Lawrence Park North is one of Toronto’s most prestigious residential neighborhoods, representing the epitome of suburban luxury and charm. Known for its lush greenery, excellent schools, and upscale amenities, it provides an ideal living environment for families, professionals, and anyone seeking an upscale lifestyle in Toronto.
The area is divided into Lawrence Park North and Lawrence Park South. In this blog, we’ll delve deep into Lawrence Park North, a coveted section that comprises three distinguished neighborhoods: Bedford Park, Wanless Park, and Teddington Park. This area is not only a peaceful haven but also holds the title of one of the wealthiest postal codes in Canada, according to Canadian Business magazine.
A Brief History of Lawrence Park North
Lawrence Park was established in 1907 when the Dovercourt Land Building and Saving Company purchased the land from John Lawrence, a prominent landowner. The aim was to develop a luxurious garden suburb, but progress was hampered by two World Wars, a depression, and a recession. Development of Lawrence Park North concluded in the 1950s, though the stop-and-start nature of its construction has led to a delightful variety in architectural styles, including English cottage, Georgian, Colonial, and Tudor Revival.
The landscaping and parks in the area were designed by Howard and Lorrie Dunington-Grubb, founders of Sheridan Nurseries, adding an air of elegance to the neighborhood’s overall aesthetic.
Real Estate in Lawrence Park North: Upscale Living at Its Finest
Lawrence Park North offers a diverse selection of real estate, ranging from semi-detached to detached homes. The area is characterized by large lots, mature trees, and well-manicured public spaces. Most homes here were built between 1910 and the 1940s, featuring unique architectural styles such as Georgian, Tudor Revival, and English Cottage.
- Detached Homes: With an average price of CA$4,050,000, detached homes in Lawrence Park North are 232% higher than the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) median. These homes often feature traditional architecture blended with modern renovations, making them ideal for families seeking both character and modern conveniences.
- Semi-Detached Homes: For those who want a slightly more affordable option, semi-detached homes are available at an average price of CA$1,750,000, which is still 57% higher than the GTA median. These homes often retain the charm of the area’s older buildings, with many undergoing significant updates.
- Condominiums and Townhouses: Though less common, some luxury condominiums and townhouses are available in the area, with prices averaging CA$2,300,000 for condominiums and CA$1,328,000 for townhouses. These homes offer a low-maintenance lifestyle while still being located in one of Toronto’s most exclusive neighborhoods.
For more detailed information on current listings and real estate opportunities in Lawrence Park North, Toronto, visit this comprehensive Toronto real estate guide
Living in Lawrence Park North: The Ideal Family-Oriented Neighborhood
Lawrence Park North is mostly home to families with school-aged children. The neighborhood is designed with family life in mind, featuring quiet streets, ample park space, and proximity to some of the best schools in Toronto. It’s a pedestrian-friendly area, with many day-to-day amenities within walking distance, including Yonge Street shopping and Lawrence subway station.
Schools in Lawrence Park North
Education is one of the primary reasons families are drawn to Lawrence Park North. The neighborhood is home to some of the top public and private schools in Toronto, making it an ideal location for raising children.
- John Wanless Junior Public School (Grades JK–06) is one of the most highly regarded schools in the area. Located at 245 Fairlawn Ave, it provides a strong academic foundation and a variety of extracurricular activities.
- Bedford Park Public School (Grades JK–08) is another excellent option for families. Situated at 81 Ranleigh Ave, this school offers a comprehensive educational experience with a focus on academic excellence.
- Toronto French School and Havergal College are prestigious private schools located near Lawrence Park North, catering to families seeking bilingual or all-girls education.
Parks and Recreation
The abundance of green spaces and parks is a major draw for families living in Lawrence Park North. Wanless Park, for example, is located in the heart of the Wanless Park neighborhood and offers a variety of recreational amenities, including tennis courts, playgrounds, and open spaces for picnics and sports. Teddington Park, though smaller, offers a more exclusive experience, with nearby access to the prestigious Rosedale Golf Club.
Other popular parks in the area include:
- Lawrence Park Ravine: A 4.6-hectare park offering trails, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities. It’s an ideal location for fitness enthusiasts and nature lovers, with trails connecting to Sunnybrook Park.
- Alexander Muir Memorial Gardens: These award-winning multi-level gardens are perfect for an afternoon stroll and offer scenic views that make it a popular spot for photoshoots and relaxation.
