a

The GTA’s Top-Ranked Neighbourhoods for Shopping

If engaging in an afternoon of retail therapy sounds appealing to you, then check out these top-ranked GTA neighbourhoods for shopping.

By Sandra De Grandis | 8 minute read

Apr 20

Wahi analyzed data from Local Logic, a location intelligence platform, to rank GTA neighbourhoods in Toronto, York, Peel, Durham, and Halton regions in 11 categories based on lifestyle, needs, goals and interests. Wahi’s Where to Live 2023 rankings consider neighbourhood attributes such as nearby schools, transit quality, park spaces, access to restaurants and shopping, and more.

 

From the well-known Square One shopping centre in Mississauga, to the bohemian indie shops of Toronto’s Kensington Market, it’s no surprise that shopping in the GTA is anything but boring. If you’re not sure where the best shops or niche boutiques are, don’t worry, because we’ve got you covered. We’ve ranked the GTA’s top neighbourhoods for shopping, based on several factors such as walkability, accessibility, and of course, the number of stores in each area.

Where to Live: Durham

As a decidedly suburban region, Oshawa/Durham still has its fair share of quaint antique shops, specialty boutiques, and local retailers who specialize in handmade fare like soaps, candles, and jewelry. The locals have plenty of options, and can opt for a more commercialized shopping experience, browse a pop-up shop, or explore the farmer’s markets and artisan studios.

1. Pickering Town Centre, Pickering

Prior to the 1960s, this central east neighbourhood was mostly agricultural. Walking through the area today you’d never know it. The rural landscape has been replaced with many service and commercial establishments, including plenty of shopping spots, such as the self-titled Pickering Town Centre Mall.

Check out:

  • Pickering Town Centre Mall: There are over 150 stores to choose from, so you’re bound to find something.
  • Couture Consignments: Browse high-end designer labels like Chanel, Gucci, and Dior at bargain prices at Couture Consignments.
  • Saks Fifth Ave OFF 5th: Get great deals on over 800 designer brands at Saks Fifth Ave.

2. Central Oshawa, Oshawa

As with any downtown core, you know you’ll have your pick of shops and boutiques to choose from in Central Oshawa. The Oshawa Centre Mall, the city’s largest shopping centre in Durham region (and in Ontario east of Toronto) has all the most popular brand name stores such as Aritzia, Sephora, Roots, Pandora, Uniqlo, and more!

3. Pickering Village, Pickering

This historic enclave is a mixture of old world charm and modern-day establishments, so it’s essentially the best of both worlds. For some rustic retail therapy, head over to The Courtyard. You can’t miss it — it’s literally surrounded by Tudor-style buildings. You’ll also find nearby vintage shops such as Vintage Vendors and the latest fashions at Spiro’s Furs.

Where to Live: Halton

When it comes to retail therapy, Oakville/Halton usually isn’t the first spot that comes to mind. You may think of it as a more suburban area, but the region has undergone tremendous population growth over the years. And with that growth comes an exponential increase in retail establishments, most notably, shopping centres

1. Freeman, Burlington

This little enclave is situated in the middle of Burlington, just north of the city centre. Commonly referred to as Freeman Village, this is a tranquil neighbourhood dotted with tree-lined streets. Because of its short distance to downtown Burlington, Freeman residents can just as easily hit up Banana Republic as they can the local Value Village thrift shop — all of which are a short drive away. 

Check out:

  • Burlington Centre: With 721,000 square feet of shopping space, you won’t leave the Burlington Centre Mall without a bag or two.
  • Mapleview Shopping Centre: You can shop your favourite upscale retailer and then grab a bite to eat at Mapleview.
  • Value Village: Score some deals on newer fashion items or spend some time browsing for more vintage looks, books, or household items.

2. Burlington Waterfront, Burlington

Situated on the banks of Lake Ontario, there’s more to the Burlington Waterfront than scenic views and picturesque sunsets, especially when it comes to shopping. For more conventional fashion shops, there’s always Burlington Centre. Vintage shoppers will love perusing The Rustic Rose – Antiques & Vintage. But if you want something a bit more rustic and idyllic, the walkable Village Square will make you feel like you’ve been transported into a quaint English town.

3. Old Oakville, Oakville

Old Oakville is another waterfront neighbourhood just a hop and a skip away from the downtown core, which means Oakville Place and its selection of upper-end lifestyle clothing is easy to get to. You can also snag some trendy threads at Anthropologie, MUST Boutique, Burrows Clothiers, and other one-of-a-kind stores as you stroll along Lakeshore Boulevard.

“Toronto is without a doubt the best place for shopaholics to do what they do best. No matter what part of the city you find yourself in, you can bet your bottom dollar that you won’t leave empty handed. “

Where to Live: Peel

As one of the fastest growing regions in the GTA, Mississauga/Peel has a lot to offer its residents. While it may not have the ultra high-end shops, nor the off-beat, hole-in-the-wall boutiques of its world-famous sibling city to the east, it does have bragging rights over the other regions by having the largest mall in the province smack dab in the downtown core.

1. Mississauga City Centre, Mississauga

The aptly named Mississauga City Centre is located in the heart of Mississauga. As one of Canada’s most diverse cities, this bustling neighbourhood has undergone tremendous growth over the years. It’s also home to one of the biggest malls in Ontario, and the second largest in all of Canada. With over 300 stores to choose from, Square One gives a whole new meaning to shop til you drop.  

