Much like the neighbouring district of Rosedale, Summerhill is one of Toronto’s earliest established downtown suburbs. Its rich history is evident in the tightly packed turn of the century homes that line the leafy residential streets.

The much-desired midtown neighbourhood is named after ‘Summer Hill House’, a cottage built by Charles Thompson in 1842 that sat on the crest of his 200-acre property. Today, the homes of Summerhill Gardens remain on that same site. As of the 1880’s, development in Summerhill was based upon the CP Railway and its grand station and clock tower standing proudly at the corner of Yonge Street and Summerhill Avenue. Still an iconic symbol for the neighbourhood, the CP Railway station now serves as the LCBO’s flagship location.

Summerhill Homes

The homes and streets of Summerhill give the area a distinctive character from its surrounding neighbourhoods. Original homes (built between 1880 and 1915) are detached and semi-detached Victorian and Edwardian style, most of which have had extensive interior updates in recent decades. A number of modern townhomes and low-rise luxury condo buildings have also sprung up in the area since the 1980’s.

Driveways are a premium in this tightly woven neighbourhood, with street permit parking being the norm.

Summerhill Real Estate Market

Summerhill has been and continues to be one of the most sought-after Toronto neighbourhoods for investment and lifestyle. Not only are the homes beautiful reflections of Toronto’s past in a time with an abundance of new construction, but the ideal midtown location cannot be surpassed. With most home being just steps from Summerhill subway station, this neighbourhood will consistently remain a savvy investment for downtown commuters who want to enjoy the quiet, safety, and parklands of midtown city life. While townhomes and low-rise condos provide some affordable options, the Victorian and Edwardian homes of Summerhill tend to be in the $1 Million and upward price range, even despite the potential lack of private parking.

Summerhill Schools

Rosedale Junior Public School
Grades JK – 6

Whitney Junior Public School
Grades JK – 6

Rosedale Heights School of the Arts
Grades 9 – 12

Gradale Academy
Grades JK – 6

Branksome Hall
Grades JK – 12, private all-girls

The York School
Grades JK – 12, private co-ed

Living in Summerhill

Summerhill is a safe, pleasant, and walkable neighbourhood just steps from the fine shops and restaurants of St. Clair, Rosedale, and Yorkville. Its positioning in the heart of midtown on the Yonge Street corridor means everything from quick errands, to fine dining are easily accessible.

In recent years, Summerhill’s Yonge street strip has become a destination for interior design with many home décor and antique shops lining the neighbourhood’s few blocks. Getting around the city is simple, with Summerhill subway station centrally located within walking distance of most homes.

A mature tree canopy, an abundance of parklands and quick access to Rosedale’s various ravines make Summerhill an extremely picturesque neighbourhood. Rosehill Reservoir Park includes Summerhill Gardens, which has a path to David A. Balfour Park and Nature Tail at its south end. The upper portion of reservoir includes a playground, wading pool, waterfall and reflecting pools.

Lionel Conacher Park (off Birch Avenue) provides additional green space for locals, just off the beaten path of Yonge Street.

Shops | Restaurants | Services | 87 Walk Score

Summerhill Area Transportation

All homes in Summerhill are within walking distance of Summerhill subway station on the TTC Yonge-University-Spadina line.

10 minute drive to Don Valley Parkway
10 minute drive to Bloor Street shopping
15 minute drive to downtown Toronto