Toronto’s Upper Beaches

The Upper Beaches or ‘The Beaches’ is one of the most popular neighbourhoods in Toronto’s east end. It spans almost 2 kilometres along Toronto’s shoreline and encompasses the areas between Woodbine and Victoria Park along Kingston Road. It is a vibrant community that has a quaint charm that many locals and visitors adore. There’s plenty of green space as well as many bistros, family restaurants and cute spots for brunch and ice cream. It’s a vibrant hub that can attract anyone.

History

The Beaches were once known as Norway, a small postal village in the eastern area of Toronto in the 1800s. The name Norway came from the Norway Pine trees in the region rather than a high population of Norwegian residents. In 1920, the area developed further into what was soon going to be called the Beaches. Huge development and infrastructure projects funded by the City of Toronto grew the area into the hub it is known as today. In the early 20th century, there were several amusement parks operating in the area as well as many parks for the local community to join. The name Upper Beaches and The Beaches was coined by real estate developers who used it as a marketing term to better sell their development projects and the name stuck. 

Types of Homes You’ll Find

The Upper Beaches keeps its small-town ambience and atmosphere. Its housing is dominated by low rise single-family homes and semi-detached properties. There are a few low-rise apartments and condominiums in the area but most homes in the area are far older and maintain their classic residential vibe. Closer to the water and beachfront, you’ll find more upscale properties with large homes with equally large price tags. 

Real Estate Demographics

Average sale price    $1,477,000

Average listing time    56 days

Demographics

The Upper Beaches attracts a wide range of buyers and residents. A majority of residents own their own homes while only 35% of the Upper Beaches is home to tenants. There are many young professionals and families that are priced out of Toronto’s downtown core. The ages of the Upper Beaches are spread out fairly evenly and you’ll find all types of folk in the neighbourhood. 

Youth    22%

Adult    53%

Senior    25%

Avg Family Income    $117,000

Own    65%

Rent    35%

Parks & Green Spaces

Upper Beaches has plenty of green space around for all residents to enjoy. Williamson Park Ravine has some great trails and Norwood Park has a tennis court and wading pool for all to enjoy. There’s plenty of off-leash areas for four-legged friends in almost every park in the Upper Beaches. 

Schools

Elementary 

• Adam Beck Junior Public School
• Bowmore Road Junior and Senior Public School
• École élémentaire catholique George-Étienne-Cartier
• Kimberley Junior Public School
• Norway Junior Public School
• Balmy Beach Junior School
• Beaches Alternative School
• Kew Beach Junior School
• Williamson Road Junior School
• St John Catholic School
• St Denis Catholic School

High Schools

• Malvern Collegiate Institute
• Neil McNeil High School
• Notre Dame High School

Getting In and Around

The Upper Beaches has plenty of public transportation available and is especially lucky to have the Danforth subway station. It has three streetcar lines in the area including the 502, 504 and 506. This and access to Line 2 on the subway means it’s easy to get around Toronto on public transit from the Upper Beaches. If you prefer walking, the area has plenty of amenities available within walking distance. Drivers will benefit from the close proximity to the downtown core. 

Neighbourhood Walk Score        77

Neighbourhood Transit Score        88

Things to Do

The Upper Beaches has plenty of things to do for residents and visitors alike. With some great spots for dining, shopping and local unique spots, a day out in the Upper Beaches can satisfy anyone. 

Courage Foods

A cozy, little bodega with plenty of bargain fresh produce and plenty of house-made baked goods. You can pop in and grab an amazing sandwich and quick eats all available at great prices. Truly a spot you can’t miss!

Collected Joy

A wonderful little spot with cute gifts and trinkets on the prime strip of Kingston Road. It’s a quaint and approachable spot and you’ll find a little gift for a loved one here. 

Trinity

If its great and thrifty furniture you’re after, look no further than Trinity. It’s popular frugal and unique designs even attracted Guillermo del Toro while he was filming Pacific Rim.

The Beech Tree

A quaint little restaurant with a rotating menu. Food and drinks are inspired by traditional English country cooking with a modern flair. A great and charming restaurant to spend a night with some friends.