Finding a house in Toronto for under $500,000 is not easy today. But it is not impossible either. Some neighbourhoods still have homes in this price range. These homes are often small or need upgrades. But they offer great value for first-time buyers. You can still build equity and enjoy living in the city. Let’s explore the best areas in Toronto where you can find homes for less than $500,000.
Scarborough: One of the Best Places to Start
Scarborough is one of the few areas where homes cost less. You can find small detached homes, townhomes, and older condos. Many homes are priced under $500,000. This part of the city is in the east. It is popular for its parks, schools, and shopping. The Scarborough Town Centre is a major mall here. Public transit is also very reliable in this area. Several bus and train routes connect Scarborough to downtown. The area is home to many schools and family services. This makes it a good choice for young families. Many people who work downtown live here. It gives you more space for less money. You also get a strong and welcoming community. In short, it’s a growing area that offers value.
East York: Quiet Streets and City Access
East York is one of Toronto’s older areas. It still has some affordable homes. These include small bungalows and older semi-detached houses. Some units in low-rise buildings also fall under this price. The area feels like a small town inside the city. It is close to the Danforth, which has many shops and cafes. You can find parks, public pools, and community centres here. Many young families live in East York. The area is also popular with first-time buyers. Public transit runs well in this neighbourhood. Buses and subways help you get around fast. East York feels peaceful but stays well-connected. If you want quiet living and city access, this area works well.
North York: Diversity, Space, and Convenience
North York is a big part of Toronto. It stretches across the city’s northern side. Many different communities live here. It has condos, townhomes, and a few smaller houses. Some of these homes fall under the $500,000 range. This area is known for its diversity and many schools. You will also find shopping centres, libraries, and subway stations. North York is a hub for public transit and services. It’s easy to travel downtown from here. The neighbourhood has several parks and community centres. It’s a great choice for newcomers to Toronto. If you want space, access, and culture, try North York. You can find good deals if you look early.
Weston: Hidden Value Near the Core
Weston is a lesser-known part of Toronto. It sits in the northwest part of the city. The area has seen some new growth in recent years. It still has affordable homes under $500,000. Most of these homes are older but well built. Weston has a strong local feel with a close community. There are schools, parks, and small shops nearby. Public transit also works well in this area. The UP Express train stops in Weston. It takes you downtown in just 15 minutes. This makes Weston great for daily commuters. The area also has a mix of townhomes and low-rise buildings. Some buyers see it as a smart long-term choice. Weston offers hidden value in a growing city.
Final Thoughts
Prices in Toronto continue to rise every year. But some neighbourhoods still offer good deals. Areas like Scarborough, East York, North York, and Weston have homes under $500,000. These places give you access to transit, schools, and parks. They also have a strong community feel. Many first-time buyers look to these areas for a fresh start.
If you can’t find a house, you can also explore condos. There are condos for sale in Toronto that cost under $500,000. These can be a good option for small families or singles. You can also think about future projects. Some preconstruction condos for sale in Toronto are priced well today. They may grow in value by the time you move in.
In short, it is still possible to live in Toronto on a budget. You just need to look in the right places and act fast.