Toronto neighbourhoods with the best schools

A Guide to Toronto’s Top School Zones and Family-Friendly Neighbourhoods

When it comes to buying a home in Toronto, priorities vary—some buyers focus on commute times or walkability, while others zero in on one key factor: school quality. For many families, finding a home within the boundaries of a top-ranked Toronto school is the #1 goal.

Toronto is home to some of the best school districts in Ontario, with highly rated elementary and secondary schools across the city. The Fraser Institute regularly publishes school rankings and report cards, offering an at-a-glance view of academic performance across neighbourhoods. 

Searching for homes near the best schools in Toronto? Here are a few of the most sought-after neighbourhoods for education-focused buyers—where location and learning go hand in hand.

Top Schools In The Annex

Charming, eclectic, and effortlessly cool — The Annex is one of Toronto’s most iconic downtown neighbourhoods. Known for its heritage homes, leafy streets, and vibrant energy, this area is steps from the University of Toronto, Bloor Street boutiques, and a thriving arts and foodie scene. Residents love the easy transit access, walkability, and rich character that blend old-world charm with modern city life. Whether you're catching a show at the ROM or sipping espresso on a historic veranda, The Annex delivers a downtown lifestyle with timeless appeal.

Nearby Public Schools & Ratings

Huron Street Junior Public School: 7.2 Fraser Score

Palmerston Avenue Junior Public School: 8.5 Fraser Score

Jesse Ketchum Junior and Senior Public School: 7.8 Fraser Score


Nearby Catholic Schools & Ratings

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School: 9.8 Fraser Score

St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School: 8.2 Fraser Score

St. Alphonsus Catholic School: 4.9 Fraser Score


Top Schools In Cabbagetown

Charming, eclectic, and rich in history, Cabbagetown blends Victorian architecture with a vibrant urban lifestyle just minutes from downtown Toronto. Known for its tree-lined streets, heritage homes, and strong sense of community, this pocket attracts professionals, creatives, and families alike. With easy access to parks, transit, and top-rated schools like Winchester Jr & Sr PS and Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School, it’s a walkable, welcoming neighbourhood where history meets modern living.

Nearby Public Schools & Ratings

Winchester Jr & Sr PS: 7.2 Fraser Score

Nearby Catholic Schools & Ratings

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic SchoolNo Fraser ranking, EQAO scores — reading – 82% (students at or above the provincial standard – Levels 3 & 4), writing – 82% (Levels 3 & 4), math – 73% (Levels 3 & 4)


Top Schools In Davisville Village

Midtown’s Davisville Village continues to be a go-to destination for families, largely thanks to top-rated schools like Maurice Cody Junior Public School and North Toronto Collegiate Institute, one of the city’s most respected secondary schools. The area features a blend of charm and convenience, with access to parks, transit, and boutique shopping. Known for its welcoming community, Davisville gives families the educational edge without sacrificing urban comforts.

Nearby Public Schools & Ratings

Maurice Cody Public School: No Fraser ranking, EQAO scores: Reading – 97% (approximately 77 of 79 students at Levels 3 & 4), Writing – 91% (approximately 72 of 79 students at Levels 3 & 4), Math – 84% (approximately 66 of 79 students at Levels 3 & 4)

North Toronto Collegiate Institute: No Fraser ranking, EQAO scores based on 78% participation — Math – 81% (approximately 169 of 209 participating students at Levels 3 & 4)


Nearby Catholic Schools & Ratings

Blessed Sacrament Catholic School: 8.5 Fraser Score

St. Anselm Catholic School: 7.3 Fraser Score


Top Schools In Don Valley Village

Don Valley Village is a North York gem known for its strong schools, green spaces, and unbeatable access to transit. With top-rated public and Catholic schools like Elkhorn PS and St. Edward Catholic, it’s a favourite for growing families. The neighbourhood backs onto serene trails, parks, and creeks, offering a peaceful retreat just minutes from Fairview Mall and the Don Mills subway. A perfect mix of convenience and community, Don Valley Village is ideal for both first-time buyers and long-time Toronto residents.

