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To thrive as a real estate listing agent in Leslieville, you have to be more than just someone who drops a sign in the yard and posts photos online. This neighbourhood has a personality—and clients here expect their agent to get it. Leslieville buyers and sellers tend to be savvy, engaged, and deeply connected to the area’s culture. That means the qualities of a successful agent here are as much about community nuance as they are about market mechanics.

Leslieville isn’t a monolith. Within its compact borders are micro-neighbourhoods with distinct vibes—tree-lined streets of century homes, newer low-rise condo pockets, and quirky commercial blocks along Queen Street East. A great agent needs to know:

• Which streets command premiums and why
• How proximity to schools, parks, or transit shapes buyer interest
• The subtle value differences between similar properties

This isn’t surface-level knowledge; it comes from walking the streets, talking to local business owners, timeline rather than Zillow comps, and understanding what makes Leslieville tick beyond stats.

People who sell in Leslieville aren’t just selling square feet—they’re selling a lifestyle. Buyers want to imagine Sunday morning coffee at a favourite café, strolls to the farmers’ market, playdates in the park, or evenings on the patio. The best agents can translate those daily experiences into a compelling story that resonates emotionally, not just logically. That means:

• Highlighting community strengths gently, without hype
• Knowing neighborhood events, local schools, and hidden gems
• Framing a listing in a way that speaks to how life feels here

This skill—contextual storytelling—is subtle but powerful.

Leslieville isn’t a place where people take lightly to strangers showing up. Clients here value authenticity and trust. Rapid pitch tactics or high-pressure sales tactics usually flop. The right agent excels at:

• Listening deeply to what clients really want
• Following up reliably without being pushy
• Building long-term relationships, not just closing deals

Word-of-mouth matters in Leslieville; neighbours talk, and referrals travel fast.

The market here is competitive and cyclic. Some months listings fly, others sit. A great agent doesn’t just follow trends—they anticipate them. That means being creative with marketing:

• Professional staging that suits the neighbourhood’s aesthetic
• High-quality photography that goes beyond standard shots
• Digital tours, targeted ads, and community-centric events (open houses with local partners, for example)

Being tech-savvy and agile isn’t optional—it’s expected.

Leslieville buyers and sellers care about integrity. With so many local businesses and long-term residents, reputations matter. The community rewards agents who act ethically and transparently—people talk. That translates to:

• Honest pricing discussions backed by real data
• Clear communication on terms, timelines, and expectations
• Protecting client interests without unnecessary drama

Trust is a currency here, and great agents are wealthy in it.

Because so many people want in, negotiations can be complex, especially when multiple offers or contingent sales are involved. Skilled agents know when to push, when to pause, and how to frame offers creatively. That requires:

• Thorough preparation
• Calm under pressure
• Advocacy without aggression

Being savvy in negotiations wins deals and preserves relationships.

To succeed as a listing agent here, you need a blend of local insight, storytelling, relationship savvy, creativity, ethics, and negotiation skill. It’s not enough to know numbers—you need to understand people and place. Leslieville isn’t just a market; it’s a community, and agents who treat it that way are the ones who thrive.

If you want a tailored checklist or a sample pitch that encompasses these qualities, just say the word!

Here’s a clear, balanced look at the pros and cons of buying real estate in Toronto’s Leslieville—perfect if you’re trying to decide whether this vibrant east-end neighbourhood should be your next home.

1. Incredible Location & Walkability
Leslieville sits just east of downtown Toronto, anchored along Queen Street East. That means short commutes, excellent transit access (streetcars and buses), and a neighbourhood you can live in without relying on a car. Daily errands, coffee runs, and strolls to the bakery are all within easy walking distance—an everyday convenience that’s hard to beat.

2. Strong Community Vibe
This isn’t a place where people just pass through. There’s a genuine sense of community here. Neighbours know each other, local shop owners remember your name, and events like summer markets and holiday fairs bring people together. For families and long-term residents, that sense of connection adds real value beyond bricks and mortar.

3. Great Amenities & Lifestyle
Leslieville offers a high quality of life: schools, parks, cafés, independent boutiques, breweries, and places to gather are all part of daily life. Parks like Jimmie Simpson and small green spaces are magnets for families and outdoor activity. Restaurants are generally casual, welcoming, and loved by locals.

