Safest, Most Affordable Rental Neighbourhoods In Toronto
Toronto is truly a world class city, filled with diversity and endless entertainment options. As the largest city in Canada, Toronto is a leading business and finance centre and is consistently rated as one of the most livable cities on the planet. It contains hundreds of neighbourhoods, each with its own unique vibe and special personality. From charming residential communities to bustling downtown hotspots, for those seeking affordable, yet safe, apartments for rent in Toronto, there is a neighbourhood out there that you will love to call home.
We scoured the city to find the top 10 most affordable and safest Toronto neighbourhoods for apartments for rent. The rankings were based on which neighbourhoods had the lowest combination of crime and rental rates.
Bayview Woods - Steeles
Population: 14,110
Crimes per 100,000 people: 2,339
Average 1 Bedroom Rental Rate: $1,750
A community lined with a stunning ravine system and plenty of green space makes Bayview Woods - Steeles perfect for those looking for apartments for rent that enjoy nature, jogging or walking trails. Located in the northern part of Toronto, it is still accessible via several public transit bus routes and has an apartment rentals vacancy rate of around 1%. Easy access to the Don Valley Parkway and located 30 km from downtown Toronto, makes about a 30-minute commute to the city centre. Its close proximity to several large shopping centers such as The Shops at Don Mills and Fairview Mall make it convenient for shopping, however other entertainment options can be limited.
Greektown
Population: 7,682
Crimes per 100,000 people: 3,028
Average 1 Bedroom Rental Rate: $1,800
Located in the east end of Toronto, Greektown is famed for its shopping and diverse culinary scene. Conveniently located along the Bloor-Danforth Subway line, this affordable neighbourhood is home to many young professionals and artists. With a vacancy rate of just under 2%, apartment rentals get snatched up quickly in this charming area lined with bakeries, cafes, and parks. Noted for being home to some of the city’s best Greek restaurants, Greektown hosts Canada’s largest street festival, the annual ‘Taste of the Danforth’ each summer which attracts over 1.65 million visitors.
Leaside
Population: 16,938
Crimes per 100,000 people: 1,360
Average 1 Bedroom Rental Rate: $2,200
Leaside is a vibrant neighbourhood with abundant green space, shopping and offers plenty of activities such as skating rinks, swimming pools and eight public parks including the Leaside Memorial Community Gardens. Transit is easily accessible with two subway stations and bus routes that can bring you to downtown Toronto in less than 20 minutes. Considered one of the city’s most family oriented neighbourhoods, plenty of access to shopping, doctors, dentists and a wide range of international restaurants offer convenience and variety. Sought after by prominent families looking for Leaside apartment rentals in this wonderful community, the vacancy rate is just below 2%.
Bedford Park
Population: 15,269
Crimes per 100,000 people: 1,360
Average 1 Bedroom Rental Rate: $2,050
Convenient access to public transit, libraries, community centers, Yonge St shopping and plenty of parks make this self-contained north Toronto neighbourhood a fantastic place to live. For families seeking apartment rentals, it offers the perfect mix of convenience to the downtown core, with quiet residential living and plenty of nearby shops, restaurants and entertainment options. It is home to the Rosedale Golf club, considered one of Canada’s best classic courses and the famed Fairlawn Neighbourhood Centre that offers exceptional youth and afterschool programs. Hovering around a 1% vacancy rate, the Bedford Park neighbourhood is an attractive option for young families.
High Park North
Population: 26,002
Crimes per 100,000 people: 3,070
Average 1 Bedroom Rental Rate: $1,975
Winding streets lined with towering oak trees, waterfront access and home to Toronto’s largest public park, famous for its spring cherry tree blooming makes this neighbourhood a hot spot for apartment rentals. Located west of downtown Toronto and stretching south from Bloor St West to the Queensway, multiple public transit options are available with a short commute to the downtown core. The walkable local living is an enticing feature for those seeking apartment rentals and High Park North doesn’t disappoint with its many cafes, bakeries, restaurants, pubs and vintage shops. This sought after community has a vacancy rate of around 2% and a wide mix of residents from singles to families.
Bayview Village
Population: 23,760
Crimes per 100,000 people: 3,039
Average 1 Bedroom Rental Rate: $2,010
Located in the east end of the city between Sheppard and Finch Avenue near Highway 401, Bayview Village is a family orientated neighbourhood with a YMCA, the Bayview Village Shopping Centre, and the Don Valley Parklands. It offers a fantastic mix of shops, tennis clubs, parks and outdoor activities which are complemented by the numerous restaurants, pubs and coffee shops. With three public transit stops, the downtown core is easily accessible at just 15 km away. With a vacancy rate of just under 2%, Bayview Village apartment rentals attract a mix families, young professionals, and retirees.
Pleasant View
Population: 16,876
Crimes per 100,000 people: 3,493
Average 1 Bedroom Rental Rate: $1,900
A north Toronto community with close access to highway 404, public transit and retail shopping make Peasant View apartment rentals a great choice - especially for those with children looking for quality school choices. Quiet streets and plenty of parks provide a laid back feel, however, the city center can easily be reached at less than 20 km away. The Pleasant View neighbourhood is filled with a diverse mix of residents and a variety of international restaurants. The average vacancy rate for apartment rentals is 1%.
Agincourt North
Population: 31,321
Crimes per 100,000 people: 3,955
Average 1 Bedroom Rental Rate: $1,780
A wonderful choice for families looking for affordable apartment rentals, this tree lined Scarborough community is a great pick. With public transit options, a Go Train station and easy access to the Don Valley Parkway, there are plenty of options for the 30 km commute to downtown Toronto. Home to one of the largest Asian populations in the city, the top languages spoken are English and Cantonese. The apartment rentals vacancy rate is around 1% and with its public libraries, recreation centres and public swimming pools is an attractive option for those with children.
Maple Leaf
Population: 21,526
Crimes per 100,000 people: 3,785
Average 1 Bedroom Rental Rate: $1,950
Located in southwest North York, it is bordered by Highway 401 to the north and Lawrence Ave to the south and generally has a vacancy rate of around 1%. The family friendly area is filled with plenty of green space and ravines, perfect for apartment renters that enjoy nature hikes and summer picnics. The famous Rustic Bakery, known for its amazing red velvet cupcakes is located here alongside numerous other restaurants and cafes. Four public transit bus lines run through the neighbourhood providing easy access Maple Leaf apartments to the 17 km commute to the downtown core and it is also situated just several kilometers away from Pearson International Airport.
Henry Farm
Population: 18,764
Crimes per 100,000 people: 4,248
Average 1 Bedroom Rental Rate: $1,900
Henry Farm has an active community association making it an attractive neighbourhood for families seeking safe and affordable apartment rentals. Recreational activities, community BBQ’s and picnics and a neighbourhood newsletter all are part of Henry Park’s tight-knit residential charm. Located in the north-central part of the city, close access to highway 401 and 404 make commuting easy. The public transit options are also plenty with eight bus routes serving the neighbourhood. Close proximity to plenty of shops including Cadillac Fairview Mall, restaurants and pubs offers a nice mix of laid back living and entertainment options.