Moving to Etobicoke, Toronto: The Ultimate 2025 Guide to Housing, School, Jobs, Lifestyle & More

Welcome to Etobicoke: Toronto’s West-End Gem

Credit: iStock

Etobicoke is a vibrant and diverse district on the west side of Toronto that stands out for its unique mix of urban convenience and natural beauty. What sets Etobicoke apart is its ability to offer residents access to downtown Toronto in just minutes while also providing quiet, residential neighborhoods filled with parks, trails, and green spaces. Unlike other districts, Etobicoke boasts a rare lakeside lifestyle along Humber Bay, making it perfect for those who love waterfront views and outdoor activities.

The area is home to about 365,000 people, and its population includes a rich mix of cultures, age groups, and professions. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know—weather, neighborhoods, schools, jobs, and more—to help you decide if Etobicoke is the right place for your next move.

Table of Contents

• • Weather and Climate in Etobicoke
  • Discovering Etobicoke’s Neighborhoods
  • Schools and Learning Options
  • Transportation and Commuting
  • Health Services and Safety
  • Parks, Recreation, and Shopping
  • Cost of Living in Etobicoke
  • Housing Market Overview
  • Jobs and Work Opportunities
  • The Advantages and Challenges of Living in Etobicoke
  • Interesting Facts About Etobicoke
  • FAQs About Moving to Etobicoke

Weather and Climate in Etobicoke

Credit: Reddit (Cliff Lumsdon in Etobicoke)

Etobicoke experiences four distinct seasons, just like the rest of Toronto. Winters can be cold, with average temperatures ranging from -6°C to -1°C between December and February, along with snowfall that creates a classic Canadian winter scene. Spring and fall are mild and pleasant, offering comfortable weather for outdoor activities, with temperatures typically between 10°C and 18°C.

Summers are warm and humid, with average highs of 25°C to 28°C, making it a great time to enjoy the many parks and waterfront areas. Rain falls throughout the year, with slightly heavier rainfall in spring and fall. These weather patterns make Etobicoke an attractive place for people who enjoy experiencing all four seasons.

Discovering Etobicoke’s Neighborhoods

Credit: Long Branch Neighborhood Guide

Etobicoke is home to many unique neighborhoods, each with its own special features and style of living. Mimico and Humber Bay Shores are famous for their modern high-rise condos, stunning lakefront views, and easy access to downtown Toronto, making them favorites for professionals and couples who love city living with a scenic backdrop. These areas also have vibrant waterfront trails and parks that attract joggers and cyclists year-round.

The Kingsway and Baby Point offer a very different vibe, with wide, tree-lined streets and grand historic homes that create a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere. These neighborhoods are well known for their charming village feel, boutique shops, and close-knit community events. Long Branch and Alderwood, located near the lakeshore, provide more affordable housing options, including bungalows and townhouses, which are popular with first-time homebuyers and young families. Markland Wood is admired for its quiet, established community, golf courses, and green spaces, attracting retirees and those seeking a relaxed lifestyle.

Other notable areas include Islington Village, which is recognized for its artistic heritage with the famous Village of Murals along Dundas Street, and New Toronto, an up-and-coming spot that blends industrial history with new residential developments. Rexdale, in northern Etobicoke, is known for its cultural diversity and has seen growing investment in community centers and housing. Each neighborhood in Etobicoke brings its own story, creating a patchwork of lifestyles that appeals to a wide range of residents.

Schools and Learning Options

Credit: Etobicoke School of the Arts

Etobicoke is known for having many excellent schools that families rely on and value. Josyf Cardinal Slipyj Separate School, for example, is highly rated at 9/10 by the Fraser Institute, offering strong academics and a supportive environment. Father Serra Separate School and Lambton Kingsway Junior Middle School also earn high marks at 8.7/10, and are praised for their dedicated teachers and well-rounded programs. Etobicoke School of the Arts  stands out as a specialty high school focusing on visual and performing arts, with a rating of 8.6/10, attracting talented students from across the city.

Many schools in Etobicoke provide special programs such as French immersion, gifted student support, and programs for students with different learning needs. Additionally, private and Catholic schools offer more options for families seeking faith-based or alternative education models. With strong community involvement and a commitment to student success, Etobicoke’s school system is one of the area’s key attractions for families looking to settle down.

