Where Charming Streets, Great Schools, and Family-Friendly Living Meet
The Ultimate Neighbourhood Guide to Bloor West Village, Toronto
If you’re looking for a neighbourhood that feels like a small town in the heart of a big city, Bloor West Village might just be your perfect next chapter. This west-end gem blends family-friendly living with a vibrant village atmosphere, complete with charming shops, top-tier schools, and quick access to High Park and downtown Toronto.
Welcome to Bloor West Village
Charming, Connected, and
Family-Friendly
Situated between High Park and the Humber River, Bloor West Village runs along Bloor Street West from Jane to Runnymede. It’s a neighbourhood that’s known – and loved – for its walkable main street, community events, and beautiful early 20th-century homes.
While it offers the character and convenience of city living, the vibe here is undeniably relaxed and neighbourly. Think: children walking to school, baristas who know your order, and parks that feel like an extension of your backyard.
What Sets Bloor West Village Apart?
That “Village Feel” in the City
This neighbourhood has all the perks of urban life -transit, shopping, dining – but with a community-first atmosphere. Locals support small businesses, kids know their neighbours, and there’s a palpable sense of pride and care in every block.
Why Families Love Bloor West Village
Who Should Consider Living Here?
Bloor West Village isn’t just a beautiful place to live – it’s a community that fits your lifestyle. Here’s who tends to feel most at home here:
Upsizing Families
Outgrowing your condo or starter home? Bloor West offers more space, yards, and top schools - perfect for families ready to grow.
Urban Professionals
Who wish to work downtown, live in a quiet, walkable neighbourhood. Enjoy a family-friendly vibe without the long commute.
Nature Lovers
Steps from High Park and Humber trails, this area is ideal for families who love to bike, hike, and breathe easy.
Multigenerational Households
Spacious homes and flexible layouts make it easy to live together - while still having your own space.
Housing in Bloor West Village: Classic & Comfortable
The neighbourhood is known for its beautifully preserved detached and semi-detached homes, many built between the 1920s and 1940s. Most homes have original charm – hardwood floors, crown mouldings, brick exteriors – with tasteful modern updates.
Price Range: Detached homes typically range from $1.5M to $2.8M+. Semis and townhomes may offer slightly more accessible entry points for young families.
Family-Friendly Homes:
- 2- and 3-storey houses with spacious yards.
- Quiet, tree-lined residential streets with a real sense of community.
- Plenty of opportunities for customization or renovation.
Live, Work & Explore
Community and Lifestyle in Bloor West Village
Schools and Education Options
Bloor West Village is a top choice for families because of its excellent schools and family-focused learning resources.
Public Schools:
- Runnymede Junior and Senior Public School – Offers French Immersion and strong academic programs.
- Swansea Public School – A long-standing favourite with a strong arts program.
- Humberside Collegiate Institute – Well-regarded high school nearby.
Catholic & Private Options:
- St. Pius X Catholic School – Faith-based elementary option with strong parent involvement.
- Ukrainian schools and cultural centres nearby reflect the area’s heritage.
Parks, Playgrounds & Nature Access
One of the biggest draws of Bloor West Village? You’re minutes from some of Toronto’s best green spaces.
- Over 400 acres of playgrounds, trails, sports fields, and a zoo.
- Cherry blossoms, Shakespeare in the Park, and weekend nature hikes.
- Amazing for families who love the outdoors.
- Ideal for biking, strollers, and riverside picnics.
- Connects you to Lake Ontario in a scenic, peaceful way.
Local Playgrounds:
- Beresford Park and Rennie Park are family favourites.
- Skate rink, tennis courts, and seasonal programming.
- Beresford Park and Rennie Park are family favourites.
Getting Around – Transit & Accessibility
Though it feels self-contained, Bloor West Village is well-connected.
- TTC Access: Runnymede, Jane, and High Park subway stations are within walking distance.
- Driving: Quick access to the Gardiner Expressway and Lakeshore Blvd.
- Bike & Walk Score: Extremely walkable and bike-friendly, with amenities close to home.
