East End Toronto versus West End Toronto

There has always been a friendly debate as to which part of Toronto is more hip and trendy and a better place to live; the East End or the West End.

Herein we shall debate the merits of each:

Transit:

In the East End, you have the Bloor-Danforth subway line making getting around easy. Motorists can easily access the Don Valley Parkway to boost out of town. West End residents have both the Bloor subway line and the Spadina line to zip around town while motorists enjoy a less busy stretch of Lakeshore Boulevard and the Gardiner Expressway. West End residents are closer to Pearson International Airport.
Slight edge West End

Shops and Restaurants:

East End has Greektown on the Danforth, Little India on Gerrard, Chinatown on Dundas, and The Beaches and Leslieville on Queen Street. There is also the historic Distillery District south of Front Street. West End has the trendy West Queen West area, Ossington Avenue is a foodies paradise, Roncesvalles Avenue is home to many popular annual festivals and Bloor West Village has long been of Toronto’s favourite shopping areas.
Slight Edge: East End

Homes and Architecture:

  Riverdale, East EndHigh Park, West End

East End has a lot of affordable semi-detached homes. There are also a large number of charming Victorian and Edwardian-style detached homes.. The East End has long been a trendsetter when it comes to renovations with interior open concepts and creative outdoor spaces. There are a variety of loft and condo buildings as well. Parking can sometimes be a challenge on the narrow but charming streets. West End homes have great character and maintain original oak woodwork and trim, some with stained or leaded glass windows. Laneway houses and garden suites are an emerging trend. The streetscapes are tree-lined and not quite as crowded as their East End counterparts.
Slight Edge: West End

Parks and Recreation:

East End has Toronto’s finest waterfront beaches with a plethora of activities. Riverdale Park is a popular community hub. Ted Reeve Arena is a beehive for hockey. West End has Toronto’s largest and most beloved High Park which has a pond, children’s zoo and a springtime cherry blossom festival. Waterfront trails are easily accessible. Greenspace is abundant with lots of sports fields and tennis courts.
Slight Edge: East End

So there you have it. We settled nothing. We will have to leave the debate up to you, which is a better place to live: East End Toronto or West End Toronto.

Blog by David Dunkelman, Broker, Johnston & Daniel, A Division of Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd., Brokerage. [email protected]