The 10 Least Expensive Toronto Neighbourhoods for Renting

Reports on the Toronto rental market often focus on the narrative of ever-escalating rent prices in the city, and while we have seen consistent rent increases over the past few years, it doesn’t necessarily represent average prices as a whole. While the average rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in Toronto is around $2,495 (as of March 2024), lower rent prices can still be found if you know where to look. Recent data from our rental report indicates that average rent prices in Toronto actually fell by 1.3% in February, proving that rent isn’t just continuously increasing across the city. To help budget-conscious renters find good value that doesn’t feel cheap, we ranked the 10 best neighbourhoods for renters to look at in Toronto where rent prices tend to be less expensive than the city-wide average while still providing good amenities, access to transportation, green spaces, and attractive communities. 

1. Pleasant View – Average Rent: $1,852.50

Pleasant View offers access to amenities, shopping centres, and recreational facilities, making it ideal for families and professionals seeking convenience and community connectivity. Surrounded by major roadways, the neighbourhood enjoys easy access to highways and public transit, including the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) bus system. With parks, libraries, and nearby schools, Pleasant View provides a well-rounded living experience for its residents.

Transportation

• Major roadways: Finch Avenue, Victoria Park Avenue), Sheppard Avenue, and Highway 404.
• Highway 404 connects to Don Valley Parkway for access to Downtown Toronto.
• Don Mills station on TTC’s Line 4 Sheppard is nearby.

Recreation

• Pleasant View Community Centre offers various programs.
• Municipal parks: Clydesdale Park, Muirhead Park, Old Sheppard Park, and Van Horne Park.
• Pleasant View branch of Toronto Public Library.

Points of Interest

• Fairview Mall: Shopping and dining hub.
• Ikea North York: To furnish your new rental, and grab some meatballs 😉
• Nearby schools: Pleasant View Junior High and Sir John A. Macdonald Collegiate Institute.

2. Blake-Jones – Average Rent: $1,889.38

Blake-Jones, known for its quiet neighbourhood ambiance and community-focused environment, features parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities suitable for families. The area has a blend of traditional and trendy attractions, including local breweries, libraries, and family-friendly parks like Phin Avenue Parkette and Kempson Howard Park. With its convenient location and vibrant local attractions, Blake-Jones offers a desirable living experience for residents.

Location and Boundaries

• Surrounded by Greenwood Avenue, Pape Avenue, and Danforth Avenue.
• Includes a community called The Pocket, accessible only by Jones Avenue.

Parks and Community

• Phin Avenue Parkette: Hosts community events by The Pocket Community Association.
• Kempson Howard Park: Features a ball diamond, wading pool, and playground.
• Local Attractions: The Danforth Avenue section offers great “ watering holes.”

Recreation

• Parks feature playgrounds for kids.
• Cafes & Restaurants: Square Boy, Sakawa Coffee, & the Only Cafe.  

3. Maple Leaf – Average Rent: $1,988.67

Maple Leaf, nestled in southwest North York, has lush landscapes, parklands, and greenbelts, providing a tranquil environment preferred by families. With easy access to major roadways and highways, including Black Creek Drive and Highway 401, the neighbourhood offers convenience and accessibility to amenities like Yorkdale Mall and a variety of dining options. Residents enjoy a mix of vintage and modern residential properties, along with a diverse culinary scene showcasing cuisines from around the world.

Location and Boundaries

• Located in the southwest North York district of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
• Major Roadways: Black Creek Drive, Keele Street, and Lawrence Avenue run through Maple Leaf.
• Controlled access highways: Highway 400 and Highway 401.

Parks and Community

• Municipal parks: Maple Leaf Park, Queen’s Greenbelt, and North Park.
• Falstaff Community Centre provides community activities.

Transportation

• Black Creek Drive, Keele Street, and Lawrence Avenue run through Maple Leaf.
• Controlled access highways: Highway 400 and Highway 401.
• The TTC bus system serves the neighbourhood.

4. New Toronto – Average Rent: $2,010.63

New Toronto, situated along Lake Shore Boulevard West, offers scenic lake views and proximity to parks and recreational facilities like Colonel Samuel Smith Park. With convenient transportation options, including TTC streetcars and GO Transit trains, New Toronto provides easy access to downtown Toronto and neighbouring communities. You get an amazing skyline view of Toronto from Whimbrel Point in Colonel Samuel Park.

Location and Boundaries

• New Toronto centred around Seventh Street/Islington Avenue and Lake Shore Boulevard West.

Transportation

• TTC’s 501 Queen streetcar line along Lake Shore Boulevard connects to downtown Toronto.

Recreation

• Home to the best parks in South Etobicoke, including Colonel Samuel Smith Park.
• Various local festivals like the Grilled Cheese Challenge and Lakeshore Grounds Carnival.

5. Greenwood-Coxwell – Average Rent: $2,015.53

Greenwood-Coxwell, characterized by its diverse community and vibrant culture, offers access to trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants without the hustle and bustle of the city centre. With abundant green spaces, recreational amenities, and family-friendly playgrounds, the neighbourhood caters to residents of all ages. From craft breweries to local markets and festivals, Greenwood-Coxwell provides a comfortable urban living experience with all amenities within walking distance.

Location and Boundaries

• Situated between Greenwood Avenue and Leslie Street to the west, Milverton Boulevard to the north, Coxwell Avenue to the east, and Eastern Avenue to the south.

Community and History

• Leslieville, once a residential village overtaken by industry, is now revitalized with modern developments.

Transportation

• Access to buses, streetcars, and subway stations (Coxwell, Greenwood, or Pape).
• Proximity to Don Valley Parkway and Gardiner Expressway for easy commuting.

