East Side vs. West Side Toronto: What's the Difference?

Buying in East Toronto vs. West Toronto

(What’s the difference?)

The debate over which is better, East Side or West Side, is one with no losers (Toronto is pretty great no matter which side you live on)! Yonge Street is seen as the invisible dividing line between the two.

While many people argue one side is better than the other, there are areas on each side that are amazing places to call home. Where you’ll be happiest really depends on your individual lifestyle and wish list. So, let’s take a look at what you can get on each side no matter what you’re looking for.

(Ps. If any of these areas interest you check out all current listings in the area by following the in-text links!)

So you’re looking for…

1. Waterfront Recreation 

EAST: The East Side has many incredible areas where you can enjoy recreation by the lake. The Beaches is one of Toronto’s most desirable places to live, with waterfront parks and The Boardwalk. There is also Woodbine Beach, the Scarborough Bluffs, and closer to Yonge Street, Sugar Beach Park. If you live near these areas you can enjoy bike trails, lakeside concerts, and sandy shores!

The Beaches: Dennis Jarvis, Flickr

WEST: The West Side has less beachfront, but is not without great areas to have fun by the lake. People who live along the west waterfront, such as in Fort York, can see shows at Harbourfront Centre and Ontario Place, and ride their bikes through Coronation Park. Further west you’ll find Sunnyside Beach with an outdoor pool and a boardwalk. Or explore Humber Bay Shores Parkland in Mimico.

Harbourfront Centre 

 2.    Easy Commutes

EAST: One of the best streets to live near on the East Side is Danforth Avenue. There are many great neighbourhoods that run along The Danforth, where residents can walk to TTC subway stations along the Bloor-Danforth line. Main Station in the East Danforth area is also a hub because of its proximity to Danforth GO Station. You can also jump on the Queen Streetcar to the beach.

The 501 Streetcar

WEST: There are plenty of major routes in west Toronto, including the Yonge-University-Spadina line. One of the best streets for commutability on the West Side is University Avenue, especially where it meets Front Street in Downtown Toronto. There you’ll find the many transit options running out of Union Station.

Union Station photo: Michael Caven/Flickr

3.    A Family Friendly Community

EAST: The East Side of Toronto has some of the most sought-after communities for buyers with children. Riverdale/Greektown and The Beaches are fantastic places to live for anyone seeking a family-friendly yet still walkable/commutable area. Rosedale is also popular with those seeking a more relaxed community in the city. These communities are known for charming single family homes, parks, and excellent schools. 

WEST: On the West, families with children enjoy areas such as Roncesvalles Village and High Park. These areas are known for active local business and beautiful parkland. Families can take the kids to playgrounds and the zoo in High Park.

Dufferin Grove photo: Canadian Film Centre/Flickr

4.    An Affordable Detached Home

EAST: If you’re looking for a detached home at a lower budget, check out Birchcliffe/Cliffside, Little India, and East Chinatown. You can find townhomes and single family homes for sale for less than $700,000. Some might require some work, but smaller bungalows in these areas are often renovated and still reasonably priced in the 800-899k range. 

WEST: There are some less pricey areas on the West Side too, including The Junction, Pelham Park, and Bloordale Village. You can find homes that need some renovations for under $700,000 and some newer townhomes. 

Cliffside homes photo: SimonP/Creative Commons

5.    An Affordable Condo

EAST: An area where condo buyers get more value for their money on the East Side is still in Regent Park. This neighbourhood is also popular with investors since it’s undergoing a billion dollar transformation. The condos here are all stylish and modern, with 1+1 units selling between $400,000-$600,000.

WEST: On the West Side a good area to look for reasonably priced condos is Humber Bay shores. 1 bedroom units can be found for under $400,000, and 1+1 units sell for between $400,000-$550,000.

Regent Park photo: The City of Toronto/Flickr

6.   Vibrant Personality 

EAST: One of the most unique area on the East Side is The Distillery District. You can explore cobblestone streets and shop in historic building in this one-of-a-kind downtown neighbourhood. Also, don’t forget about St Lawrence Market!

photo: Mark Watmough/Flickr

WEST: The West Side has some of Toronto’s trendiest neighbourhoods, popular with creative types and younger buyers. One of the most unique areas is Queen West, where you’ll find live music venues, independent shops, and patios. Plus, there is the live theatre scene in King West.

Royal Alexandra photo: The City of Toronto/Flickr

Takeaway: East Side vs. West Side doesn’t have to be a win/lose debate. Whatever you’re looking for in your next Toronto condo or house, there are many fantastic areas on both sides of Yonge Street you’re sure to love.

It's up to you which community will be the right place for you to call home! Contact us to chat about your specific search.