The cost of living in the Greater Toronto area is increasing, and finding the best neighborhoods in Toronto for your money can be tricky. Pre-construction condos are a hot investment property these days, and there’s no better place to be than the Greater Toronto Area. Here are top picks for the best neighbourhoods in the GTA to buy a new pre-construction condo.
The Greater Toronto Area or GTA is Canada’s most densely populated metropolitan area and the seventh-largest in North America. GTA resides people from various cultural, ethical, and racial groups, so a diverse population is met here.
GTA has all the modern, state of the art, cutting edge advanced technological background. Toronto being its heart, is one of the prominent cities in North America. People from all over the world come to settle, due to the availability of all modern amenities here. Here are some best neighbourhoods where people can plan to buy pre-construction condos.
Toronto Downtown
Downtown Toronto is the heart of the GTA. It is full of skyscrapers, buzzing restaurants, cool and charming nightlife, a beautiful mixture of aesthetic neighbourhoods and a increasingly, a number of modern condos in the Waterfront Community.
Attractions, Landmarks and Neighbourhood
The architecture in this city is absolutely breathtaking. From Royal Ontario Museum, to Art Gallery of Ontario, there are so many places that you can visit and enjoy for years without running out of things see.
When you think of Toronto, the CN Tower is one that comes to mind. It sits 553 meters high and seems almost as if it’ll touch sky with its height! It’s no secret why this famous landmark has been featured on calendars for decades-the stunning views from up here really make for some incredible pictures or videos below ground level too.
If you’re looking for a place to hang out for the day then Nathan Phillips Square is the place where you can feel the pulse of the city.
Schools, Colleges
Toronto is a city where the education sector thrives. There are are number of public and private schools as well as colleges, so it is no surprise that the city’s educational standards are very high.
University of Toronto, OCAD University, and Ryerson University to name a few. Each University has its own legacy and charm. OCAD is Canada’s largest and oldest institute for art and design. The University of Toronto has given birth to twelve Nobel Laureates.
Entertainment
Toronto may be a city of the future but entertainment is what drives the city forward, with many bars, parks, and sights to see there’s never a shortage. With the sky scarper condos already in Toronto, it’s no wonder that this is one of Canada’s most sought-after cities.
A beautiful skyline and great weather make up for an incredible living situation.
Spend the day at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada and see over 450 species of marine life. Then spend the next at Canada’s largest zoo, the Toronto Zoo, where it’s divided into seven zoogeographic regions: Indo-Malaya, Africa, Americas, Tundra Trek, Australasia, Eurasia, and the Canadian Domain.
Transportation
The easiest way to get around Toronto is by using its public transportation system, which operates four different modes – subway trains, streetcars, buses and GO Transit.
Riding your bike around Toronto is an easy and enjoyable way to explore the city. The city has an excellent bike share program called Bike Share Toronto. With nearly 3,000 bikes and almost 300 stations scattered across the city it’s easy to find your next adventure!
Housing Trends
Toronto has been growing into a metropolitan due to competitive jobs and a high standard of life. Many exciting condos are in development and are taking place in the GTA area.
Condo prices are increasing day by day. Currently the average price for a Condo in Toronto sits at $700,000.
Midtown Toronto
The core residential area of Toronto. Its physical boundaries extend in the North from Lawrence Avenue W to Bloor Street in the South. And in the east from Oakwood Avenue to Bayview Avenue in the west.
Attractions, Landmarks and Neighbourhood
Casa Loma is one of the most famous landmarks in Midtown Toronto, built from 1911 to 1914 as a residence for financier Sir Henry Pellatt but today serves as a historic house museum.
The great thing about Midtown Toronto is that there are so many local parks in the area. From hiking trails to fun picnic spots, the area offers something for everyone.
Transportation
Getting around Midtown Toronto by car is easy because the 401 and DVP which connects to the 404 is close by.
Travel around the GTA is easy with these subway stations all within close proximity to one another. The Eglinton West and St Clair west lines offer fast routes into town, while LRT service will soon be available at your doorsteps!
New Homes & Housing Trend
With its proximity to Toronto’s downtown core, midtown has seen an exponential growth in recent years. Mid skyline skyscrapers are becoming increasingly common throughout this neighbourhoods as well!
Midtown Toronto offer’s high density development with modern condos that could be perfect for your next investment property or home purchase.
East Toronto
East Toronto, or “The East End” is of the core city of Toronto. It is located in the most easterly point of Toronto, which is known for its vibrant culture and communities like Greektown, Leslieville, Riverside, and the Beaches.
It stretching from the shores of Lake Ontario, and up to the Danforth, bordering Scarborough to the East, East York to the North, and the Downtown Core of the City to the west. The East End of Toronto is a significant and essential component of Toronto’s cultural fabric, and it is experiencing a rise in development within the housing market.
