There's something magical about St. Albert. After walking through countless homes in this community over the years, I've come to appreciate what makes this city so special—it's not just the tree-lined streets or the Sturgeon River valley views. It's the way St. Albert manages to feel like a welcoming small town while offering all the amenities of a major city.
Founded in 1861 by Father Albert Lacombe as a Métis settlement, St. Albert has grown into Alberta's second-largest city in the Edmonton Metropolitan Region, with a population of approximately 72,316 as of 2024. That's a growth of over 6,200 residents since 2018—and when you visit, you'll understand why people keep choosing to call this place home.
What Sets St. Albert Apart
From my construction background, I've learned to look beyond the surface. St. Albert gets the fundamentals right. The city heavily emphasizes quality of life, with abundant recreation and social opportunities, excellent schools, and a vibrant arts and cultural scene. The Red Willow Trail System alone covers 99.5 kilometers, connecting neighbourhoods and parks throughout the city.
What really stands out is the diversity of housing options. Whether you're looking for a luxury estate, a character home with history, or a brand-new build with all the modern features, St. Albert has it. Let me walk you through some of the neighbourhoods I love showing to clients.
Established Neighbourhoods with Character
Lacombe Park
This is St. Albert's largest neighbourhood, home to about 7,900 residents. Development began in the 1970s and continued through the 1980s, with newer additions in the 2010s. What I love about Lacombe Park is its versatility—there truly is something for everyone here.
You'll find single-family homes, apartments, townhouses, and condos throughout the community, all surrounded by mature trees and abundant green spaces. The centerpiece is Lacombe Lake Park, perfect for fishing, walking, cycling, and winter skating. With average home prices in the $500,000s, this neighbourhood offers excellent value for those wanting an established community with all the amenities.
The location is ideal—close to historical sites like St. Albert Grain Elevators and Father Lacombe Chapel, and convenient access to McKenney Avenue Commercial Centre and other shopping areas. Families appreciate the range of schools serving the area, from elementary through high school.
Braeside
One of St. Albert's oldest neighbourhoods, Braeside started development in the 1900s. Located between Sturgeon Road and Sir Winston Churchill Avenue, this community offers stunning river views and that established neighbourhood charm you simply can't replicate.
Most homes here are traditional single-family residences built from the 1970s to early 2000s, with prices typically ranging from the $300,000s to mid-$600,000s. As someone who appreciates older homes with good bones, I see tremendous value in Braeside. The mature landscaping, riverside location, and proximity to Red Willow Park make it ideal for buyers who want character and natural beauty.
Grandin
Sitting on the south bank of the Sturgeon River, Grandin is one of St. Albert's oldest and largest neighbourhoods with about 7,300 residents. This historic community features a wonderful mix of character homes and modern developments.
What makes Grandin special is its balance of affordability and luxury—you'll find homes ranging from the $400,000s to over $1 million. The neighbourhood is rich in green spaces and offers spectacular river valley views. Grandin Park provides walking paths and a splash park, while the community's proximity to Red Willow Park means endless outdoor recreation opportunities.
I often recommend Grandin to buyers who want that established neighbourhood feel with mature trees and well-maintained streets, along with strong community engagement and excellent schools.
Oakmont
Located in the northeast quadrant along the Sturgeon River, Oakmont began development in the early 1990s. Many homes here boast beautiful river valley views—something my builder's eye always appreciates in a property.
The neighbourhood features predominantly single-family homes with some well-placed medium-density housing throughout. Home prices average around $455,000, ranging from the low $300,000s to around $1.2 million for more luxurious properties.
One of Oakmont's jewels is the Shops at Boudreau, offering convenient access to retail and services. The neighbourhood also provides walking distance access to St. Albert Botanic Park—a true gem. For families, the range of schools and the peaceful, tree-lined streets make this community exceptionally appealing.
Modern Living: Newer Developments
Erin Ridge & Erin Ridge North
These connected communities on St. Albert's northern boundary represent some of the city's most exciting growth. Erin Ridge, with approximately 5,960 residents, began development in the 1980s and continues to this day. The newer Erin Ridge North started in 2007 and has a strong focus on sustainable, energy-efficient homes.