4. Diverse Housing Stock
Whether you’re eyeing a condo, townhouse, semi-detached, or a charming older detached home, there’s variety here. Heritage Victorians sit beside newer developments, giving buyers choices across styles and price points. That variety also attracts a range of residents—young professionals, families, downsizers, and creatives.

5. Long-Term Investment Potential
Even with the ups and downs of the broader Toronto market, Leslieville’s desirability tends to lend stability to property values. Proximity to downtown, amenities, and transit makes it a resilient choice for investors and homeowners alike.

1. Higher Price Points
Desirability comes at a cost. Property values in Leslieville are higher than many other parts of Toronto, especially for freehold homes. Detached houses and semi-detached properties can carry significant price tags, pushing some buyers out of the market or into smaller units like condos or townhouses.

2. Limited Inventory
Because so many people want to live here, inventory can be tight. Good properties tend to move quickly, and bidding wars aren’t uncommon—particularly for well-priced homes in desirable pockets. That means buyers may feel pressure to act fast or pay a premium.

3. Traffic & Congestion
Queen Street East is lively—but it’s also busy. Traffic can back up, especially during rush hours or weekends, and streetcar routes contribute to urban hustle. If you’re used to quiet suburban streets, this level of activity might take some getting used to.

4. Smaller Outdoor Spaces
Urban living often means trade-offs in green space at home. Many historic homes have limited yards, and condos usually offer balconies instead of grassy lawns. Families who prioritize big private outdoor spaces may find options here limited or expensive.

5. Older Home Maintenance
A lot of Leslieville’s charm comes from its older homes—Victorians and early 20th-century builds. But that charm can come with higher maintenance costs. Renos, repairs, and updates can add up, and some older houses may require significant investment to modernize.

Leslieville is a fantastic place to own real estate if you value community, walkability, lifestyle, and long-term appeal. It’s a neighbourhood that feels more like home and less like a transit corridor—rich with independent businesses and lively public spaces.

But buyers should be prepared for higher prices, competition, and the realities of urban living. If those trade-offs fit your priorities, Leslieville can be a deeply rewarding place to invest and build a life.

If you want, I can also break down average current prices by property type so you can see the real numbers behind the pros and cons!

Toronto's Leslieville neighbourhood has been experiencing a significant surge in real estate activity in the past decade. This area has transformed from a predominantly industrial and commercial area to a highly desirable residential neighbourhood. As such, the demographics of real estate buyers in Leslieville have changed significantly in the past 10 years. In this essay, we will discuss the demographics, including financial data, of the types of real estate buyers in Leslieville over the past 10 years.

Demographics of Real Estate Buyers in Leslieville

Leslieville is known for its diverse culture, trendy restaurants and shops, and unique character homes. In the past 10 years, this area has attracted a variety of real estate buyers, including young professionals, families, and investors.

Young Professionals: One of the primary demographics of real estate buyers in Leslieville is young professionals. These buyers tend to be in their 20s and 30s, and they are attracted to the area because of its proximity to downtown Toronto, its walkability, and its trendy restaurants and shops. According to the Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB), the average age of buyers in Leslieville is between 25 and 34 years old.

Families: Another key demographic of real estate buyers in Leslieville is families. These buyers are attracted to the area because of its excellent schools, parks, and community centres. According to TREB, the majority of buyers in Leslieville have children.

Investors: Finally, investors have been a significant demographic of real estate buyers in Leslieville in recent years. These buyers are attracted to the area because of its strong rental market and potential for appreciation. Many investors have purchased homes in Leslieville with the intention of renting them out to young professionals or families.

Financial Data of Real Estate Buyers in Leslieville

The financial data of real estate buyers in Leslieville has changed significantly in the past 10 years. As the area has become more desirable, property values have increased, and buyers have needed to have higher incomes to purchase homes.

According to TREB, the average selling price of a home in Leslieville has increased from around $600,000 in 2011 to over $1.5 million in 2021. This increase in property values has meant that buyers need to have higher incomes or larger down payments to afford a home in the area.

In terms of income, the majority of real estate buyers in Leslieville tend to be middle to upper-middle class. According to TREB, the average household income in the area is around $100,000, with many households earning between $75,000 and $150,000 per year. However, in recent years, there has been an increase in the number of high-net-worth individuals purchasing homes in Leslieville, particularly in the luxury home market.

