Bloor West Village stands out as one of Toronto’s finest neighborhoods for families. Nestled along Bloor Street between South Kingsway and Ellis Park Road, it offers much more than just a place to live; it’s a vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and essential services. The community vibe here is palpable, with a welcoming atmosphere and a host of excellent schools that draw urban families eager to remain close to the city while enjoying a true sense of belonging. Plus, being just a short walk from one of Toronto’s premier parks, it’s hard to find a reason not to adore Bloor West Village.
Bloor West Village features charming detached two-storey homes predominantly built in the 1920s, all nestled along picturesque, tree-lined streets. Many residences showcase the Craftsman style, complete with expansive front porches that add to their allure. The curb appeal here is outstanding, and it’s clear that homeowners take great pride in their properties. While a few original houses are being replaced by custom modern builds, many residents prefer to renovate their spaces, preserving the historical charm that defines this lovely area. You’ll find original hardwood floors, beautiful stained glass windows, cozy wood-burning fireplaces, and spacious front porches throughout Bloor West Village.
Bloor West Village real estate showcases a distinct architectural style that truly sets it apart. Most homes in this charming neighborhood were built during the early 20th century, resulting in a cohesive and welcoming atmosphere. You can expect to see beautiful, two-storey detached Craftsman-style residences lining the peaceful, tree-filled streets.
Bloor West Village has seen a remarkable rise in real estate value and appeal in recent years, thanks to its wealth of local amenities, vibrant cultural heritage, and convenient access to some of Toronto’s most stunning parks and green spaces.
These homes often feature inviting front porches, meticulously crafted oak details, stunning hardwood floors, and impressive fireplaces, making Bloor West Village a delightful area to admire and explore for anyone interested in real estate.
Currently, the condominium options are primarily found just outside Bloor West Village, in High Park and Old Mill. However, an exciting proposal for a new condo development at the Humber Cinemas site on Jane and Bloor could expand housing options for those eager to join this wonderful community, while hopefully keeping the beloved cinema in place. In Bloor West Village, the choices for condo buildings are somewhat limited. This is by design, as the area has been carefully developed to preserve its charming low-rise skyline, enhancing the small-town vibe that residents cherish. Nevertheless, there are condo options just a stone’s throw away, particularly in the nearby High Park and Old Mill neighborhoods.
Bloor Street West has a few residences, primarily condos or apartments, but the majority of homes in the neighborhood are located to the north or south of this bustling strip.
In Bloor West Village, you’ll find popular residential streets such as Windermere Avenue, Willard Avenue, and Beresford Avenue, among others. These charming, tree-lined sidestreets are known for their family-friendly vibe and safe environment, all while being just a short stroll from the area’s vibrant shopping spots.
Bloor West Village, nestled in the west end of Toronto, is bordered by Old Mill and Baby Point to the west, Swansea to the south, High Park to the east, and The Junction to the north. While the official boundaries stretch from Jane St on the west to Bloor St on the south, Runnymede Rd on the east, and Dundas St on the north, many locals historically considered the area south of Annette St to define Bloor West Village. Nowadays, though, it’s common to hear the northern section referred to as “Upper Bloor West Village.”
Bloor Street serves as the vibrant heart of Bloor West Village, offering a plethora of restaurants, shops, and nightlife options. Meanwhile, Annette Street is emerging as another hotspot for dining and retail. For those looking to explore even more, larger shopping venues like Stock Yards Village and Sherway Gardens are just a quick 15-minute drive away.
Bloor West Village offers an impressive variety of local shops and amenities. From charming boutiques to delightful restaurants and cafes, as well as specialty grocers, residents can enjoy almost everything they need just a short stroll away.
Tree-lined avenues and a wonderful mix of shops and dining options draw families and urban professionals looking for a fulfilling city experience in one of Toronto’s most desirable neighborhoods near High Park.
Located in the heart of Toronto’s west end, Bloor West Village (BWV) is rich in history and culture, featuring beautifully shaded streets. This lovely neighborhood has won the hearts of residents and visitors over the years. With its charming boutiques and green parks, Bloor West Village radiates an unmatched sense of community and warmth.
The people here take immense pride in their neighborhood, enthusiastically joining in local events, festivals, and community projects. Whether it’s the annual Ukrainian Festival that honors the area’s cultural roots or the vibrant Farmers’ Market showcasing fresh, local produce and artisan goods, there’s always something exciting happening to bring residents together and create a strong sense of belonging. The BIA plays an essential role in supporting local businesses and organizing community gatherings, helping to keep the neighborhood lively and involved.
Take a leisurely stroll down the charming shopping strip of Bloor West Village, and you’ll quickly notice two prominent features: beaming smiles and happy families. This vibrant community radiates a family-friendly atmosphere, making everyone feel right at home.
A diverse array of families of all ages have made Bloor West Village their residence, primarily enjoying the peace of its tranquil sidestreets. In the bustling shopping area, that sense of community is palpable, as shop and business owners greet you with warm smiles at every turn.
Transportation is a breeze in Bloor West Village, with the Bloor subway line (Line 2) running right through the neighborhood. Commuters will find stops at Jane St and Runnymede Rd, making it easy to get around. Many residences are within walking distance of the subway or bus routes, and accessing the Gardiner Expressway takes less than 10 minutes, while Highway 427 is a mere 15-minute drive.
