Halifax Neighbourhoods: Your Ultimate Guide to Living in the HRM
Thinking about moving to Halifax, Nova Scotia? Whether you’re relocating, investing, or searching for your dream home, understanding Halifaxâs neighbourhoods is key. The Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM), formed in 1996, is more than just a cityâitâs a vibrant collection of communities, each with its own lifestyle, vibe, and amenities.
From the historic charm of the South End to the urban energy of Downtown Halifax, the trendy North End, and the family-friendly West End, every corner of the HRM offers something unique. Beyond the core, the HRM spans 16 diverse districts that include family-friendly suburbs, vibrant neighbourhoods, and tranquil lakeside communitiesâperfect for families, professionals, retirees, and remote workers alike.
Whether you’re looking for walkable city life, quiet suburban streets, or nature just outside your door, this guide will help you discover the best Halifax neighbourhoods to call home in 2025.
đď¸ South End Halifax
The South End, located on the Halifax Peninsula, is known for its stunning historic homes, elegant architecture, and prime location. Close to major hospitals, top-ranked universities like Dalhousie and Saint Maryâs, and the scenic Point Pleasant Park, this neighbourhood is one of Halifaxâs most prestigious and desirable. With its upscale appeal, homes in the South End come with a higher price tag. View South End homes for sale here
đł West End Halifax
Located just outside the downtown core, the West End offers tree-lined streets, mature properties, and a mix of housing typesâfrom single-family homes to multi-units. Itâs more affordable than the South End and popular with both families and students, thanks to its central location and easy transit access. The West End continues to grow in popularity due to its value and community feel. View West End homes for sale here
đ¨ North End Halifax
The North End has transformed into one of Halifaxâs most vibrant and artistic communities. Known for its cultural scene, coffee shops, and trendy restaurants, itâs especially popular with young professionals and university students. While the area has faced challenges in the past, ongoing revitalization and new developments are reshaping the neighbourhood. Gentrification is bringing fresh energy and opportunity to this evolving part of the city. View North End homes for sale here
đ Downtown Halifax
Downtown Halifax offers the ultimate urban lifestyle, with walkable access to shops, restaurants, nightlife, the waterfront, and major attractions. Housing consists mostly of modern condos and apartment buildings developed over the past two decades, with more projects on the way to boost population density. Itâs ideal for those who want convenience, culture, and a fast-paced vibe right outside their door. View Downtown homes for sale here
đď¸ Fairview, Halifax
Fairview is an up-and-coming neighbourhood on Halifaxâs west side, offering a quick commute to downtown, great transit, and easy highway access. Close to the Irving Shipyard, hospitals, and universities, it’s ideal for professionals seeking value and convenience.
Homes start around $500,000, with older 3-bed properties offering space and character near shops, schools, and amenities. View Fairview homes for sale
đď¸ Clayton Park, Halifax
Clayton Park is one of Halifaxâs most diverse and growing communities. With easy access to downtown (less than 15 minutes), itâs a popular choice for families, professionals, and newcomers. The area features a mix of upscale homes, high-density condos, and apartments.
Residents enjoy proximity to parks, recreation centres, and shopping hubs like Bayers Lake. Home prices start at $400,000 for 2-bedroom condos and $600,000+ for detached homes. View Clayton Park homes for sale
đ Bedford, Nova Scotia
Bedford is a well-established community that offers the perfect balance of convenience and charm. Its prime location provides easy access to Halifax, Dartmouth, and Halifax Stanfield International Airportâmaking it ideal for commuters.
Outdoor lovers enjoy DeWolf Parkâs waterfront trail and Lions Parkâs pool and play areas. Papermill Lake offers summer beach fun and winter skating. The community also comes alive during Bedford Days, an annual summer celebration with fireworks, parades, and family-friendly events. With top-rated schools, local shopping, dining and every amenity at your fingertips, Bedford is one of the most desirable places to live in HRM.
