The area north of Lawrence and south of Loblaws on either side of Yonge is commonly referred to as North Toronto. The west side of Yonge is usually called the John Wanless area after the neighbourhood public school. The area on the east side of Yonge is known as either the Wanless Park area after the park or the Bedford Park area after the neighbourhood public school. They’re not quite like East Berlin v. West Berlin, but there are times when you’d think there’s a wall running along Yonge Street separating the John Wanless area from the Bedford Park area.

It’s not that the people in John Wanless dislike the people from Bedford Park or vice versa. And it’s not that they’re so different from each other because the people and the neighbourhoods are very, very similar. It’s just that over the years I’ve found that while some people are happy to live on either side of Yonge, there are also people who, for one reason or another, will live on one side but not the other.

Here are some similarities and differences for you to consider if you’re looking for a home in North Toronto so you can decide if you prefer one side over the other or if you’re okay with either side.

Similarities Between the John Wanless and Bedford Park areas

• You’ll find pretty much the same mix of home styles and lot sizes on both sides of Yonge, except for a few streets around Wanless Park on which you might find a larger home on a larger lot.
• For the most part, housing prices are pretty much the same, too.
• The two neighbourhoods are also very similar demographically, being made up of a mix of long time residents who are gradually being replaced by young professionals and their families.
• The public schools in both neighbourhoods have excellent reputations.
• There’s a terrific community spirit on both sides of Yonge.
• You’ll have great neighbours whichever side you’re on.
• Simply put, you won’t go wrong no matter which side of Yonge you live on.

What Makes John Wanless Special?

• John Wanless Public School’s reputation is widely known and is one of the reasons the neighbourhood is so popular right now.
• You’ll have more shopping and restaurant options on this side of Yonge since you’ll have access not only to what’s available on Yonge, but also to the shops and restaurants on Avenue Road.
• Some people find the streets to be prettier because the homes are somewhat more uniform in appearance.
• It’s closer to Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute.
• It’s also closer to the Fairlawn and Armour Heights Community Centres, two places you might find yourself taking your kids to for pre-school or after school activities.

What Makes Bedford Park Special?

• Bedford Park Public School has a very good reputation, as well. It goes until grade 8 so there’s no need for your kids to switch schools for middle school. It also has a swimming pool that’s used as part of the phys. ed. program.
• Wanless Park. Period. Many people want to live on the east side of Yonge because they want to be close to this large park with its playground, wading pool, tennis courts and baseball and soccer fields. It’s a wonderful place for kids. But keep in mind that you’ll pay a premium to live close to the park because those homes are in higher demand.
• There’s less traffic on the east side of Yonge because fewer people cut through from Mt. Pleasant to Yonge on the Bedford Park side of Yonge than from Yonge to Avenue on the John Wanless side of Yonge.
• Mount Pleasant can be a quick route to downtown, as can the Bayview extension, both of which are close by.
• It’s closer to the Toronto French School, if that’s in your plans.
• The ravine system can be accessed through Sunnybrook Park (east of Bayview) and through Alexander Muir Park which is just south of Lawrence.

As you can see, both neighbourhoods are great so it boils down to a personal choice. You’ll likely be happy on either side unless you have a definite reason for living on one side instead of the other (for example, if you’d like to be within walking distance of Toronto French School). If I’ve missed something about these neighbourhoods, please let me know because I love to learn about the little things that make them so special.

And if you know of anyone who’s looking for an honest realtor who really knows his stuff and who doesn’t pressure his clients, Please Don’t Keep Me a Secret. I really appreciate your referrals. Thanks for reading and don’t be shy if you have any questions or comments!