Do you want to know one of the greatest things about Toronto? It’s how the city appeals to so many people of all ages. There are so many things to do, see and enjoy whether you’re eight years old or 80. For older adults, it’s one of the safest places to be, with some of the best world-class amenities you can find anywhere.
This matters, because Toronto is in a demographic shift where the population of older residents is growing. Approximately 15% of the population is 65 or older. Fortunately, the city is committed to accommodating and welcoming residents in their later years, with the Toronto Senior Strategy currently underway.
Are you retired but determined to remain active? Check out some of Our Favourite Toronto Health Clubs for Active Retirees.
What are some of the best neighbourhoods in the West End for Active Retirees? Here are some of our favourites:
Bloor West Village
You may have heard that Bloor West Village is one of the most family-friendly neighbourhoods in Toronto, but it is also a breathtaking place to be as an active senior. Why?
It is incredibly walkable, even for Toronto. Within eight blocks, you’ll find hundreds of unique shops, cafes and restaurants. Another thing to keep an eye out for is the abundance of fruit stands everywhere. Imagine taking an early morning stroll while chatting with the friendly vendors and browsing a selection of fresh fruit and produce.
Bloor West Village is a delight for your senses as there is plenty of green space and mature trees that line the streets.
You’ll also find some excellent assisted living and retirement options in the area. Residential homes consist primarily of two-storey houses with large front porches where you can sit with a coffee and watch the world go by.
Services include community support programs like meals on wheels and exercise classes to help you stay active and healthy.
Want to know more about the neighbourhood? Here are some other articles you’re sure to find interesting:
- Our Ultimate Bloor West Village Real Estate Guide
- 5 Bloor West Shops To Help You Make a Gourmet Meal
- Why Bloor West Village Tops our list of Best Neighbourhoods for Foodies
Swansea
According to Area Vibes, Swansea is exceptionally safe, no matter what time of day or night you’re out and about. The neighbourhood boundary consists of Lake Ontario, the Humber River and Grenadier Pond. And its hilly terrain and gorgeous mature trees make this one of the most scenic places in the city!
Swansea has excellent amenities for older adults, including the Town Hall and Community Centre, where you can take various Kung Fu, dance, fitness and other life skill classes. It’s also a great way to meet new friends and socialize.
You’ll also find a library with a vast inter-library loan system where you can find almost any book imaginable. If you’re feeling particularly active, head on over to Rennie Park with its tennis courts, skating rink and wading pool.
If you live in Swansea, you’ll also have easy access to all of the amenities in Bloor West Village and High Park.
Does Swansea sound like the perfect neighbourhood for you? You can find out more details in our community guide right here.
High Park
High Park is named after the largest public park in Toronto and is one of the most desirable areas in the city. It is also the perfect place for active retirees who love the great outdoors. You can spend hours exploring the many hiking trails and gardens, and you may forget that you’re in Canada’s most populated city.
You’ll want to check out the cherry blossoms that attract thousands of visitors to the park every spring. It’s one of the most breathtaking sights you will ever see.
High Park isn’t just about the beautiful scenery and the great outdoors. You’ll also find many places to shop and dine, all within walking distance.
If that isn’t enough, you can always pop over to the nearby Bloor West Village for more shopping opportunities.
Want to know more about this lovely neighbourhood? Here are some of our posts dedicated to the area:
- The High Park Neighbourhood Guide
- 5 Things do Do in Spring in High Park
- Cherry Blossom Season in High Park
The Junction
Sometimes called “Toronto’s Coolest Neighbourhood,” The Junction is mostly home to a mix of trendy urban professionals and young families. However, it can also be a fantastic place for active retirees who remain young at heart.
It gets its name because it is the former site of the Canadian Pacific railway where the Ontario, Toronto, Grey & Bruce and Credit Valley lines met. The streets lined with century-old houses will take you back in time, but you’re surrounded by modern amenities, a vibrant art scene and easy access to transit. You’ll find lots of unique restaurants, pizza shops and bars. And rumour has it that it’s one of the best places in the city to sit down and enjoy a craft beer.
If you’re up for some exercise, the beautiful hiking trails of High Park are about a 20-minute walk away.
Does The Junction sound like it’s right up your alley? You can find out a lot more in our community guide right here.
Roncevalles
Roncevalles is another neighbourhood for the young and the young at heart. It’s the perfect mix of trendy and traditional, making it a highly desirable area for people of all ages. Roncesvalles is also considered one of the most bike-friendly areas in Toronto. Its abundance of dedicated bicycle lanes lets you pedal in safety as you explore the cafes, parks and independent businesses that make up the neighbourhood.
The Sorauren Farmer’s Market runs every Monday from 3 to 7, allowing you to enjoy some live music while you peruse an extensive selection of fresh foods and other products from local vendors.
Old Mill
Do you want a quieter area with larger than average homes and plenty of green space? Look no further than the Old Mill, which is the perfect neighbourhood for nature lovers. You can fish along the shores of the Humber River or enjoy a scenic hike on the Old Mill Trail.
While it may seem quiet and out of the way for a city like Toronto, you’re never far away from the amenities you love. Public transit is just steps away, and all of the restaurants, shops and boutiques of Bloor West Village are within a 10-minute walk.
Does the thought of a peaceful neighbourhood in the heart of Toronto appeal to you? Find out more about the Old Mill in our community guide right here.
Baby Point
Baby Point is a quiet, affluent neighbourhood near Jane and Bloor Streets. Located right on the shore of the Humber River, it is an exceptional place for older residents with the means to live there. You’ll find parks, large mature oak trees, beautiful scenery and a host of specialty shops.
There are many social events to fill up your calendar, including tennis games, lawn bowling and yoga classes.
The homes in Baby Point consist of many English Manor, Georgian and Tudor houses built in the 1920s and 1930s and have been beautifully maintained.
Want to know more about the beautiful Baby Point neighbourhood? You can read all the details in our community guide right here.
Do you have questions about the Toronto Real Estate Market? Why not schedule a free chat with no obligation? You can reach out to us here.