Bedford is a blend of old homes in Old Bedford with mature trees and character, and new developments in areas like The Parks of West Bedford offering modern homes, townhouses, and low-rise apartment buildings, with contemporary amenities. View Bedford homes for sale
đ˛ West Bedford
West Bedford is one of HRMâs fastest-growing neighbourhoods, known for its modern homes, green spaces, and community feel. The area includes The Parks of West Bedford, a master-planned development featuring walking trails, playgrounds, and new schoolsâincluding a brand-new Pâ9 and high school under construction.
Sports lovers will appreciate the BMO Centre, a four-pad hockey arena thatâs a hub for local teams and tournaments. Just 10â15 minutes from downtown Halifax and with quick access to Highway 102, West Bedford is especially popular with families and professionals looking for a newer home in a vibrant, well-connected community.
Home prices start around $650,000+ for single-family homes, with a wide range of styles to choose from. View Bedford homes for sale
đĄ Hammonds Plains/Kingswood
Hammonds Plains, located just 5 minutes from Bedford and 20-40 minutes from downtown Halifax, is known for its large, treed lots and a variety of subdivisions like Voyager Lakes, Glen Arbour golf community, and Kingswood. This area offers everything from peaceful neighbourhoods to luxury executive homes.
While Hammonds Plains has limited shopping and medical facilities, Bedford, Tantallon, and Clayton Park are just 5-15 minutes away for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Commuting to downtown Halifax takes about 20-30 minutes, though congestion can be an issue.
Homes in the area range from charming older properties to executive-style estates. Prices start around $650,000, with most homes relying on septic systems and some newer properties in Kingswood connected to city water.
For families, Hammonds Plains offers excellent schools, including Kingswood Elementary, Hammonds Plains Consolidated, and Charles P. Allen High School.
View Hammonds Plains homes for sale
đ Stillwater Lake, Tantallon
The area from Hammonds Plains to Tantallon is one of the fastest growing areas in HRM. The popularity of the area has resulted in a full complement of amenities, including schools, recreation facilities and shopping. The area is located approx. 22kms from the city and is an easy commute to downtown Halifax (15 minutes on Highway 103).
The area offers country living with the benefit of easy access to amenities. Subdivisions include Haliburton Hills, Westwood Hills, Highland Park and St Margaretâs Bay. The area has a mix of older and newer homes on large lots with septic systems. Many are on one of the several lakes in the area. Most of the newer properties are in the Haliburton subdivisions. Prices start upwards of $625,000 for a single family home. View Haliburton Heights / Tantallon homes for sale
đď¸Sackville
Sackville is a highly sought-after community with a variety of housing options and budget-friendly choices. It is divided into three distinct areas â Lower, Middle, and Upper Sackville â each offering unique features and lifestyles to suit different preferences.
Lower Sackville: The Heart of the Community
Lower Sackville is the central hub of the area, offering residents excellent transportation links, shopping, and a wide range of amenities. You’ll find a variety of dining options, a local library, a recreation center, a swimming pool, ice rinks, and a movie theater â everything you need for an active and vibrant lifestyle. With its bustling atmosphere and central location, Lower Sackville is perfect for those who enjoy easy access to everything the community has to offer.
Middle Sackville: Spacious Homes and Natural Beauty
Middle Sackville offers larger lots and more space, ideal for families and those seeking more privacy. Homes in this area often have well water and a more rural feel, while still being close to the conveniences of the Lower Sackville hub. One of the standout subdivisions in Middle Sackville is Indigo Shores, which features spacious, wooded lots with stunning privacy and access to McCabe Lake and the Sackville River. Prices in Indigo Shores start around $800,000, while homes in the broader Middle Sackville area can be found starting in the mid-$700,000 range.
Upper Sackville: Affordable Privacy and Tranquility
For those seeking more privacy and a larger lot size, Upper Sackville is a fantastic option. Located approximately 7 miles from the hustle and bustle of Lower Sackville, this area offers affordable homes on expansive lots, perfect for those who value space and a peaceful environment. Single-family homes in Upper Sackville start around $450,000, making it an appealing choice for those on a budget while still wanting a larger property.