Seasonal Events
The community calendar in Bloor West Village is always full – especially when the seasons change. Here are a few local favourites that bring neighbours together year after year:
- Bloor West Village Ukrainian Festival – Celebrates the neighbourhood’s deep Eastern European roots.
- Halloween Howl – Local businesses hand out treats; a favourite for kids.
- Sidewalk Sale & Summer Festivals – Live music, food vendors, family-friendly entertainment.
Independent Shopping & Dining Scene
From old-school butchers and European bakeries to indie bookstores and fresh florists, Bloor West Village’s commercial strip feels curated for real life -not chains.
Notable favourites:
- Bunner’s Bake Shop (vegan & gluten-free sweets)
- Bread & Roses Bakery Café (cozy with the best scones)
Strong Neighbourhood Ties
In Bloor West Village, community isn’t just a buzzword – it’s part of daily life. Residents are connected, involved, and proud to call this neighbourhood home.
- Active BIA (Business Improvement Area) that supports local shops and events
- Engaged neighbourhood association focused on safety, beautification, and advocacy
- Local book clubs and parenting meetups that make it easy to connect
- Seasonal events like street festivals, school fundraisers, and holiday markets
- Community-led charity drives and volunteer opportunities year-round
Featured Listings in [Neighbourhood Name]
“We moved to [Neighbourhood Name] last year, and it was the best decision for our family. The parks, great schools, and friendly neighbours make it feel like home!” – The Patel Family
123 Address St.
$999,999
Quick overview.
456 Address St.
$999,999
Quick overview.
789 Address St.
$999,999
Quick overview.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bloor West Village
Is Bloor West Village good for families?
Yes – this is one of Toronto’s most family-friendly neighbourhoods, with strong schools, safe streets, and plenty of green space.
What kind of homes are available?
Mostly detached and semi-detached homes, many with large yards and historic charm. Some townhome and condo developments are emerging nearby for more variety.
How close is it to downtown?
Just 20–25 minutes by subway or car. You get the suburban feel without losing urban access.
Are there good parks nearby?
Incredible ones – High Park, Humber River trails, and several smaller local parks make outdoor life a huge perk of living here.
What kind of shopping is available?
The Bloor strip is full of small, independent shops – bakeries, boutiques, cafés, and family services.
Is the area walkable?
Very. Everything you need – from schools to doctors to groceries – is within walking distance.
Meet Chris & David – Your Toronto Upsizing Experts
With decades of experience in Toronto’s real estate market, Chris and David have helped countless families find their dream homes while navigating the complexities of upsizing.
Chris Cook
Sales Representative & Team Lead
Chris is the driving force behind The Halyard Group, helping families navigate the complex process of selling their current home and finding a larger one that truly fits their needs. As a long-time resident of Toronto’s east end, Chris has a deep understanding of the best family-friendly neighbourhoods, school districts, and hidden gems perfect for growing families.
Before his career in real estate, Chris competed at the highest levels of sailing, representing Canada in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. That same strategic mindset, discipline, and drive for excellence now help his clients win in Toronto’s competitive real estate market.
Chris ensures that every client has a clear, step-by-step plan for upsizing - whether that means selling first, buying first, or managing both at the same time. His goal is to make sure families move seamlessly into a home with more space, in a neighbourhood that supports their lifestyle.
David Ferris
Sales Representative
Born and raised in Toronto’s east end, David has firsthand knowledge of the city’s most sought-after neighbourhoods for families looking to upsize. As a parent himself, he understands how important it is to find a home with the right space, the right schools, and the right community feel.
Before real estate, David built a successful career in the music industry, where he honed his negotiation skills, creative problem-solving, and ability to work under pressure - all of which he now applies to helping families transition into a larger home smoothly and successfully.
David takes a highly personalised approach, ensuring that each client’s next home matches their long-term goals. Whether it's finding a bigger backyard, a better school district, or a quieter street for a growing family, he helps clients make informed decisions with confidence.
What Other Families Say
Why You’ll Love Living in Bloor West Village
Bloor West Village offers an ideal upgrade for families who want more space and serenity – but aren’t ready to leave the city behind. With its unique blend of community pride, character homes, school options, and lifestyle perks, it’s a place that just feels like home.