Are you thinking of making a move to—or within—Mississauga? If so, you’re in good company. This vibrant city is attracting families from across the GTA and beyond. Of course, one of the best things about living here is the variety of family-friendly communities that offer an incredible quality of life. Before you can choose the one that’s right for you, why not learn a bit about some of the finest?
Here are some of our favourite neighbourhoods in Mississauga that are ideal for families…
Port Credit
Port Credit is one of the most in-demand communities in Mississauga. Its charming mix of homes—made up of heritage houses, along with many modern options—is one of the biggest reasons for that. Of course, the area has a lot more to offer, including lovely parks, top-notch recreation, and lively amenities. If you’re looking for a day on the town, you’ll love the vibrant shops, restaurants, and services along the Lakeshore. There’s even a Canada Day Parade for those who celebrate! Dining hotspots include Snug Harbour and Post Italbar, while the Port Credit Go Station provides an easy way to get around.
Reputable local schools like Port Credit Public School and Forest Avenue Elementary are another major draw, as are beautiful green spaces such as Port Credit Memorial Park (which sits next to the newly-remodeled Port Credit Library) and J.C. Saddington Park (with its scenic lake views and picnic areas).
Lorne Park
Lorne Park is one of the oldest and most affluent neighbourhoods in Mississauga. This gorgeous suburb is filled with magnificent luxury houses and mature tree-lined streets. Here you’ll also find some of the best places for your kids to get an education (including White Oaks and Lorne Park Public Schools, the latter of which is ranked as one of the best in Ontario).
There’s a lively strip along Lorne Park Rd. Local businesses include retail options (like jewellery and flower shops) and eateries. The Mississauga Golf and Coutry Club is also in the neighbourhood—a major bonus for those who want to hit the links! Lastly, in South Lorne Park, Richard’s Memorial Park is a big, beautuful green space that stretches along the waterfront.
Clarkson
Clarkson is a neighbourhood on the rise. You’ll find some majestic homes in the area, especially in the Rattray Marsh area, which offers luxury houses on large lots. That said, there are also some more affordable pockets. No matter where you live in the community, you’ll enjoy its many amenities. These include eateries like Capra’s Kitchen (owned and operated by celebrity chef Massimo Capra), and the shops and services at Clarkson Village Shopping Centre.
Of course, there are other reasons to love this Mississauga gem. They include fantastic schools (including Catholic options like St. Christopher) and wonderful green space (think Rattray Marsh, with its magical forested trails). While you may rarely feel the need to leave Clarkson, the local GO Station and easy commutes to Oakville (to the west) and Toronto (to the east) make getting around a breeze.
Streetsville
Few Mississauga neighbourhoods are as idyllic as Streetsville, which is known for its historic brick houses. You’ll also find a variety of post-war homes and much newer developments. These desirable places to live are interspersed with green spaces like Streetsville Memorial Park (known for its Credit River views) and Meadow Green (which provides access to tennis courts and other amenities).
If you’re looking for things to do, Vic Johnston Arena is well known as the ideal place to strap on a pair of skates, while Streetsville Pool keeps families cool next door. When it comes to community events, the Bread and Honey Festival (held in June) offers live performances, carnival rides, food, beer gardens, and more.
There’s also a charming downtown strip along Queen Street, which includes one of the best pizza joints around (Goodfellas). Streetsville Village Square, which hosts a variety of events throughout the year, is home to beloved Murphy’s Ice Cream Parlour. It’s a great place to grab a treat after picking the kids up from one of the local schools (Vista Heights is one of the top-ranked in the region).
Mississauga isn’t just a great place to settle down with your family. It’s a great place to invest for the future! Find out more in the posts below:
- Is The Mississauga Real Estate Market Still Safe For Investors?
- Benefits Of Working With A Local Mississauga Real Estate Team
- The Best Parks In Mississauga
Erin Mills
Erin Mills is home to a varied mix of properties, which includes bungalows, custom houses, townhomes, and semi-detached options. The area is also seeing more condo development, which is great news for downsizers and investors.
Part of the reason Erin Mills is in such high demand is its convenience. Here you’ll find the very popular Erin Mills Town Centre, where there are nearly 200 places to shop and eat. The University of Toronto’s Mississauga Campus is located where South Erin Mills meets Erindale, making it easily accessible. The neighbourhood is also home to Credit Valley Hospital.
