Living in the Junction: Get to Know a West Side Neighbourhood

Curious about living in the Junction? Learn what makes the area so special in our neighbourhood guide…

There’s been whole a lot of buzz surrounding the Junction in recent years, and it’s no wonder. This quaint west side neighbourhood boasts heritage homes, mature trees, and a thriving strip of hip local businesses along Dundas Street West. We love the area for its strong sense of community—not to mention its funky village feel. If you’re considering a move to the Junction, here’s what you need to know.

The Basics of Living in the Junction

Not to be confused with the nearby Junction Triangle, the Junction is bordered by St Clair West, Annette Street, Runnymede Road, and the CNR railway line. This charming enclave is a great place for families, and the local schools—which include Indian Road Crescent School, Saint Rita Catholic School, and Lucy McCormick Senior School—are part of the reason for that.

While they don’t sit smack dab in the middle of the city, Junction residents have everything they need within arm’s reach. No matter where you are in the neighbourhood, you’re just a short jaunt away from the local No Frills grocery store and the Sweet Potato (a large shop specializing in healthy, organic, and eco-friendly products). Along St. Clair, you’ll also find the Stock Yards Village shopping mall—home to some of North America’s most popular retailers.

Who lives in the Junction

The Junction offers a bit of something for everybody, which is why it attracts a diverse mix of homeowners and renters. In particular, you’ll find many creative professionals in the area, as well as young families who are starting to put down roots.

Where to eat & shop

Living in the Junction means being a stone’s throw away from some of the hottest restaurants, cafes, and shops in the city.

If you love upscale Italian food, check out Nodo. The Dundas Street eatery does pizza and pasta perfectly, and its elegant-yet-laid-back atmosphere makes it a great spot for special occasions and weeknight dinners alike. If you delight in pairing savoury dishes with the perfect wine, Bricco Kitchen and Wine Bar is your local go-to (the spring pea risotto is perfection). Seafood fans will also feel right home in the Junction, thanks to Honest Weight—a cozy little restaurant with a fish counter.

Crema serves up exquisitely-crafted coffee beverages, while the Hole in the Wall is the best local spot for a pint and a plate of (creative) comfort food.

You’ll also find no shortage of charming shops in the Junction. Some of our favourites include Coal Miner’s Daughter for funky women’s clothing, Red Canoe for ultra-comfortable men’s and women’s outdoor apparel, and Type Books for local and international literature. We also love the Beau and Bauble (which features whimsical trinkets for women and girls) and its brother store Beau Men’s (where you’ll find stationary, books, gadgets, and more).

Things to Do

Living in the Junction means you’ll never get bored. One of the biggest draws of the neighbourhood is its proximity to High Park. If you enjoy the great outdoors, you’ll love this 400 acres of greenspace—which features a zoo, a museum, and some of the most beautiful hiking trails in Toronto. We get especially excited when cherry blossom season approaches!

From spring to fall, we suggest checking out the Junction Farmers Market for fresh, sustainable local foods. And if you’re part of a family of bookworms, the Annette Street Library has a great selection of literature for readers of all ages.

Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for seasonal celebrations. Our favourites include the Holiday Market (a great place to support community vendors before Christmas) and the Junction’s Summer Solstice Festival (which features live music, art, and entertainment for the whole family).

Getting Around

The Junction is well served by transit, with major bus routes running along St. Clair West, Jane Street, and Dundas. Both the 40 and 312 buses stop at Dundas West Station (which connects to the subway on the Bloor-Danforth line). The 312 also stops at St. Clair Station (which connects to the Yonge-University line).

Real Estate

There’s a great mix of architectural styles in the Junction, including a variety of heritage homes that were built in the early 20th century. You’ll find an abundance of gorgeous Victorian, Edwardian, and Tudor homes in the area, along with a growing number of modern condos, if you are looking to downsize. Average prices for detached homes sit around the $1 million mark, while condo typically fall between $500,000 and $700,000.

Thinking of making the Junction home? We know the neighbourhood inside and out. Send us a message and we can discuss what you’re looking for!