Parks and Recreation

• Abundant green spaces including Greenwood Park, Monarch Park, and Ashbridges Bay.
• Vibrant community playgrounds, schoolyards, and dog parks.

6. Oakwood Village – Average Rent: $2,025.48

Oakwood Village, formerly Oakwood-Vaughan, boasts a diverse community reflected in its cultural establishments, festivals, and community organizations. The neighbourhood offers convenient transportation options via TTC buses and the upcoming Eglinton Crosstown Light Rail Transit, enhancing connectivity and accessibility. With a mix of residential and commercial strips, Oakwood Village maintains a suburban feel while undergoing revitalization and attracting new residents.

Location and Boundaries

• Formerly Oakwood-Vaughan, located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, within the former suburb of York.
• Bordered by Eglinton Avenue West to the north, and Dufferin Street to the west.

Transportation

• Accessible via TTC buses and the 512 St. Clair streetcar route.
• Proximity to Allen Road for drivers heading out of the city.

Recreation and Landmarks

• Fairbank Memorial Park offers recreational amenities.
• Oakwood Village Library and Arts Centre serves as a hub for local artists.

7. Cliffcrest – Average Rent: $2,066.77

Cliffcrest, situated along the shores of Lake Ontario in Scarborough, provides a cottage-like atmosphere with scenic views of the Scarborough Bluffs. The neighbourhood offers abundant parks and recreational facilities, including Bluffers Park and McCowan District Park, providing residents with ample outdoor spaces and activities. With convenient transportation options and local attractions like historic Kingston Road, Cliffcrest offers a peaceful yet vibrant living experience for its residents.

Location and Boundaries

• Situated along the shores of Lake Ontario in the district of Scarborough.
• Bordered by Midland Avenue to the west, and the Canadian National Railway to the north.

Community and Landscape

• Predominantly single, detached houses characterize the neighbourhood.
• Sandy cliffs along Lake Ontario’s edge, contribute to a cottage-like atmosphere.

Parks and Recreation

• Abundance of parks in Cliffcrest, many near Scarborough Bluffs and the waterfront.
• Bluffers Park offers a large sandy beach, picnic areas, a marina, and yacht clubs.
• Ample Cycling Routes and Paths can be found in the area

8. Beechborough-Greenbrook – Average Rent: $2,072.83

Beechborough-Greenbrook, located within the Silverthorn neighbourhood, showcases a housing market that is predominantly made up of condos, apartments, and older homes that offer units that tend to be more spacious. With proximity to parks, shopping destinations, and public transportation options, the neighbourhood offers convenience and accessibility to residents. Beechborough-Greenbrook provides a unique living experience with a blend of urban amenities and suburban charm.

Location and Boundaries

• Located within the Silverthorn neighbourhood in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
• The city categorizes the area into two neighbourhoods: Keelesdale-Eglinton West, south of Eglinton Avenue, and Beechborough-Greenbrook, north of Eglinton.

Parks and Recreation

• Parks along Black Creek Drive near Eglinton Avenue provide ample outdoor spaces.
• The Centennial building houses an indoor swimming pool and a local historical museum.
  

 

9. Downsview – Average Rent: $2,075.89

Downsview, situated in the north end, is one of Toronto’s largest neighbourhoods that includes landmarks like Yorkdale Shopping Centre, Downsview Park, and the Allan Expressway. With the closure of Downsview airport last year, the city is investing in major community improvement projects in the area to improve transit, parks, and community services. Current redevelopment plans in the area include a 500 acre “15-minute city” that has already received a design award from the World Architecture Festival.  Close access to major highways and spacious parks provides a dynamic living experience with opportunities for both urban exploration and suburban comfort.

Location and Boundaries

• Situated in the northern part of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, within the district of North York.
• Extending beyond Sheppard Avenue and Dufferin Street, popularly perceived to include areas northward to the Toronto city limit at Steeles Avenue.

Parks and Recreation

• Diverse areas, ranging from primarily residential sections east of Dufferin Street to industrial zones in the west.
• Downsview Park, a significant district once a military base.
• Located a short drive from Yorkdale Mall.

10. Brookhaven-Amesbury – Average Rent: $2,076.25

Brookhaven-Amesbury is a vibrant and diverse neighbourhood located south of Lawrence Avenue, offering a blend of high-rise apartments and residential streets with varied housing styles. With family-centric amenities, green spaces, and recreational facilities, the neighbourhood fosters a sense of community and belonging. From convenient shopping options to nearby parks and transit accessibility, Brookhaven-Amesbury provides residents with a well-rounded living experience in Toronto.

Location and Boundaries:

• Brookhaven-Amesbury lies south of Lawrence Avenue, bordered by Jane Street to the west, Keele Street to the east, and a hydro right-of-way to the south.

Community Composition:

• A vibrant and diverse neighbourhood blending high-rise apartments with residential streets showcasing varied housing styles.
• Known for its family-centric amenities and green spaces, Brookhaven-Amesbury offers a sense of community and belonging.

Amenities and Recreation:

• Residents enjoy proximity to various parks and recreational facilities, including Amesbury Park, Harding Park, and Gulliver Park.
• The neighborhood boasts convenient shopping options, with Yorkdale Mall serving as a neighborhood hub and nearby retail strips along Jane Street and the North Park Plaza.

 

Honourable Mention: Looking Outside the City Limits

 

With expanding transit plans to offer commuters more trips and routes into Toronto, looking at nearby cities and neighbourhoods can also be an option if you’re willing to go suburban. Areas like Scarborough, Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa, Mississauga, Brampton, Markham, Etobicoke, and North York offer a range of housing choices at varying price points. While these locations might require a slightly longer commute, they can often provide more affordable rent prices compared to the Toronto core. Additionally, these suburban communities boast their unique amenities, green spaces, and community offerings, making them attractive alternatives for budget-conscious individuals and families.