Nearby Public Schools & Ratings

Elkhorn Public School: No Fraser ranking, EQAO scores based on 100% participation — reading – 74% (approximately 26 of 35 students at Levels 3 & 4), writing – 71% (approximately 25 of 35 students at Levels 3 & 4), math – 74% (approximately 26 of 35 students at Levels 3 & 4)

Seneca Hill Public School: No Fraser ranking, EQAO scores based on 100% participation — reading – 76% (approximately 13 of 17 students at Levels 3 & 4), writing – 76% (approximately 13 of 17 students at Levels 3 & 4), math – 82% (approximately 14 of 17 students at Levels 3 & 4)

Cummer Valley Middle School: No Fraser ranking, EQAO scores based on 91% participation — reading – 85% (approximately 81 of 95 students at Levels 3 & 4), writing – 90% (approximately 86 of 95 students at Levels 3 & 4), math – 66% (approximately 63 of 95 students at Levels 3 & 4)


Nearby Catholic Schools & Ratings

St. Edward Catholic School: 8.7 Fraser Score

St. Robert Catholic School: 7.1 Fraser Score

St. Timothy Catholic School: 4.1 Fraser Score

St. Gabriel Catholic School: 4.6 Fraser Score

Top Schools In Forest Hill

Forest Hill is one of Toronto’s most prestigious and picturesque neighbourhoods, known for its tree-lined streets, grand homes, and elite schools. It blends classic charm with modern convenience, offering upscale boutiques, gourmet dining, and easy transit access. With top-ranked public and Catholic schools, plus nearby private institutions like Upper Canada College and St. Michael’s College School, Forest Hill is a top choice for families seeking excellence in education and a refined urban lifestyle.

Nearby Public Schools & Ratings

Forest Hill Junior and Senior Public School: 7.2 Fraser Score

Hodgson Middle School: 7.5 Fraser Score

Forest Hill Collegiate Institute: 7.1 Fraser Score


Nearby Catholic Schools & Ratings

Holy Rosary Catholic School8.7 Fraser Score

Top Schools In High Park & Bloor West Village

Family life thrives in High Park and Bloor West Village, two west-end neighbourhoods offering both community charm and access to some of Toronto’s best schools. Runnymede Junior and Senior Public School and Humberside Collegiate Institute are standouts, consistently scoring high for academics and student engagement. These areas boast leafy, bikeable streets, and are only a short walk from High Park—the city's largest green space—making them ideal for active, school-age families.

Nearby Public Schools & Ratings

Runnymede Jr & Sr PS: No Fraser ranking, EQAO scores based on 97% participation — Reading – 87% (approximately 86 of 102 students at Levels 3 & 4), Writing – 67% (approximately 68 of 102 students at Levels 3 & 4), Math – 83% (approximately 80 of 102 students at Levels 3 & 4)

Humberside Collegiate Institute: 8.9 Fraser Score


Nearby Catholic Schools & Ratings

St. Cecilia Catholic School: 7.7 Fraser Score

St. Pius X Catholic School: 8.4 Fraser Score

Top Schools In Lawrence Park

Lawrence Park walking path in the park. Greenery on both sides of the path.

Among Toronto’s most prestigious areas, Lawrence Park excels in both luxury living and academic opportunity. Public options like Blythwood Junior Public School and Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute are top performers, while elite private schools such as Crescent School and Havergal College are also nearby. Tree-lined streets, stately homes, and strong community values make Lawrence Park one of the best neighbourhoods in Toronto for families focused on long-term educational success.

Nearby Public Schools & Ratings

Blythwood Junior Public School: 8.6 Fraser Score

Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute: 9.5 Fraser Score

John Wanless Junior Public School: 8.3 Fraser Score


Nearby Catholic Schools & Ratings

Our Lady of Perpetual Help: 9.8 Fraser Score

Top Schools In Leaside

Leaside has earned its reputation as one of Toronto’s top family neighbourhoods, thanks in part to stellar schools like Bessborough Drive Elementary and Middle School and Leaside High School. These institutions consistently rank well provincially and offer excellent programs in academics, athletics, and the arts. Leaside also features great parks, shopping along Bayview Avenue, and easy TTC access, making it a top pick for parents who want it all—education, convenience, and community.

Nearby Public Schools & Ratings

Bessborough Drive Elementary: 7.3 Fraser Score

Leaside High School: 9.2 Fraser Score


Nearby Catholic Schools & Ratings

Canadian Martyrs Catholic School: 7.1 Fraser Score 

Top Schools In Riverdale

Located just east of downtown, Riverdale offers a mix of heritage charm and academic strength. Schools like Withrow Avenue Junior Public School and Frankland Community School are top-rated, while Riverdale Collegiate Institute is a strong performer at the secondary level. Families here enjoy tree-lined streets, farmers’ markets, and a tight-knit community vibe—plus easy access to downtown, making it one of Toronto’s most well-rounded family neighbourhoods.