Transportation and Commuting

Credit: VIA Rail Toronto Maintenance Centre in Etobicoke, Canada.

Etobicoke makes commuting simple with many public transit options. The Bloor-Danforth subway line has stations at Kipling and Dundas West. GO Transit stations are found at Kipling, Mimico, Long Branch, and Etobicoke North. Bus routes cover the area well and connect to Mississauga too. For drivers, major highways offer direct routes to other parts of Toronto and beyond. A typical commute to downtown takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Health Services and Safety

Credit: William Osler Health System

Residents in Etobicoke have access to top health services, including Etobicoke General Hospital and Humber River Hospital. Many family clinics and walk-in centers are also available throughout the area. While some neighborhoods in Etobicoke enjoy lower crime rates than downtown Toronto, recent data highlights challenges in certain zones. For instance, Etobicoke City Centre reported 549 crimes in 2022, marking a 46.8% increase from the previous year. The total crime rate per 1,000 residents was around 39.73. This is a significant given the population of 25,495.

Etobicoke City Centre ranked 147th out of 158 Toronto neighborhoods for safety. It highlights that although Etobicoke is welcoming overall, some neighbourhoods need stronger focus from police and community leaders.

Parks, Recreation, and Shopping

Credits: Humber Bay Park

Etobicoke is full of places to enjoy nature and shop. Humber Bay Park has beautiful trails along the water, while Centennial Park is known for its large green spaces, sports facilities, and greenhouse.
James Gardens and Colonel Samuel Smith Park provide more places for walking, biking, and picnics.

For shopping, residents often visit Sherway Gardens, Cloverdale Mall, Woodbine Centre, and Kipling Queensway Mall, which offer a mix of local stores and big-name brands.

Cost of Living in Etobicoke

Etobicoke offers a more affordable cost of living compared to other parts of Toronto. As of early 2024, a detached home costs about $1.32 million on average. A condo is priced at around $670,000. For renters, a two-bedroom apartment usually costs about $2,550 per month. Other living expenses, like groceries and utilities, are similar to the rest of Toronto. Public transportation is a popular choice, and a monthly TTC pass costs about $156.

In Etobicoke West Mall specifically, the cost of living is about 9% lower than the Toronto average
and 1% higher than the national average. Housing prices in this area are 18% lower than the national average, making it an appealing option for budget-conscious movers.

It is also useful to note that Ontario’s general sales tax is around 33% higher than the national average, while the provincial income tax is 40% lower than the national average, offering some financial balance.

Credit: Hikersbay

Here’s a helpful index showing a quick comparison of cost indices:

Credit: AreaVibes

Housing Market Overview

The housing market in Etobicoke presents a dynamic landscape with many growth opportunities for both buyers and investors. Humber Bay and Mimico keep growing with new condo towers, while The Kingsway and Markland Wood remain sought-after for their spacious lots and detached homes. Townhouses and mid-sized homes in Alderwood and Long Branch add variety to the housing mix, appealing to a wide range of budgets and preferences.

The median house price in Etobicoke is around $1,045,000, showing a modest 2.8% year-over-year increase. Apartments and condos are also seeing steady growth, with the median price now approximately $675,000, up about 1.5% from the previous year. Detached homes typically sell for around $1,208,000, semi-detached homes for about $1,327,000, townhouses near $1,183,000, and condos averaging $647,000. This range of property types makes Etobicoke a flexible market for all kinds of buyers.

Market conditions are stable, but there is some variation in demand due to changing economic conditions and buyer preferences. Experts forecast moderate growth ahead, thanks to steady population increases and new infrastructure projects. With ongoing residential developments and community improvements, Etobicoke’s housing market continues to look promising for long-term investment.

Jobs and Work Opportunities

Credit: Scotiabank

The job market in Etobicoke is diverse and continues to show steady growth across multiple sectors. Large companies such as Rogers Communications, Scotiabank, and CIBC have major offices here.

These companies offer many jobs in finance, customer service, technology, and office administration. The industrial areas in Etobicoke are strong and reliable, with many jobs in manufacturing, transportation, and storage facilities. These sectors play a big part in keeping Toronto’s economy moving.