Mortgage data also provides insight into the financial situation of real estate buyers in Leslieville. According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), the average mortgage size in the area has increased from around $400,000 in 2011 to over $1 million in 2021. This increase in mortgage size is due to the rising property values and the need for buyers to have larger mortgages to afford a home in the area.

Hey, let's take a look back at the Toronto real estate market in January 2022. It was a pretty active month for those buying or selling freehold homes in E01. This area includes the neighbourhoods of Blake-Jones, Greenwood-Coxwell, North Riverdale, and South Riverdale.

If you're not familiar with the boundaries, they go from Coxwell Avenue to the DVP and south of Danforth Avenue. In total, there were 28 successful real estate sales of freehold homes according to the MLS system.

One interesting fact is that the most expensive house sold was on Harcourt Avenue for $1,830,000. The crazy part? It was only listed for $1,289,000, which resulted in a selling price of 142% more than the asking price!

Now, let's talk about some of the other streets where homes were sold in January 2022. There were houses sold on Carlaw Avenue, Dundas Street East, Ashland Avenue, Hiltz Avenue, Audley Avenue, Allen Avenue, Craven Road, Jones Avenue, Ashdale Avenue, Leslie Street, and many more. In fact, Leslie Street had a house sell for $1,400,800!

On the flip side, the least expensive streets in this Toronto real estate zone with houses selling for less than $1,200,000 were Carlaw Avenue, Dundas Street East, Hiltz Avenue, and Ashland Avenue.

If you're curious about the average selling price of a house in E01 during January 2022, it was $1,448,535, and it only took about 6 days for a house to sell. It's interesting to note that most of the houses sold in this area were semi-detached (20 of them), with only 4 being fully detached.

And just in case you were wondering, South Riverdale had the most real estate sales activity with 12 sales, followed by Greenwood-Coxwell with 9 sales, Blake-Jones with 5 sales, and North Riverdale with 2 sales. All the real estate data and statistics were provided by Toronto Stratus MLS.

By the way, if you're ever in the Leslieville neighbourhood, you should check out their amazing cafes and restaurants. They have some of the best brunch spots in the city!

Raising children in Toronto’s Leslieville has a vibe that blends big-city convenience with a genuine neighbourhood feel—like living in a place where kids are not just tolerated but welcomed and woven into the rhythm of everyday life. In 2025, families tell you it’s one of those rare urban places where sidewalks feel safe enough for scooters, community events actually involve kids, and neighbours know each other’s names.

Let’s start with the basics: walkability. One of the first things families notice when they move here is how easy it is to get around without a car. Strollers, bikes, and little feet rule the sidewalks. Grocery shopping, visits to the library, and quick ice-cream runs are all just blocks away. That kind of accessibility matters when you’re juggling snacks, errands, and nap schedules—it feels like the city actually works for families, not just people in suits.

Speaking of outdoor space, Leslieville’s parks and green areas are real hubs of family life. Jimmie Simpson Park and Leslie Grove Park are perennial favourites. On any given afternoon you’ll find kids on swings, pickup soccer games, parents chatting on benches, and dogs weaving through it all. In summer, splash pads and shaded picnic spots make these places destinations—not just shortcuts on the way to somewhere else. And when the snow falls, the gentle hills become sledding slopes that draw neighbourhood crews together like clockwork.

Schools and child-centric resources are another big piece of the story. There are several well-regarded public schools and daycare options nearby, and many parents praise the sense of community those institutions foster. Parent groups organize bake sales, fundraisers, and craft nights that become social anchors as much as fundraising tools. It’s not uncommon for families with kids in the same grade to have weekly park playdates that stretch into shared dinners or trips to local events.

Speaking of events, Leslieville’s calendar tends to be kid-friendly in a way that doesn’t feel forced or commercial. Seasonal markets often have family zones with face painting, storytelling hours, and craft stations. Street festivals and art walks will route through areas that feel lively rather than overwhelming, with plenty of room for little ones to run while adults browse.

The food scene here is another big plus for families. Casual cafés with big windows and community tables make it easy to grab brunch with kids in tow. Bakeries practically curate kid-approved pastries, and many restaurants have menus or portions that work just fine for mini-diners. It’s less about Michelin stars and more about places that actually welcome kids with high chairs, crayons, and smiles.

