Common Misconceptions About South Etobicoke Living

For Home Buyers

As a community right next door to one of the most well-known cities in North America, there’s always been a few myths and misconceptions floating around about South Etobicoke. That said, there’s a lot to love about living here, and the area is becoming quickly popular with buyers from all over.

As a proudly local real estate agent living and working in South Etobicoke, I’d like to clear the air on some of the misconceptions I’ve heard about this neck of the woods over the years. 

Every Neighbourhood is the Same

Toronto is often celebrated as a city made up of unique and diverse communities. And while South Etobicoke may not get the same recognition, it also offers a wide range of super liveable and one-of-a-kind neighbourhoods. 

Whether it’s suburban-style family living in Alderwood, where the tree-lined streets feature comfortable and spacious homes you won’t find in the city centre. Or the up-and-coming Long Branch, where a close-knit lakeside community is being revitalized by an influx of new businesses and amenities. There’s more variety than a lot of people think. Regardless of what you’re looking for in a neighbourhood, there’s a good chance you’ll find it in South Etobicoke. 

Pro tip: If you’re thinking about exploring the real estate market in South Etobicoke, be sure to work with a local Etobicoke agent. Not only can they help you find a neighbourhood that you will fall in love with, but their local market knowledge and industry connections can give you a huge advantage as a buyer. 


When it comes to neighbourhoods in South Etobicoke, there’s a ton of variety. Check out these community-focused blog posts to know more. 


It’s Too Far Away From Downtown

This is another one I hear a lot. Many homebuyers are quick to write off South Etobicoke because they think it’s too far from downtown. While it’s totally fine to want to live near your work, South Etobicoke’s level of accessibility is too often underestimated. 

Some of Toronto’s most essential roadways like the 427, QEW, Lake Shore Boulevard and Gardiner Expressway all pass through the area. Not only does this make commuting a breeze, but in a lot of cases, South Etobicoke residents can get downtown faster than those travelling on the smaller and more dense streets in the city centre. 

Not to mention, South Etobicoke is remarkably well served by public transit. Even better than some areas of central Toronto! There are endless bus routes, plus streetcar and subway services as well. Depending on where you are, you can even get downtown without transferring. There are multiple GO stations, which offer some of the best transit connections in the entire city. From Long Branch GO (which is nestled in Etobicoke’s far southwestern corner) you can get to Union Station in under half an hour!

Plus, South Etobicoke is perfectly located when you want to get out of the city. The major highway connections make road trips easier than ever and Pearson Airport is only 15 minutes away.

There Aren’t Any New Homes

When a lot of people think about real estate in South Etobicoke, they think of charming modest bungalows and older character homes. And while there are still plenty of these homes to be found, new development projects as well as custom-built properties are becoming increasingly common. 

Given the area’s large lot sizes (sometimes double the size of your average lot in downtown Toronto), South Etobicoke has become particularly attractive for buyers who want to build something from scratch. So tear downs are fairly common around here. Plus, with lots of development in the area, projects are able to move ahead quicker and easier. 


South Etobicoke has a wide variety of housing options. Regardless of what you’re looking for in a home, you’ll find it here. Interested in learning more? Check out these posts from my blog. 


It’s Boring

This misconception is arguably the one that drives me the craziest! Too many people think South Etobicoke is simply a sleepy residential area, with nothing to do. In reality, this couldn’t be further from the truth!

South Etobicoke has everything a big city has to offer and more. From amazing bars, restaurants, and cafes, to live entertainment and nightclubs, having a “night on the town” doesn’t mean you need to head into Toronto. Or, if recreation and taking in the great outdoors is more your thing, you’ll love South Etobicoke’s endless parks and green spaces. Plus it’s right on the lakeshore, making it the perfect place for people who like walking, running, cycling, or swimming during the warmer months.  

South Etobicoke is anything but boring, and you don’t need to live here to enjoy it! Don’t believe me? Stop by for a visit.

Searching for a real estate agent who can help you find your dream home in Etobicoke? I can help! Call or text me at 647-239-7587 or send me an email at melissa@southetobicoke.com to get started.

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