Set on the shores of Lake Ontario, Toronto blends glass towers with green space in a way few cities can. One block might lead you to a waterfront trail and the next, to a skyline packed with high-rises and late-night energy. To help you find the perfect match, we’ve gathered the best places to live in Toronto based on:
- Rental availability
- Average rent relative to other neighbourhoods in the city
- Proximity to points of interest like work hubs, universities, downtown areas, shopping centres, or major parks
- Popularity
The best places to live in Toronto for renters are:
- Moss Park/Regent Park
- South Parkdale/King West
- Church-Yonge Corridor
- Stonegate-Queensway
- Willowdale East/Newtonbrook East
Moss Park/Regent Park
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Toronto: $1,991/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Moss Park/Regent Park: $1,874/month
Why Moss Park/Regent Park is good for renters
Moss Park/Regent Park sits just east of downtown Toronto, offering a central location with excellent transit access. Direct connections to the financial district, universities, and entertainment hubs make this neighbourhood ideal for renters looking for downtown convenience without living in the city’s busiest corridors. Modern apartment communities and historic townhomes are complemented by expanded green spaces and cultural venues. In addition, Cabbagetown is just a short trip away for even more dining, shopping, and nightlife options.
Keep in mind
The mix of older and newer apartment communities in Moss Park/Regent Park means that unit features and amenities can vary significantly from property to property. Utilize 3D tours and schedule in-person tours to ensure the property matches what you’re looking for.
South Parkdale/King West
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Toronto: $1,991/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in South Parkdale/King West: $2,017/month
Why South Parkdale/King West is good for renters
South Parkdale/King West has emerged as a distinctive neighbourhood that balances an outdoor lifestyle with city amenities and a strong sense of community. Waterfront parks and multi-use paths stretch along Lake Ontario, while nearby major entertainment venues host concerts, conventions, and large-scale events.
Despite this plentiful entertainment, the area retains a neighbourhood focus with local parks breaking up streets of classic apartment communities and historic homes. Streetcar routes make it easy for residents to explore the arts and food scene of independent shops, eateries, and galleries along Queen Street West, while also providing direct access to downtown.
Keep in mind
South Parkdale/King West’s location close to major entertainment venues, the University of Toronto, Toronto Metropolitan University, and the waterfront has skyrocketed its popularity, leading to rising rents and increased competition.
Church-Yonge Corridor
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Toronto: $1,991/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Church-Yonge Corridor: $2,104/month
Why Church-Yonge Corridor is good for renters
Renters flock to Church-Yonge Corridor because it’s only minutes from downtown Toronto and the University of Toronto via the subway and streetcar. This historic neighbourhood overflows with activity, where restaurants, cafés, grocery stores, and nightlife are packed into walkable blocks. Year-round events and festivals often shut down streets and bring everyone together. This strong community focus gives the neighbourhood a close-knit atmosphere even though it is in the middle of a big city.
Keep in mind
Church-Yonge Corridor is always busy, driven by its downtown location, variety of entertainment, and frequent events. It offers a lively, city-centre lifestyle, perfect for renters who love to be out and about.
Stonegate-Queensway
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Toronto: $1,991/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Stonegate-Queensway: $1,873/month
Why Stonegate-Queensway is good for renters
Stonegate-Queensway keeps life calm and quiet through its residential atmosphere. Shopping centres aren’t far, and renters can get to the heart of Toronto on the GO Train or streetcar. Single-family homes, townhomes, and low-rise apartment communities dot the landscape beside the trails and parks that run along Mimico Creek, Humber River, and Humber Bay. While primarily residential, the area still offers solid local restaurant and shopping options that residents regularly enjoy.
Keep in mind
Most residents in Stonegate-Queensway rely on cars, as daily errands and neighbourhood travel are easier by vehicle, even though downtown is accessible by public transit. Driving also makes getting to transit stations much faster and simpler.
Willowdale East/Newtonbrook East
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Toronto: $1,991/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Willowdale East/Newtonbrook East: $2,145/month
Why Willowdale East/Newtonbrook East is good for renters
Willowdale East/Newtonbrook East centres around the city core of high-rise apartments, shopping plazas, restaurants, and entertainment along Yonge Street. However, just one or two streets over, the neighbourhood shifts to peaceful streets lined with homes. Pocket parks and trails provide green spaces close to home, with large parks just a quick car ride away. Everything a renter needs is within the neighbourhood’s bounds, and it’s easy to get downtown on the Yonge-University subway line or to head east on the Sheppard line.
Keep in mind
Because it’s farther from the downtown core, commute times can be longer. Some areas are more car-oriented, so walkability depends on where you live within the neighbourhood.
Ready to Make the Move?
If Toronto has caught your eye, take the next step in your rental journey! Whether you’re looking for the hustle of downtown, the calm of leafy suburbs, or something in between, this city has spaces to suit many lifestyles. Use Apartments.com to search across neighbourhoods and narrow down your choices by price, amenities, and floor plan to find your perfect fit. From lively urban hubs to quieter community-oriented areas, your next home could be just a click away.
FAQs
Is Toronto a good place to live?
Yes, Toronto offers a dynamic mix of cultures, careers, and activities, making it appealing to renters who enjoy a wide range of experiences, abundant events, and extensive amenities throughout the city.
Is Toronto an expensive place to live?
Yes, rent prices in Toronto generally run above the national average of $1,783/month. This is particularly prominent in central neighbourhoods with strong transit access and lifestyle amenities.
What’s the average rent in Toronto?
The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Toronto is $1,991/month as of February 2026.
What salary do you need to live in Toronto?
According to current rental price data, a comfortable salary to cover housing expenses in Toronto would be roughly $79,632 per year before tax.
