A Historic & Vibrant Downtown Toronto Neighbourhood
Living in The Annex - One of Toronto’s Most Iconic & Sought-After Communities
Heritage homes, vibrant culture, top-tier schools, and unbeatable access to the city – The Annex is one of Toronto’s most desirable neighbourhoods for families and professionals alike.
Why Families Love The Annex
Neighbourhood Overview
The Annex is one of Toronto’s most historic and culturally rich neighbourhoods, known for its beautiful tree-lined streets, grand Victorian and Edwardian homes, and diverse community. Situated in downtown Toronto, it offers an unmatched blend of urban convenience and residential charm.
With prestigious schools, world-class cultural institutions, and a thriving restaurant scene, The Annex attracts families, academics, professionals, and artists alike. Whether you’re looking for a character home with history or a modern condo near transit, this neighbourhood offers a variety of options.
Location
Cafés, bookstores, restaurants, and boutique shops line Bloor Street West.
Home Styles
The Annex offers Victorian, Edwardian, and modern homes with classic Toronto character.
Top Schools
Proximity to highly regarded public and private schools.
Green Spaces
Includes Jean Sibelius Square, Taddle Creek Park, and access to the nearby University of Toronto campus.
Tansit Access
Steps from multiple subway stations and major streetcar routes.
The Homes of The Annex – A Blend of History & Modern Living
Real estate in The Annex is a mix of historic charm and modern convenience. The neighbourhood is best known for its Victorian and Edwardian-style homes, many of which feature detailed brickwork, large bay windows, and classic Toronto character.
In recent years, The Annex has seen an influx of luxury condos and modern townhomes, appealing to both young professionals and downsizing homeowners looking for low-maintenance city living.
Real Estate Snapshot (2024)
- Detached Home Prices: ~$2M – $5M+
- Semi-Detached Home Prices: ~$1.5M – $3M
- Condo Prices: ~$750K – $2M
- Market Trend: High demand, low inventory, strong long-term investment potential
Live, Work & Explore
Community & Lifestyle in The Annex
With a mix of heritage charm, vibrant culture, and top-tier amenities, The Annex offers a dynamic and welcoming lifestyle for families, professionals, and students alike.
Whether you’re looking for great schools, arts and entertainment, or easy transit access, this neighbourhood has it all.
Best Schools in The Annex
Education is a huge draw for families moving to The Annex. The area offers top-tier public and private schools, as well as proximity to The University of Toronto.
Top Schools Serving The Annex:
- Huron Street Junior Public School (JK-6, strong academic reputation)
- University of Toronto Schools (UTS) (Grades 7-12, elite academic school)
- Royal St. George’s College (Private boys’ school, grades 3-12)
- The Mabin School (Private, small class sizes, JK-6)
Things to Do in The Annex
The Annex is one of Toronto’s most vibrant cultural hubs. Whether you love history, dining, shopping, or green spaces, there’s always something happening in the area.
Local Attractions & Highlights
- Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) – One of Canada’s most prestigious museums.
- Hot Docs Cinema – A historic theatre showcasing documentaries and indie films.
- Bata Shoe Museum – A unique museum dedicated to footwear from around the world.
- Independent Bookstores – The Annex is known for its indie bookstores like Bakka-Phoenix Books and BMV Books.
Getting Around – Transit & Accessibility
The Annex is one of the most connected neighbourhoods in Toronto, making it easy for residents to commute across the city.
- Subway Access: Steps from St. George, Spadina, and Bathurst stations
- Streetcars & Buses: Serviced by 510 Spadina, 511 Bathurst, 300 Bloor-Danforth Night Bus
- Driving Access: Close to Bloor Street, Dupont, and Avenue Road
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 The Annex
What makes The Annex a great place to live?
The Annex is one of Toronto’s most vibrant and historic neighbourhoods, offering a mix of Victorian and Edwardian homes, top-tier schools, cultural attractions, and excellent transit access. With its walkable streets, diverse restaurants, and proximity to the University of Toronto, it’s a sought-after location for families, professionals, and academics alike.
How much do homes in The Annex typically cost?
- Detached homes: ~$2M – $5M+
- Semi-detached homes: ~$1.5M – $3M
- Condos & townhomes: ~$750K – $2M
The area’s strong demand and limited inventory make it a competitive real estate market with strong long-term investment potential.
Is The Annex a good neighbourhood for families?
Yes! The Annex is home to highly rated schools, green spaces, and family-friendly amenities. Many families choose the area for its top-ranked schools, proximity to parks like Jean Sibelius Square and Taddle Creek Park, and easy access to cultural attractions like the Royal Ontario Museum.
What are the best schools in The Annex?
Some of the top schools in and around The Annex include:
- Huron Street Junior Public School (JK-6)
- University of Toronto Schools (Grades 7-12, elite academic program)
- Royal St. George’s College (Private boys’ school, grades 3-12)
- The Mabin School (Private, small class sizes, JK-6)
For post-secondary education, the University of Toronto’s St. George campus is located right next to the neighbourhood.
How is public transit in The Annex?
The Annex is one of Toronto’s best-connected neighbourhoods:
- Subway Access – Steps from St. George, Spadina, and Bathurst stations
- Streetcars & Buses – Serviced by 510 Spadina, 511 Bathurst, and 300 Bloor-Danforth Night Bus
- Highly Walkable – Most daily errands can be done on foot
With multiple subway stations nearby, residents can reach downtown in minutes without needing a car.
What is there to do in The Annex?
The Annex is known for its rich cultural scene, historic landmarks, and vibrant nightlife. Some of the top things to do include:
- Visiting the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) – One of Canada’s top museums
- Watching films at Hot Docs Cinema – A historic theatre showcasing documentaries and indie films
- Exploring the Bata Shoe Museum – A unique museum dedicated to footwear and history
- Enjoying cafes and bookstores – Popular spots include Bakka-Phoenix Books, BMV Books, and local coffee shops along Bloor Street
Is The Annex a safe neighbourhood?
Yes, The Annex is considered a safe and well-patrolled neighbourhood with a strong sense of community. Like any urban area, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, but overall, the area is known for its low crime rates and family-friendly environment.
I’m interested in moving to The Annex. How do I start?
If you’re thinking about buying a home in The Annex, the first step is to connect with a local expert who knows the market inside and out. The Halyard Group specializes in helping families and professionals find the perfect home in Toronto’s top neighbourhoods.
Book a free consultation today to get started!
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
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Get in touch to find out how we can help you and your family find the perfect home in The Annex.