Introduction
Nortown is a sprawling, L-shaped Toronto neighbourhood that is largely made up of young families. The area is bordered on the north by the 401, on the west by Bathurst, and on the east by Yonge. The southern boundary runs along Lawrence from Bathurst to Avenue Road, and along Brooke Avenue from Avenue Road to Yonge.
Lifestyle
This quiet, affluent, mostly residential area caters to the many families that live within its boundaries, and is a convenient place from which to reach the rest of the city. There are schools, parks, and children’s stores, as well as plenty of shopping and restaurants. The area is busiest during the day, but restaurants, bars and cafes provide some nightlife.
The Vibe
Nortown has a strong family-friendly feel to it, with shops dedicated to children’s items and plenty of schools and parks in the area. The area is mostly residential and the side streets tend to be quiet, but there are lively shopping strips on Bathurst, Avenue Road, and Yonge. Most of the stores are only open during the day, but there are restaurants, cafes, and bars that stay open later.
Meet the Neighbours
Nortown is a neighbourhood of young families, with a higher than usual proportion of children aged 14 and under and most households have children. This neighbourhood has a large Jewish population and a relatively low immigrant population, with many immigrants coming from the Philippines. Neighbourhood residents tend to be well educated and high earning.
In the Area
There are great facilities around Nortown, particularly for families. There are both public and private schools, and the prestigious Havergal College lies just outside the area’s boundaries. Parks and parkettes are scattered throughout the neighbourhood, including Ledbury Park which has an outdoor pool in summer and a skating rink in winter. The area also has a public library, a community centre, and the Toronto Cricket, Skating and Curling Club.
9.9 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Nortown is conveniently situated for getting around no matter what mode of transport you’re using. There are multiple bus routes in the area, including 24-hour routes on Bathurst, Lawrence, Yonge, and Wilson, and York Mills subway station lies within Nortown. There are multiple access points to the 401 for drivers, and parking is available on most side streets as well as on main streets.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
There are some excellent facilities in the Nortown area, and it is a great neighbourhood for families with young children. The residential streets are quiet, but the main shopping strips are lively both during the day and at night. However, the area is an expensive one; house prices and costs for daily activities are relatively high.
Dollars & Sense
Nortown is an affluent neighbourhood, a fact reflected in the price of housing in the area. Property here is expensive, well above the average for Toronto. Rental prices vary depending on where in the area the building is located and what type of building it is. Stores and restaurants target the area’s affluent residents, so shopping and eating out can be a little pricey.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Auberge du Pommier
Built around the remains of two 1860s woodcutters’ cottages, Auberge du Pommier offers modern French cuisine built around a seasonal menu. The restaurant has an excellent and extensive selection of wines.
more infoBella Sabatina Tea Shoppe
The Bella Sabatina Tea Shoppe has a wide variety of loose leaf and bagged teas, as well as gift baskets, teapots, and other tea accessories. You can also buy tea to drink on the spot.
more infoDon Valley Golf Course
The Don Valley Golf Course has five courses to cater to different skill levels. They offer private and semi-private lessons, as well as clinics for beginners. You can buy equipment at the Pro Shop.
more infoGryfe’s Bagel Bakery
Gryfe’s makes what are arguably some of the best bagels in the city when it comes to the soft, fluffy type of bagel. Fresh daily, and the lines moves quickly. Cash only, closed on Saturdays.
more infoHandy Book Exchange
“Handy B” has been selling used and new books to area residents for over 30 years. It’s a wonderful store for browsing, with many intriguing volumes tucked away on the shelves.
more infoLa Cascina Ristorante
This Italian restaurant offers a fresh, seasonal menu, with pasta made in-house. They provide a relaxed and leisurely dining experience, with a multi-course meal being served over roughly 90 minutes.
more info