The Best Family-Friendly Communities in Edmonton to Settle Down
Best Family-Friendly Communities to Settle Down
If you’re looking to move your family to Edmonton, Alberta, there are several neighborhoods that combine strong schools, safe streets, green space, and community amenities. Below are five top choices — each with its own vibe and advantages.
1. The Hamptons (West Edmonton)
Why families like it:
- Low crime rate and built with family-living in mind (lots of pathways, ponds, playgrounds) fastmove
- Good access to shopping, schools and community amenities fastmove
- A mix of housing at relatively good value for a west-end suburb fastmove
Things to check: - While there is good access to shops and schools, if you commute downtown you’ll want to test drive the route during peak times.
- Some newer sections mean landscaping and tree cover may still be maturing.
2. Summerside (South Edmonton)
Why families like it:
Features a private freshwater lake with swim/beach/ice activities — a standout recreation asset. fastmove
Strong family demographic and many parks/play areas. fastmove
Things to check:
Because it has premium amenities, home prices tend to be higher. If budget is tight you may want to compare.
If your work/school is far north or east, consider the commute from the south side.
3. Windermere (Southwest Edmonton)
Why families like it:
- Modern homes, plenty of green space, good retail and dining nearby — great for balancing convenience & family life. fast move
- Strong school options and safe, community-oriented design. fastmove
Things to check: - Because of newer development, landscaping and lot-maturity may not be as established as older suburbs.
- Higher-end budget may be required to move into top sections.
4. Terwillegar Towne (Southwest Edmonton)
Why families like it:
Walkable streets, well-planned neighbourhood design, parks & recreation at your doorstep. samdeol.com+1
Strong sense of community and family-friendly lifestyle. Live Bravo YEG
Things to check:
Some sections might still be under development—so amenities, shops or transit could be in build-out phase.
Again, commuting and access to major transit may vary—worth visiting at different times.
Why families like it:
Offers good value for families seeking newer homes and community amenities.
Things to check:
As with newer areas, some retail or infrastructure may still be catching up.
If you have specific school or program needs, check the catchment and capacity, because newer communities sometimes grow fast.
How to Choose the Right Community for Your Family
Here are key factors to weigh when picking a neighbourhood:
- Schools & daycare proximity: Visit the nearby schools, check ratings and commute/travel time for children.
- Parks, nature & walkability: If outdoor time, walking, biking are important, prioritise neighbourhoods with trails, playgrounds and green space.
- Commute & access to work/amenities: Consider your daily commute, and where the shops/medical/entertainment are. A great suburb won’t matter if you spend too long travelling.
- Budget vs value & future-growth: Older communities may offer value but more maintenance; newer ones offer perks but cost more. Consider resale and long-term growth.
- Community vibe & fit: Visit the neighbourhood at different times (weekend, evening) to see if it “feels right”—quiet vs busy, young families vs mixed demographics, etc.
Family Community FAQs
Ready to find a backyard big enough for a trampoline? Contact us to set up a family-focused viewing tour.
Which Edmonton neighbourhoods have the best elementary schools?
According to the Fraser Institute 2024/2025 rankings, the top public and Catholic elementary schools are heavily concentrated in:
Grandview Heights: Grandview Heights School (Academic focus).
Riverbend: Earl Buxton and George H. Luck.
Windermere: Constable Daniel Woodall.
Glenora: Glenora School (IB Program).
What is the average price for a 3-bedroom family home in these areas?
Family-sized homes (2,000+ sq. ft.) command a premium in these top zones. As of late 2025:
Riverbend (Ramsay/Bulyea): $650,000 – $800,000 (Older, renovated).
Summerside: $550,000 – $725,000 (Plus HOA fees).
Griesbach: $575,000 – $750,000 (Premium for detached garage homes).
Glenridding: $525,000 – $650,000 (Newer builds, smaller lots).
Are there extra costs to live in amenity-rich communities?
Yes. In “Lake Communities” like Summerside, Jensen Lakes (St. Albert), or Crystalina Nera, you must pay a mandatory HOA fee.
Summerside Fees (2025): Approx. $508 – $1,000/year depending on proximity to the lake.
Orchards at Ellerslie: Approx. $400/year for access to the clubhouse and rinks.
How do I check if a home is in the “Lottery Zone” for a school?
This is critical. Even if you buy in a neighbourhood, the school might be full.
Step 1: Go to the [Edmonton Public Schools “Find a School”] tool.
Step 2: Type in the exact address of the listing.
Step 3: Look for a “Lottery Process” warning. If listed as Level 3, your child is not guaranteed a spot even if you live next door.
Which communities have the best playgrounds?
Newer suburbs are winning this battle. Chappelle Gardens, Secord, and The Hamptons feature modern, rubber-base playgrounds and expansive spray parks funded by developer levies. Mature areas like Glenora rely on community fundraising, so park quality varies block by block.
Is it safe to raise a family in Downtown Edmonton?
While Downtown and Oliver (Wîhkwêntôwin) are vibrant, most families prefer the suburbs for safety and space. Suburbs like Windermere and Citadel report significantly lower property crime rates and traffic incidents compared to the central core.