If you’re looking for a fun way to spend time in Erin Mills, explore its attractive outdoor spaces. South Common, Thorncrest, and Sawmill Creek Parks are just a few of the local go-to’s. Glen Erin Trail is also a favourite with cyclists and bikers. When it comes to schools, parents are more than happy with the local selection. It includes Castle Bridge Public School, Thomas Street Middle School, and the well-ranked John Fraser Secondary School, among others.
Churchill Meadows
The scenic Churchill Meadows neighbourhood is Mississauga’s newest master planned community. It’s comprised of contemporary detached, semi-detached, townhomes and condos in a typical new-subdivision style that’s quite popular with many of today’s home buyers. It’s conveniently located in the westernmost area of Mississauga, near both highways 403 and 407, along with numerous amenities and shopping plazas including Erin Mills Town Centre, only a 5 minute drive away.
One of the highlights of the Churchill Meadows neighbourhood is the newly built state of the art Churchill Meadows Community Centre and Mattamy Sports Park, a 75,000 square foot facility and 57 acre park that include a 6-lane indoor pool, triple gymnasium, tournament-level sports fields, skate park, spray pad and outdoor fitness equipment.
Sought after local schools include Churchill Meadows Public School, and Oscar Peterson Public School. With all of the family friendly amenities, it’s no wonder that this neighbourhood is a top choice for young families who are moving up in the world.
Meadowvale
Searching for the ideal neighbourhood that has it all and at an affordable price point? The friendly community of Meadowvale might be the perfect fit. Located in north-west Mississauga, Meadowvale is bordered by Derry Road, Creditview Road, and Mavis Road, all while providing easy access to Highway 401. It is also one of North America’s first master planned communities with a mix of homes on nicely sized lots and pretty tree lined streets. Throughout the neighbourhood, you’ll find upscale residential streets dotted with stately century homes that have been beautifully landscaped and maintained over the years.
Meadowvale Village is also home to the largest business park in Mississauga with many corporate head offices, ideal for those that would like to live near their work and also for quality of family life.
All amenities are nearby from schools, shopping at the Meadowvale Town Centre, to the state of the art Meadowvale Community Centre which includes an indoor pool, skating rinks, Library and more.
Meadowvale is full of natural beauty with abundant parks and walking trails, with one of the best attractions being Lake Acquitaine Park, home to a fishing dock, outdoor fitness area, splash pad and over 3 kms of walking trails. You’re also close to the Meadowvale GO Station and Highway 401 which makes commuting east or west a breeze.
Meadowvale is also home to Meadowvale Village which became Ontario’s first historic district in 1980.
You will be in good hands if you’re looking for a top-notch education for your young ones. Plum Tree Park Public School and Meadowvale High School are just two highly-rated public facilities serving the area. If you prefer private options, Rotherglen School’s Meadowvale Campus (located on Old Derry Rd) and Lynn Rose Heights, and IB World School are among the most reputable private institutions in Ontario.
Rathwood
One of the best things about Mississauga is the wide assortment of communities you can find here. For example: Are you looking for a quiet, established neighbourhood with a sense of peacefulness while still enjoying a highly convenient lifestyle? Then welcome to Rathwood, a former farming area that has maintained its tranquil feel and love of nature.
Many Rathwood residences were initially constructed in the 1960s and 1970s. These well-maintained homes are large, spacious, and perfect for families looking to upgrade their lifestyles.
If you enjoy a central location and neighbourhood streets with mature trees and comfortable lot sizes, then you will enjoy Rathwood. With its location on the Etobicoke border, many home buyers enjoy the convenience of commuting to the Kipling Subway via a direct bus or short drive along Bloor St, or the fact that buying here can be at a more affordable price tag (and without paying two Land Transfer Taxes) as you would in Etobicoke. It’s also located in close proximity to Mississauga’s downtown City Centre and the massive Square One Shopping Centre with every shop, restaurants and lifestyle amenity you could imagine. There’s also the local Rockwood Mall anchored by a Winners and Homesense store, as well as a Chuck E Cheese for the kids. Rathwood is also home to the newly redesigned Burnhamthorpe Community Centre featuring a state-of-the-art aquatic centre as well as an equipment-based fitness centre and will be built to the city’s Corporate Green Building Standard.
