13 Best Neighbourhoods in Edmonton: What Is Edmonton's Best Place to Live?

Exploring the best neighbourhoods in Edmonton, Alberta, can help you find the perfect place to call home in this vibrant city. Edmonton offers a variety of neighbourhoods, each with unique features and amenities. From Old Strathcona's historic charm to Windermere's modern conveniences, there's something for everyone. Other notable areas include Glenora, known for its beautiful homes and tree-lined streets, and downtown Edmonton, offering an urban lifestyle with proximity to shops, restaurants, and entertainment. 

Whether you’re a resident looking to relocate or a prospective resident considering moving to Edmonton, exploring some of the city’s best neighbourhoods can help you find your ideal community.

List: Best Neighbourhoods in Edmonton

• Ritchie
• Old Strathcona
• Glenora
• Highlands
• Windermere
• Downtown Edmonton
• Oliver
• Garneau
• Griesbach
• Aspen Gardens
• Greenfield
• Queen Alexandra
• Westmount

Ritchie

Exploring Ritchie's diverse housing options and lively community atmosphere can give you a glimpse into the vibrant lifestyle this Edmonton neighbourhood offers. Homes in Ritchie typically list from the $300s to $1 million, though the neighbourhood’s share of the new construction homes in Edmonton can top $1.6 million. The neighbourhood boasts historic homes that add character and charm to the area, attracting those who appreciate unique architecture.

Ritchie isn't only about housing; it also offers a variety of outdoor activities for residents to enjoy. The Ritchie Community League organizes events and initiatives that foster a sense of community and belonging. Additionally, it’s one of the best neighbourhoods near the University of Alberta, so there are educational opportunities and a youthful energy.

For those looking to dine and shop locally, Ritchie Market serves as a central hub with various options to explore. Whether you're a student at the University of Alberta or a family seeking a dynamic community, Ritchie has something for everyone.

Old Strathcona

Old Strathcona beckons visitors with its trendy Southwest Edmonton atmosphere, historic charm, and vibrant mix of boutiques and eateries. This neighbourhood is a hub for arts and culture, boasting historic buildings that house unique boutiques, art galleries, music shops, and trendy restaurants.

Homes in Strathcona are a unique blend of single-family homes, condos, and Edmonton townhomes, with prices covering a broad price range. Condos list from the mid-$100s, and while most homes are priced below $1 million, some stunning detached historic homes can top $3 million.

Take a stroll down Whyte Avenue to explore the diverse food options, from southern BBQ at MEAT to vegetarian delights at Cafe Mosaics. The Old Strathcona Farmers Market is a must-visit for fresh produce and handmade crafts, while shops like Bamboo Ballroom for fashion, Gravitypope for shoes, and Wee Book Inn for used books offer a unique shopping experience.

Whether you're a foodie, art enthusiast, or history buff, Old Strathcona has something to offer everyone.

Glenora

Heading to Northwest Edmonton just outside the city centre, Glenora is an older neighbourhood that attracts residents with its mature foliage and proximity to the North Saskatchewan River Valley and MacKinnon Ravine Park. Glenora offers various real estate options, including custom new skinny homes, some of the most beautiful luxury homes in Edmonton, and some historic homes.

The neighbourhood features four schools, providing educational options for families, ranging from public institutions like Glenora Elementary School to private establishments like St. Vincent Catholic Elementary. Residents in Glenora enjoy inner-city amenities and a park-like estate living experience in the central corridor. Homes for sale in Glenora range from the high $100s to more than $3 million, with tons of options for small condos up to luxurious estates.

The community in Glenora is known for its vibrant and diverse atmosphere, fostering a close-knit environment where residents can engage in community events organized by the active community league. Glenora might be the perfect fit for you if you seek a neighbourhood rich in history, greenery, and a strong sense of community.

Highlands

Directly south of the Montrose neighbourhood, Highlands boasts a picturesque location overlooking the North Saskatchewan River valley in Northeast Edmonton. Annexed in 1912, Highlands won its name through a contest offering a $50 prize.

Bordered by the Newton neighbourhood, Beverly Heights, and the Bellevue community, the Highlands offers easy access to Wayne Gretzky Drive interchanges. This facilitates travel to notable destinations south of the river, like Whyte Avenue and the University of Alberta.

Nearby attractions include Northlands, Commonwealth Stadium, and Concordia University of Edmonton. The Highlands Community League, established in 1921, plays a pivotal role in the community, managing a community hall, outdoor rink, and lawn bowling club at 61 Street and 113 Avenue.