Transportation
East Toronto is bordered to the west by the famous Don Valley Parkway, one of the most travelled highways in the city. The DVP connects with most of Toronto’s major highways like the 401, the 400, and the 404 which tie together and go their separate ways across the GTA.
The Line 2 Bloor-Danforth line travels directly through the East Ends norther half, with stops in Broadview, Chester, Pape and the Donlands as well as Coxwell and Woodbine.
The TTC also offers a number of Street Car and bus lines throughout the eastern part of downtown, like the 501 East which serves the entire width of the East End with marked stops in the Riverside District, Leslieville and the Beach.
Housing trend
The East End of Toronto is a hot spot for condo development and densification. Homes north of Danforth are selling fast, with neighbourhoods like Leslieville, Riverside and Riverdale not far behind.
Decades of gentrification have led to beautiful homes but has not robbed the East End of it’s vibrant communities, parks and “beach atmosphere”. Now is a fantastic time to look into homes and condos within the East End.
Scarborough
The diverse and vibrant community of Scarborough is a flourishing metropolis in its own right. While some areas represent urban bliss, most notably North West. Scarborough is a town on the rise, and an attractive prospect for home-buyers of all demographics.
Scarborough is contained by Victoria Park Avenue on the west, Steeles Avenue to the north, Rouge River and Pickering city of Ontario to the east, and Lake Ontario on the south.
Attractions, Landmarks and Neighbourhood
One of the top sights in Scarborough is Scarborough Bluffs Park. Lined with parks and beaches, this cliffside park offers visitors an opportunity for hiking or just relaxing in their own private spot. And the breathtaking view of the Toronto skyline and Lake Ontario from Scarborough’s Bluffs is worth a trip alone.
Scarborough is known for its beautiful parks and sceneries. The parks have beautiful green spaces and are available for morning walks and evening jogging.
Transportation
Scarborough is bordered by Don valley parkway and has the 401 that runs through the city which connects most of the Scarborough area. And conveniently the Subway is spread across the city which makes getting around easy without a car.
Scarborough is directly connected to the rest of Toronto by the world-class TTC transit system. Along with extensive bus line grids, Scarborough is at the eastern terminal of Line 2 Bloor-Danforth. Where you can find the following stations Victoria Park, Warden, and Kennedy. Further, Line 3 Scarborough continues on throughout the borough, running north and east towards Scarborough City Centre.
Commuters looking for other options will be pleased to know that like most other communities within the GTA, Scarborough is well-connected by the GO Transit lines as well as York Region Transit.
Scarborough is so closely connected to Downtown Toronto that it shares many of the same major streets – recognized names like Eglinton, St. Clair, and the Danforth all cross within the borough, providing intimate links to many of downtown’s smaller communities.
Housing Trends
Scarborough is one of the most prominent areas in the GTA. So the demand for homes and pre construction condos is increasing day by day. People from around the world are investing into new condos and homes in this area due to both the peaceful and modern elements of Scarborough.
Ever since the early 2000s, after amalgamation of the GTA, Toronto has been growing at a rapid rate, and Scarborough has grown along with it. The corridor through which the Highway 401 travels in particular has seen an increase in density and a boom in condominium development.
The average selling price for preconstruction condos in Scarborough is increasing and is considered one of the best neighbourhoods in the city for price appreciation, homes in Scarborough are a solid investment
West Toronto
West Toronto is one of the most vibrant areas of GTA. It has seen explosive growth due to its culturally and socially diverse communities and history.
West Toronto is not just home to some of the most recognizable landmarks, but also has a lot that makes it unique. The West End has Little Italy, Koreatown and Roncesvalles Village where you can find delicious food and gorgeous architecture.
In addition, High Park offers visitors one billion reasons why they should come visit this beautiful neighbourhoods.
Attractions, Landmarks and Neighbourhood
High Park has an amazing selection of things to do, whether you’re looking for a place with plenty trees and flowers or simply need some fresh air. High Park is known for its lovely Grenadier Pond, Jamie Bell Adventure Playground, and several curated gardens and arboretums.
Take your dog for a walk along the High Park trail, ride your bike during cherry blossom season or take children to see all of this zoo’s animals that they’re famous among: Barbary Sheep, Capybaras, Emus, and Llamas.
Education
The West End is also one of the most accessible areas in the Greater Toronto Area for post-Secondary Education. The West End’s most eastern border is only a five minute walk from the University of Toronto.
York University, OCAD, Ryerson, Humber, and many others being conveniently located along major transit routes.
