Bedford-Park-Nortown, Toronto

Did you know that Bedford Park Norton is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in uptown Toronto? It is popularly known as a family-oriented neighbourhood with quiet streets, huge trees, excellent schools and parks. The neighbourhood is within close proximity to Highway 401 and the Lawrence subway station. In fact, there are a number of main roads that run through this area, including Yonge Street, Wilson Avenue, Avenue Road and Bathurst Street. A mix of detached and semi-detached homes characterises the area.

Other neighbourhoods, like Lawrence Park, Ledbury Park, and Teddington Park, encircle Bedford Park Norton and add to the area's rich infrastructure with their own character and facilities. The houses here are large and either recently built or older and well-maintained. Most of this area's homes were built between 1890 and 1940. However, in recent decades, extensive renovations, from complete interior overhauls to new builds and custom-designed homes, have been a common practice. Thus accommodating the needs and lifestyles of modern family living.

Also, hidden gems like the Alexander Muir Memorial Gardens and the foliage are stunning destinations that one must visit in this neighbourhood. These features of Bedford Park Norton attract young professionals and their families to the neighbourhood. Overall, this place has so much character and history, making it a unique and desirable place to live.

Bedford Park Norton boasts a remarkable Livability Score of 86/100, which is considered exceptional. This score reflects the area's top-tier amenities, safety, excellent schools, and overall quality of life. With easy access to Toronto’s central core via Yonge Street and the Lawrence subway station, residents enjoy both quiet residential areas and connectivity, ensuring a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle​. Here are some other metrics of the locality -

Bedford Park is an incredibly safe neighbourhood. Crime rates here are 72% lower than the national average, and violent crimes are 71% lower. You have a 1 in 86 chance of becoming a victim of crime, which is much better than most places. In fact, Bedford Park is safer than 88% of the cities in Ontario. Plus, crime in Toronto has decreased by 15% year over year, making it an even more secure place to live.

Bedford Park is a prosperous community. The median household income here is 131% higher than the national average, reflecting the area's affluence. Additionally, the unemployment rate is 42% lower than the national average, indicating strong job opportunities and economic stability. This developing economic environment contributes to an engaged local culture, making Bedford Park a great place to live and work.

Bedford Park is a lively and diverse neighbourhood. Its population density is 66% higher than the rest of Toronto, and the median age is slightly higher by 6%. The community includes a significant Chinese population of 9.96%, along with 3.04% South Asian and 2.10% Korean residents. This mix of cultures contributes to Bedford Park's welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

Bedford Park is situated in a prime location in Toronto, offering easy access to a variety of neighbouring communities. The area is well-connected, with main roads such as Yonge Street, Avenue Road, and Lawrence Avenue facilitating smooth travel between different parts of the city. This makes Bedford Park an ideal spot for those who enjoy the convenience of nearby amenities and the charm of surrounding neighbourhoods. Here are some of the neighbourhoods located nearby:

Schools

Bedford Park Norton is home to some of the best schools in Ontario. The schools here are famous for their top-notch education and excellent extracurricular programmes. Whether you have young children or teens, you'll find exceptional learning environments right in the neighbourhood. Below, we have named some of them:

• John Wanless Junior Public School
• Blessed Sacrament Catholic School
• Bedford Park Public School
• Havergal College
• Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute

Restaurants

The Bedford Park dining scene is sure to please foodies. You'll find the perfect spot nearby, whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a fine dining experience. Some popular dining options include

• Safari Bar and Grill
• The Burger's Priest
• Auberge du Pommier
• Miller Tavern
• Stack Restaurant

Shopping Malls

For shopping enthusiasts, Bedford Park offers easy access to some of Toronto's best shopping malls. Whether you're looking for high-end fashion, unique boutiques, or everyday essentials, you'll find it all just a short drive away. Some nearby shopping destinations include

• Yorkdale Shopping Centre
• Lawrence Plaza
• Bayview Village Shopping Centre
• Fairview Mall
• CF Shops at Don Mills

Hospitals

Living in Bedford Park means you're never far from top-notch healthcare. The neighbourhood is close to several leading hospitals and medical centres, ensuring you and your family can access quality healthcare services whenever needed. Peace of mind and excellent care are always within reach. Your health is well taken care of with these excellent hospitals nearby:

• Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
• North York General Hospital
• Mount Sinai Hospital
• St. Michael's Hospital
• Women's College Hospital

Bedford Park Norton, Toronto, is full of charming spots offering relaxation and excitement. Here are some top attractions you shouldn't miss:

1. Alexander Muir Memorial Gardens

This hidden gem is perfect for a peaceful walk or even a family picnic. Fully covered with beautiful and colourful flowers, it's a lovely place to unwind and enjoy nature. The gardens also offer stunning fall foliage, making it a great spot for seasonal photos.

2. Wanless Park

Wanless Park is a favourite among locals for its wide-open spaces and excellent recreational facilities. Whether you want to play tennis, enjoy the playground with your kids, or just relax on the green lawns, this park has something for everyone. Additionally, during summer, it even hosts the Bedford Park Movie Night, a community event where you can watch movies under the stars.