If you seek a charming residential neighbourhood with a rich history and stunning views, Highlands in Edmonton is worth considering for your next home.

Windermere

Located in Southwest Edmonton and bordered by Ellerslie Road, 170 Street SW, and Terwillegar Drive, Windermere is a thriving neighbourhood with a population of 2,136 as of 2012. Known for its upscale living, Windermere overlooks the stunning Saskatchewan River valley, offering residents a picturesque setting for everyday life.

One of Edmonton’s most expensive neighbourhoods, Windermere is in high demand due to its proximity to recreational facilities, stunning architecture, and tree-lined streets. Windermere's appeal extends beyond its scenic views, as it boasts a range of amenities, including top-notch educational facilities like St. John XXII and Constable Daniel Woodall School.

Most homes in Windermere list for between $300,000 and $2 million, though a number of sprawling homes can reach $4 million and were constructed by some of the most sought-after home builders in Edmonton. The neighbourhood's boundaries include Anthony Henday Drive and the river valley, enhancing its charm and desirability among those seeking a premium living experience.

Downtown Edmonton

Explore the city's vibrant heart by delving into the bustling streets and cultural hubs of Downtown Edmonton. This urban lifestyle hotspot boasts a rich cultural scene with landmarks like Rogers Place and the Edmonton Ice District. Positioned at a central location, Downtown Edmonton offers easy access to key institutions such as the Winspear Centre and Citadel Theatre, making it a haven for art enthusiasts.

Homes in Downtown Edmonton usually list from $100,000 to $1 million, but luxury penthouses can top $3 million. Embrace the green spaces and lively atmosphere at Churchill Square, the nucleus of the Arts District, where community events and festivals flourish. Enjoy the convenience of the underground pedway system connecting various government and civic centers like the Alberta Legislature Building.

With unparalleled access to the Edmonton economy and development projects like Station Lands, Downtown Edmonton provides various retail options and amenities. Immerse yourself in the dynamic energy of this historic district, where urban planning, historic sites, and a robust transportation infrastructure converge to create a vibrant and thriving community.

Oliver

Nestled in Central Edmonton directly next to the downtown core and overlooking the scenic North Saskatchewan River valley, Oliver boasts a vibrant mix of residential, commercial, and cultural amenities.

Known for its high-rise apartments and condos, this neighbourhood has seen significant redevelopment since the 1960s; today, nearly 20,000 residents call it home. It offers various housing options, such as rented apartments, condos, duplexes, row houses, and single-family dwellings. Homes in the Oliver neighbourhood are usually priced from $150,000 to $750,000, though a small number of luxury homes can exceed $2 million.

Oliver features strip shopping centers like Unity Square and Unity Square West and a bustling commercial scene on Jasper Avenue and 124 Street. The area also hosts prominent places of worship, such as St. Joseph’s Basilica and Beth Shalom Synagogue.

Surrounded by Queen Mary Park, Central McDougall, and Westmount, Oliver's geographical charm is enhanced by its proximity to the North Saskatchewan River and downtown core, making it a desirable location for those seeking urban living with a touch of nature.

Garneau

Garneau, one of the most walkable neighbourhoods in Edmonton, offers a blend of historic charm, vibrant entertainment options, and convenient transportation access. Named after Laurent Garneau, one of its original settlers, this neighbourhood is steeped in history. Garneau is situated west of Strathcona and east of the University of Alberta campus, making it a popular choice for students.

The area boasts high-rise condominiums and low-rise apartment buildings, with homes in Garneau typically priced from $100,000 to the $700s.  

Entertainment in Garneau thrives with the iconic Garneau Theatre located within the neighbourhood, providing residents with a unique cultural experience. Additionally, Garneau is a stop on the High Level Bridge Streetcar route, enhancing its connectivity to the city.

Residents also benefit from easy access to various bus routes, the University Transit Centre, and LRT station, facilitating travel to Whyte Avenue and the University of Alberta. With its proximity to the North Saskatchewan River valley and an array of amenities, Garneau offers a well-rounded living experience in Edmonton.

Griesbach

Griesbach, a developing Edmonton community located directly north of the Rosslyn neighbourhood, holds a rich history as the former site of the CFB Griesbach military base. Named after William Griesbach, this area saw its land transferred to Canada Lands Company for redevelopment, with ongoing projects from the Crown corporation.

The neighbourhood houses around 5,000 residents and offers a mix of detached homes and Edmonton condos. Griesbach is bounded by 153 Avenue, 97 Street, 137 Avenue, and Castle Downs Road. This evolving community is expected to be accessible by the Metro Line LRT in the future.