Transportation
Toronto’s robust TTC transit commission plays a vital role in the city’s transport sector. Subway lines are also present with line 2 Bloor-Danforth line cuts directly through the center of the West end and meet Bathurst station, Christie, and Suffering. The historic streetcar system of Toronto connects north-south very well. Bus stops are also prevalent, and routes follow all the important neighbourhoods of the city. Bike lanes are also situated in the west end of Toronto for the green movement.
Housing Trends
People are rapidly buying houses and condos here, and the demand for condos is forcing the builders to develop more housing infrastructures.
It’s projected that very soon Toronto will have the most high-rise condos in the world, and young professionals continue to find the downtown core and West End an attractive spot for starting a family and making a home.
Toronto’s growth continues it’s upward trend, and so will Toronto’s most vibrant region.
Vaughan Metropolitan Centre
Vaughan metropolitan center is an emerging area of Vaughan that will be the financial, Innovation, and cultural capital of Vaughan in the near future. Offices and especially residential units, are being developed in VMC at an exploding rate due to extreme demand.
Attractions, Landmarks and Neighbourhood
Canada’s Wonderland is Canada’s largest theme park located in Vaughan. It has more than 200 attractions, including 17 roller coasters, two children’s areas, and a 20-acre water park called Splash Works. There are approximately 6,000 trees and 75,000 shrubs in the park’s landscaping.
CG tower built by cortel group will be a business center that will be 60 stories tall and the tallest building of VMC and an architectural legend and landmark.
Education and Entertainment
The York Region District School Board runs a number of elementary and high schools in Vaughan, as does the York Catholic District School Board.
There are also a number of independent schools, such as Anne & Max Tanenbaum Community Hebrew Academy of Toronto, which is a Jewish day school.
Transportation
Smart buses with state-of-the-art payment technologies are functional in Vaughan metropolitan center. Subway infrastructure is also well developed in VMC, which is succinct and in sync with the glory and charm of the city.
Local transit also helps in moving from home to work to the residents. Bike lanes are already functional on highway 7.
Housing Trends
Vaughan has been rapidly growing since the beginning of the century, having nearly doubled in population since the early 90s. Vaughan is already getting ready for a real estate boom and new pre construction condos that is on the verge of happening.
Whitby
Whitby is a bright and youthful town that’s on the rise. This small city has potential to grow with new development and population influxes from surrounding areas like Ajax & Pickering.
With a strategy to redevelop Port Whitby centered around Port Whitby and Brock Street, which is currently the primary commercial stretch. They’ve put together an ambitious project that will transform this area into something new and exciting for everyone who lives or visits here!
The Durham Region Transport (DRT) is a great option for those who need to travel around the GTA. It provides inter-regional transit in addition local options so you’re covered no matter where your destination may be.
The GO transit is an excellent option for those who are visiting Toronto. It can take you to the downtown in just one hour.
Etobicoke
Etobicoke is a neighbourhood in Toronto and a district in the west side of Toronto is often known for its large main streets, expressways and shopping malls. It stretches from Highway 407, areas like Clairville and Smithfield all way down to Lake Ontario where you can find your own private beach with beautiful views.
Transportation
Etobicoke is situated in the heart of the GTA, and it is well linked to a number of major roads and highways that make up the region.
Highways are easily accessible thanks to a simple grid street layout. Whether it’s the 401, Highway 400, or the Queen Elizabeth Way, which turns into the Gardiner on approach to Toronto Downtown Core.
The TTC has a strong presence in Etobicoke, making it an easy choice for fast trips into the city as well as around the GTA. Line 2 Bloor-Danforth has it’s western tip ending at Kipling Station near Islington City Centre West in the heart of Etobicoke, and countless bus routes line the many roads and streets heading north and southbound from there. Etobicoke is also linked to MiWay, the Mississauga transit system, and is home to four Go Stations: Etobicoke North, Kipling Station, Long Branch and Mimico.
Housing Trends
A new boom of population and economy has emerged as a result of many new condominium complexes being built in Etobicoke. A rise in density along Bloor St. and Humber Bay has lead to an increase in demand for condos and other more dense housing options.
Rental rates are affordable, but the demand for condos continues to increase as once industrial lands are being repurposed and rejuvenated, creating new neighbourhoods and communities which appeals to younger families and professionals.
With the value of condos in Etobicoke area set to rise, now might be one of those rare moments where you can get ahead. As we see this city go through some major changes and become more vibrant than ever before.
Mimico
Mimico is a Toronto neighbourhood that borders on the city’s west end waterfront. A neighbourhood in Etobicoke, this established region has plenty to offer visitors with beautiful lakeside parks and excellent recreational opportunities. It is surrounded by Lake Ontario in the South, Dwight Avenue to the West, Mimico Creek to the east, and Evans Avenue to the North.