Safety and neighbourliness round out the picture. Leslieville doesn’t feel anonymous. You’ll see the same friendly faces at crosswalks, and many residents genuinely look out for each other’s kids at parks and on walks home from school. That kind of social fabric makes a big difference when you’re raising children—especially in a city as large as Toronto.

Of course, urban living comes with trade-offs. Traffic can be busy, and finding affordable larger homes with yards isn’t always easy. But for many families, those are “manageable” quirks rather than deal-breakers. The payoff—an active, engaged, and kid-centric community where children can grow up with friends next door and streetcar bells in the background—is something unique.

In Leslieville, raising kids isn’t about escaping the city. It’s about embracing urban life in a way that feels grounded, warm, and genuinely supportive of family rhythms. From first steps in the park to school plays and weekend pancake breakfasts, this neighbourhood offers a kind of big-city childhood rooted in community warmth.

In January and February 2023, the E01 real estate zone in Toronto saw a moderate level of activity for those looking to buy or sell freehold houses. This zone is made up of the neighbourhoods of Blake-Jones, Greenwood-Coxwell, North Riverdale, and South Riverdale. The zone is bounded by Coxwell Avenue to the DVP and south of Danforth Avenue. The best listing agents and buyer agents were involved in 41 successful real estate sales of freehold homes in the Riverdale, Leslieville, and Riverside neighbourhoods.

Hogarth Avenue saw the most expensive sale at $3,325,000 (it was listed for $3,375,000) and sold after only 16 days on the market. The selling price was 99% of the asking price. The least expensive sales were on Blackburn St, listed for $649,000 but sold for $595,786, and Rhodes Ave, listed for $499,800 but sold for $726,000.

Other residential streets where houses were sold during this time period were Craven Rd, Myrtle Ave, Woodfield Rd, Jones Ave, Marjory Ave, Dundas St E, Highfield Rd, Pape Ave, Mountnoel Ave, First Ave, Seymour Ave, Queen St E, Blong Ave, De Grassi St, Boultbee Ave, Booth Ave, Boulton Ave, Bloomfield Ave, Garnock Ave, Redwood Ave, Richard Ave, Ashdale Ave, and Hogarth Ave.

The average selling price of a house in this real estate zone was $1,451,256, and it took an average of 18 days for a house to sell. Most of the houses sold were semi-detached (24), and only 12 were fully detached. The majority of the sales activity took place in South Riverdale with 19 sales, followed by Greenwood-Coxwell with 14 sales, North Riverdale with 5 sales, and Blake-Jones with 3 sales.

Toronto's Leslieville neighbourhood:

• Ashdale Avenue
• Bain Avenue
• Carlaw Avenue
• Colgate Avenue
• Craven Road
• Curzon Street
• Dundas Street East
• Eastern Avenue
• Empire Avenue
• Greenwood Avenue
• Heward Avenue
• Highfield Road
• Jones Avenue
• Kintyre Avenue
• Knox Avenue
• Logan Avenue
• Morse Street
• Pape Avenue
• Queen Street East
• Rhodes Avenue
• Rushbrooke Avenue
• Saulter Street
• Strathcona Avenue
• Vancouver Avenue
• Waverley Road
• Winnifred Avenue
• Woodfield Road

Let's talk about the real estate market in Toronto's E01 zone during April 2019. This area includes Leslieville, Riverside, and Riverdale, which are also known as Blake-Jones, Greenwood-Coxwell, North Riverdale, and South Riverdale. The boundaries are Coxwell Avenue to the DVP and south of Danforth Avenue.

During April 2019, there were 61 successful real estate sales of freehold homes according to the MLS system. The average selling price of a house in this area was $1,273,324, and the average time it took to sell a house was 11 days on the market.