Sackville is home to several schools, making it an ideal community for families with children. The area boasts three Junior High Schools and two High Schools.
Commute times from Lower Sackville to downtown Halifax is approximately 20-30 minutes. View Sackville homes for sale
đżBeaverbank
Beaverbank is very similar to Middle/Upper Sackville with large lots and some new developments and subdivisions being created. Beaver Bank is a welcoming community made up of several unique subdivisions and residential pockets. Over the years, some areas have grown so much that tight-knit groups and local associations have formedâbringing neighbours together and creating a strong sense of community.
A few of the most popular neighbourhoods in Beaver Bank include: Kinsac â Lakeside living with access to nature and recreation, Monarch/Rivendale Subdivision -Family-friendly streets and modern homes, Barrett Subdivision â A long-standing community with spacious lots and Lost Creek Village â Home to the Lost Creek Golf Course and peaceful surroundings. Prices are much the same as Middle Sackville from $550,000 upwards. View Beaverbank homes for sale
đłFall River
Centrally located only 15 minutes to the airport and 25-30 minutes to Downtown Halifax, Fall River is one of the most picturesque areas within HRM with an abundance of lakes, wide open spaces and large spacious lots. Fall River is a fast growing, well planned community and offers a mix of older properties and brand new developments, each with its own unique personality and many offering lake front living. All homes have septic systems, some are on a well and some subdivisions have city water. It all depends on what you are looking for. There is a good choice of housing types with a varying price tag ranging from $725,000 upwards of $1m plus
The area is well serviced with amenities including a Recreation Centre, grocery store, doctors and dentists, coffee shops and two bar/grill/restaurants. Major shopping is only a 10 minute drive to Bedford, Sackville (via Highway 102) or Dartmouth Crossing (via Highway 118).
The schools are sought after and some of the best in metro. There are three Elementary schools serving the Fall River Community â Ash Lee Jefferson, offering early French Immersion (Gr Primary â 6), Holland Road Elementary (Gr Primary -6) and Waverly Memorial (Gr Primary â 6). George P Vanier is the Junior High (Grades 7-8) and Lockview High School serves Grades 9-12.
Fall River is an excellent, very friendly and family oriented community. View Fall River homes for sale
đĄWaverley
The community of Waverley is ideally located just 10 minutes from the airport and 30 minutes from downtown Halifax. Similar to Fall River, Waverley features large lots and a variety of traditional-style homes, many of which offer lake access or are lakefront. Newer subdivisions with spacious country lots are also available, with prices starting around $600,000 for a 3-bedroom single-family home, going up to $1 million or more.
While Waverley offers limited amenities, it is home to the well-established Cheema Canoe Club, daycare facilities, a Post Office, and a convenience store. Fall River is just a 5-minute drive away for additional services and amenities.
The area is served by Waverley Memorial Elementary School (built in 2011), while junior high and high school students attend schools in Fall River. View Waverley homes for sale
đżWellington
Wellington, Nova Scotia is a peaceful semi-rural community located between Fall River and Grand Lake, just 20 minutes from Halifax Stanfield International Airport and approximately 40 minutes from downtown Halifax. Known for its spacious properties, quiet surroundings, and excellent value for money, Wellington is an ideal location for those seeking a tranquil lifestyle with convenient access to urban amenities.
Wellington real estate includes a mix of older family homes and newer developments, such as the popular Oaken Hills subdivision. Many properties are situated on large, private lots, and some offer coveted lakefront living. Home prices in Wellington typically start from $600,000, making it a smart investment for buyers looking for space and nature without leaving the HRM. Holland Road is the Elementary School for children living in this area. The Junior High and High School are in Fall River.
