Parkdale

The working class grit of Parkdale is still pretty in your face, despite some of the stunning mansions that are selling for a pretty penny. Once upon a time in the 1800s Parkdale was home of the Toronto elite, and the size of the houses is a testament to that. Despite a lackluster stint that took it downhill, the neighbourhood has picked up in the last few years, although not as holistically as many others. Walk west along Queen and you’ll see the new breed of coffee house or gallery popping up between the ever-present dollar stores. Some of West Queen West’s most popular bars (The Cadillac Lounge, Wrongbar, & Stones Place to name a few) are technically within the borders of Parkdale.

There’s some considerable diversity to the population—close to 56% of the population are visible minorities, and there are established Tibetan and Ethiopian communities, amongst many other new Canadians. The proximity to the ever-popular West Queen West and the cheaper rent means you’ll find lots of young people looking to save a buck as well. There are also plenty of families who live in those large Victorian mansions.

Location. Steps away from West Queen West, and a walk from trendy Roncesvalles, it’s not hard to find your way to a completely gentrified area. There are still very large houses to be found, which will only increase in value as the area continue to improve. Some people wonder if Parkdale will ever completely gentrify. In the mean time, it could be a savvy investment opportunity for those willing to wait it out.

• Queen Victoria Public School
• Holy Family Catholic School
• Garden Avenue Public School
• Parkdale Public School
• Fern Avenue Public School