The most expensive house sold was for $2,350,000 on Sparkhall Avenue in North Riverdale. Other streets in this area that saw houses selling during April 2019 include Bain Ave, Bertmount Ave, Billings Ave, Bloomfield Ave, Boultbee Ave, Boulton Ave, Brick Crt, Brooklyn Ave, Caroline Ave, Coady Ave, Craven Rd N, De Grassi St, Dundas St E, Gerrard St E, Grant St, Greenwood Ave, Hampton Ave, Harcourt Ave, Hazelwood Ave, Hertle Ave, Hiawatha Rd, Highfield Rd, Howie Ave, Ivy Ave, Jones Ave, Langley Ave, Leslie St, Logan Ave, Minto St, Natalie Pl, Prust Ave, Queen St E, Rhodes Ave, Riverdale Ave, Sandstone Lane, Saulter St, Seymour Ave, Shudell Ave, Simpson Ave, Sparkhall Ave, Tiverton Ave, Unity Rd, Victor Ave, Walpole Ave, and Wroxeter Ave.

Most houses sold in this area were semi-detached houses (30 of them). Only 16 of the homes sold were fully detached houses. Real estate sales activity was highest in South Riverdale (24 sales), followed by Greenwood-Coxwell (14 sales), North Riverdale (16 sales), and Blake-Jones (7 sales).

All this real estate data and statistics were provided by TRREB for the month of April 2019. And if you're interested in buying or selling a property in this area, you may want to contact Best Leslieville, Riverdale, Riverside, Pocket Realtors.

Here’s a detailed look at the current state of property values in Toronto’s Leslieville neighbourhood in 2025, based on the latest market data, trends, and real-estate reports. Overall, Leslieville remains one of the city’s most desirable communities—influenced by citywide market forces but showing its own localized dynamics.

Leslieville’s property values vary widely depending on the type of housing:

• Detached houses in Q3 2025 averaged around $1.52 million, reflecting their premium status and strong demand among families and move-up buyers. 
• Semi-detached homes sold for about $1.25 million on average, still well above many other east Toronto neighbourhoods. 
• Townhomes were notably more affordable than detached homes, at roughly $874,000. 
• Condos (~$673,000) remain the most accessible entry point into Leslieville real estate, though even these are above the broader GTA average for condo prices.
• An overall average across all property types in the neighbourhood was just over $1.05 million.

Leslieville isn’t isolated from the rest of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) housing market, which has experienced noticeable slowdowns through 2025:

• Home sales across the GTA have seen periods of decline or softness, with sales hitting lows at times due to economic uncertainty and cautious buyer sentiment. (Reuters)
• Average home prices citywide have eased, with some indices below previous peaks, and price growth either flattening or showing mild declines. (Reuters)

In this broader context, Leslieville’s price levels—especially for detached and semi-detached homes—still sit above many parts of the city, largely because of the neighbourhood’s desirability and character.

Several local factors support robust property values:

• Location & lifestyle: Proximity to downtown, great walkability, cafés, boutiques, and parks are consistent draws for buyers.
• Diverse housing stock: From historic Victorians to modern condos and boutique lofts, the mix attracts a wide range of buyers, helping sustain demand across segments. 
• Strong demand: Agents report relatively short days on market and competitive bidding for well-priced homes compared with some other areas of Toronto. 

These qualities help insulate Leslieville somewhat from broader market cool-offs—in other words, prices might slow, but they’re less likely to crash compared to less sought-after neighbourhoods.

Despite high average numbers, there are still gradations in price that matter for different buyers:

• Condos offer the most attainable option for first-time buyers and investors, with more units in the $600K–$800K range. 
• Townhomes provide a bridge between condo affordability and the space of freehold homes, making them attractive to growing families or couples upgrading. 
• Detached and semi-detached homes command premiums—not just because of size but due to their storied character and strong neighbourhood reputation. 

That said, market conditions in 2025 have favored buyers more than during the peak frenzy of earlier years, giving some negotiating leverage on certain listings.

For Buyers:
Leslieville remains pricey compared to many parts of Toronto, but condos and townhomes offer accessible entry points. Broader market softness can also mean that well-priced homes sell for close to (or slightly below) asking price, rather than massive overbids.

For Sellers:
Freehold properties—especially detached houses—continue to fetch strong prices due to limited supply and steady demand. Market timing still matters: sellers pricing well and preparing homes properly are seeing good results.

For Investors:
Long-term fundamentals—location, lifestyle, and community character—continue to underpin weathered long-term growth even amid broader market fluctuations.

