Introduction
Lying in between Sheppard and Wilson, and Keele and Highway 400, Downsview is a lively neighbourhood filled with young families. The area has lots of green space, including Downsview Dells, Chalkfarm Park, Exbury Park, and Rodin Park, as well as stores that cater to the various ethnic communities that live here.
Lifestyle
Downsview is a young neighbourhood, with many families with young kids. The shops and restaurants are largely independent, and many of them cater to the diverse ethnic groups that live in the area. Prices tend to be low as Downsview is not a wealthy neighbourhood. With a relatively high immigrant population, many different languages can be heard in the stores and on the streets.
The Vibe
Downsview is very much a neighbourhood of children and families. Kids can be seen walking along the streets on their way to or from school, and in good weather the playgrounds are filled with local children on weekends and after school. With a higher-than-average immigrant population, Downsview also has a strong sense of community as residents adjust to life in Canada.
Meet the Neighbours
Downsview is a relatively young neighbourhood, with 85% of residents being under the age of 65 and lots of children under 14. Couples with children are the most common type of household, and there are roughly equal numbers of single-parent households and couples without children. Downsview is a relatively low-earning neighbourhood, with a median after-tax household income of $44,087.
In the Area
There are plenty of amenities in the Downsview area. There are public and private schools, community centres, restaurants, libraries, Downsview Arena, and the North York Sheridan Mall. There is lots of green space, with large parks like Downsview Dells and Chalkfarm Park, and playgrounds for local kids. Downsview Park is very close to the neighbourhood and has all sorts of activities and programs.
17.3 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
It’s very easy to get to other parts of Toronto from Downsview. The Allen Expressway and Highways 401 and 40 are easily accessible to drivers, and there are bus routes (some of them 24-hour) on Wilson, Sheppard, Keele, Jane, and Torbarrie. Bike trails can take you from Downsview Dells Park to Black Creek Pioneer Village, although there are no bike lanes on the major roads.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
With lots of parks and schools, Downsview has some great facilities for families and lovers of the outdoors. Easy access to transit and driving routes also makes it easy to get around to different parts of the city. However, Downsview can be a dangerous place, with relatively high rates of crimes such as assault, sexual assault, and stolen vehicles.
Dollars & Sense
Downsview is a relatively inexpensive area. Housing prices are below average for both renters and buyers, although rental prices can be a bit higher closer to Downsview Subway Station. Shops and restaurants also tend to be reasonably priced, including the stores in the mall. The Oakdale Golf & Country Club is an exception in this low-priced area.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
African Textiles Clothing Centre
African Textiles Clothing Centre sells wax-patterned fabric in bright, bold, and beautiful African patterns. The store also sells brocades, jewellery, laces, ties and pre-made garments for men, women, and children.
more infoAquarela
Aquarela serves up traditional Dominican fare, including tostones, whole snapper, and stewed goat, at great prices. Karaoke Thursdays, Classical Latin Fridays, and Salsa Saturdays appeal to those looking for a fun night out.
more infoDownsview Dells
Downsview Dells is a large park that is part of a network of trails that connect to Black Creek Pioneer Village. The park has washrooms, bike trails, picnic areas, and even a few fire pits!
more infoDownsview Park
With sports facilities, a market, concert venues, and plenty of green space, Downsview Park is a major draw in the area. The park also hosts programs, events, and day camps for kids.
more infoOakdale Golf & Country Club
This private golf and country club has a world-class 27-hole golf course. Oakdale Golf & Country Club also has tennis courts, an Olympic-sized pool, a gym, massage services, and dining facilities.
more infoNew Kantamanto Supermarket & Beauty Supply
The New Kantamanto Supermarket specializes in African and Caribbean groceries. You can buy cornmeal, canned callaloo and ackee, and fufu mix (plantain and coco-yam). They also carry natural shea butter and other beauty products.
more info