Renting Apartments in Edmonton, Alberta: A Guide to Finding Your Ideal Home
Edmonton, Alberta, is a dynamic and rapidly growing city known for its diverse culture, stunning river valley, and strong economy. Whether you're moving for work, school, or a lifestyle change, Edmonton offers a wide range of rental options suited to various budgets and preferences. Compared to other major Canadian cities like Toronto and Vancouver, Edmonton remains relatively affordable, though rental prices have been trending upward due to increased demand and rising construction costs. The city has also seen a surge in purpose-built rental apartments, offering modern amenities tailored to renters' needs.
Current Rental Market Trends
Over the past few years, Edmonton’s rental market has experienced moderate rent increases, driven by a combination of higher interest rates, which have discouraged homebuying, population growth, and low rental vacancy rates. As of early 2025, the average rent for a one bedroom apartment typically falls between $1,300 and $1,600 per month, while a two bedroom apartment ranges from $1,700 to $2,000. Condominiums, which are often located in prime areas with modern amenities, tend to be slightly higher, averaging $1,500 to $2,200 for a one-bedroom unit. Townhouses generally rent for $1,800 to $2,500 per month, while single-family homes range from $1,900 to $3,500 or more depending on size and location. New purpose-built rental developments have become more common, particularly in central and suburban areas. These apartments often include amenities such as gyms, co-working spaces, rooftop patios, and smart home technology, appealing to young professionals and downsizing retirees alike.
Popular Neighbourhoods & Rental Costs
Edmonton’s neighbourhoods cater to different lifestyles, from bustling urban centres to quieter suburban areas. Downtown is ideal for professionals who want to be close to offices, restaurants, and entertainment. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment typically ranges from $1,400 to $2,400, with high-rise apartments and modern condos dominating the rental market. Oliver offers a mix of high-rises and older apartments, with one bedroom units renting for $1,300 to $2,000. Garneau, a popular choice for students and young professionals due to its proximity to the University of Alberta, features a mix of historic homes and modern apartments, with rents between $1,400 and $2,200 for a one bedroom unit. Old Strathcona, known for its boutique shops and vibrant nightlife, offers a range of rentals, including lofts and character homes, with prices from $1,350 to $2,100 per month.
For families looking for more space, suburban areas like West Edmonton, Windermere, Riverbend, and Summerside offer excellent schools, parks, and community amenities. West Edmonton, home to the world-famous West Edmonton Mall, features townhouses that typically rent for $1,600 to $2,500 per month. Windermere is a newer suburban area with luxury rentals and premium shopping and dining options, where townhouses and detached homes rent from $1,800 to $2,800. Riverbend, a well-established neighbourhood with quiet residential streets, has single-family homes renting from $1,900 to $3,500 or more. Summerside, known for its man-made lake and community feel, offers a mix of townhouses, condos, and single-family rentals, with two bedroom townhouses typically ranging from $1,700 to $2,600 per month.
For renters looking for more budget-friendly options, Mill Woods, Clareview, and Ellerslie offer lower-priced alternatives. Mill Woods provides diverse and affordable rental choices, with one bedroom apartments typically renting for $1,200 to $1,800. Clareview offers a convenient location with easy LRT access, making it ideal for commuters, with one-bedroom apartments ranging from $1,250 to $1,850. Ellerslie is a growing community with modern rentals and suburban convenience, where one-bedroom apartments rent for $1,350 to $1,950 per month.
Types of Rental Housing in Edmonton
Renters in Edmonton have a variety of options depending on their lifestyle needs and budget. High-rise apartments and condos, commonly found in Downtown, Oliver, and Garneau, offer city views and modern amenities. Low-rise and mid-rise buildings are more common in suburban areas and tend to be more affordable with larger units. Townhouses, popular in family-friendly neighbourhoods like Summerside and Windermere, offer more space and a home-like feel. Basement suites provide a budget-friendly option often found in single-family homes across the city. Purpose-built rental apartments are increasing in popularity, featuring premium amenities that attract professionals and retirees alike.
Finding & Securing a Rental
Edmonton’s rental market can be competitive, especially in high-demand areas. To secure a great rental, it is essential to start the search early, as popular listings go quickly. Many landlords require proof of income, references, and a credit check, so having these documents ready in advance can help streamline the process. Renters should be cautious of rental scams, avoiding deals that seem too good to be true and always verifying a property in person before making any payments. Some landlords may be open to negotiating rent, especially for long-term leases, making it worthwhile to ask about potential discounts or incentives.