Wellington has minimal amenities, but does have two convenience stores, a pizzeria and a bakery. Fall River is a 5 minute drive and all amenities and facilities are easily accessible by car. View Wellington homes for sale
The upcoming Aerotech Connectorâexpected to open sometimes in 2025âwill provide direct access from Wellington to Highway 102, reducing commute times and increasing the areaâs accessibility.
đ Grand Lake
Grand Lake is a sought-after community offering a peaceful, rural feel just minutes from Halifax Stanfield Airport and a 40-minute commute to downtown Halifax. With quick access to Highway 102, it’s ideal for commuters looking for space and nature.
Grand Lake features lakefront homes, new developments, cottages, and estates starting around $700,000. Residents enjoy access to Laurie and Oakfield Provincial Parks, a local golf course, and plenty of trails for hiking and biking. Schools are zoned for Holland Road Elementary, Ash Lee Jefferson (French Immersion), Georges P. Vanier Junior High & Lockview High in nearby Fall River
View Grand Lake homes for sale
đĄ Timberlea & Lakeside, Nova Scotia
Timberlea and Lakeside are growing suburban communities located just 15â20 minutes from downtown Halifax along St. Margaretâs Bay Road. With easy access to Highway 103 and Bayers Lake Retail Park, the area is perfect for buyers seeking convenience, outdoor amenities, and value.
Traditionally known for affordable starter homes, Timberlea real estate now includes modern developments like Brunello Estates, with homes starting around $750,000. More established areas offer homes from approximately $525,000. While lot sizes tend to be smaller, the community offers great access to walking trails, lakes, and golf.
âł Golf & Wellness Lifestyle
The Links at Brunello is a premier golf course community in Timberlea, and a new Nordic spa is plannedâadding to the area’s appeal for wellness and leisure living. If you’re looking for a suburban lifestyle with quick access to Halifax, lakes, parks, and top-tier golf, Timberlea and Lakeside check all the boxes. With new developments, growing infrastructure, and amenities, this area is quickly becoming a top choice for families, professionals, and retirees alike.
đĄ Spryfield, Nova Scotia
Spryfield is a growing residential area located just 15 minutes from downtown Halifax, known for its affordable housing options and investment potential. Once overlooked, Spryfield is undergoing steady transformation, with several new subdivisions elevating its reputation and attracting buyers seeking value close to the city.
Spryfield offers a wide mix of housing, from entry-level single-family homes and multi-family units to newer developments with modern finishes. Older homes start around $470,000 and new builds in up-and-coming pockets range from $650,000 and up.
This diversity makes the area attractive to first-time buyers, young families, and real estate investors, especially with a strong rental market supported by multi-unit properties. Spryfield offers easy access to walking trails, lakes, and parks, nearby shopping centres, schools, and transit routes as well as ongoing community investment and development.
While the area has faced challenges in the past, targeted growth and improved housing stock continue to reshape Spryfield into a more desirable neighbourhood within Halifax.
đ Dartmouth
Located just across the harbour from Halifax, Dartmouth is a vibrant and diverse community known as The City of Lakesâwith over 23 lakes offering year-round activities like paddling, skating, and swimming at public beaches. Itâs a fantastic place for outdoor lovers and families who enjoy life by the water.
Commuting to Halifax is convenient, with two bridge options or a scenic ferry ride that takes you right into downtown. While the bridges can be busy during peak hours, the commute typically ranges from 15â30 minutes off-peak and up to 40 minutes during rush hour. Public transit options are strong, offering flexibility for commuters.
Dartmouth is also home to top-notch recreation centres like the Dartmouth Sportsplex and Cole Harbour Place, and boasts major shopping destinations including Mic Mac Mall, Penhorn Plaza, Dartmouth Crossing, and the Burnside Industrial and Retail Park.
