May be relocating to Toronto. Where to move to?

Question

We may be relocating from Chicago to Toronto this year due to my husband's career with his firm. I know absolutely nothing about the city so I was hoping some of you could provide me with some insight.

He would be working downtown so we would probably like to either live in the city itself or a nearby suburb (not too far out). We have a 9 month old, so we need an area where the schools are very good, though we would consider private schools (for planning ahead) and the neighborhood is safe and family friendly. We also have two large active dogs, so a fenced in backyard would be necessary (if at all possible).

The following locations have been recommended so far:

Toronto neighborhoods: the Beach, High Park, the Annex, Forest Hill, Rosedale, Riverdale, East York, Leaside

Toronto suburbs: Mississauga, Vaughan, Brampton, Oakville, Burlington, Milton

Any others?

Out of these areas, which ones have the best schools?

Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

I would recommend Burlington or Oakville, its about a 45min train ride right to downtown toronto, as you wouldnt want to drive there in mornings as it can take up to 2.5 hours due to traffic! Both cities have a lot of great public, catholic and private schools as both the elementary and high school level.  Also they are in the middle of a ton of great colleges and universities.  Both cities are very safe, lots of things for families to do, can get big backyards there as compared to Toronto where land is extremely expensive.

Answer 2

Concerning the suburbs,  Mississauga, Brampton, and Burlington are awful places; highly industrialized and polluted. I don't know about the other suburbs. In Toronto itself Rosedale, Forest Hill and Riverdale have some beautiful homes with large properties, room for the dogs, and excellent schools. But expect to pay prime prices for real estate in these areas. I suggest that you take a long weekend in Toronto and check out these areas for yourself. Toronto is a great city to work and live in, though nothing like Montreal!

Answer 3

Relocation is a huge move to make so I am happy to see that you are doing your research and do not take it lightly.

Going to a new city can stimulate your life and your husband's professional growth, be an adventure, and yet be a scary situation all at once.   You are right in looking for opinions to be sure you are prepared for the changes ahead.

Before you move, you need to consider some points:

You will want to live as comfortably as your current living standards in the new location.  Take some time to speak to someone or a few people who can find out your needs and help you assess the areas so that you are going in prepared, and to a location that is  appropriate for your family on all fronts (good access to work is important, good neighborhood - so you can feel at home and safe, and enough amenities to satisfy your interests during relaxation time). Understand the local culture of that area and check whether that place offers a diverse environment. Each area of a city offers its own unique and diverse culture.  Ensure that the new location would provide you with good schools if you have children. Aside from schools, make sure this area also has other activities that you can do there after work or during your time off, such as a good mall with a good movie theater, regular shopping centers, and the close proximity of some "fun" places where you can go get away from it all for short periods of time.

Since you did not post what your expectations are, or what interests you, and what type of living environment you are looking for, it is difficult to choose which is the best area for you.  

I have lived in Toronto for over 30 years and know the city very well.  I would be honoured to help you find the right area and right house for your family, as you venture into this new city.  You can check out my website at www.PropertyProfessional.ca for more information, and my contact information is listed there as well.

Best of luck!

Answer 4

well oakville and burlington are the farthest away from toronto about 45mins to an hour depending on traffic.

Mississauga has alot of bad drivers

If you want to live in vaugh you will have to spen $50 000 on your front lawn and have 3 morgages if you want to fit in

Brampton is one of the safest cities but not much for entertainment