In late 2025, property values in Leslieville reflect both Toronto’s cooling housing market and the neighbourhood’s own enduring strengths. Freehold homes continue to command premium prices while condos and townhomes provide relatively more affordable access. Local desirability, strong walkability, and lifestyle appeal keep demand healthy, even as price growth moderates in line with broader city-wide trends.

Here’s a thoughtful, up-to-date look at housing prices in Toronto’s Leslieville neighbourhood in 2025 — what’s shaping them, how they compare across types of homes, and what that means for buyers, sellers, and locals.

Leslieville remains one of Toronto’s most desirable places to live, and its housing prices reflect that popularity. Across different property types you’ll see a wide range of values, but generally on the higher end for Toronto’s east side:

• Condos & lofts — Typically range from about $600,000 up to over $1 million depending on size, age, and finishes. Smaller 1-bedroom units often start in the mid-$500,000s to low-$700,000s. 
• Townhouses & rowhomes — Usually fall in the $900,000 to $1.8 million zone, with many newer builds at the higher end.
• Semi-detached homes — Often around $1.2 million and up, appealing to families and buyers wanting more space.
• Detached houses — Among the most expensive, often $1.5 million to well over $2 million for updated homes with desirable lots and features.

Some local reports in mid-2025 even placed average sold prices around $1.19 million, highlighting how demand keeps values elevated relative to many other city neighbourhoods.

However, you might also see conflicting snapshots online — certain MLS snapshots showing surprisingly lower averages like roughly $675,000–$700,000 — but these often reflect very limited active listings or specific segments of the market rather than broad sales history.

Several factors keep Leslieville prices high (relative to broader Toronto averages) yet evolving:

☑️ Proximity to Downtown + Transit
Its location near Queen Street East and streetcar lines ensures easy city access, which buyers prize and competitors in outer suburbs lack.

☑️ Character & Variety
From historic Victorians to modern condos and loft conversions, buyers are willing to pay premiums for charm and quality finishes.

☑️ Ongoing Development
New condo and mixed-use projects continue to shift the housing mix, particularly near transit corridors, injecting inventory that still carries higher price tags.

☑️ Market Dynamics in 2025
Across the Greater Toronto Area, data shows a broader moderation in prices thanks to economic headwinds and shifting buyer confidence — home sales and prices have shown softness in some months of 2025. (Reuters) While these are city-wide trends, in a popular area like Leslieville, it mostly translates into slightly slower growth or more negotiating room rather than dramatic declines.

Looking at some Redfin data, the average Leslieville sale price sits around $1.05 million, slightly above many suburban zones but below ultra-premium districts like Moore Park or Rosedale. (Redfin)

What this means in practical terms:

• First-time buyers may find condos and smaller townhomes still within reach, especially with recent slight corrections in condo prices.
• Families seeking freehold homes should expect to invest significantly more, often well above $1 million for semi-detached or detached properties. 

In 2025, Leslieville sits in an interesting spot — popular and stable, yet influenced by broader economic conditions that temper runaway growth. Buyers often see competitive bidding on desirable properties, but data suggests slightly more balanced conditions compared to the peak frenzy years. 

For sellers, strong demand and limited supply still support high prices. For buyers, especially in the condo market, recent trends have opened a bit more room to negotiate.

If you want, I can also pull specific recent sales examples (like what detached or condo units actually sold for in 2025) to give you a clearer, street-level sense of the market — just let me know!

Leslieville is a neighborhood located in the east end of Toronto, just south of the Danforth. Over the past 100 years, Leslieville has undergone significant changes in terms of its demographics, with shifts in population density, immigration patterns, and socio-economic factors. In this article, we will explore the demographic changes in Leslieville over the past century.

Early 1900s

At the turn of the 20th century, Leslieville was a working-class neighborhood, with a predominantly Anglo-Saxon population. The neighborhood was home to many industrial workers who were employed in the factories and mills that were located along the nearby waterfront.

The population of Leslieville was relatively stable during this period, with little immigration and few demographic changes. The neighborhood was characterized by its rows of Victorian-era homes, which were constructed in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Mid-1900s

In the mid-20th century, Leslieville underwent significant changes as many of the factories and mills in the area began to close down. This led to a decline in the local economy and a rise in unemployment, which had a significant impact on the neighborhood.

