Hillcrest Village’s history dates back to the 1840s when English reformer Robert John Turner founded the settlement of Bracondale village, which spread around Christie and Davenport. It was added to the city of Toronto in 1909 and later demolished to make way for Hillcrest Park. The area is now comprised of two neighbourhoods — Hillcrest and Humewood (or the Woods, as the locals like to call it).
Vibe
This mature neighbourhood lives in the shadows of its well-to-do neighbour, Forest Hill. But it redeems itself through its location nestled on the ridge of the Davenport escarpment, which has resulted in a distinct topography. Whimsical two-storey houses with three bedrooms rule the quiet tree-lined streets, affording charming views. Whether it’s Tudor, English cottage or Edwardian style, architecture comes in various shapes and sizes. The oldest houses were built in the late 1800s and early 1900s; the youngest between 1910 and 1930. Residents tend to live here for decades.
Cost
The average price of housing is about $921,804 with detached houses accounting for 45 per cent of sales, according to Realosophy Realty Inc. Brokerage.
• The renovated gem at 32 Wychwood Ave. is from the Victorian era. The price: $987,000.
• The three-bedroom house at 81 Arlington Ave. has been renovated with designer touches, such as a Jenn-Air refrigerator. It’s priced at $1.249 million.
• At 111 Helena Ave. is another renovated three-bedroom house, priced at $1.125 million.
Community
Green areas are at every turn: Cedarvale Park to the north and Hillcrest Park to the south. This area is also home to Artscape Wychwood Barns, a 60,000-square-foot community cultural hub, which plays host to the Stop’s Farmers’ Market. And let’s not forget that the Salsa on St. Clair street festival returns on July 4 and 5.
Grub
The dining scene has exploded here in recent years, attracting creative newcomers like the Rushton (a French bistro owned by the same family behind nearby long-standing Ferro) and the Stockyards (a diner-style joint serving up finger-licking-good fried chicken).
Shops
From eco-friendly lifestyle products at EcoExistence to children’s toys at Playful Minds, independent retailers and small convenience-type stores make up the Hillcrest shopping district. So expect customer service with a personal touch.
Walkability
Homes in the area rank in the “high” range in walkability, thanks to the proximity of local schools, shops, restaurants and public transit.
Commute
Hillcrest Village is well-served by public transit: the streetcar on St. Clair Avenue West and the buses along three major roads. The area also abounds with one-way streets and cul-de-sacs, which help to minimize traffic. Motorists, too, have it pretty good, with both downtown and the Allen Expressway just 15 minutes away.
Schools
This area is home to a few public schools, including Winona Drive Public School and McMurrich Junior Public School.
