Glen-Shields, York

Between Dufferin Street and Highway 7, Glen Shields is a well-established residential neighbourhood in Vaughan, Ontario. It offers a mix of urban convenience and suburban peace. With green spaces and family-friendly amenities, it’s ideal for those seeking a quiet yet convenient location. Developed during the 1970s and 1980s, Glen Shields is characterised by its modest detached, back splits and link-style homes, providing a good range of choices to those looking for a place to settle.

One of Glen Shields's major highlights is its proximity to essential services. It is also close to a major shopping destination, which attracts many visitors and gives residents easy access to various retail options. Moreover, it boasts multiple recreational and entertainment facilities catering to all ages. With Vaughan's rapid growth and evolvement, Glen Shields remains a popular choice for new homeowners and seasoned investors. Its easy connectivity to key commercial and industrial hubs, particularly the surrounding Concord District, makes it a highly sought-after neighbourhood.

Glen Shields has an impressive livability score of 81 out of 100, reflecting its strong appeal and convenient lifestyle. The neighbourhood is particularly attractive due to its affordability, with the cost of living approximately 8% less than the Vaughan average. This makes Glen Shields an appealing option for those looking for quality living without a higher cost. However, it should be noted that the crime rate in the area is 21% above the average for Vaughan.

Glen Shields offers a relatively safer environment with a 39% lower crime rate than Canada's national average. In terms of violent crimes committed in the area, it is 37% less than Canada’s national average, offering the residents peace of mind and securing the neighbourhood’s position as a safe place to live. 1 in 39 likelihood of becoming a crime victim indicates a low risk compared to other areas. Moreover, Glen Shields is safer than 56% of the cities across Ontario.

Glen Shields hosts a diverse community with an average household income of 23% more than Canada’s average, indicating a strong economy. The unemployment rate in Glen Shields is low, with a 28% average rate lower than that of Canada. This reflects the availability of job opportunities in the area, making it an attractive choice for professionals. The income distribution in Glen Shields shows a diverse economic level, with 4.2% of the population earning $20,000 or below, 11.8% with an income bracket between $80,000 and $100,000 and 3.8% with a higher income segment of $300,000 or higher.

Glen Shields is a lively and close-knit community with a higher population density of 168% than Vaughan’s average. The neighbourhood hosts a mature population of 22% more than the average of Vaughan. Moreover, it is a diverse community of 16.83% South Asians, 9.36% Chinese and 9.21% African-Americans, indicating an inclusive atmosphere.

Glen Shields is surrounded by several neighbourhoods, which enhances its appeal and accessibility. Some of the nearby neighbourhoods include:

• Concord
• Dufferin Hill
• Thornhill
• Kleinburg
• Maple
• Patterson

Schools

Glen Shields is outperforming Canada’s average test score by 6%, reflecting a strong educational environment. Some of the reputed public and private schools in the area are given below:

• EE La Fontaine
• Louis Honore Frechette PS
• Glen Shields PS
• Hodan Nalayeh SS
• ES Norval-Morrisseaus
• Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic ES
• EEC Le Petit Prince
• St Elizabeth Catholic HS
• ESC Renaissance

Restaurants

From fine dining experiences consisting of international platters to casual quick bites, Glen Shields offers numerous establishments reflecting its multicultural community. Below are popular among the locals:

• Melody Restaurant
• Deedar Persian Restaurant
• HanOak Korean Restaurant
• Dejavu Mediterranean Cuisine
• Kotsy’s Breakfast and Lunch
• Kavkaz Grill Georgian Restaurant

Shopping Malls

From fast fashion to essential shopping and speciality stores, the shopping malls in Glen Shields cater to a wide range of retail customers. The options within easy reach are:

• Dufferin Steeles Center
• RioCan Marketplace
• Promenade Shopping Centre
• Wilshire Plaza
• Dufferin Corners
• Vaughan Mills
• Pond Mills Centre
• Finchurst Plaza

Hospitals

Glen Shields has several medical centres and hospitals with cutting-edge technology and specialised treatments. Hospitals nearby are given below:

• Humber River Hospital
• Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital
• North York General Hospital
• Scarborough Health Network- Birchmount Hospital
• Markham Stouffville Hospital
• Mississauga Hospital

Glen Shields is surrounded by several remarkable attractions that offer residents and visitors several experiences. Here are some of the top attractions and places to visit near Glen Shields:

G Ross Lord Park

Located in North York, G Ross Lord is a beautifully manicured urban park with expansive green spaces, walking trails, and picnic areas. The park’s calm environment makes it ideal for families, joggers, and nature lovers to relax and enjoy outdoor activities.

Claireville Conservative Area

The Claireville Conservative Area, which spans 848 hectares, is a vast natural reserve home to diverse wildlife. This attraction, located a short drive from Glen Shields, is a local’s favourite destination for hiking and bird watching.

Chester Hill Lookout

Offering an impressive panoramic view of Toronto’s skyline, Chester Hill Lookout is an offbeat location with calm surroundings. It is perfect for enjoying the silhouette of the city during sunset and sunrise. The spot is a favourite among photographers or those seeking an escape from the city.

Roundhouse Park

In Downtown Toronto, Roundhouse Park is a unique historical site that houses the Toronto Railway Museum, railway artefacts and neatly restored locomotives. This house takes history enthusiasts on a walk through Toronto’s railway history.

Glen Shields is a neighbourhood packed with a diverse range of activities for residents and visitors. Here are some of the top things to do in Glen Shields:

Enjoy a Day at Glen Shields Park

Glen Shields Park is a favourite for families. With playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails, you can spend your afternoon playing sports, enjoying a walk, or having a picnic.