Nearby Public Schools & Ratings

Withrow Avenue Junior Public School: 8.5 Fraser Score

Frankland Community School: 7.7 Fraser Score


Nearby Catholic Schools

Holy Name Catholic School: 7.3 Fraser Score 

Top Schools In Rosedale-Moore Park

Among Toronto’s oldest and most prestigious neighbourhoods, Rosedale–Moore Park is prized for its heritage homes, lush ravines, and access to some of the city’s top-performing schools. Whitney Junior Public School and Rosedale Heights School of the Arts are academic leaders, with strong reputations in both core subjects and creative programs. The area’s timeless elegance and superior school access make it a favourite for professionals with school-aged children.

Nearby Public Schools & Ratings

Whitney Junior Public School: 9.2 Fraser Score

Rosedale Heights School of the Arts: 8.6 Fraser Score


Nearby Catholic Schools & Ratings

Holy Rosary Catholic School: 8.7 Fraser Score

Top Schools In The Beaches

If lakeside living with top-notch education is on your wish list, look no further than The Beaches. Families are drawn to Kew Beach Junior Public School and Malvern Collegiate Institute, both of which deliver outstanding academic results and active extracurricular programs. The community offers a small-town feel with access to sandy beaches, waterfront trails, and excellent restaurants—proving you don’t have to give up lifestyle to get a great education.

Nearby Public Schools & Ratings

Kew Beach Junior Public School: 8.4 Fraser Score

Malvern Collegiate Institute: 9 Fraser Score


Nearby Catholic Schools & Ratings

St. Denis Catholic School: 7.6 Fraser Score 

St. John Catholic School: 7.3 Fraser Score 

Top Schools In Trinity-Bellwoods / Little Portugal

A lively, creative enclave in Toronto’s west end, this neighbourhood blends family-friendly charm with downtown edge. Anchored by Trinity Bellwoods Park and rich in cafes, boutiques, and culture, it’s a walkable, transit-friendly area with top schools like Givins/Shaw Jr. PS and St. Helen Catholic School. Perfect for those who love vibrant streets, green space, and a strong sense of community.

Nearby Public Schools & Ratings

Givins/Shaw Junior Public School7.2 Fraser Score

Ossington/Old Orchard Junior Public School7.0 Fraser Score


Nearby Catholic Schools & Ratings

St. Mary Catholic Academy (Secondary)7.2 Fraser Score 

St. Helen Catholic School: 6.6 Fraser Score 

Pope Paul Catholic School: 8.2 Fraser score

Top Schools In Willowdale East (Bayview-Sheppard)

Willowdale East is a North York favourite due to Earl Haig Secondary and the renowned Claude Watson Arts Program. This area has it all: education, entertainment, and plenty of transit options. It’s great for both long-time residents and newcomers.

Nearby Public Schools & Ratings

Claude Watson Arts Program: No Fraser ranking, EQAO scores based on 100% participation — reading – 98% (approximately 53 of 54 students at Levels 3 & 4), writing – 98% (approximately 53 of 54 students at Levels 3 & 4), math – 91% (approximately 49 of 54 students at Levels 3 & 4)


Nearby Catholic Schools & Ratings

St. Edward Catholic School: 8.7 Fraser Score

St. Cyril Catholic School: 7.8 Fraser Score 

Top Schools In Yonge & Eglinton (Chaplin Estates / Mount Pleasant West)

This dynamic hub offers a perfect blend of top-rated schools, vibrant shopping, dining, and easy subway access — making it ideal for professionals and families alike. With charming side streets like Chaplin Estates and tree-lined pockets in Mount Pleasant West, this area balances urban buzz with a cozy, residential feel.

Nearby Public Schools & Ratings

John Fisher Junior Public School: 7.6 Fraser Score

Eglinton Junior Public School: 7.4 Fraser Score

Hodgson Middle School: 7.2 Fraser Score


Nearby Catholic Schools & Ratings

St. Monica Catholic School: 6.5 Fraser Score 

Ready to find your next home in a top-ranked school district?

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