When you step into Bloor West Village, you’ll notice the pride residents take in their surroundings. The streets are charming, lined with trees and often alive with neighborhood kids playing in yards. Smiles and greetings are commonplace, creating a cheerful ambiance—perhaps a reflection of the tight-knit, family-focused spirit that characterizes this community, where many have called home for years. The real estate landscape features primarily semi-detached and detached homes, typically built between 1915 and 1925. In Bloor West Village, you’ll discover residences with lovely front porches, abundant greenery, and unique architectural traits—no cookie-cutter houses in sight here.
Homes in the area mainly consist of classic brick stone, detached residences featuring a variety of modern upgrades. This charming architecture appeals greatly to first-time homebuyers and young families alike. Similarly, Bloor West Village boasts a vibrant mix of longtime residents and newcomers. If you’re open to tackling a project, updating one of these homes in need of some TLC can be a rewarding investment of your time and resources.
The advantages of residing in Bloor West Village are plentiful, but we have to highlight the impressive selection of cafes, restaurants, pubs, and grocers that rival those found in most parts of the city. One hidden gem that often flies under the radar is Amber European Restaurant, a beloved landmark in Bloor West for over 40 years. This place embodies comfort food at its finest. Traditional favorites like Goulash Soup, Cabbage Rolls, and Beef Stroganoff are all must-tries. However, if we had to choose just one dish, it would undoubtedly be the Amber Veal Schnitzel—it’s so large, it practically hangs off the plate, served alongside mashed potatoes and a delicious salad. Pair it with a glass of house red, and you’ll be grinning from ear to ear after the last bite.
Bloor West Village boasts a wide range of transit and commuting options, making it easy for residents to connect with the rest of Toronto and beyond. The neighborhood is served by the Bloor-Danforth subway line, featuring two stations—Jane and Runnymede—offering quick access to downtown.
In addition to the subway, several TTC bus routes run along Bloor Street and other nearby streets, ensuring seamless travel to surrounding neighborhoods and local amenities. For those who prefer cycling or walking, the area is equipped with dedicated bike lanes and well-kept sidewalks, promoting an active lifestyle. Plus, major roads like Bloor Street West and Jane Street allow for straightforward driving, making car commutes a practical choice for residents.
For those in the mood for a pub crawl, you’re in luck! Living in Bloor West Village means you have access to some of the best bars in the area right at your doorstep. Spend an entire evening exploring favorites like Bryden’s, the neighborhood’s longest-serving pub, along with The Swan, A Dark Horse, and The Mug Shot Tavern.
Indulging in shopping in Bloor West Village is guilt-free, especially since many shops are locally owned. Not only do you get to treat yourself, but you’re also supporting the community. There are plenty of boutique women’s clothing stores where you can find unique pieces perfect for both the workweek and casual weekends. One of our top picks is MerryGoRound, where you can discover great outfits suited for any work setting or cozy winter getups.
Bloor West Village boasts a delightful array of quaint shops offering fresh produce and a stunning selection of seasonal flowers. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect pumpkin to set the mood for Halloween festivities, you’ll find it here, along with all the fall blooms to charm your visiting ghosts and goblins. Don’t forget to visit Bloor Village Flowers in December for beautiful winter arrangements that will effortlessly enhance your home for the holiday season. Bloor West Village is a charming neighborhood that truly embraces family life. With its picturesque tree-lined streets, delightful flower shops, and a mix of independent grocers and diverse eateries, it’s a lovely place to explore. The area is home to a vibrant Eastern European community, which means you’ll discover plenty of cozy Ukrainian family-style restaurants to enjoy.
It’s no wonder Bloor West Village clinched the top spot in Toronto Life’s 2018 Best Neighbourhood Survey. This vibrant area excels in every aspect: it’s safe and easy to navigate thanks to nearby Jane and Runnymede stations. The picturesque old homes and tree-lined streets provide an inviting, exclusive atmosphere that residents cherish. With excellent schools, shops, restaurants, and cafes all within a leisurely stroll, it’s hard not to be captivated by the charm of Bloor West Village.
Bloor West Village is known for its wide array of housing options that cater to diverse lifestyles and budgets. Whether you’re drawn to charming historic single-family homes or sleek modern condos, this neighborhood has it all. The architectural landscape is rich with Edwardian, Tudor, and Craftsman styles, featuring iconic brick facades, gabled roofs, intricate trim, and beautiful leaded glass windows.
Many of these homes have been thoughtfully restored and updated, enhancing the neighborhood’s distinctive charm. Alongside the classic houses, you’ll find an increasing number of condo developments that showcase contemporary aesthetics, high-end amenities, and stunning views of the city skyline.
No matter if you’re a young professional, a family in need of more space, or a retiree ready to downsize, Bloor West Village offers a housing option that perfectly fits your needs.
Most of the homes in the neighborhood are located in Runnymede to the north and Swansea to the south. Many of these residences are beautiful Victorian-era structures that have been thoughtfully renovated into larger family homes, while some have been converted into apartments. Predominantly, you’ll find detached houses, with a few semi-detached options scattered throughout the area.
If you’re looking for modern living, the High Park Condominium complex at 70 High Park Avenue and Home Condominiums at 383 Ellis Park Road are excellent choices in the nearby High Park neighborhood, both offering comfortable living just steps away from the lush greenery of High Park.
When it comes to education, the compact retail and service area means that most schools can be found just a short distance away in the surrounding High Park North, Runnymede, Junction and Swansea neighborhoods.
Schools in the area:
Humberside Collegiate Institute
Humberside Montessori School
Runnymede Junior and Senior Public School