Join Fitness Classes at Vaughan City Hall Gym

Vaughan City Hall Gym offers various fitness classes, including yoga, pilates, and strength training. It’s a great place to stay active, meet new people, and participate in community fitness initiatives.

Attend Workshops at Dufferin Clark Community Centre

Located just a short distance from Glen Shields, Dufferin Clark Community Centre organises art classes, cooking workshops, or fitness training, allowing people to acquire new skills while engaging with the community.

Participate in Arts and Crafts Workshops at Kortright Centre for Conservation

The Kortright Centre for Conservation organises seasonal arts and crafts workshops that focus on nature-inspired creativity. These workshops are perfect for families and individuals looking to connect with the environment through art.

Glen Shields, Vaughan, Ontario, offers convenient access to several key locations in the Greater Toronto Area. Here are the distances and commute times from Glen Shields to some well-known locations:

• Downtown Toronto is around 21 kilometres away and takes 40 to 45 minutes by car.
• Toronto Pearson International Airport is just 25.8 kilometres from Glen Shields, and it takes about 20 to 25 minutes to reach by car.
• The Vaughan Metropolitan Centre (VMC) is a short 4.8-kilometre drive, typically taking around 10 minutes.
• York University is 8 kilometres away, with a commute of about 15 minutes by car.
• Canada's Wonderland is located 16.8 kilometres from the neighbourhood and requires a 15-minute drive.

Glen Shields is surrounded by several farmers' markets that provide fresh, locally sourced produce and artisanal goods. Some of these markets are as follows:

Spring Farm Marketplace

Spring Farm Marketplace is a favourite among the locals. It is known for fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. Whether you're looking for seasonal fruits and vegetables, homemade preserves, or speciality items, it is an excellent spot for those who appreciate high-quality, locally sourced food and want to support local vendors.

North York Farmers’ Market

Located in Mel Lastman Square, the North York Farmers’ Market operates every Thursday from 8 am to 2 pm. This market offers a wide range of fruits, vegetables, honey, maple syrup, flowers, and artisanal goods. Visitors can also enjoy freshly baked breads, pastries, cheeses, and cured meats. With a focus on quality and safety, it's a popular destination for Glen Shields residents seeking fresh and unique local products.

Village Market

Village Market is another great option for residents in Glen Shields looking for fresh, organic, and locally sourced products. This market operates within the Toronto Waldorf School every Saturday from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm. It is particularly known for its focus on organic and biodynamic farming, making it a favourite among those prioritising healthy and sustainable food options.

Downsview Park Merchants Market & Farmers Market

Located within Downsview Park in Glen Shields, Downsview Park Merchants Market & Farmers Market is home to over 500 vendors offering a wide range of fresh produce, international foods, artisanal goods, and unique finds. It’s a multicultural hub where you can explore diverse culinary delights, shop for handmade crafts, and discover speciality items from local and international merchants.

Woodbridge Village Farmers Market

Woodbridge Village Farmers Market, located in Woodbridge Memorial Arena, is open from June to October on Saturdays. It is committed to promoting local agriculture and provides a community-oriented shopping experience with a welcoming atmosphere. In addition to shopping for organic produce, visitors can enjoy live entertainment and special events.

Glen Shields is a densely populated neighbourhood with a population density of 168% more than the average of Vaughan. The community features a mature and older demographic, with the median age being 22% above the city’s average population. The neighbourhood is also notable for its rich cultural diversity, with 16.83% of residents identifying as South Asian, 9.36% as Chinese, and 9.21% as African-American. This blend of age and cultural backgrounds creates a multicultural environment, making Glen Shields a unique and welcoming community.

Glen Shields also has a lot to offer for families with kids and pets. Here are some top spots you can explore:

Jungle Land

Jungle Land is an expansive indoor playground exclusively for kids of all ages. It is designed to offer a kids-friendly, safe, and fun environment and features play structures, slides, ball pits, and jungle-themed activities.

Bzz-E-Kidz

Located in Thornhill, Bzz-E-Kidz is an indoor play centre for entertaining children. The centre hosts after-school programs and sports leagues, focusing on team-building and skill development in a fun, supportive setting.

Legoland Discovery Centre

Situated near Vaughan Mills, Legoland Discovery Centre is an exciting attraction for Lego enthusiasts educational outing with the kids. This creative place includes interactive Lego-themed rides, building workshops, and a miniature Toronto skyline constructed entirely from Lego bricks.

G Ross Lord Park

G Ross Lord Park is a kid- and pet-friendly open park. Its playgrounds offer many activities, from picnicking to playing catch with your dog.

Sherwood Park

Sherwood Park is another wonderful outdoor spot for children and pets to play in. It provides a more intimate setting with playgrounds and sports facilities.

Allan Gardens

Allan Gardens in Downtown Toronto is a historic conservatory with a beautiful collection of exotic plants. Its surrounding park is ideal for strolling with your pet.

Given its suburban setting with contemporary facilities and conveniences, the cost of living in Glen Shields is quite affordable. Compared to the average of Vaughan, it is 5% on the lesser side. However, compared to Canada's national average, it is on the higher side by 6%. This indicates the host of unmatchable amenities the neighbourhood offers, which garnered its appeal. Regarding housing, Glen Shields is considered an affordable option with an average of 2% less than the nation’s average.

The Glen Shields real estate market remains competitive. It provides many housing options and well-maintained properties with prices reflecting the neighbourhood's established appeal. Homes in Glen Shields typically sell between $1.02 million and $1.40 million, offering a suburban lifestyle with easy access to the Greater Toronto Area. The average rental prices in the area range from $3,000 to $4,000 per month, ideal for families and professionals seeking a comfortable, convenient location.