Toronto Semi-detached homes offer a unique blend of affordability, space, and investment potential, making them an attractive option for many homebuyers. This comprehensive guide delves into the current market trends, benefits and drawbacks, prime neighbourhoods, and investment considerations for semi-detached homes in Toronto.
What Is a Semi-Detached Home?
A semi-detached home is a single-family dwelling that shares one common wall with another unit. Each unit has its own separate entrance and typically its own front and back yards. This housing style provides more privacy than a townhouse and is generally more affordable than a fully detached home. In Toronto, semi-detached homes are prevalent in many neighbourhoods, offering a balance between urban living and personal space.
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Semi-Detached Homes Toronto Market in 2025
As of March 2025, the average price of a semi-detached home in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is approximately $1.11 million, marking a slight decrease of 0.9% from the previous year. In the City of Toronto, prices are higher, with some areas averaging around $1.34 million, reflecting the city’s desirability and limited housing supply.
The market is currently favouring buyers, with a sales-to-new-listings ratio (SNLR) of 29%, indicating a buyer’s market. Despite this, semi-detached homes remain in high demand due to their relative affordability and investment potential.
Pros and Cons of Semi-Detached Homes
Pros of Semi detached homes in Toronto:
- Affordability: Semi-detached homes are generally less expensive than detached homes, making them accessible to a broader range of buyers who prefer home ownership versus buying a condo in Toronto.
- Space and Privacy: They offer more space and privacy than condominiums or townhouses, often including private yards and separate entrances. As well, your home is built right on the property line on the side you share with your neighbour – this means the interior can feel larger.
- Investment Potential: These homes often hold their value well and can be attractive rental properties, especially in desirable neighbourhoods.
- Lower Utility Costs: Sharing a wall can lead to reduced heating and cooling expenses.
Cons of Semi detached homes in Toronto
- Shared Wall: Noise can transfer between units, potentially affecting privacy.
- Maintenance Coordination: Exterior maintenance may require coordination with the adjoining homeowner to ensure consistency. As well, your neighbour may not have the same home maintenance standards as you do.
- Neighbour Issues: You are living in close proximity to your neighbour. Literally sharing a wall with them. Consequently, this can result in issues due to noise transfer, different lifestyles, and house maintenance. For example, we sold a semi-detached home in few years ago because our client lived next to a hoarder who refused to maintain their home properly.
Top Toronto Neighbourhoods for Semi-Detached Homes
East York – Danforth Village
Overview:
East York, particularly around Danforth Village, is a top destination for families and first-time buyers. The area is filled with 2-storey semi-detached homes from the 1920s–1950s, often with charming brick façades, front porches, and small yards.
Commute & Transit:
- TTC: Line 2 (Bloor-Danforth) runs directly through this area. Woodbine, Main Street, and Coxwell stations are within walking distance for most residents.
- Commute Time: ~20–25 minutes by subway to downtown core.
- Driving: 15–30 minutes depending on traffic via Don Valley Parkway.
Why It Stands Out: It’s affordable by Toronto standards and offers great schools, parks, and community programs for young families.
Parks: Taylor Creek Park, Stan Wadlow Park (outdoor pool, baseball diamonds, off-leash dog park).
Schools: Secord Elementary School, D.A. Morrison Middle School.
Lifestyle: Danforth Avenue is packed with independent bakeries, Greek and Middle Eastern restaurants, and family-run shops.
Roncesvalles
Overview:
Roncesvalles is a west-end gem, beloved for its blend of Polish heritage, leafy streets, and family-centric vibe. Semi-detached homes here are typically Edwardian-style with deep lots and period details like stained glass and wainscoting.
Commute & Transit:
- TTC: Queen, King, and Dundas streetcars offer 24-hour service, connecting directly to downtown or to the Bloor subway line via Dundas West Station.
- Commute Time: ~30–40 minutes to downtown via transit, ~20 minutes driving.
Why It Stands Out: Community spirit, walkability, and a timeless charm make Roncesvalles a top choice.
Parks: Sorauren Park (dog park, farmers’ market), and proximity to High Park (Toronto’s largest park).
Lifestyle: Quiet side streets, active local BIA (Business Improvement Area), cozy cafes, bookstores, and bike-friendly paths.
Schools: Fern Avenue Junior and Senior Public School, High Park Alternative School.
