Perfect Neighbourhoods For Remote Workers

From a lifestyle perspective, working from home can open up a whole world of opportunities. With no more commute to worry about, you have greater flexibility to find an amazing home that fits your lifestyle.

If you’ve recently transitioned to a permanent remote working setup and are looking for a new home that’s a bit farther away from downtown, you’re in luck! Both West Toronto and Etobicoke have a ton of great neighbourhoods that feature quiet streets, high-quality local amenities, and amazing outdoor spaces. You’ll also find a strong selection of homes at relatively affordable prices.

I know West Toronto and Etobicoke inside and out. As a local real estate agent with years of experience, here are my top picks for neighbourhoods that make great fits for remote workers.

1. Alderwood

If you’re looking for a home that’s a bit farther away from the hustle and bustle, check out Alderwood! Tucked along Etobicoke’s western border, Alderwood is a relaxed, family-oriented neighbourhood with a traditional suburban feel. You’ll find wide, tree-lined streets, great parks, and a quiet yet neighbourly community dynamic.

Need more info about buying in Alderwood? Click here to learn about house-hunting in one of South Etobicoke’s most sought-after spots.

Alderwood is best suited to homeowners who have families or are looking for a lot of room. With some of the largest lots in Etobicoke, most homes in Alderwood are spacious, featuring 3-5 bedrooms and baths. If you work from home, buying a home in Alderwood could increase your chance of having a dedicated home office space.

When you need to get out of the house, Alderwood is well-connected to both downtown Toronto and the surrounding GTA. The neighbourhood also has arguably some of the best transit access in Etobicoke, with trains from Long Branch Go Station taking passengers downtown in under 30 minutes.

As an increasingly popular neighbourhood, buying property in Alderwood is a smart investment. Check out my blog post on local property values and selling your home in Alderwood here.

2. Mimico

At the east end of South Etobicoke, Mimico is a historic community that nicely blends a relaxed suburban atmosphere with charming urban energy. Living in Mimico means never needing to travel far for what you need. With all kinds of amenities along Lake Shore Boulevard and Royal York Road, most errands are within walking distance.

If you need a break from your home office, swing by one of Mimico’s many local cafes to grab some caffeine and get some work done. If you want to stretch your legs on your lunch break, take a scenic jog or stroll along the water.

One of the best parts of Mimico is its sheer range of demographics. Whether you have a family, are a young professional, or have an empty nest, you’ll find neighbours who share the same lifestyle as you.

Picturing what your life in South Etobicoke could look like? Check out these blog posts to learn more about life along the lakeshore.

3. Rockcliffe-Smythe

Nestled in Toronto’s west end, not far from Etobicoke is Rockcliffe-Smythe. A fairly quiet neck of the woods, it’s a great fit for remote workers who like to disconnect and stay inspired by stepping outside and getting some fresh air. With plenty of natural greenspaces in Rockcliffe-Smythe, including the gorgeous Humber River Valley, you’ll never get bored of spending time in the great outdoors.

Rockcliffe-Smythe is already well served by the TTC, however, with the soon-to-be-completed Eglinton Crosstown LRT stopping just outside the neighbourhood, residents are set to have even better transit access in the near future. If working from home has allowed you to sell your car, this could be a huge advantage.

One of the most appealing elements of this neighbourhood is the home prices. As a less established community compared to some of its neighbours, homes in Rockcliffe-Smythe are some of the most affordable in the area.

4. The Junction

As a neighbourhood with a little bit of everything, The Junction is a great place to buy if you work from home. Along the area’s main drag – Dundas Street West, you’ll find buzzing coffee shops, restaurants with cuisine from around the world, and a range of eclectic boutiques you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else in the city. This part of the community is a great way to stay inspired and energized. If taking a break from your desk at home and setting up at your favourite local spot fits your style, you’ll love The Junction.

If you prefer a quiet, neighbourhood-style ambience while working from home, The Junction has that too! Just off of the main commercial area, you’ll find beautiful, green, low-traffic streets with a classic West Toronto vibe.

As for housing, the neighbourhood has pretty much everything you may need. From detached and semi-detached Victorian homes to modern condos and everything in between.

Want to learn more about the best neighbourhoods in West Toronto and Etobicoke? Check out some of these community-based posts from my blog!

5. Long Branch

A charming and quickly modernizing neighbourhood, Long Branch sits along the Etobicoke lakeshore, just west of New Toronto. Despite its small community feel, Long Branch is brimming with local life and energy. While this is mostly thanks to the high volume of college students in the area, an influx of young families buying in Long Branch has also revitalized the neighbourhood in recent years.

Despite easy access to the city both by car or transit, Long Branch is best suited to remote workers who don’t plan on heading downtown every day. The neighbourhood also features a diverse array of independent businesses along Lake Shore Boulevard. From cute cafes to tasty bakeries and local pubs, you’re sure to find your next favourite spot here.

With great scenery, water-side parks, and outdoor fitness amenities, it’s another neighbourhood that caters well to those who enjoy stepping out for some fresh air.