The Ultimate List of the Best Residential Areas for Families in Edmonton
Best Neighbourhoods in Edmonton for Families
Are you in search of the perfect place to call home for your family in Edmonton? Look no further! Edmonton offers a plethora of family-friendly residential options, each with its own unique characteristics. Our comprehensive list is carefully curated based on factors that matter most to families like yours: safety, community engagement, access to great schools, and an abundance of parks and recreational facilities.
Who would know better what communities are best for families than the families that live there? We asked Edmontonians to analyze the best communities, and this list is the result. Get ready to embark on an exciting journey to find the perfect place to watch your family thrive.
Our Top Neighbourhood Picks for Families
Here are the top picks chosen by Edmontonian families like yours, combining our main list and honourable mentions into one comprehensive guide.
1. Hazeldean
New homeowners looking for a safe neighbourhood that offers many family-friendly amenities should look no further than Hazeldean. You may have to increase your budget to find the perfect home. But, the lush green surroundings, views of the valley, and easy access to the rest of the city are worth every penny.
2. Glastonbury
Glastonbury is a top neighbourhood for families thanks to safety, quiet, and an amazing school district. The neighbourhood is newer, mostly developed in the 2000s and 60% single-family homes, so there are plenty of great housing options in the community.
3. Cumberland
If you’re concerned about safety while looking for the best family neighbourhoods in Edmonton, your list has to feature Cumberland. Cumberland is one of the newer communities in North West Edmonton. Residents enjoy access to recreational and family opportunities with large parks, and pathways in the neighbourhood, including a central lake. The community is part of the Cumberland-Oxford Community League, which organizes recreational activities and events in the area.
4. Summerside
The lake! Do I need to say anymore? Summerside is one of the best communities for kids meeting other kids. It’s like the old days when kids used to go outside and play, but in Summerside they actually do. The schools are great, every amenity you can think of is within 2 km, and it’s one of the best, if not the best place for families to live in Edmonton. Real estate will cost a little more in Summerside but in our opinion, it’s worth it!
5. Rutherford
This friendly and inviting neighbourhood is made up of single-family homes, condos and duplexes, but 85% of the residences are single-family dwellings. The remainder is mostly duplexes, so if you are inside Rutherford you can expect other families just like yours. Moreover, it’s also a safe area, especially if your budget allows you to purchase a home in the upscale part of the neighbourhood.
6. Ambleside
Ambleside has become a popular alternative for young families because it offers affordable housing and high safety levels. The best part may be that the neighbourhood residents have easy access to healthcare facilities and recreational areas designed for family use. It’s also surrounded by parks, ponds, and trails. Everything was designed to be within walking distance so you could feel like you live in a little town.
7. Brintnell
This family-orientated neighbourhood offers quick access to Anthony Henday Drive to reach any area of Edmonton quickly. Brintnell Park is right in the middle which is great for families but as a bonus 167 Avenue has every amenity you could want. Most of the residential development occurred between 2005 and 2010 and the residences are single detached two-storey homes with attached or detached garages.
8. Wild Rose
It is an amazing community that focuses on the people that live in the area, strengthening the importance of the foundations of the family and the community. It is bordered by 17 Street, 34 Street and 38 Avenue so you can enjoy shopping nearby, or take up a class at the recreation centre. Close to transportation and freeways, Wild Rose is a great place for young families.
9. The Hamptons
This quiet suburban neighbourhood is family-focused but modern, built in the early 2000s. The Anthony Henday freeway flanks it, so it’s fast to travel anywhere in Edmonton. The Hamptons is great for families because it’s close to everything you need: pathway systems, parks, playgrounds, lakes, and ponds that are spread throughout the community, as well as shopping, cafes, and two schools.
10. Bonnie Doon
Known for its mature, tree-lined streets and proximity to the Mill Creek Ravine and the new LRT line, Bonnie Doon is a fantastic choice for families who want a central location with a strong community feel. It offers excellent schools and is close to the Bonnie Doon Leisure Centre.
11. Terwillegar
A master-planned community in southwest Edmonton, Terwillegar is famous for its beautiful homes, extensive walking trails, and the state-of-the-art Terwillegar Community Rec Centre. It’s a hub of family activity year-round.
12. Grovenor
An up-and-coming neighbourhood just west of downtown, Grovenor offers a mix of classic character homes and new infills. Its proximity to MacKinnon Ravine and great community engagement make it a hidden gem for active families.
13. Glenora
One of Edmonton’s most prestigious neighbourhoods, Glenora is known for its stately homes, top-rated schools, and stunning location on the river valley. For families with a higher budget, Glenora offers an unmatched combination of elegance and community amenities.
Home Search FAQs
If you’re ready to start your home search, you can contact us here.
How many homes should I see before making an offer?
There is no magic number. Some buyers find the perfect home on their first day, while others may look at 20 or more. The goal isn’t to see a certain number of homes, but to become educated on the current market. Once you feel you have a strong sense of what your money can buy in your desired neighbourhood, you’ll know the right home when you see it.
What are the biggest red flags to watch for during a showing?
Beyond cosmetic issues, look for major potential problems. Key red flags include signs of water damage (stains on ceilings or in the basement), a strong musty or damp smell, major cracks in the foundation or walls, and an electrical panel that looks old or disorganized. Also, pay attention to the condition of big-ticket items like the roof, windows, and furnace.
Should I be concerned about a house that has been on the market for a long time?
Not necessarily. A long time on the market doesn’t always mean there’s something wrong with the house; it’s often a sign that the property was initially overpriced. If the price has since been corrected, it can represent a great opportunity to purchase a solid home with less competition. It’s a situation that warrants further investigation, not automatic dismissal.
How do I know what a home is really worth?
The true market value of a home is determined by what similar properties in the area have recently sold for. As your Realtor, we provide a detailed comparative market analysis (CMA) for any home you are serious about. This report compares the property to other recent sales, active listings, and expired listings, giving you the hard data needed to make a confident and informed offer.