3. The Miller Tavern

If you’re a food lover, you can’t miss The Miller Tavern. This historic restaurant offers a perfect atmosphere and a delicious menu featuring both contemporary and traditional dishes. It's the perfect place to enjoy a meal with family or friends after exploring the neighbourhood.

4. Toronto Public Library – Locke Branch

For a quieter but equally enjoyable experience, visit the Locke Branch of the Toronto Public Library. It's a great spot to find a good book, attend community events, or simply enjoy a peaceful reading session in a charming, historic setting.

Bedford Park Norton is full of activities that cater to all interests and ages. Here are some fun and engaging things you can do in the neighbourhood:

Enjoy a Day at the Park

One can find plenty of parks and green spaces in this neighbourhood. Head over to Wanless Park for a day filled with outdoor fun. You can play tennis, have a picnic, or let your kids run wild in the playground. The quiet and relaxing spaces are perfect for reading a book or simply sitting in the sun.

Explore Local Cafes

You can not miss walking on Yonge Street and exploring the charming local cafes. Places like Aroma Espresso Bar and Second Cup offer great spots to enjoy a cup of coffee, catch up with friends, or get some work done. The warm atmosphere and delicious treats make it a delightful way to spend your morning or afternoon.

Join a Fitness Class

Stay active by joining a fitness class at one of the local gyms like F45 Training or GoodLife Fitness. Whether you’re into yoga, high-intensity workouts, or group classes, there’s something for everyone. It’s a great way to stay healthy and meet new people in the community.

Attend Community Events

Get involved in the community by attending local events and gatherings. Visitors can attend a movie night in the park, participate in seasonal festivals, or even attend farmer’s markets. There’s always something happening in this energetic neighbourhood. These events are perfect for meeting new people, discovering local talents, and enjoying the community spirit.

Living in Bedford Park Norton means you're well-connected to various key spots in Toronto. About 15% of the residents use public transportation, and 33% drive to work daily in their private vehicles. Here are some popular landmarks and their driving distances from Bedford Park Norton:

• Yorkdale Shopping Centre: 10 minutes
• Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre: 8 minutes
• Toronto Downtown Core: 20 minutes
• Lawrence Subway Station: 3 minutes
• Highway 401: 5 minutes

Bedford Park Norton has some great markets that cater to a variety of needs. Here are a few popular ones and what they are famous for:

Lawrence Farmers Market

Lawrence Farmers Market is well-known for its fresh produce and local goods. It's a fantastic place to find fresh fruits, vegetables, homemade jams, and artisanal cheeses. This market is a favourite among locals for its high-quality, locally sourced products.

Pusateri’s Fine Foods

Pusateri’s Fine Foods is famous for its groceries and high-end food items. You can find a wide range of speciality products here, including imported cheeses, fine chocolates, and premium meats. It's the go-to place for those looking to indulge in luxury food shopping.

Metro

Metro is a popular grocery store chain that offers a broad selection of everyday essentials. It's particularly famous for its fresh bakery items, extensive deli section, and a wide variety of international foods. This market is perfect for regular grocery shopping with a bit of everything.

Yorkdale Shopping Centre

While primarily known as a shopping mall, Yorkdale Shopping Centre also has a variety of speciality food shops and markets. It's a great place to find gourmet food items unique culinary products, and enjoy a bit of shopping and dining under one roof.

Bedford Park Norton is an ideal residential neighbourhood where people of all nationalities and lifestyles live harmoniously. The locality is full of young blood, with a median age of only 41.5 years. Here are some of the key demographics of the area -

Bedford Park Norton is a fantastic place for family fun with kids and pets. Here are some great activities and spots you should check out:

1. Wanless Park

Wanless Park is a local favourite. It offers a large playground, splash pad, and plenty of green space for kids to run around and enjoy. There are also tennis courts and picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for family outings and playdates.

2. High Park

Just a short drive away, High Park is a massive relaxing area with something for everyone. Kids will love the zoo, playgrounds, and the chance to spot various wildlife along the path. There are also designated off-leash areas for dogs, so your furry friends can enjoy the park, too​​. It's a great spot for fun and activities.

3. Toronto Islands

Take a short ferry ride to the Toronto Islands for a day of exploration and fun. The islands have kid-friendly beaches, picnic spots, and bike rentals. It’s a fantastic place for a family adventure. Your dogs are also welcome on the ferry and the islands, making it a perfect day trip for everyone​.

The cost of living index compares how expensive it is to live in a particular area against a national average, which is set at 100. If an area has a cost of living index of 90, it means living there is 10% cheaper than the national average. Conversely, a cost of living index of 110 means it's 10% more expensive. This index is broken down into several categories: goods and services (33%), groceries (13%), health care (5%), housing (30%), transportation (9%), and utilities (10%). If specific data for a city isn't available, estimates from nearby cities are used to provide an accurate picture. Here are a few metrics associated with cost in the locality, assuming the national average is 100.

Most properties in Bedford Park Norton are spacious and well-maintained, featuring a mix of older homes and modern constructions. This neighbourhood is highly desirable due to its prime location and charming historic architecture. The average price for a home in Bedford Park Norton is around $2 million. Depending on the property, prices can range from $2.71 million to $10.72 million. For those looking to rent, monthly costs typically fall between $4k and $12k. This area remains a hot spot for buyers and renters alike due to its excellent amenities and vibrant community​.