Why East York is a Top Pick for Growing Families
As more Toronto families outgrow their condos and townhomes, East York is emerging as one of the city’s best-kept secrets. Located just east of the Don Valley and minutes from downtown, this diverse and dynamic district offers an ideal mix of affordable housing, quality schools, green space, and transit access – all while maintaining a genuine community feel.
Whether you’re looking for room to grow, a quiet street near parks, or a vibrant neighbourhood with walkable schools and cafés, East York delivers. Here are our top five family-friendly neighbourhoods to consider in 2025.
1. Woodbine Heights
Tucked between the Danforth and Taylor Creek, Woodbine Heights offers a quiet, residential vibe with charming architecture and a real sense of neighbourliness. Detached homes with yards, tree-lined streets, and walkable amenities make it a solid choice for families looking to spread out a little.
Why Families Love It:
Woodbine Heights feels like a small town in the city. Parents love the proximity to local schools like R.H. McGregor and Cosburn, while kids enjoy everything from splash pads at Stan Wadlow Park to skating at the East York Arena. With community centres, playgrounds, and family events throughout the year, it’s easy to feel connected here.
2. Crescent Town
Crescent Town is an often-overlooked gem that offers outstanding value for young families entering the housing market. Its convenient location near the Victoria Park subway station and mix of high-rises and townhomes make it one of the most affordable family-friendly neighbourhoods in East York.
Why Families Love It:
This is a practical, welcoming place to grow your family. The Crescent Town Club offers year-round programming for kids, and everyday conveniences – from groceries to daycares – are just steps away. It’s a smart pick for families making the transition from condo life, with all the essentials within walking distance.
3. Danforth Village
Vibrant and walkable, Danforth Village blends classic Toronto housing stock with a strong community vibe. Families here enjoy the perks of urban living – cafés, bookstores, local shops – alongside the stability of a residential neighbourhood.
Why Families Love It:
Danforth Village offers balance. It’s lively without being overwhelming, thanks to green spaces like East Lynn Park and strong school catchments nearby. Parents can run errands on foot, while kids enjoy park programs and family-friendly events. Plus, TTC access makes commuting a breeze.
4. Parkview Hills
Set apart by its unique location inside a natural ravine, Parkview Hills is a serene pocket perfect for families who want space, quiet, and nature – without leaving the city.
Why Families Love It:
It’s peaceful, safe, and tucked away from traffic – yet just minutes from downtown. The homes are larger, the streets are quieter, and neighbours often know each other by name. With access to the Don Valley trails and excellent schools like Presteign Heights, Parkview Hills is where families settle in for the long haul.
5. Todmorden Village
Nestled near the Don Valley and surrounded by green space, Todmorden Village blends nature with city convenience. It’s a mix of older homes, tasteful renovations, and new infill – giving families options to grow into.
Why Families Love It:
Families here love weekend bike rides, nature walks, and having quick access to the DVP and downtown. It’s a community that values outdoor living and still checks all the boxes for schools, transit, and amenities. For parents who want fresh air and fast commutes, this neighbourhood is the best of both worlds.
Honourable Mention: East Danforth
East Danforth is a rising star, attracting young families and creative professionals looking for value, character homes, and walkable urban life.
Why Families Are Moving In:
With a growing café scene, subway access, and improving schools, this corridor is seeing an exciting wave of revitalization. Families are drawn to its sense of possibility, and its easy access to both downtown and the beach makes it uniquely positioned for long-term growth.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Neighbourhood for Your Family
Choosing a neighbourhood isn’t just about square footage or school rankings – it’s about finding a place where your family’s life can truly unfold.
For some families, that means being able to walk to daycare, hop on the subway, and still be home for dinner in a backyard of your own. For others, it’s about peace and quiet, space to grow, and the feeling of safety when the kids ride their bikes after school. Some families want the energy of local cafés and community markets; others want the calm of a ravine trail just outside their door.
What makes a neighbourhood right is deeply personal. It depends on your lifestyle, your commute, your weekend rituals, and your vision for the years ahead.
At The Halyard Group, we help families like yours navigate these big decisions every day. From comparing school zones to assessing long-term property value, we guide you through the process of upsizing with clarity and confidence. We know the nuances of East York’s family-focused communities – contact our team to get matched with the neighbourhood that’s a right fit for you and your family.