During this period, Leslieville began to experience an influx of immigrants, particularly from southern and eastern Europe. Many of these immigrants settled in the neighborhood due to its affordable housing and proximity to the downtown core.

The population of Leslieville also began to diversify during this period, with an increase in the number of visible minorities, particularly South Asian and East Asian communities. This diversity led to a greater range of cultural activities and events in the neighborhood.

Late 1900s

In the late 20th century, Leslieville began to experience a resurgence as the neighborhood underwent significant revitalization. The area saw a rise in property values, as well as an increase in the number of new businesses and developments.

As a result of this revitalization, the demographic makeup of Leslieville began to shift once again. The neighborhood saw an influx of young professionals and families, many of whom were attracted to the area's affordable housing, proximity to the downtown core, and vibrant cultural scene.

This influx of new residents led to a rise in property values and a shift towards higher-income households. The neighborhood also saw an increase in the number of young children, with many families attracted to the neighborhood's family-friendly atmosphere and excellent schools.

Current Demographics

Today, Leslieville is a diverse and vibrant neighborhood that is home to a range of different demographic groups. According to the 2016 Canadian Census, the population of Leslieville was 12,325, with a median age of 38.6 years. The neighborhood is home to a relatively even split between males and females, with 48.9% male and 51.1% female.

In terms of ethnic and cultural diversity, Leslieville is home to a range of different groups. According to the 2016 Census, the largest visible minority groups in the neighborhood are South Asian (11.4%), Chinese (7.4%), and Black (4.9%). The neighborhood is also home to a significant number of individuals who identify as Aboriginal (1.4%).

In terms of income and education, Leslieville has undergone significant changes over the past century. Today, the neighborhood is characterized by a mix of different income levels, with a growing number of high-income households. According to the 2016 Census, the median household income in Leslieville was $76,257, which is significantly higher than the median for the city of Toronto as a whole.

In 2025, Leslieville felt like it was gently glowing from the inside out—a neighbourhood already known for its warmth somehow finding new ways to surprise itself. The year unfolded as a series of small, wonderful moments that added up to something bigger: a shared sense that this pocket of Toronto was thriving not just in amenities, but in spirit.

Spring arrived early, and with it came an explosion of life along Queen Street East. Sidewalk patios popped up faster than ever, filled with neighbours lingering over coffee and dogs snoozing under tables. Local cafés rolled out new seasonal menus, and it felt like everyone had a favourite pastry they were evangelizing to friends. Storefronts refreshed their windows with art by local illustrators, turning casual walks into mini gallery tours. Even the trees seemed to cooperate, bursting into bloom all at once and stopping foot traffic for impromptu photo sessions.

One of the year’s quiet triumphs was how Leslieville doubled down on community. Pop-up markets became a regular thing, often organized with just a few weeks’ notice and a lot of goodwill. Residents showed up in droves, buying handmade ceramics, vintage clothes, and bread that sold out by noon. Musicians set up on corners or in parkettes, giving the neighbourhood a casual soundtrack—nothing flashy, just good music floating through the air while kids danced and adults pretended not to.

Green spaces played a starring role in 2025. Parks felt more animated than ever, hosting movie nights, yoga meetups, and long, lazy picnics that stretched into golden evenings. Community gardens expanded, with more plots and more people willing to get their hands dirty. There was something grounding about seeing neighbours who’d once only exchanged nods now swapping tomatoes and tips about soil.

The food scene had a particularly great year. A handful of new spots opened, each one adding something distinct without disrupting the neighbourhood’s easygoing rhythm. Family-run restaurants earned loyal followings almost overnight, and old favourites found new life through refreshed menus or collaborations with local brewers and bakers. Dining in Leslieville in 2025 felt less like chasing trends and more like being welcomed into someone’s ongoing story.

Perhaps the most wonderful thing, though, was the mood. In a city that can sometimes feel rushed or distant, Leslieville in 2025 leaned into kindness. People held doors, learned each other’s names, and showed up when it mattered—whether for fundraisers, clean-up days, or just to support a neighbour’s new venture. There was a shared sense that this was a place worth caring for.

By the end of the year, Leslieville hadn’t transformed into something unrecognizable. Instead, it had become a little more itself: more connected, more creative, and more confident in the quiet joy of being a neighbourhood where good things happen—often without making a big deal about it.