Condos for Rent in Yorkville, Toronto, ON

Yorkville is a neighbourhood of prime importance for a number of reasons. Geographically, it’s the first neighbourhood one encounters when heading into downtown Toronto; historically, it’s a place where musicians and writers found inspiration in the 1960s; and culturally, Yorkville is current-day a hangout for Toronto’s most posh celebrities (and those visiting the city).

In case living in an area that once roused the likes of Margaret Atwood and Neil Yonge isn’t impressive enough, anyone inhabiting a Yorkville condo for rent can brag to their friends and family that they live amongst some of the most expensive real estate in the city. Purchasing a Toronto condo for sale in the neighbourhood will likely set a buyer back upwards of one million dollars, which is perhaps why others prefer to rent.

Not only is the residential real estate in Yorkville expensive, but the commercial real estate is no different. The stretch of shops along Bloor Street is also known as ‘Mink Mile,’ and constantly makes it onto lists of the most expensive shopping streets in the world. That said, more affordable stores like the Gap, Winners, the Bay, and Nordstrom Rack can also be found along Bloor.

Those who prefer to avoid shopping altogether needn’t worry: there are plenty of other diversions to be found in Yorkville. Perusing artifacts at the Royal Ontario Museum is a great way to spend the day indoors, while those who care about ceramics and nothing else can spend hours getting lost inside the Gardiner Museum. Thanks to the numerous luxury hotels in Yorkville, high tea is also always an option. When making a decision between the modern Park Hyatt and the old-fashioned Windsor Arms, there’s simply no wrong answer.

Studious types may enjoy spending Saturday afternoons at the Toronto Reference Library, the largest branch of what happens to be the world’s busiest urban library system. The Reference Library attracts more than just bookworms, though: the building’s unique architecture makes it a destination for Instagrammers, design buffs, and even couples in search of the perfect wedding venue.

Really, though, the best thing to do in Yorkville is to grab a coffee and stroll through the neighbourhood’s charming streets. Wandering in and out of shops, taking a rest in the Village of Yorkville Park, and picking up groceries at Whole Foods makes for a fun and fulfilling day for Yorkville residents. With the neighbourhood extending from Davenport to Charles Street West, and from Avenue Road to Yonge Street, there’s always something new to discover in Yorkville.

While the abundance of single-family homes in Yorkville might make some renters nervous, the neighbourhood actually has quite the balance between houses and multi-residential buildings. In fact, there are over 50 condos spread throughout the neighbourhood — some of which contain hundreds of suites — meaning it shouldn’t be too difficult to find a Yorkville condo for rent.

As is the case in other neighbourhoods as well, luxury condos for rent in Yorkville can often be found by looking to the hotels in the area. The Residences at Windsor Arms and the Four Seasons Private Residences are lavish to say the least, although renters should remember that the price tags of these homes will certainly reflect their status.

New condos seem to be appearing in Yorkville all the time, meaning renters have more and more to choose from every day. That said, a great option for those on a tighter budget is to look for a unit in an older building. Thankfully Yorkville has been developed for some time now, with buildings like the Renaissance Plaza and 15 McMurrich St standing since the 1980s.

While technically speaking it’s not a competition, it would be silly not to mention the buildings in Yorkville that offer the ultimate in square footage. Those looking for as much space as possible can take a look at the Regency Yorkville, with suites reaching to nearly 6,000 square feet, the Florian, with homes spanning almost 7,500 square feet, and No. 10 Bellair, with suites that cover just over 6,000 square feet at their largest.

Yorkville’s central location makes it easier than ever to get around the city, no matter how one prefers to do so. Those with cars, for one, have access to major arterial roads that will help them reach surrounding areas with ease. Bloor Street, for example, can be used to reach Koreatown, Greek Town, and the Bloor West Village, as well as to connect onto the Don Valley Parkway to the east. Yonge Street and Avenue Road (which becomes University to the south) are ideal for those heading south into the downtown core, and both can be used to ride north toward the 401 as well.

As for those who prefer to travel via public transit, it doesn’t get much better than living in Yorkville, as both major subway lines are in close reach. Those heading east and west along the Bloor-Danforth line can hop onto trains at Bloor-Yonge or Bay Stations, while anyone traveling north or south can start their journey at Bloor-Yonge or Museum Station.

Leaving the city altogether is also simple when renting a condo in Yorkville. Pearson International Airport takes just 45 minutes to reach via TTC or the UP Express, while a drive to the airport takes around 25 minutes when traffic is light. Travelers heading to neighbouring cities, on the other hand, can reach Union Station in just 10 minutes via the Yonge subway line, from which they can transfer onto VIA Rail and GO Trains heading out of town.

The Locals: A group with some serious bragging rights.

Code of Conduct: Spa days and high tea might not be everyday activities for Yorkville residents, but it’s good to know they’re available for when the time comes.

What You’ll Find: Some of the most luxurious real estate, shopping, and dining options in the city.

What You Won’t Find: Cheap rent.

The Homes: Large and luxurious homes, plus some relatively affordable options for those who are willing to hunt.

Sealing the Deal: The location, the history, and the celebrity sightings