronto is also home to many fine dining restaurants, with many of them featuring farm-to-table cuisine, which uses ingredients sourced from local farmers and producers. Toronto’s food scene is diverse, delicious, and always evolving, making it a great place for foodies to explore and enjoy.
Toronto's Entertainment Scene:
Toronto’s entertainment scene is diverse, vibrant and always evolving. There is something for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re looking for live music, theater, comedy, or nightlife.
The city is home to many live music venues, such as the Danforth Music Hall, Massey Hall, and the Phoenix Concert Theatre, which hosts a variety of genres and acts.
Theater is also a big part of the entertainment scene in Toronto. The city is home to many theater companies, such as the Stratford Festival, the Canadian Stage Company, and the Soulpepper Theatre Company. These companies produce a wide variety of plays, musicals, and other productions throughout the year.
Comedy is also a popular form of entertainment in Toronto, with many comedy clubs, such as The Second City and Comedy Bar, featuring stand-up and improv acts.
Toronto is also known for its nightlife, with a wide variety of bars, clubs, and lounges to choose from. Some popular areas for nightlife include the Entertainment District, King West, and Ossington.
Final Thoughts About Living In Toronto
In the end, Toronto is a great place to live if you really put yourself out there and explore what the city has to offer. Whether you’re interested in theatre, comedy, food, architecture or living a healthy and active lifestyle, Toronto has it all.
If you’re considering a move to Toronto, work with an experienced Toronto real estate agent such as Marco Pedri, Broker with Shoreline Realty Corp., Brokerage. Marco has years of experience working with home buyers and sellers in Toronto to get them into their dream homes.
Even if you’re considering renting in Toronto and wondering if you should use a real estate agent to rent in Toronto, you definitely should contact a rental agent in Toronto such as Marco Pedri to make your move seamless. Marco Pedri has tips to rent in Toronto that will make your experience effortless.
