Living in Bloor West Village: Get To Know a Family-Friendly Neighbourhood
Thinking of buying a home in Bloor West Village? Discover why this west end community is a favourite among Toronto families…
If you’re looking for the ideal family-oriented neighbourhood, this is it. Bloor West Village boasts quiet tree-lined streets, gorgeous older homes, and a charming business district that’s chock-full of amenities. Oh, and did we mention that it’s within walking distance of the city’s largest green space? Residents spend their weekends strolling in High Park, exploring unique local shops and cafes, and enjoying the culinary delights served up in the area’s friendly eateries. The neighbourhood is also just a short commute from the city’s core, and there are plenty of great schools nearby. If you’re thinking of moving to Bloor West Village, here’s what you need to know.
The basics
Bloor West Village is situated between the idyllic neighbourhoods of Swansea (to the north) and Runnymede (to the south). The area’s main retail district is located along Bloor Street, and most houses are just a short walk away from the lively Dundas West strip that runs through the Junction. Its ideal location is part of the reason why Bloor West Village was recently named the best place to live in the city by Toronto Life.
If you have little ones, you’ll also be pleased to learn that there are several top-notch educational institutions around the Bloor West Village area. These include Swansea Public School and Keele Street Public School, to name a couple.
Who lives in Bloor West Village?
Take a walk around the streets of Bloor West Village in the summer, and you’ll see kids everywhere. They’re walking their dogs, playing on the sidewalks, and sitting in the strollers that their parents push around on sunny days. Put simply, this incredibly friendly area is ideal for young families. Since the in-demand homes here can be on the pricier side, Bloor West Village is largely an upper-middle class community.
Where to eat & shop
Living in Bloor West Village means having everything you need right at your fingertips. Whether you’re searching for a place to find stylish apparel, a kid-friendly cafe, or a buzz-worthy restaurant for a night out with your significant other, Bloor West Village has you covered.
The Good Fork is a popular neighbourhood spot for all-day breakfast and lunch. From savoury eggs benedict to unique sandwiches and salad options, this local favourite never disappoints. If you’re partial to Italian food, Gatto Wood Oven Pizza is guaranteed to satisfy. This local eatery serves up some of the best pizza in the city, and the kids’ specials make it the perfect place for a family dinner. Flame Food Design—a cafe, Anatolian restaurant, and design store—is a truly unique place to grab a bite, while Awai is ideal for those seeking creative vegan fare.
Thinking of doing some shopping? Calèche sells gorgeous French-inspired women’s clothing, while Cecil Ward & Sons is the local go-to for timeless menswear. If you’re the type who likes to hit the gym, you’ll love the eco-friendly apparel at flow-active, while Binz is a fun shop to browse if you’re looking for kitchenware. When the school year starts, don’t forget to check out Marlborough’s for a wide selection of stationary and craft supplies for kids!
Things to do
It goes without saying that High Park is one of the main attractions near Bloor West Village. This sprawling green space features nature paths, playgrounds, a zoo, and incredible trails where dogs can run off-leash. Remember to see the stunning cherry blossoms when they’re in season! Of course, there’s more than one versatile green space in the area. One of other favourites is Rennie Park. At 9.7-hectares, this community hub has a lot to offer local families—including an ice rink, lit tennis courts, and beautiful picnic areas.
If you’re a reader, you’ll definitely want to check out the community branch of the Toronto Public Library, a beautiful space that offers a wide selection of books. Those seeking fresh produce will love the nearby Annette Village Farmers’ Market, while moms looking for some well-deserved pampering should check out the local salons (Red Label Hair Company is one of our all-time favourites).
Getting around
Bloor West Village proves that living in a residential neighbourhood outside of the city’s core doesn’t have to be inconvenient. Lake Shore and the Gardiner Expressway are just a short drive away, which makes the area perfect for motorists. Those who take public transit will also find that getting around is a breeze. Runnymede Station provides quick access to the Bloor-Danforth subway line, while bus service along Annette Street, Jane Street, and Runnymede Road makes commuting more convenient.
Real estate
The housing stock in Bloor West Village consists largely of single-family and semi-detached options. Many of the neighbourhood’s homes sit on relatively large lots, and most were constructed during the early 20th century. While their craftsmanship and design tends to reflect this period, recent remodelling jobs have ensured that the homes in Bloor West Village are truly unique. The average price sits around the $1M dollar mark, though there are frequently properties available for less.
Looking for your dream home in Bloor West Village? Reach out to learn more about the neighbourhood—or check out some of the gorgeous listings in the area!