Itâs a large area with a wide range of neighbourhoodsâfrom older communities undergoing exciting revitalization to newer, family-friendly developments. Some of the most popular areas include:
- đł Colby Village
- đ Portland Hills & Portland Estates
- đś Russell Lake West
- đŤ Woodlawn & Montebello
- đď¸ Crichton Park, Manor Park & Lancaster Ridge
- đ˛ Forest Hills
Each has its own personality, schools, parks, and amenitiesâmaking Dartmouth one of the most convenient and livable parts of HRM.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, upsizing, or looking for lake views with city convenience, Dartmouth offers excellent value and lifestyle. View Dartmouth homes for sale
đ Woodside, Dartmouth
Woodside is a well-established Dartmouth neighbourhood located just minutes from the HalifaxâDartmouth ferry terminal, offering quick access to downtown. While its proximity to the oil refineries may deter some buyers, others are drawn to the area’s affordability and convenience.
This community is home to key institutions like Dartmouth General Hospital, the NSCC Waterfront Campus, and the Woodside Industrial Park, making it a popular choice for healthcare workers, students, and professionals. You’ll find a mix of affordable single-family homes and a high number of rental properties, making Woodside ideal for both homebuyers and investors. View Woodside homes for sale
đď¸ Cole Harbour, Dartmouth
Located on the eastern edge of Dartmouth, Cole Harbour is a large, active community just 20â40 minutes from downtown Halifax, depending on traffic. This area is well-known for its abundance of shopping, services, and amenities, making it a convenient choice for families and commuters alike.
Cole Harbour features a wide range of housingâfrom older, well-maintained properties to newer subdivisionsâoffering something for every budget and lifestyle. With home prices typically starting around $580,000, it remains one of the more accessible markets in HRM for single-family homes.
Whether you’re looking for an affordable family home, an investment property, or a great community close to schools and shopping, Cole Harbour is worth a look. View Cole Harbour homes for sale
đ Lawrencetown, Nova Scotia
The community of Lawrencetown is located on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia and is home to Lawrencetown Beach, a popular destination for beachcombers, sunbathers, kite boarders and surfers alike. With plenty of undeveloped farm land and green space youâll have no problem finding an unobstructed view of the ocean. Here youâll find stunning oceanfront homes and a mix of older properties. The majority of the inland homes are in the $550,000 to $625,000 price range. The schools in this area are Atlantic View Elementary, Ross Road Junior High and Cole Harbour High School. Commute time from Lawrencetown to Halifax is approximately 30 minutes. View Lawrencetown homes for sale
đ¤ Porters Lake, Nova Scotia
Porters Lake is a vibrant waterfront community just 20â30 minutes from Halifax and Dartmouth. Built around one of the regionâs most popular lakes, this area is a hub for boating, swimming, fishing, and virtually every watersport imaginable. The nearby Marine Drive scenic route adds to its charm, with local B&Bs, lobster shacks, and ocean views.
The community has seen significant growth in recent years thanks to improved transportation links, making it a popular choice for those seeking country living with city convenience. Homes range from older inland properties starting around $500,000, to luxury lakefront and oceanfront homes priced upwards of $750,000.
Local schools include Lakeview Consolidated Elementary, OâConnell Drive Elementary, Gatz Brook Union School, and Eastern Shore District High School. View Porters Lake homes for sale
â Eastern Passage, Nova Scotia
Eastern Passage is a growing seaside community on the Eastern Shore of HRM, known for its laid-back coastal vibe and proximity to CFB Shearwater, making it a top choice for military families relocating to Halifax. The area features several newer subdivisions with a mix of single-family homes, semi-detached, and detached properties, offering great value for homebuyers.
Commuting is a breeze, with downtown Dartmouth just 10â15 minutes away and Halifax accessible in 30â40 minutes, depending on traffic. Eastern Passage also offers easy access to local beaches, walking trails, and amenities like Fishermanâs Coveâa charming waterfront village with shops and seafood dining.
Local schools in Eastern Passage Cole Harbour High School, Tallahassee Community School (PrimaryâGrade 4), Ocean View Elementary (PrimaryâGrade 4), Seaside Elementary (Grades 5â6), Eastern Passage Education Centre (Grades 7â9) and Island View High School
