The Ultimate Neighbourhood Guide to Corso Italia (Davenport), Toronto
Bustling, diverse, and full of heart, Corso Italia is a west-end Toronto neighbourhood where culture meets community. Known for its Italian roots, family-run businesses, and friendly energy, Corso Italia offers a walkable lifestyle, mid-century and early-20th-century homes, and easy access to transit – making it a rising favourite for families looking to upsize without the York or Roncesvalles price tag.
Who Should Consider Living in Corso Italia?
Neighbourhood Overview
Nestled just east of Toronto’s downtown core, Riverdale boasts a rich history dating back to the 19th century. The neighbourhood is characterized by its Victorian and Edwardian-style homes, tree-lined streets, and a strong sense of community. Over the years, Riverdale has evolved, seamlessly integrating modern amenities while preserving its historic charm.
Multicultural
Families
Corso Italia is ideal for families who value culture, walkability, and a sense of neighbourhood pride. It’s warm, welcoming, and full of life - perfect for raising kids in a diverse, urban setting.
Condo
Upsizers
With larger lots, detached homes, and lower price points than nearby neighbourhoods, Corso Italia gives growing families the room they need to settle in and spread out.
Creative
Couples
Corso Italia attracts those who want something more real than polished - a neighbourhood with personality, great coffee, and walkable charm.
Families Looking
for Livability
Compared to Wychwood, The Junction, or Roncesvalles, Corso Italia offers excellent value - with all the essentials, and a growing buzz.
Housing in Corso Italia: Space, Culture, and Opportunity
Corso Italia is ideal for upsizing families looking for a balance of space, value, and urban lifestyle. Homes here tend to have good bones – solid construction with plenty of potential for personalization and growth.
While some parts of the city are filled with tiny condos or new builds, Corso Italia still has a strong stock of early- to mid-century detached and semi-detached homes, many on larger-than-average lots.
Common Home Types:
- Early- to mid-century brick detached and semi-detached homes
- 2-storey family homes with porches, yards, and laneways
- Bungalows with basement rental or in-law suite potential
- Low-rise apartments and a growing number of townhomes and infill builds
Live, Work & Explore
Community & Lifestyle in Corso Italia
Located just west of Regal Heights, Corso Italia stretches along St. Clair Avenue West, from Lansdowne Avenue to Westmount Avenue, with Davenport Road to the south. It’s part of Toronto’s Carleton Village and Earlscourt area, with strong Italian, Portuguese, and Latin American influences.
The vibe is vibrant but grounded – less polished than downtown, but rich in community pride, tradition, and increasingly, modern convenience.
Schools in and Around Corso Italia
Education is a priority here, and families will find strong public and Catholic school options, plus easy access to specialty and alternative programs in nearby neighbourhoods.
- Stella Maris Catholic School – Known for its close-knit feel and community focus
- Hudson College (Private) – Just south of the neighbourhood with JK–Grade 12
- Regal Road Junior Public School – Walkable and well-loved in the community
- Oakwood Collegiate Institute – A short distance away, with arts and academic programs
Parks, Green Space & Outdoor Life
One of Corso Italia’s most underrated features is its access to excellent outdoor space.
- Earlscourt Park – Central to the neighbourhood, with soccer fields, community centre, skating rink, and playground
- Nearby access to the Beltline Trail and West Toronto Railpath for active families
Shopping, Dining & Local Life
Forget the mall – Corso Italia is all about local. From espresso bars to bakeries, salons to specialty grocers, everything is infused with culture and care.
- Tre Mari Bakery, Sicilian Ice Cream, and other local staples
- Local butchers, produce markets, and tailors
- Latin American, Portuguese, and Italian restaurants serving generations of families
- Nearby Stockyards District for big-box options like Home Depot and Nations
Getting Around: Transit-Friendly and Car-Optional
Corso Italia is well-connected by public transit and offers easy access for both drivers and cyclists.
- St. Clair streetcar (512) connects directly to Line 1 (Yonge–University)
- Dufferin and Lansdowne buses provide north-south service
- Cycling lanes and laneways are common in the area
- Short drive to the Allen, DVP, and Gardiner Expressway
Community Culture & Neighbourhood Spirit
Corso Italia is one of Toronto’s most community-driven and intergenerational neighbourhoods. You’ll find kids playing outside, neighbours chatting at local bakeries, and multi-generational families living on the same street for decades.
- Strong religious and cultural institutions
- Active street life and local associations
- A neighbourhood where you’re more likely to wave at your neighbours than pass them by
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 Living in Corso Italia
Is Corso Italia a good neighbourhood for families?
Yes – it offers space, strong schools, parks, and a family-first vibe rooted in culture and connection.
What types of homes are available?
Mostly early- to mid-century detached and semis with brick exteriors, porches, and basements — many with laneway or garage access.
Is the area walkable?
Very. You can walk to shops, bakeries, schools, parks, and transit along St. Clair Avenue West in minutes.
What’s the vibe like?
Lively, down-to-earth, and full of character. Think local cafés, sports leagues, friendly neighbours, and families that stay for generations.
Is it well connected to transit?
Yes – the St. Clair streetcar connects directly to Line 1, and nearby bus routes make north-south travel easy.
Is it a good neighbourhood for upsizing?
Absolutely. Compared to nearby areas like Wychwood or the Junction, Corso Italia offers larger homes at a more accessible price.
Are there good parks nearby?
Yes – Earlscourt Park is a major local hub with playgrounds, sports fields, and a rec centre, and there are several smaller parks nearby.
Is there potential for investment or rental income?
Yes – many homes have basement suites or the potential to create one, offering excellent income or multigenerational living options.
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 Corso Italia
If you’re looking for a neighbourhood where you can grow, connect, and feel truly at home, Corso Italia is a rare find. It’s a place where culture meets convenience, where homes have heart, and where the espresso’s always strong and the neighbours are even stronger.