Check out:

  • Square One Shopping Centre: From high-end brands like Rolex to more budget-friendly brands like H&M and Zara, there’s something for everyone here.
  • La Maison Simons: At La Maison Simons you’ll find women and men’s designer clothes, accessories, shoes, and even home decor.
  • Throwback Vault: Discover the best vintage fashions from decades past at the Throwback Vault.

2. Downtown Brampton, Brampton

Downtown Brampton offers big-city opportunities minus the population density. As the hub of Brampton, there’s nothing you won’t find in this vibrant downtown core. If you prefer to do all your shopping in one place, check out Brampton Mall or Bramalea City Centre — which is just a short drive away. For unique pieces, accessories, and purses, head over to Restyle Boutique to find your special outfit.

3. Queen Street Corridor, Brampton

Located in the heart of Brampton, this commercial corridor is chock-full of specialty shops, boutiques, and other retail space. Journey Thrift is the local neighbourhood thrift store, where you can find everything from recycled clothing, books, homeware — even affordable luxury brands if you look hard enough. For a one-stop shopping experience, Bramalea City Centre is just a stone’s throw away.

Where to Live: Toronto

Toronto is world-famous for many things: the Raptors, Drake, the CN Tower, its critically acclaimed food scene. As the country’s biggest city and perhaps unofficial capital, Toronto is without a doubt the best place for shopaholics to do what they do best. No matter what part of the city you find yourself in, you can bet your bottom dollar that you won’t leave empty handed.

1. Yorkville, Toronto

Posh. Upscale. Affluent. These are just some of the words that come to mind when you hear the name Yorkville. As the Canadian capital of consumerism, this neighbourhood is the go-to spot if you like high-end designer labels, fine dining and people watching. Burberry, Prada, Hugo Boss, Chanel — there’s no shortage of ultra-luxury brands in Yorkville. It’s also home to Mink Mile, one of the most luxurious shopping streets in North America.

Check out:

  • Yorkville Village: Distinctive boutique shops that you won’t find anywhere else. 
  • The Cat’s Meow: This consignment shop sells vintage couture and luxury designer brands from the 1920s – 1980s.
  • Aritzia: Fashionable women’s clothing for all occasions that won’t break the bank.

2. St. Lawrence, Toronto

This neighbourhood is home to the eponymous (and world-renowned) St. Lawrence Market, but did you know that besides its culinary acclaim, it’s also a great place for some retail therapy? Take a stroll down the Esplanade, a popular shopping destination for the locals, or even Front Street for some more unique spots. The Eaton Centre is a short jaunt away on foot, if you enjoy the trappings of a mall.

3. Kensington, Toronto

Kensington is probably hands down the most eclectic and diverse neighbourhood in downtown Toronto — and it truly shows through the colourful murals and storefronts. Vintage boutiques, such as Courage My Love and Lost Boys Vintage, and indie shops like Bubble Gum Fashion and Dancing Days, are just a handful of the clothing stores that you can easily browse in this walkable neighbourhood.

We put the real back in real estate.

Join Wahi today and find out how easy it is to get real estate in Canada.

Where to Live: York

Southern Ontario, just north of Toronto is where you’ll find Markham/York. The region’s denizens enjoy the harmony of a suburban lifestyle, but are close enough to the big city to enjoy the perks without the bustling atmosphere. Being in close proximity to Toronto doesn’t mean you need to take downtown whenever you want to shop. Strip malls and shopping centres have popped up along major routes like Highway 7, so residents have everything they need nearby.

1. Pine Valley Business Park, Vaughan

Don’t let the name fool you — there’s more to Pine Valley Business Park than commercial establishments. There happens to be a healthy blend of residential homes, offices, and storefronts in this part of town. Residents have a plethora of options to choose from, including the Westbridge Shopping Centre and the Colossus Centre. There you’ll see popular retail outlets such as Winners, Guess, Sephora, and even homeware shops like HomeSense and Structube..

Check out:

  • Baldani: Find stylish and trendy ladies’ fashion for special occasions, casual events, or everyday wear. 
  • Marshalls: For those looking to score a deal on brand-name clothing, shoes, accessories, and more.
  • Backdoor Vaughan: A store specifically for sneakerheads, you’ll want to check it out if collecting the latest (or rarest) kicks is your thing.

2. Bullock, Markham

As the largest neighbourhood in central Markham, Bullock is a low-key community with easy access to Toronto thanks to the major highways nearby. But you don’t need to make the drive to Toronto in order to shop. Markville Shopping Centre is the area’s largest mall with over 140 stores, including Hudson’s Bay, MUJI, Addidas, and Hollister, to name just a few.

3. Unionville, Markham

Unionville is a quaint, tree-lined neighbourhood in central Markham that’s home to various attractions and retail spaces. One of the most popular and picturesque attractions is the historic section of Main Street. Niche shops on Main Street like Silver Tulip Boutique specialize in high fashion Indian wear, while Lemonwood Unionville’s focus is on designer products made from natural fibers.

Sandra De Grandis

Wahi Writer

Become a Real
Estate Know-It-All

Get the weekly email that will give you everything you need to be a real estate rockstar. Stay informed and get so in the know.

Yes, I want to get the latest real estate news, insights, home value
estimates emailed to my inbox. I can unsubscribe at any time.

Wahi

Get so in the Know

On everything real estate.

From the latest Canadian housing market trends and stories, to insider tips and tricks.

By clicking “subscribe”, you agree to receive emails from Wahi. You always have the option to unsubscribe at any time, see our privacy policy for more details.