Leslieville
Overview:
One of the most gentrified neighbourhoods in the east end, Leslieville offers stylish semi-detached homes on quiet tree-lined streets with easy access to downtown. The homes tend to be narrow but feature updated interiors and historic exteriors.
Commute & Transit:
- TTC: Queen streetcar runs 24/7 and connects to Line 1 at Queen Station.
- Commute Time: 20–25 minutes to downtown by transit or car.
- Cycling: Excellent bike lanes along Dundas and Queen.
Why It Stands Out: Urban and family-friendly with one of the highest appreciation rates for semi-detached homes in the city.
Parks: Greenwood Park (ice rink, pool), Jonathan Ashbridge Park.
Lifestyle: Trendy restaurants, breweries, and design studios. Perfect for creative professionals and young families.
Schools: Morse Street Public School, Riverdale Collegiate Institute.
The Junction
Overview:
Located just north of High Park, the Junction is a former industrial district turned artsy urban village. Semi-detached homes here are typically early 1900s builds, often renovated with modern interiors while maintaining heritage charm.
Commute & Transit:
- TTC: Easy access to Dundas West Station (Line 2) and UP Express.
- Commute Time: ~25–35 minutes to downtown.
- Car Access: Quick drive to major highways via Keele and St. Clair.
Why It Stands Out: It’s a more affordable High Park alternative with immense upside for buyers and investors.
Parks: Vine Avenue Parkette, Malta Park.
Lifestyle: Artisanal coffee, vegan eateries, antique shops. No alcohol was sold here until 2000 — which only adds to its quirky backstory.
Schools: Annette Street Junior and Senior Public School, Indian Road Crescent Jr Public School.
Corso Italia-Davenport
Overview:
Often overlooked in favor of Little Italy or Wychwood, Corso Italia is an emerging west-end hub that blends traditional Italian culture with multicultural vibrancy. Semi-detached homes are brick two-storeys, often upgraded by long-time owners.
Commute & Transit:
- TTC: St. Clair streetcar offers dedicated lanes for speedy access to Line 1 and midtown.
- Commute Time: ~25 minutes to Yonge & Bloor, ~35–40 minutes to Financial District.
- Future Transit: Ontario Line will improve access even more.
Why It Stands Out: Offers excellent value and access to transit, plus cultural flair and tight-knit community vibes.
Parks: Earlscourt Park (soccer fields, playground, splash pad), Wadsworth Park.
Lifestyle: Authentic gelato shops, bakeries, and Latin American and Caribbean influence.
Schools: Loretto College School, St. Clare Catholic School.
Bloorcourt Village & Wallace Emerson
Overview:
North of Bloor between Dufferin and Lansdowne, these neighborhoods are in the midst of revitalization. Semi-detached homes here are relatively affordable compared to west-end prices further south, making it a draw for value-conscious buyers.
Commute & Transit:
- TTC: Dufferin, Lansdowne, and Ossington stations on Line 2.
- Commute Time: 15–20 minutes to the downtown core.
- Car Access: Quick access to Bloor and Dupont Streets.
Why It Stands Out: This is one of the best-kept secrets for buyers looking to grow their equity while living close to downtown.
Parks: Wallace Emerson Park, Dovercourt Park.
Lifestyle: Local cafés, bars, art spaces. Gritty but full of potential — and rising fast.
Trinity-Bellwoods
Overview:
This is where trendy meets tranquil. Trinity-Bellwoods features early 1900s semi-detached homes, many updated with modern interiors while maintaining heritage exteriors. The area is beloved by creatives, young families, and downtown professionals.
Commute & Transit:
- TTC: Queen and Dundas streetcars connect directly to Line 1.
- Commute Time: ~15–20 minutes to downtown core by transit.
- Car Access: Via Ossington, Bathurst, or Spadina.
Why It Stands Out: Few neighborhoods offer this much energy, green space, and real estate appreciation potential all in one.
Parks: Trinity Bellwoods Park (off-leash dog area, tennis courts, art markets).
Lifestyle: Buzzing restaurants, artisan bakeries, local boutiques, and farmers’ markets.
The Annex
Overview:
Home to scholars, artists, and long-time Toronto elites, The Annex is famous for its grand old homes, many of which are semi-detached or converted duplexes from the early 1900s. The neighborhood blends bohemian vibes with intellectual energy due to its proximity to U of T.
