South Parkdale Toronto Apartments, Condos and Houses for Rent

The diverse neighbourhood of South Parkdale is – of course – part of the larger Parkdale area. Essentially, it is Parkdale below Queen Street W. The working class part of the region, South Parkdale has struggled with homelessness, drug use and crime (mostly non-violent), developing a seedy reputation in the process. While the northern portion of Parkdale has turned into a gentrified, trendy neighbourhood, filled with cafés and art galleries, South Parkdale has clung to its roots and, with them, its affordable housing. It’s considered a supportive community for immigrants, refugees and low-income Torontonians. In addition, it has public and supportive housing for those who need them.

The market, at a glance

Avg. rent by housing type & size

Studio/Bachelor: $795

1-bedroom: $1,225

2-bedroom: $1,598

3-bedroom: $N/A

Avg. rent compared to other Toronto neighbourhoods

South Parkdale is 13% lower than TO average

South Parkdale Rental Market: South Parkdale’s housing mostly consists of mid- to high-rise apartment buildings with South Parkdale apartments for rent, but low-rises are also common. There is a smattering of detached and semi-detached South Parkdale houses for rent as well, but these rarely appear on the market. In the past, South Parkdale was seen almost exclusively as a rental community, but now, ownership options, including condos, are beginning to pop up.

Life in South Parkdale isn’t lavish. Most residents are focused on making ends meet – and many have two or more jobs to ensure that’s possible. Shopping tends to be restricted to necessities and finding deals, even on basics, is important. When not working, locals go out with friends to Parkdale’s many community events and activities, many of which are offered for free. In return, locals make time to volunteer for community development projects, often feeling a sense of loyalty to their neighbourhood.

TTC options are strong in South Parkdale, and include the Queen Street and King Street streetcar lines. Drivers are equally lucky, having easy access to the Gardiner Expressway. Green and natural spaces can be found in the south part of the area, by the water. Also in the south are Medieval Times and the Canadian National Exhibition grounds. There are a couple of schools in the neighbourhood, as well as long-term care facilities. Grocery shopping can be done on King Street W, with most residents choosing the local No Frills. For other shopping, dining, or grabbing a drink at a trendy pub, head up to Queen Street W. Slightly further east on Queen is the famous Drake Hotel, as well as the CAMH facility. To the west of the area, residents will find a hospital and High Park.