For those new to the GTA or looking to buy a home in Toronto, it can be a bit difficult to understand where the city ends and another municipality begins. In Etobicoke, one of several communities amalgamated under the banner of the Greater Toronto Area, you have a safe and affordable area that attracts young professionals, seniors, and families. Etobicoke is a deceptively large area. Here is a glimpse into precisely how big Etobicoke is.

Is Etobicoke A City?

Etobicoke is in Toronto. It is not a city though it once was. Prior to 1998, Etobicoke operated as its own municipality within the regional government of Metropolitan Toronto. However, during the amalgamation of Toronto in 1998, Etobicoke was merged along with Scarborough, North York, York, East York, and Old Toronto to create the single-tier City of Toronto that exists today.

These days, Etobicoke, pronounced “Et-uh-bi-coh,” is a large and diverse district located in the western part of the City. On its own, Etobicoke covers an expansive area of 123 square kilometres, or 47 square miles, making it one of the largest of the six former municipalities that were amalgamated.

Bordered by the Humber River to the east, Mississauga to the west, Steeles Avenue to the north, and Lake Ontario to the south, Etobicoke’s geographic size is impressive and its terrain varies from urban high-rises to quiet suburban streets and waterfront trails.

Despite the technical change, many people still colloquially refer to Etobicoke as if it were its own city. This is likely due to its size, independent vibe, and rich historical identity. It has its own civic centres, libraries, parks, and even a downtown-like hub in areas like Islington and Kipling, which give it a city-within-a-city atmosphere.

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Etobicoke Profile: What People Love About The Area

Etobicoke’s extensive land area allows for a wide mix of neighbourhood types, amenities, and green spaces, giving the region a unique feel compared to more densely populated downtown Toronto.

Its size also means there’s a lot of diversity, both demographically and geographically.

The area includes a variety of residential zones, business parks, industrial areas, and major shopping destinations like Sherway Gardens. Whether you’re looking for walkable urban enclaves or peaceful cul-de-sacs, Etobicoke’s size offers room for it all.

Etobicoke is well connected by highways and transit, with major arteries like the Gardiner Expressway, Highway 427, and Highway 401 running through or near the area. Public transportation is also robust, with access to TTC subway stations, GO Transit, and bus routes that make commuting across the GTA manageable.

Why People Move To Etobicoke

Many people choose to move to Etobicoke because it offers a rare blend of affordability, space, and convenience, especially compared to Toronto’s downtown and midtown areas. Homebuyers often find that they can get more square footage and even detached homes for the same price as a one-bedroom condo closer to the core.

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The Balance

Etobicoke is loved for its balance of city convenience and suburban calm. Residents frequently cite the area’s quiet, tree-lined streets, larger lot sizes, and proximity to nature as the top reasons they love living here. Etobicoke also offers many of the perks of city life, including great restaurants, access to public transit, and retail hubs, without the intensity of Toronto’s downtown core.

The Parks and Greenery

One of the standout features of Etobicoke is its access to green space and water. The district is home to several beautiful parks and trail systems, including Colonel Samuel Smith Park, Centennial Park, and Humber Bay Park. Many of these areas border Lake Ontario, providing scenic waterfront views and recreation options like cycling, kayaking, and nature walks.

The Communities

The area’s neighbourhoods are another highlight. Communities like The Kingsway, Mimico, Long Branch, and Alderwood each have their own character, architectural styles, and amenities.

The Diversity

Cultural diversity is another defining trait. Etobicoke is home to thriving communities of Italian, South Asian, Ukrainian, Polish, Filipino, and Caribbean heritage, among many others. This has shaped a rich cultural tapestry reflected in its food scene, religious institutions, festivals, and local businesses. The warmth and welcoming nature of its residents make it an inviting place for newcomers.

Connect with the South Etobicoke real estate team of Adrian + Andrea for more information on where to buy a home in Etobicoke and how you can tap into some of the most accessible real estate in the city. Call (416) 319-6893 or email info@adrianandrea.com to get in touch.