Homes in Griesbach are generally priced from the mid-$200s to just under $1 million. Amenities such as shopping centers like Northgate Centre and North Town Centre, located at the intersection of 137 Avenue and 97 Street, cater to residents' needs. The Griesbach Community League plays a pivotal role in fostering connections and organizing events for community engagement.

Aspen Gardens

Located in Southwest Edmonton, Aspen Gardens is a vibrant neighbourhood known for its demographics, surrounding areas, and community league involvement. Homes for sale in Aspen Gardens typically list from $150,000 to $2 million, offering something for virtually every home buyer.

This neighbourhood boasts quiet streets and proximity to vast green spaces, providing a safe environment for residents. Aspen Gardens is bordered by Whitemud Creek Ravine—home to some of the best hikes and walking paths in Edmonton—offering a picturesque natural boundary and recreational opportunities.

Adjacent to Aspen Gardens are Whitemud Creek Ravine, Lansdowne, Malmo Plains, and Greenfield. The Aspen Gardens Community League, established in 1966, plays a vital role in community engagement. The league maintains a community hall and outdoor rink at 120 Street and 39A Avenue, serving as a hub for various activities and events.

Aspen Gardens' proximity to well-established communities like Greenfield and Royal Gardens enhances the neighbourhood's appeal and sense of community.

Greenfield

The Greenfield neighbourhood, situated directly east of the Aspen Gardens community, is a vibrant neighbourhood known for its residential charm and community amenities. The majority of residences in Greenfield were constructed between the 1960s and 1980s, with a high percentage of single-family dwellings. The neighbourhood offers a much smaller price range than most other areas, with prices ranging from $500,000 to just under $700,000.

The neighbourhood boasts amenities like the Petrolia Shopping Centre, three schools, and easy access to Southgate Centre and LRT stations, making using Edmonton’s public transit system a breeze. The Greenfield Community League, established in 1967, maintains a community hall, outdoor rink, and tennis courts for residents to enjoy.

The neighbourhood's thriving arts scene and diverse residential construction make Greenfield an attractive place to live, as evidenced by its community amenities and facilities that cater to the needs of its residents.

Queen Alexandra

With a mix of residential and commercial areas, Queen Alexandra in Edmonton, AB, offers a vibrant neighbourhood experience. Homes for sale in Queen Alexandra are generally priced from the low $100s to just over $1 million. 

Residential development in Queen Alexandra began with the City of Strathcona, showcasing a blend of historical and modern residences. Approximately 15.6% of homes were built pre-World War II, while 31.9% were constructed in the 1970s, indicating ongoing redevelopment. 

Queen Alexandra's accessibility to the University of Alberta campus and downtown via 109 Street and 104 Street makes it an attractive location for students and professionals. Regarding access to Edmonton’s schools, the neighbourhood is home to schools operated by both the Edmonton Public School System and the Edmonton Catholic School System. With various recreation facilities and proximity to Mill Creek Ravine, Queen Alexandra offers a diverse and dynamic living environment.

Westmount

Developed in the 1910s to cater to young professionals, Westmount in Edmonton boasts a mix of historic and modern residences, attracting residents seeking a vibrant living environment. The neighbourhood features a significant number of historic homes in Craftsman or Four Square styles, contributing to its charm and character.

Westmount also offers a variety of amenities, including proximity to Government House, Coronation Park, and the Telus World of Science, providing recreational opportunities for residents of all ages. Schools like Discovery Time Preschool and Westglen Elementary School with the IB Middle Years Program cater to the educational needs of families in the area.

When it comes to residential development, Westmount predominantly consists of single-family detached houses, with a trend towards increasing home ownership. Homes for sale in Westmount are typically priced from $150,000 to $1 million, though some of the most expensive condos in Edmonton can be found here too, listing for more than $5 million. 

The neighbourhood's access to shopping areas along 124 Street and upscale centers on 102 Avenue make it convenient for residents to fulfill their shopping needs. With its blend of history, amenities, schools, and residential development, Westmount offers a well-rounded living experience in Edmonton.

Edmonton’s Best Neighbourhoods Await

As you navigate Edmonton's diverse neighbourhoods, consider what each area offers to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Whether you're drawn to vibrant cultural scenes and historic charm or seeking one of Edmonton’s most affordable communities, the city has a neighbourhood for everyone. Explore these neighbourhoods to discover where you can best enjoy the rich quality of life Edmonton has to offer. Welcome to your new home in Edmonton!