The Vibe

Upscale, yet small town feel that offers an outstanding village shopping experience. Cozy streets with mature trees give a sense of established community in a homey neighbourhood with loads of civic and “shop local” pride.

The Story

Almost the entire area of Bloor West Village was the property of Lieutenant Colonel William Smith Durie in 1850. The massive estate was home to Durie, the first commanding officer of the Queens Own Rifles. The main street was a dirt road aptly named Durie Street, which was paved in 1909 when it became part of the City of Toronto. Most homes in the area are detached and semi-detached houses built between 1915 and 1925.

The businesses drawn to the area were mostly owned by immigrants of Eastern European background who also made up most of the population. These residents eventually helped found the Bloor West Village Business Improvement Area (BIA), Canada’s first association of its kind. It’s the most successful BIA in Canada and helped establish what’s now one of Toronto's most popular shopping districts and neighbourhoods.

The BIA was built to help preserve the integrity of the original neighbourhood and fight suburban development that was ruining the outer limits of the city. Speaking to the true sense of community, everyone who lives here has an amazing sense of pride about giving back to the community by patronizing local businesses.

This is the reason Bloor West Village is considered one of the best shopping districts in all of Toronto, not only for residents, but people from further out. Residents of Bloor West Village real estate hold onto their distinct commitment to local businesses like a badge of honour giving a whole new meaning to the term “shop local”.

You won’t find high-rise buildings along this small strip of Bloor West, where wider side streets, larger front yards, and mature trees keep it feeling small town right down to the shady porches. Despite homes being roughly the same style and size, they avoid that cookie cutter feel you see in many Toronto areas, keeping Bloor West Village streets interesting – we know you’re going to love it!

The Convenience

Sitting right on the Bloor-Danforth subway line, it’s easy to get around all parts of the city when you’re living in Bloor West Village. You’re also only steps away from picturesque High Park, with plenty of trails, green space, and even a zoo to spend your free time. The high level of livability is one of the defining features of Bloor West Village real estate with over 400 shops, restaurants and professional services at your doorstep. You can also find everything you would ever want to eat from bakeries and delicatessens to specialty grocers and restaurants. 

The Residents

Bloor West Village real estate is an exciting mix of both older and the newer generations. There are families who have lived here for generations, combined with young couples and first-time home buyers who quickly learn what it means to call this neighbourhood home.

The Best Part

The fact that the original residents of the area still figure prominently in hosting the largest Ukrainian Festival in Canada every year. The way the BIA has kept this a low rise, no mall or big box store area yet whether you’re an in-vogue shopper, or have a keen eye for bargains, a stroll through Bloor West Village is sure to satisfy the shopaholic inside of you. It’s a family-centric area but still appeals to old and young couples looking for one of kind shops and restaurants to enjoy keeping the locally owned and operated businesses thriving.