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Living in Harbourfront: A Neighbourhood Guide

Is Harbourfront a Good Neighbourhood

Toronto’s Harbourfront is a charming haven that could be your perfect home. Check out our complete neighbourhood guide, and to discover the subtleties of living in the area and unlock the secrets to a thrilling yet safe urban experience. 

From breathtaking views of Lake Ontario to various cultural experiences, fun recreational activities, and a strong sense of community, this neighbourhood seems to have it all! Join us on a journey where we unravel the true spirit of life in Harbourfront.

Is Harbourfront a good neighbourhood?

Is Harbourfront a good neighbourhood

Harbourfront is a good Toronto neighbourhood. It boasts stunning views of Lake Ontario, ample green spaces, and various attractions, including art galleries, festivals, local theatres, waterfront eateries, and a boardwalk, making it a great place to live in.

Harbourfront’s history

Harbourfront’s history

In the early 1800s, Toronto’s Harbourfront emerged from landfill, evolving into an intricate industrial landscape. It used to feature shipping facilities, warehouses, railway tracks, grain silos, and factories along the shoreline. 

A shift began in 1972 when the Harbourfront Corporation started to revitalise the waterfront. Since then, Harbourfront has evolved into a cool space, blending high-end residential, commercial, and retail components within its historic walls. 

Things to know about Harbourfront

Transportation

Transportation

Navigating the neighbourhood is a breeze, and in fact, 18.2% of Harbourfront residents take public transportation. To guide you on the best ways to get around the area, check out this table:

Transportation OptionsInstructions
Streetcar Links510 Spadina and 509 Harbourfront streetcars connect to Union Station. They travel underground and then surface on Queens Quay west in a separate right-of-way.
Destinations include the CNE grounds, Spadina, or Bathurst, depending on the day and other factors.
Gardiner Expressway Off-RampsAccessible from Spadina Avenue, Yonge/Bay, and Jarvis Street off-ramps.
Toronto Island FerryOperates from the City/Bay Street Docks at the foot of Bay Street (all ferries except Trillium) and the Yonge Street slip (Trillium).

Cost of living

Cost of living

Harbourfront’s cost of living is10% more expensive than Toronto but 1% lower than Ontario. The median rent is $3,100, a +61% boost compared to the national average, but for a home, the median price is $843,043 – 27% higher than the national average.

When it comes to the weekly grocery expenses in Harbourfront, a single person might sway between $55 to $110. However, let’s say you’ve got a family of four, then you should plan for a grocery bill in the range of $165 to $220 per week. 

Healthcare

Healthcare

Healthcare in Harbourfront is well-supported, and the area’s close to various healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialised medical centres. Notable hospitals include Toronto Western Hospital and Mount Sinai Hospital.

Its healthcare infrastructure is further complemented by pharmacies like Pharmasave and Sone’s Pharmacy, dental clinics, and other essential services. These ensure that residents can easily access medication, routine check-ups, and emergency care.

Population

Population

Harbourfront has a population of 16,211 and a median age of 36.4 years. Notably, the population density in the area is remarkably high, standing at 437% higher than the average in Toronto, reflecting the neighbourhood’s popularity and allure.

Below is a table showcasing Harbourfront’s non-majority ethnic population:

Minority PopulationPercent
South Asian16.8%
Chinese15.3%
Black3.8%
Arab2.7%
West Asian2.2%

Education

Education

Only 2.0% of Harbourfront residents lack a certificate, diploma, or degree. On the other hand, the vast majority, 98.0%, have successfully completed high school, emphasising the importance placed on foundational education.

Furthermore, Harbourfront boasts an impressive 70.3% of residents who have earned a bachelor’s degree. The neighbourhood thrives on a culture of continuous learning, with an additional 28.6% of individuals holding qualifications beyond a bachelor’s degree. 

Livelihood

Livelihood

In Harbourfront, the median household income stands impressively at $114,462, surpassing the national average by 39%. The economic landscape showcases a diverse range of income brackets, with 7.0% of residents earning $20,000 or less.

Additionally, the unemployment rate in Harbourfront is lower than the national average, registering at 4.6%, reflecting a resilient and thriving local job market. Speaking of the job market, below is a breakdown of the job sectors in Harbourfront:

Job SectorPercent
Other34.9%
Financial and Insurance17%
Education, Health, and Social Services 10.4%
Wholesale and Retail Services7.2%
Public Administration3.6%
Manufacturing2.6%
Transportation, Utilities, and Warehousing2.1%
Construction1.3%

Weather

Weather

Embracing all four seasons, Harbourfront residents can enjoy the warmth of summer. It’s typically characterised by pleasant temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). 

Winters bring temperatures typically hovering around -1 to -10 degrees Celsius (30 to 14 degrees Fahrenheit). Spring and fall showcase mild and transitional climates, offering between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius (50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit). 

Crime rates

Crime rates

Harbourfront Toronto boasts a commendable safety record, with crime rates that stand at 41% lower than the national average. Plus, the neighbourhood’s violent crimes are also 39% lower than the national average. 

In Harbourfront, the odds of falling victim to a crime are 1 in 41, and when you stack it up against other Ontario cities, it stands out as safer than 58% of them. The good news is, crime rates have been on a downward trend, with a 15% decrease year over year.

Housing market

Housing market

Harbourfront’s housing market is primarily composed of luxury condominium apartment buildings. In fact, it’s known for having the highest concentration of condos in Toronto, with many dating back to the 1980s and others representing newer constructions. 

The housing market in Harbourfront keeps up with market trends, and it’s no secret that the demand often outpaces what’s available. If you’re into boating, the marinas here offer seasonal moorings, for those who crave a mix of city living and waterfront vibes.

FAQs on Harbourfront