Real Estate Guide › West

Rustic

Average 2008 sale price:

$431,591

Property crime:

high

Crime against people:

very high

Neighbourhood map:

See map

Rustic’s main attractions are the Black Creek ravine running through it—which provides a much higher than average amount of green space—and the mostly Ghanaian and Caribbean Jane Street commercial strip. Originally a predominantly Italian neighbourhood, Italian is still far and away the most spoken non-English household language, with Spanish, Somali, Tamil, Vietnamese and a Ghanaian language called Akan-Twi now filling up the next five spots. The streets tend to be short and winding, cut off on all sides by the ravine, Black Creek Drive or the 401, making this community a series of pockets joined by Jane. With 46 per cent of the population living in households with incomes of less than $40,000, this is a working-class neighbourhood.

HOUSING STOCK: Though there are three 19-storey towers on Falstaff Road, the rule here is duplex bungalows built in the ’60s and ’70s. They’re generally well kept, with newer, bigger houses dotting Queen’s Drive and the little streets north off Falstaff adjacent to the 401.

BARGAIN ZONES: The best deals are found in the area surrounding the creek in the southwestern corner of the neighbourhood. Detached houses in the east are pricier.

THE VERDICT: For both inbound and outbound commuters, this neighbourhood is ideal for its proximity to two major arteries. It’s far enough from the core to be relatively inexpensive, but connected enough not to feel entirely suburban.

NEIGHBOURHOOD HOT SPOTS:
Golden Uprising While it serves vegetarian and seafood dishes, this is really more of a cultural centre, with books and CDs on Caribbean society and politics. 1806 Jane St., 416-247-1116.
SunRise Caribbean Restaurant This fast-food chain conversion has $4.99 breakfast specials with ackee, mackerel and callaloo, and a drive-through that’s open until 4 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. 2029 Jane St., 416-249-8943.