Living at Yonge/Sheppard or Empress vs. Downtown Toronto? (rentals, condos)

[den85]

Hi all!

I'm currently looking at condo rentals and am debating between neighbourhoods in North York along the TTC line (Yonge/Sheppard, Yonge/Empress, Yonge/Finch) vs. downtown.

Anyone have any thoughts, or does anyone have experiences living in the Yonge/Sheppard or NYCC area? How would you say it compares to living downtown, for a young 20-something single male professional? I've only walked around the area a few times, but doesn't seem like there's a whole lot for young professionals in terms of social life/night life.

Rent is quite a bit cheaper though... I'd be saving about $300/month on rent just by moving uptown compared to downtown condos. And it's much closer to work for me as well.

Thoughts would be greatly appreciated, thanks!

[Amw3000]

Uptown is great. Sheppard to Finch is full of great restaurants, bars and small shops. Anything past Finch, the stores are a bit run down. DT is also great but its just so busy all the time.

[eastwestman]

In terms of everyday conveniences, the Yonge and Sheppard area has as much going for it as downtown, but yes, as you pointed out, the nightlife leaves a lot to be desired uptown. You're saving $300 / month too living uptown + it's closer to your work?! That pretty much should decide it for you. For the cost of two tokens or even the odd cab ride, better to live uptown and take the subway down for your nightlife needs.