Best Edmonton Neighbourhoods for Renting
For newcomers to Canada and international students, Edmonton, Alberta, is a large city offering a significant, diverse population, job growth, the cheapest rental costs among Canada's most important urban centres and excellent neighbourhoods.
Edmonton, the "Oil Capital of Canada," is Alberta's capital and the province's second-largest city.
With a population of 1,010,899 and a metropolitan population of 1,418,118, Edmonton ranks Canada's fifth-largest city and sixth-largest metro area.
Located on the North Saskatchewan River, Edmonton is a large urban centre surrounded by massive oil, gas, and oil sand reserves and a fantastic wilderness.
RELATED STORIES:
Five Things Newcomers Need to Know About Housing in Alberta
How Newcomers to Canada Can Impress a Landlord
Almost 96 percent of Canada’s oil reserves are in Alberta, and Edmonton’s economy naturally focuses on the petrochemical industries. Oil supply and services, as well as technology research and development, drive Edmonton’s prosperity.
For international students looking to study in Edmonton, the University of Alberta is a top-five Canadian university and one of the Top 150 in the world. It is the largest research institution in the province, and more than 38,000 students are enrolled in over 200 undergraduate and 500 graduate programs.
Edmonton and rental affordability
Edmonton is also proud of its two leading sports franchises: the storied Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League and the Edmonton Elks of the Canadian Football League.
However, rental affordability sets Edmonton apart from Canada's other large urban centres.
According to monthly research by Rentals.ca and Urbanation, Edmonton consistently ranks among the 10 cheapest cities in Canada for rent prices.
In October 2024, the asking price for a one-bedroom apartment in Edmonton was $1,384 monthly. Compare that to Toronto's $2,380 or Vancouver's $2,610, and you can see what a bargain Edmonton is.
A two-bedroom apartment in Edmonton in October 2024 was $1,703.
For newcomers considering buying a home, the average price in Edmonton in October 2024 was $396,000. In Toronto, it was $1,060,300.
So, if you're a newcomer to Canada or an international student considering settling in one of Edmonton's great neighbourhoods, you'll find reasonable rents and housing costs.
And who knows? At a neighbourhood coffee shop, you'll bump into Connor McDavid of the Oilers, regarded by most as the greatest hockey player in the world.
Best and most popular neighbourhoods in Edmonton, Alberta
Here are some of the best and most popular neighbourhoods for renting in Edmonton:
Ritchie Neighbourhood
Ritchie is a popular residential neighbourhood in Southeast Edmonton, named after Robert Ritchie, the first owner of the Ritchie Mill and an ex-mayor of Strathcona City.
Ritchie is a well-developed neighbourhood ideal for millennials, professionals, and families.
Residents has a nightlife ambiance featuring the downtown Mill Creek Ravine and Old Strathcona. It has cafés and a cycling culture. Mill Creek Ravine is one of the top cycling spots. Ritchie is a popular neighbourhood for families.
The Ritchie Community League was established in 1992 to represent the community. It’s responsible for running a community hall and other outdoor facilities along 98 Street and 77 Avenue.
Escuela Mill Creek Elementary School, Ecole Joseph-Moreau Junior High School, and the Learning Store are the three popular schools in Ritchie. In the 2017 spring season, the Ritchie community built the Richie market along 96th Street and 76th Avenue. This market features popular cafes, restaurants, shopping stores, and brewing companies.
The main types of residences in Ritchie include single-family homes, condominiums, and duplexes.
Strathcona Neighbourhood
Strathcona is a neighbourhood in Edmonton for newcomers and students who love the nightlife. It has historic cultural charm and unmatched entertainment businesses. It’s also a tourist destination.
Strathcona has been referred to as the most romantic neighbourhood in Edmonton, featuring live music and theatre productions. Strathcona hosts the renowned Edmonton International Fringe Festival.
It is located next to the downtown, Queen Elizabeth Pool, Whyte Avenue, near the University of Alberta campus and river valley.
Strathcona was named after Lord Strathcona, the Hudson’s Bay Company governor (1889-1914).
Popular parks include E.L. Hill Park, End of Steel Park, Mill Creek Ravine Park, Strathcona Park, and Queen Elizabeth Park.
Strathcona schools include Elk Island public schools, Elk Island schools, and Conseil Scolaire Center.
Garneau Neighbourhood
Garneau is one of Edmonton’s historic neighbourhoods. An entire block shows how the early inhabitants lived before modernization. It was named after Laurent Garneau, who arrived in 1874.
The modern Garneau neighbourhood is a mix of residential and business concerns and features the University of Alberta. The well-known 109 Street is a modern business hub where locals and visitors shop for various products. The Garneau Theatre is a famous neighbourhood landmark built in 1940 by architect William Blakey.
88 Avenue is a popular spot for dining and entertainment, with some of the most preferred joints being The Sugar Bowl, High-Level Dinner, and the Red Bike Shop, one of the cyclists’ favourite joints.
Nearby schools include Garneau Elementary School, St. John’s Institute, and the University of Alberta. According to the 2012 municipal census, Garneau had a population of 9,648, most of which live in condominiums.
Aspen Gardens Neighbourhood
Aspen Gardens is located in southwest Edmonton and overlooks the famous Whitemud Creek Ravine. Built between the 1960s and the '70s, it works as an alternative dwelling for those Edmontonians who want to work in the city but live in a quiet, spacious, and luxurious estate.
Aspen Gardens features larger-than-average-sized lots, ideal for building a luxury home. Aspen Gardens is home to some of Edmonton's most affluent citizens. The neighbourhood is not as densely populated as other neighbourhoods and features one of the lowest crime rates in Edmonton.