The community has been developing slowly over time but things are changing fast as it has been gaining momentum for decades, but recently it’s become more popular than ever before, and this area will see a record number of condo developments.
Mimico has been designated a regeneration zone by the City of Toronto, and there has been an official plan on the table to develop it. It will be stretched to 60 acres. Mimico Go station is also under construction and is expected to be completed by 2023.
Mimico is becoming an increasingly attractive investment location as it continues on its path to urbanization. The growth of this area will soon reach an all-time high with new developments of condos, transit upgrades and vibrant complexes with retail space for residents or employers alike.
Newmarket
North of the GTA lies Newmarket, a neighbourhood within the Regional Municipality of York. The town of Newmarket is the perfect example how urbanisation and ruralization can work together. With it’s connection to Highway 400, which links up with major highways leading into Barrie or Muskoka. This gateway city offers visitors much more than just beautiful scenery.
Transportation
Newmarket is connected to the rest of the GTA by it’s many highways – Take Highway 400 south into the city or north to towns like Barrie and Muskoka. York Region Transit is a excellent way to get around the region of Aurora, Markham Vaughan Richmond Hill and Whitchurch Stouffville. YRT has also built a rapid transit line along David Drive with fully separated bus-only lanes.
Local public transit takes you anywhere within the York Region thanks to York Region Transit (YRT) which runs unparalleled bus services throughout the regions of Aurora, Markham, Vaughan, Richmond Hill and Whitchurch Stouffville. YRT has also built a rapid transit line along David Drive with fully separated bus-only lanes.
Go Transit offers a dependable, traffic-free choice for commuters. During rush hour, it operates five trains each way between Toronto’s Union Station all the way north to Barrie. Regular bus lines are also operated between 5am and 2am, providing residents with a safe and affordable way to commute.
Housing trend
It is expected that by 2026 Newmarket will see its population standing at the top of 98,000 and population density 2000 people per square kilometers, making it the third most densely populated city in Ontario.
Newmarket has seen rapid growth in recent years, largely thanks to the “Places To Grow” Act, This focuses on urban development, increasing density and renewability. The city’s population is expected to keep growing, with many new condos set to arrive in the near future.
The average selling price for pre-construction condos in Newmarket are continuing to rise – meaning now is an excellent time to invest.
Mississauga
With a thriving cityscape, Mississauga is an essential neighbourhood in the Greater Toronto Area. With Brampton to it’s north, Halton, Milton, and Oakville to it’s west. Mississauga sits in a crucial urban location, and proves and essential community to the Greater Toronto Area.
The city itself is broken up into many different neighbourhoods and incorporated townships, many of which, like Port Credit and Streetsville have their own unique feel and small-town vibe.
Transportation
Mississauga is central to travel within the GTA – it is the home of Pearson International Airport, Canada’s largest airport. Travel to and from the airport is simple, with the new UP Train line, which runs from the airport directly into the downtown core of Toronto with a final stop at Union station.
Other train lines include the GO Transit commuter rail, with three lines – Lakeshore West, Kitchener, and Milton. Mississaugans who work in Toronto have plenty of options with some lines providing all-day service.
Connections to these lines, and to countless other destinations within Mississauga are easy thanks to MiWay, the Mississauga Transit company. With more that 90 routes across the city, some of which connect to neighbouring communities like Oakville and Brampton.
Attractions and Entertainment in Mississauga
Mississauga has more than 480 parks and greenspaces, with 295km of trails and woodlands to explore. Streetsville Memorial Park is quiet relaxing island park within the town of Streetsville. With many things to do in Mississauga, you’ll never run out of exciting things to do and see.
Etobicoke Creek Trail is distinct as well as it is a planned multi-use recreational trail along Etobicoke Creek. Countless beautiful green spaces are nestled within the city, ready to be discovered. Family barbecues, and seasonal events run throughout the summer providing countless opportunities to be captivated by the beautiful nature of Mississauga.
Condo/ Housing trend
As Mississauga continues to grow, housing in the city is keeping pace. The average selling price of pre-construction condos continue to rise but a good place for families looking to set down roots, and for homeowners looking to invest.
Demand for condos in the area is high, with developers looking to build up rather than out – and dozens of new projects have been started within the past several years.
Brampton
Brampton is a city located in the Greater Toronto Area, just northwest of downtown Toronto. Home to 75000 businesses including manufacturing and retail trade among many others it’s no surprise that developers are looking at Brampton for new condos.
With a population of 656,480 in 2021 and an annual growth rate between 2016-2021 that’s 90.2% percent – Brampton is the fastest growing city within Region Peel.
With more than 9,000 acres of parkland and 850 outdoor recreational amenities in Brampton it’s no surprise that this city has been ranked as one the top places to live.