Small businesses also thrive here. Local stores, restaurants, and service providers give people a variety of jobs close to home. In recent years, coworking spaces and shared office hubs have become popular. These spaces are great for freelancers, remote workers, and new business owners who want flexible work environments. They also help people connect and work together as a community. Etobicoke’s real estate and construction industries are also growing fast. The development of new housing and buildings is driving more work opportunities. This wide mix of jobs makes Etobicoke a smart place for people in many careers.

The Advantages and Challenges of Living in Etobicoke

Credit: The Kingsway

Etobicoke stands out because it combines affordability, convenience, and a strong sense of community, making it a favorite for many who want to live in Toronto. One of the main reasons people choose to move here is the more affordable housing prices. Compared to downtown Toronto, homes and apartments in Etobicoke provide more space and better value for money, allowing families and individuals to stretch their budgets further. The district is also very well connected by major highways, including the Gardiner Expressway, QEW, Highway 427, and Highway 401, which makes commuting and travelling around the Greater Toronto Area smooth and efficient.

Another highlight is Etobicoke’s wealth of parks, sports fields, and playgrounds, which offer plenty of space for families and nature lovers to enjoy outdoor activities. The Humber Bay waterfront
and many local green spaces create a calm and beautiful environment for residents. What truly sets Etobicoke apart is its multicultural atmosphere. Walking through its neighborhoods, you will discover restaurants, grocery stores, and festivals that represent cultures from all over the world, making every corner feel rich with diversity and welcoming to newcomers.

Of course, there are a few challenges to note. Rush-hour traffic can be heavy, especially on major roads, and some areas are still under development as new housing and infrastructure projects continue. Even so, most residents agree that the many positives far outweigh these minor downsides, and Etobicoke continues to grow as a top choice for people moving to Toronto.

Interesting Facts About Etobicoke

• The name Etobicoke comes from the Ojibwe word meaning “place where alder trees grow,”. It reflects the area’s natural roots and Indigenous history.
• One of Etobicoke’s most famous landmarks is the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir. This is a stunning Hindu temple constructed from more than 24,000 hand-carved pieces of marble and stone.
• The oldest house in Etobicoke was built in the early 1800s. It still stands proudly near the Humber River, offering a glimpse into the area’s early settler history.
• The Toronto Maple Leafs practice at the Mastercard Centre in Etobicoke, making it a hub for hockey fans and sports enthusiasts.
• Actor Keanu Reeves, known around the world, once attended Etobicoke School of the Arts, adding a touch of celebrity history to the district.

FAQs About Moving to Etobicoke

🔍 Is Etobicoke a safe place to live?
Yes, it has lower crime rates than many parts of Toronto.

🎓 What are the best schools?
Top-rated schools include Josyf Cardinal Slipyj, Father Serra, and Etobicoke School of the Arts.

🚇 How is public transit?
Subways, GO trains, and buses make commuting easy.

🏥 What health services are available?
Major hospitals and clinics are located across the area.

🅿️ Do I need a parking permit for moving?
Yes, especially for condo moves. You can apply through the City of Toronto.

💰 What is the average household income?
It ranges by region within Etobicoke. Approximately $97,439 in Etobicoke South, around $125,704 in Etobicoke Central, and roughly $73,508 in Etobicoke North.

Ready to Move to Etobicoke?

Etobicoke is an excellent choice for everyone. People who is seeking affordable homes, good schools, great transportation links, and a strong sense of community. All of these within easy reach of downtown Toronto. Etobicoke offers a welcoming environment with a lot to love. Even if you’re a family looking for more space, or a retiree planning your next chapter,

Takeoff Moving Company is your trusted relocation partner. From within The Greater Toronto Area, anywhere in Canada, or international arrivals, we offer tailored solutions from packing to storage to moving, all to meet every budget and timeline. Call us at (647) 250-0636, or email info@takeoff-moving.com to get started. Let Takeoff Moving help make your relocation to Etobicoke simple, safe, and well-organized from beginning to end.

• • 📦 Local and long-distance moves
  • 🌐 International relocation support
  • 🛠️ Packing, unpacking, and storage options
  • 📍 Trusted by families, students, and professionals

Let’s Start Your Move!!!