Best Places to Retire in Toronto

Toronto is Canada’s largest city, and retirement living here can look very different depending on the neighbourhood. Some areas feel suburban and quiet, while others are busy, central, and full of amenities. Choosing the right place to retire means balancing lifestyle, budget, and access to healthcare.

What to Consider When Choosing a Neighbourhood

Retirees often look for walkable streets, reliable public transit, and nearby shops and services. Proximity to hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies becomes more important with age. Affordability matters as housing costs in Toronto vary widely. A sense of community, cultural fit, and overall safety are also important when deciding where to live.

Etobicoke

Etobicoke offers a suburban feel with green spaces and waterfront trails. Many retirees choose it for its balance of space and access to services. Etobicoke General Hospital and a number of clinics make healthcare easy to reach. The area also has several retirement residences and condo options. Explore retirement homes in Etobicoke.

North York

North York is home to a wide mix of retirement residences and condos, with strong access to Toronto’s subway system. It is one of the most diverse areas of the city, offering cultural programs, community centres, and services for many backgrounds. North York General Hospital and several long-term care homes in Toronto make it appealing for retirees who value healthcare access. Find retirement living in North York.

Scarborough

Scarborough has more affordable housing compared to many other parts of Toronto. Seniors can find both apartments and retirement residences at lower price points, though commuting downtown takes longer. The Scarborough Health Network provides strong healthcare support, and many cultural associations and senior groups are active in the area. Some seniors may also qualify for supportive housing in Toronto, which offers services through government-assisted programs. See senior housing in Scarborough.

The Beaches

The Beaches is known for its walkable streets and strong community feel. Seniors who enjoy waterfront living and local shops often find it appealing, though costs are higher and availability is limited. It offers a lively yet comfortable lifestyle for those who want to stay active in the heart of a neighbourhood.

Downtown and Leaside

Downtown Toronto and Leaside provide the convenience of condo living and quick access to hospitals, including Toronto General and Mount Sinai. These areas are ideal for retirees who want to stay close to cultural attractions, shopping, and healthcare. Costs are higher, but for many, the convenience makes it worthwhile.

Choosing the Right Fit

The best place to retire in Toronto depends on individual needs. Some seniors want the affordability and slower pace of Scarborough or Etobicoke, while others prefer the cultural energy of downtown or the diversity and healthcare access in North York.

For those considering housing with care or support, Toronto offers a wide range of retirement residences. Options include independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Each provides a different level of service to match changing needs.

In addition to housing, there are senior services in Toronto that help with daily living, healthcare coordination, and transitions.

To explore the full range of choices, visit retirement homes in Toronto.

Frequently Asked Questions About Retiring in Toronto

Is Toronto a good place to retire?
Yes. Toronto offers excellent healthcare, diverse neighbourhoods, and a wide choice of retirement housing. The cost of living is higher than in many other Canadian cities, but access to services and cultural activities is a major benefit.

Which neighbourhood in Toronto is best for retirees?
It depends on lifestyle and budget. The Beaches is walkable and community-focused, North York offers strong healthcare access and cultural diversity, Etobicoke provides more space and a suburban feel, while Scarborough is more affordable.

Are there affordable retirement options in Toronto?
Yes. Scarborough and some parts of North York tend to be more affordable. Seniors may also qualify for supportive housing in Toronto through government-assisted programs.

What types of retirement living are available in Toronto?
Toronto has independent living, assisted living, memory care, long-term care homes, and a wide range of senior services to support aging in place.

How much does it cost to retire in Toronto?
Retirement costs in Toronto vary widely. Seniors living in independent apartments may spend less, while assisted living and memory care residences can cost more depending on services and amenities. Visit our Senior Housing Cost Calculator to compare the cost of living in your own home with other housing options.