What impresses me about these communities is the thoughtful planning. You'll find interconnected trails, multiple parks, basketball courts, baseball diamonds, soccer fields, and playgrounds throughout. Erin Ridge offers median home prices around $533,000, while Erin Ridge North attracts young families with its modern builds and walkable access to commercial services.
Both neighbourhoods are conveniently located near Sturgeon Community Hospital, major shopping including Costco and Walmart, and excellent schools including French immersion options. The emphasis on green spaces and family amenities makes these communities particularly attractive for growing families.
North Ridge
Another newer development that consistently ranks among St. Albert's best-selling areas, North Ridge offers picturesque lakes, walking trails, parks, and playgrounds—truly a haven for nature enthusiasts.
The community provides excellent schools, including French immersion options, and easy commuting to Edmonton via Ray Gibbon Drive. What I appreciate about North Ridge is how it combines peaceful, scenic living with practical conveniences. It's ideal for first-time buyers and growing families who want that newer-home feel without sacrificing community atmosphere.
Jensen Lakes
If you're looking for luxury living with unique amenities, Jensen Lakes deserves your attention. This is St. Albert's only beach neighbourhood, featuring beautiful scenery and upscale homes. Located west of St. Albert Trail and north of Villeneuve Road, Jensen Lakes offers something truly special.
The community centers around its stunning water features, providing residents with beach access—something quite rare in Alberta! It's perfect for buyers who want resort-style living while maintaining easy access to Edmonton.
Heritage Lakes
Located on the southernmost edge of St. Albert, Heritage Lakes is aptly named for its two tranquil water features. This neighbourhood offers low to medium-density housing with home prices ranging from the $300,000s to high $500,000s.
The strategic location provides quick access to Edmonton via Anthony Henway Drive, making it attractive for commuters who want suburban serenity. The abundance of parks gives residents plenty of outdoor space, and École La Mission Francophone school provides quality French language education within the community.
Kingswood
For luxury living, Kingswood reigns supreme. This smaller neighbourhood on St. Albert's eastern edge features about 2,450 residents with a median age of 42. Development started in 1980 and continues today.
With many luxury homes, average prices are in the $600,000s. What's unique about Kingswood is the undeveloped central land that serves as a natural haven, particularly popular with cross-country skiers in winter. The neighbourhood has no commercial zones, creating a truly quiet, residential atmosphere. Kingswood Park and the Sturgeon River are just steps away, offering additional green space and recreation.
Lifestyle Considerations
One thing I always discuss with clients is matching neighbourhoods to lifestyles. Are you someone who loves riverside walks and mature trees? Braeside, Oakmont, and Grandin will speak to you. Want modern builds with energy efficiency and newer amenities? Erin Ridge North and North Ridge should be on your list. Looking for that prestigious, luxury feel? Kingswood and Jensen Lakes are worth exploring.
For families, consider proximity to schools—St. Albert offers excellent options through Catholic, Francophone, and public school boards. For commuters, neighbourhoods near St. Albert Trail or with easy access to Ray Gibbon Drive make the daily drive to Edmonton much easier.
The St. Albert Advantage
What truly sets St. Albert apart is the quality of life. The city's walkability, connected through extensive trail systems, means you can often leave the car at home. The downtown core offers festivals, boutiques, and coffee shops without the hustle of a larger city. The strong sense of community, cultural offerings, and commitment to maintaining green spaces create an environment where families thrive.
The demographic shift is interesting too—as of 2024, about 22% of residents are seniors, reflecting St. Albert's appeal for those looking to age in place in a comfortable, amenable community. At the same time, neighbourhoods like Erin Ridge North attract young families with children, creating diverse, multigenerational communities.
Finding Your Perfect Neighbourhood
Real estate isn't just about square footage and finishes—it's about finding where you belong. With my construction and home inspection background, I can help you see beyond the surface. I can spot quality construction in newer builds and identify the potential (or concerns) in character homes.
Whether you're drawn to the historic charm of Grandin, the family-friendly atmosphere of Lacombe Park, the modern efficiency of Erin Ridge North, or the luxury of Kingswood, St. Albert has a neighbourhood that will feel like home.
If you're considering St. Albert, I'd love to show you around these communities and help you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle and budget. This isn't just about buying a house—it's about finding your place in one of Alberta's most welcoming cities.
Ready to explore St. Albert? Let's connect and discover which neighbourhood is right for you.
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