What about schools? Once again, everything you find in Rathwood is high quality. Glenforest Secondary School and Briarwood Public School are standing by, as are various private alternatives.
Sheridan
Sheridan is a scenic and upscale family-friendly neighbourhood made up of two distinct communities, Sheridan Homelands and Sherwood Forrest. Its beautiful location on the Credit River Valley makes both areas highly desirable, with Sherwood Forrest appealing primarily to affluent families. The Sheridan Housing Association sponsors several events throughout the year, which adds a sense of community and helps to foster friendships among its residents. Shakespeare in the Park, a pumpkin parade and an annual Christmas light contest are just a few festivities that encourage you to get into the community spirit! Local residents can enjoy Thornlodge Park with an outdoor pool, tennis courts, playground and more.
Sherwood Forrest Village is an upscale plaza located within the Sheridan community. It’s home to our favourite spa in the city Sherwood Village Spa (link to) along with the Apricot Tree Café, Rogues Restaurant, the newly opened F45 Fitness and many other shops and services.
Families with children have several public schools in their catchment area, including Sheridan Park Public School and Erindale Secondary School. Sheridan is also sought after for its close proximity to the University of Toronto Mississauga Campus. Do you prefer a private alternative? USCA Academy International School is an excellent option for older students who seek entry into college or university, while the prestigious Kendellhurst Academy caters to children in grade school.
Sheridan’s real estate landscape also has much to offer, from modest bungalows and entry-level homes to the majority being spacious two-storey houses and custom builds.
Mineola
The exclusive, forested enclave of Mineola is one of Mississauga’s wealthiest neighbourhoods. Spectacular, one-of-a-kind homes on spacious lots with lush greenery are the hallmarks of the community. Though it may seem like a secluded paradise, Mineola remains close to the heart of the action, with many amenities and recreational activities readily accessible. Once you get past the shaded tree-lined streets of the neighbourhood, the shopping and dining districts of Port Credit Village are at your fingertips.
Local residents will refer to Mineola as ‘Mineola East’ or ‘Mineola West’, which represents the area off of Mineola Rd running east or west of Hurontario St (Hwy 10). Mineola East is the more affordable locale within the Mineola area, whereas Mineola West is home to some of the most expensive real estate in Mississauga.
One of the many things that bring affluent families to Mineola is the exceptional educational opportunities, with Mineola Public School, Port Credit Secondary Schools and Kenollie Public School close at hand. It’s also home to one of Mississauga’s most sought after private schools, Mentor College which offers education from Kindergarten through to university entry.
Mineola offers diverse real estate options consisting of everything from mid-century bungalows and townhouses to stunning heritage homes and custom estates. The one constant you’ll find is the oversized lots that leave plenty of space for outdoor fun.
What other GTA Cities are great for family life? Find out more possibilities in the posts below:
- Our Top Burlington Neighbourhoods For Families
- The Joy Of Oakville Living For Families
- Top Ten Luxury Neighbourhoods In Toronto
Applewood
On any given day, you will encounter young children playing happily in the spacious backyards and playgrounds of Applewood. Quiet streets, relative affordability, larger lot sizes, and a safe community make this neighbourhood, a popular choice for parents of young children.
Named after the apple orchard that once was in this area, Applewood is home to the Applewood Acres subdivision, a charming development consisting of brick one and a half storey, two storey and bungalow homes built in the 1950’s by Shipp, a well known builder in Mississauga and west Toronto at the time whose homes are sought after even today for their quality construction.
An outdoor public pool, tennis courts, plentiful playgrounds, and a series of mixed trails provide abundant opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. And a convenient location in east Mississauga bordering Etobicoke offers easy access to Toronto, making Applewood ideal for those who travel for work and play.
Applewood is home to the Dixie Outlet Mall and only a few minutes away from one of Toronto’s most stylish shopping destinations, Sherway Gardens.
As a child-friendly neighbourhood, Applewood offers access to many schools, private and public. Thornwood Public School, Applewood Heights Secondary School, and Applewood Rainbow Montessori School are just a few to come to mind.
Housing options in Applewood offer something in nearly every price bracket, from entry-level condos, bungalows, and townhouses to split levels and spacious two-storey homes.
Looking for the right home in the ideal family-friendly community? We can help—contact us at tanya@tcteam.ca or call 647-293-3785 to benefit from our Mississauga neighbourhoods expertise.