Commute & Transit:
- TTC: Spadina, Bathurst, and Dupont stations serve the area (Lines 1 & 2).
- Commute Time: ~10–15 minutes to Financial District via subway.
- Walking: One of the most walkable neighborhoods in the city.
Why It Stands Out: The Annex is a rare combo of heritage homes, cultural prestige, and direct subway access — a winning mix for urban families or professionals.
Parks: Jean Sibelius Square, Taddle Creek Park.
Lifestyle: Bookstores, indie cinemas, espresso bars, and historic pubs.
Cabbagetown
Overview:
Cabbagetown is one of Toronto’s most historic and visually striking neighborhoods, with a large concentration of Victorian and Edwardian-era semi-detached homes, many lovingly restored. Its tree-canopied streets and tight-knit community make it feel like a village within the city.
Commute & Transit:
- TTC: Accessible via College, Gerrard, and Parliament streetcars, or a 10-minute walk to Sherbourne or Castle Frank stations (Line 2).
- Commute Time: ~15 minutes by transit to downtown core.
- Cycling: Excellent access to bike lanes and Don Valley trails.
Why It Stands Out: If you want timeless architecture in a picturesque, peaceful setting that’s still walking distance to downtown — Cabbagetown is unbeatable.
Parks: Riverdale Farm, Allan Gardens Conservatory, and Wellesley Park.
Lifestyle: Quaint cafés, small bookshops, yoga studios, and organic markets.
Little Italy
Overview:
Centered around College Street, Little Italy offers a tight mix of cultural tradition and youthful vibrancy. Semi-detached homes here range from original brick Edwardians to modern infills, often featuring laneway garages and basement apartments.
Commute & Transit:
- TTC: College streetcar runs 24/7 to Queen’s Park and Line 1.
- Commute Time: ~20 minutes to downtown.
- Walk Score: Exceptionally high.
Why It Stands Out: Its mix of history, nightlife, and walkability make it one of the hottest real estate spots for young professionals and couples.
Parks: Bickford Park, Fred Hamilton Park.
Lifestyle: Italian cafés, pizzerias, gelato shops, indie cinemas like The Royal.
Little Portugal
Overview:
Located west of Trinity-Bellwoods and stretching along Dundas West, Little Portugal offers excellent value with a strong community vibe. Semi-detached homes are usually post-war or 1920s builds, often upgraded with modern finishes.
Commute & Transit:
- TTC: Dundas and College streetcars connect to Line 1 and 2.
- Commute Time: ~25–30 minutes to the downtown core.
- Driving: Easy access to Queen West and Lake Shore Blvd.
Why It Stands Out: Rapidly gentrifying but still affordable compared to Trinity-Bellwoods, it’s a smart long-term play for buyers seeking culture and potential.
Parks: McCormick Park (community centre, hockey arena), Dufferin Grove Park.
Lifestyle: A mix of Portuguese bakeries, trendy cafés, galleries, and music venues.
Investment Considerations
Semi-detached homes in Toronto present a compelling investment opportunity. They often yield better returns compared to townhouses and a higher potential for rental income. Additionally, their relative affordability allows investors to enter the market at a lower price point while still benefiting from property appreciation.
However, it’s essential to consider factors such as location, property condition, and market trends when investing in semi-detached homes. Generally, properties in high-demand neighbourhoods with access to transit and amenities tend to perform better in terms of both rental income and resale value.
Tips for Buyers
- Conduct Thorough Inspections: Ensure that the shared wall is well-insulated to minimize noise transfer. Also, inspect areas that are touching your neighbour’s home such as the roof, masonry, driveway, and grading for water runoff.
- Understand Maintenance Responsibilities: Clarify with the adjoining homeowner regarding shared maintenance tasks to avoid future conflicts.
- Research Neighbourhoods: Choose areas with strong community engagement, good schools, and access to public transportation to enhance long-term value.
- Consult Real Estate Professionals: Work with agents experienced in semi-detached properties to navigate the complexities of these transactions effectively.
Conclusion
Overall, semi-detached homes in Toronto offer a unique blend of affordability, space, and investment potential. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or an investor, understanding the nuances of this housing type can help you make informed decisions in Toronto’s dynamic real estate market. Call us at 416.457.6088 or email [email protected] with any questions about your home buying journey.