Formerly known as Norway because of the many Norway Pines that were grown and harvested in this area, the Upper Beaches grew steadily in population throughout the early 1900s. The area was mostly a working-class neighbourhood of Toronto where many labourers lived with their families as a cheaper and more affordable alternative than living in the more expensive and affluent Beaches area to the south. In the later half of the 20th century, much of the original industries that populated this area were forced out and much large housing developments rose up in its place.

Today, the Upper Beaches is a lovely neighbourhood situated close to downtown Toronto. It is a primarily middle and upper class community that is full of many small shops and restaurants. The heart of the Upper Beaches extends around Kingston Road.