Community Centres and Libraries
For residents looking for community engagement and activities, Lawrence Park North is well-served by community centers and libraries. The George Locke Public Library offers various programs for children and adults alike, making it a hub for community-driven activities. The library is named after a prominent Toronto-area librarian and features a variety of accessibility resources, meeting rooms, and community programs.
Exclusive Clubs
Lawrence Park North residents also have access to some of Toronto’s most prestigious private clubs, including:
- Rosedale Golf Club: One of the most exclusive golf clubs in Toronto, located just north of Teddington Park.
- Wanless Park Tennis Club: Offering residents the chance to enjoy tennis in a well-maintained, community-focused environment.
- The Granite Club: Located east of Bayview Avenue, this ritzy private club offers various recreational amenities, including tennis courts, swimming pools, and fitness facilities.
Lifestyle and Amenities in Lawrence Park North
Shopping and Dining
Though Lawrence Park North doesn’t have many shopping opportunities within its immediate borders, residents benefit from its proximity to two bustling shopping districts along Yonge Street. Both of these districts offer a wide range of retail experiences, from upscale fashion boutiques to essential goods.
- Yonge and Lawrence: Technically part of Bedford Park, this area offers a variety of shops and restaurants. Residents can enjoy a mix of fine dining, casual eateries, and coffee shops.
- Midtown Toronto (Yonge and Eglinton): A short trip south on Yonge Street leads to an even more diverse shopping and dining experience. Here, residents will find everything from ramen houses to steakhouses, along with the Yonge-Eglinton Centre’s food court.
Quiet and Serene Lifestyle
Lawrence Park North offers a tranquil living environment with tree-lined streets, meticulously maintained public spaces, and limited traffic. Unlike some of Toronto’s more bustling neighborhoods, Lawrence Park North is relatively quiet, making it an ideal location for those seeking peace and privacy.
Transportation and Accessibility
Lawrence Park North is well-connected to the rest of Toronto, with excellent access to public transportation and major highways.
- Public Transit: The neighborhood is served by the Lawrence subway station, located at the intersection of Yonge and Lawrence. Residents can easily access the Yonge-University-Spadina subway line, making it convenient to travel downtown or to other parts of Toronto.
- Driving: For residents who prefer to drive, Lawrence Park North is just a 10-minute drive from Highway 401, one of Toronto’s major arteries. This makes it easy to commute to other parts of the city or beyond.
Demographics and Diversity in Lawrence Park North
The neighborhood is predominantly composed of Anglo-Protestant families, but there is also a growing population of Chinese, West Asian, South Asian, and Korean families. This mix of cultural backgrounds contributes to a tight-knit community that actively participates in local events, such as annual festivals hosted by the Business Improvement Area (BIA).
According to Local Logic’s demographic data:
- 74% of residents speak English as their mother tongue.
- The next largest linguistic groups include speakers of Mandarin (4%), Persian (3%), French (3%), and Spanish (3%).
The area is known for its high household incomes, with most residents being homeowners. The presence of excellent schools and recreational amenities attracts families, making Lawrence Park North one of the most family-friendly neighborhoods in Toronto.
The Housing Market in Lawrence Park North
Lawrence Park North is among the most expensive neighborhoods in Toronto, and the housing market reflects this exclusivity. As mentioned earlier, home prices in the area are significantly higher than the GTA median, with detached homes averaging CA$4,050,000.
- Homeowners vs. Renters: The vast majority of Lawrence Park North residents are homeowners, reflecting the area’s affluence and the high cost of real estate.
- Housing Types: The area offers a mix of older, mid-sized detached and semi-detached homes. While many homes maintain their original architectural charm, others have undergone extensive renovations or have been completely rebuilt.
Conclusion: Why Lawrence Park North Is the Ideal Place to Live
Living in Lawrence Park North offers the best of both worlds: a peaceful, family-oriented environment with close proximity to the vibrant city life of Toronto. The neighborhood’s top-tier schools, lush parks, and luxury homes make it a premier location for families, while its excellent public transportation and road access ensure convenience for professionals commuting to downtown Toronto.
If you’re looking for an exclusive neighborhood that combines historical charm with modern amenities, Lawrence Park North is undoubtedly one of the best places to live in Toronto. However, its exclusivity comes with a high price tag, making it an area primarily for affluent individuals or families looking for long-term investments in Toronto’s booming real estate market.
For high-quality real estate photography services in Toronto, visit Click Media Pro. Stay informed on MLS Listings in Lawrence Park North by exploring Wedu and the Wedu Blog for expert updates. Additionally, keep up with the preconstruction market by visiting Preconstruction Info and the Preconstruction Blog for the latest news and opportunities.