Cabbagetown

Average sold price freehold (2009): $628,526; (2010): $729,180

Lowest price sold (2009): $401,000; (2010): $447,500

Highest price sold (2009): $1,100,000; (2010): $1,275,000

Average sold price condo (2009): N/A; (2010): N/A

Postal code: M4X

Boundaries: Rosedale Valley Rd — Gerrard St E, Parliament St — D.V.P.

Closest Subway Station: Castle Frank

Cabbagetown was given its name in 1840, when poor Irish immigrants fled the potato famine in Ireland and settled in the area. They lived off of the cabbages they planted in their gardens. The significantly historic area has seen a lot of change over the last century, in the early 1900’s it was one of Toronto’s biggest slums until the 1970’s when it was gentrified by affluent professionals. Presently, the quaint neighourhood is home to many of the city’s musicians, artists and writers. Also a designated business improvement area, Cabbagetown hosts the annual ‘Cabbagetown Festival’ bringing the neighbours together and stimulating local business.

Real Estate: Some of the nicest heritage-designated Victorian, Gothic Revival and Queen Anne architectural-style houses can be found in Cabbagetown. It’s rare to see these gems for sale, but they’re worth well over a million.

The smaller dead end streets just south of St. James cemetery are lined with hundred year old houses that are both stately, and remarkable, unlike any other neighbourhood in the city. Residents of the neighbourhood take great pride in their homes, and it’s common to see gorgeous gardens and well decorated lawns surrounding the houses.

Parks: Riverdale Farm is located between Sumach and Bayview. The scenic 7.5 acre park has an actual farm and farmers market. Admission is free, and visitors can also wonder around the pathways, wooded areas, and gardens.

Hot Spots:

Jet Fuel – 519 Parliament St.
This fun café is famous for its coffee, music and offbeat characters.

OMI – 241 Carlton Street
Sushi lovers rejoice. An Asian minimalist dream, the restaurant is a creative vision.

Sweet Creamery – 521 Parliament Street
Sweet Creamery is Cabbagetown’s home for delicious gelato, ice cream and pastries.