Where does a young Australian family new to Toronto live? (city hall, to rent)

[aussiematt]

Hi. My wife and I are heading over to Toronto next week from Australia to look at a new job possibility, and if all goes well, to look around Toronto with an agent which the Company has arranged. Would be looking to rent for a two year contract.

Where's the best place to live for a young family? We've never been to Canada and know nothing about Toronto or the broader area. We are early thirtys with two little kids under 3 and are fairly quiet. Potential job looks like it is in the King St / Yonge St area, not far from the City Hall. Our main priorities are safety, some space for the kids, quiet, nearby public transport (probably like a commute of no more than 30/40min) and the usual amenities like daycare and shops etc. However, we'd still love to experience the many things Canada has to offer!

Also interested in any comments as to what we should make sure we go and check out while we're there - 7th to 10th April.

Big thanks for any comments and assistance.

[theterribleone]

Try South Etobicoke if you have the money.

North Scarborough is also nice, as well as North York

Good luck and welcome to Canada!!!

[aussiematt]

Thanks for the response. I'll spend some more time on google maps.

[downwithwebster132]

Well, it depends on your budget. If you have lots of money, you shuld look at nice areas such as Lawrence Park, Rosedale, Moore Park, the Beaches, Leaside, Forest Hill/Cedarvale, the Kingsway, Lytton Park, the Bluffs, etc.

[TightButLoose]

Tell us about your budget. A lot of the neighborhoods mentioned are great but can be out of range for most budgets.

[sarahs20]

I think it depends on whether you want to rent or buy.

To experience Toronto and the city, I would stay out of the suburbs (Etobicoke, Scarborough, North York) and in the North Toronto neighbourhoods (Leaside, Forest Hill/Cedarvale, the Beaches would be my choices).

[ThroatGuzzler]

If you have the money (700k+) the world is yours.. if not I'd suggest the suburbs/outer boroughs.

[theterribleone]

A townhouse downtown is a good start as well.

[jambo101]

Just make sure its an easy (5min) walk to the subway or tram lines as any kind of automobile commuting will be your worst nightmare.I'll second the beaches area or a bit north along Kingston road area.

[TorontoMom]

Bloor West Village is GREAT for families with young children, and they also have very easy access to transit. It's a very close-knit community, and a newcomer to Canada would feel very welcome there.