Get happy: Here are the happiest neighbourhoods in Toronto

Buying a home involves considering many factors, but it’s not just about brick, mortar, and backyard. What else is key? Location, location, location! 

The neighbourhood you live in has a lot to do with whether or not you’ll be happy in your home. But how do you know if a neighbourhood will be right for you? 

A new Happiness Index recently released by Properly digs into the top five community characteristics that bring people the most joy—so you can tailor your home search to the neighbourhoods where you know you’ll be happy long-term. 

If happiness is a factor on your home buying list, check out the happiest neighbourhoods in the GTA—and see what features and amenities in a surrounding area will keep you smiling.

#1 Neighbourhood for Outdoor Space: Thistledown (Etobicoke)

It’s no surprise that the #1 priority for people looking to move to a new neighbourhood is access to nature. The great outdoors is proven to lower stress and boost your mood, and this Etobicoke neighbourhood has generous amounts for you to take in. 

Bordered by the Humber River, the historic neighbourhood of Thistledown is home to Etobicoke’s oldest park (Village Green Park, FYI) and a near-endless number of picturesque hiking and biking trails.

#1 Neighbourhood for Food & Drink: Milliken Mills West (Markham)

There’s no denying it: food makes us happy—at least, that’s what 45% of people felt when they ranked Food & Drink as a top priority in their neighbourhood. 

So, where’s the best place to eat in the GTA? The Happiness Index puts Milliken Mills West in the #1 spot. No matter what you’re craving, you’ll be satisfied by the delicious fare this neighbourhood has to offer (and your tastebuds will thank you!).

#1 Neighbourhood for Childcare/Schools: Bickford Park (Toronto)

Kids are the future! That’s what more than one-in-five GTA residents suggested by ranking proximity to childcare and schools as a neighbourhood must-have. 

The Index suggests Bickford Park is the place to be for city kids: it boasts community centres and playgrounds, as well as daycares, schools, and alternative education programs.

#1 Neighbourhood for Recreation: Trinity Bellwoods (Toronto)

Do recreational activities (like open sports or public art classes) boost your mood? Wellness researchers agree! Studies show that recreational activities are one of the best ways to avoid boredom and increase happiness.

Trinity Bellwoods is the mood boost you need: in addition to its famous park, it offers a feel-good atmosphere chock-full of locally-owned shops, cultural centres, and a hip arts scene. 

#1 Neighbourhood for Community: Humber Summit (North York)

We’re social creatures, which is why community connection (ideally the in-real-life kind) has the power to significantly raise our spirits. It’s science! So naturally, being able to bond with their neighbours is a top priority for many people when they move.

What started as a pioneer settlement has since developed into a diverse yet incredibly close-knit modern community. Humber Summit’s residents come from countless ethnic and religious backgrounds, most with their own local cultural centre and place of worship.

Did the thought of living in any of those neighbourhoods have you grinning from ear to ear? Put happiness at the top of your home-buying must-haves and check out some of the top listings in each area here. 

Happy house hunting!