Schools in Aspen Gardens include Vernon Barford Junior High School and Westbrook Elementary School.
The Aspen Gardens community league represents Aspen Gardens. Residents can join and have access to some of the best outdoor activities, such as swimming, soccer, festivals, and music.
Aspen Gardens features luxury homes (primarily single-family dwellings), fully grown trees, pathways for pedestrians and cyclists, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Greenfield Neighbourhood
Greenfield is also a residential neighbourhood in Southwest Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. It is also known as Petrolia because there is a famous small shopping center called Petrolia. It was named after Herbert Greenfield, the premier of Alberta from 1921 to 1995.
Most residents live in single-family homes, although there are many apartments and duplexes for rent. Greenfield is easily accessible from 111 Street gate, LRT stations, and Century Park.
Greenfield's well-organized road network and public transport enhance mobility in and out of the Greenfield neighbourhood.
The Greenfield Community League represents the community which organizes events, games, and programs for kids and adults at affordable membership rates.
Some of the best schools that serve young families in Greenfield neighbourhoods are Greenfield Public School, St. Stanislaus Catholic Elementary School, and Academy for Maths and Sciences.
Glenora Neighbourhood
Glenora is a residential neighbourhood in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, overlooking the magnificent North Saskatchewan River Valley. It has a vibrant and active community. The Royal Alberta Museum and Alberta Government House are some of the unique places that you should visit.
Glenora is popular due to its proximity to Downtown and River Valley. Most of the homes in the Glenora neighbourhood are old-style single-family dwellings on large lots. The Glenora neighbourhood features mature trees, pristine streets, and magnificent and spacious parks.
Glenora has four schools: Glenora Elementary School, Westminster Junior High School, St. Vincent Catholic Elementary School, and Progressive Academy (a private school).
(Drone footage by Lvfree Adventures)
Related Stories:
What to Know About Living in Edmonton, Alberta
Queen Alexandra Neighbourhood
Queen Alexandra offers a mix of residential and commercial development. It was once part of Strathcona city and was named Alexandra after the wife of Edward VII of England.
Queen Alexandra is located near Whyte Avenue on the North, 104 Street on the East, 109 Street on the West, and 70 Avenue to the South. This neighbourhood is also near the University of Alberta and has beautiful old-style homes.
However, it has recently recorded new condominium development projects. Residents of Queen Alexandra can easily access downtown through 109 or 104 Street.
Four schools serve the Queen Alexandra neighbourhood: Duggan Street/Queen Alex School, Queen Alexandra Elementary School, Strathcona Composite High School, and Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Schools.
Some famous recreational facilities in Queen Alexandra neighbourhoods are Alexander Circle, Rollie Miles Athletic Field, Strathcona Leisure Center, Southside Athletic Grounds, and Southside Arena.
Downtown Neighbourhood
Downtown is Edmonton's central business district. It's conveniently located in the geographical center of Edmonton City. Accessing other nearby neighbourhoods in Downtown is easier via 109 Street on the West, 105 Avenue on the North, 97 Street to the East, and 97 Avenue to the South. Downtown is also adjacent to the North Saskatchewan River on the Southeast side.
Various institutions provide quality education downtown, including MacEwan University Campus, Alberta College, NorQuest College, Center High Public School, Boyle Street Educational Center, and Grandin Elementary School.
Downtown is home to the Arts District and the magnificent Churchill Square, among other historical landmarks and cultural heritage.
Oliver Neighbourhood
Oliver is a residential neighbourhood in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. It was named after Frank Oliver, one of the earliest residents and politicians. The neighbourhood is densely populated because it's centrally located and offers good opportunities for business and investment.
Oliver prides itself on some of the most beautiful walkways in Edmonton city. The Southeast part of Oliver is commonly known as Grandin, where you will find Grandin LRT Station and Grandin School.
Because Oliver is centrally located, many residents find it very accessible. Many amenities and facilities are just a few meters away. You can walk or ride to discover recreational areas, restaurants, and entertainment joints when exploring this neighbourhood.
Oliver is one of Edmonton's oldest neighbourhoods, and that's why you will likely find older homes, primarily single-family, in different parts of the neighbourhood. Newer apartments and condominiums are being built to accommodate renters' high housing demand.
If you want to shop or have fun in Oliver, Jasper Avenue is the best place. It's Edmonton's main Street, filled with shops, restaurants, entertainment joints, and coffee shops, among other key amenities. Nearby amenities and recreational facilities include Royal Glenora Club, Victoria Golf Course, and Park.
Oliver residents use the High-Level Bridge and Groat Bridge to access the South Side of the River Valley. Some of the schools that residents take their children to include Oliver School, Edmonton Catholic Schools, and Grandin Elementary School.
Westmount Neighbourhood
Westmount is a well-developed residential neighbourhood in Southwest Edmonton. It is close to the Downtown core and bounded by 111 Avenue North and Groat Road West. The southern region of Westmount is also known as Groat Estates.
Westmount’s construction history goes back to 1910 when homes for young professionals were needed. It has experienced gradual growth since then, although this tight-knit community has remained unchanged since the 1980s.
It has a long-term record of active citizenship, civic pride, and friendly residents. Westmount is home to the famous West-Edmonton Mall. Residents of this neighbourhood are known as welcoming and friendly. Social amenities include recreational parks, shopping malls, bars, and eateries. 124TH Street and 102nd Avenue are some of the best places to visit for shopping and entertainment.
The Westmount neighbourhood features single-family residences, apartments, or modern condominiums.