We put this question to our readers in our annual survey, expecting to hear about leafy boulevards, nearby grocery stores or quick commutes, but what came back was more heartfelt and revealing. Yes, people mentioned parks and paths, cafes and community centres. But above all, they talked about people.
It wasn’t so much the proximity to the river valley or the walkability score that made their neighbourhoods feel special but the spontaneous front-yard chats, the neighbours who shovel walks for each other, the friendships that formed over shared fences and summer block parties.
More than any one amenity, Edmontonians told us that a great neighbourhood is one where people feel seen, safe and connected, where the third spaces like libraries, rec centres and coffee shops aren’t just conveniences, but backdrops for community. – Allison Stephen
To most of us, neighbourliness means waving hi on our way to work, pushing that snow shovel an extra few metres to clear the next sidewalk, maybe lending a cup of sugar. But for Tammy Greidanus, a resident of Glen Allan in Sherwood Park since 2009, being a good neighbour means knowing all of the neighbours on your block and looking out for one another.
Once a summer, as many as 60 of her neighbours pack sleeping bags, snacks and head to Gilmore Park to cozy up for a movie projected on a big screen. On another occasion, they held a bike parade to raise funds for a new playground. And every May 4, they dress up like Star Wars characters to pick garbage off their streets.
“I always say that the force is strong in our neighbourhood,” says Greidanus. That’s an understatement — they even have their very own neighbourhood YouTube channel.
While it may sound a little extra, many participants in our neighbourhoods survey shared stories that could inspire anyone to be a better neighbour, like fixing a faulty step, closing accidentally left-open garage doors and literally mending fences. One reader was even invited to live in their neighbours’ home during renovations while the owners were away on an extended vacation. Still, many readers preferred those with good boundaries who never stuck their noses in others’ business.
It got us thinking, what makes a great neighbour? There’s “no one recipe,” says Neal LaMontagne, a professor in urban and regional planning at the University of Alberta.
Oftentimes, there’s pressure to have close relationships with your neighbours, even when we don’t desire them. In that sense, neighbours are alot like family members: part of your life whether you like it or not, so you better find a way to get along.
But LaMontagne prefers a garden metaphor when it comes to neighbour relations. “Ideally,” he says, “it all works together, it’s cared for, it’s tended and yet it’s a little unpredictable.”
We’ve all had our fair share of the good and the bad. Neighbours who, for better or worse, like to keep to themselves, and neighbours who can chatter your ear off (okay, that one’s for worse). While it’s perfectly acceptable, and often preferable, to keep a polite distance, there are many mental health benefits to being social with your neighbours.
Studies by Hey Neighbour Collective, a Simon Fraser University project researching the benefits of social and community connection, found links to lower risks of depression and cardiovascular disease, higher levels of physical activity and higher self-rated health. According to its evidence backgrounder, “How Does Social Connectedness Between Neighbours Support Health and Well-Being?,” people with strong social connections (including with their neighbours) have up to a 50 per cent lower risk of premature death, a benefit on par with quitting smoking or maintaining a healthy weight.
Even though there is no all-encompassing definition of what it means to be a good neighbour, amicable interactions between people in a community can be more than just a smile and a wave. It can turn into annual movie nights, building a playground together or even something as simple as getting to know each other’s names. – Brooklyn Hollinger
“I lent my kitchen machine to my neighbour around Christmas time so she could make sugar cookies. And she gave me some cookies as a thank you.” – Lynsee Leahy, Mill Creek, Edmonton
“One rainy day, I got a text from our neighbour, who was worried that our gutters were blocked because rain was overflowing them. He went up the ladder, cleared the block and saved us from a possible nasty water situation!” – Teresa Clouston, Mills Haven, Edmonton
“We had a newborn and were in those early, sleep-deprived days. Our next-door neighbour — a motorcycle enthusiast — would walk his bike down the street before starting it, worried the noise might wake us or the baby.” – Deepti Babu, Deer Ridge, St. Albert
“Avonmore is by far the best. I always look forward to the warmer days when my neighbours spend more time outside. Hard to make it down the street without stopping to talk to multiple people.” – Alaina Thursby
Established: 1950s Population: 2,131 Hidden Gem: City of Edmonton Reuse Centre
“Wellington in Edmonton is the best neighbourhood I’ve lived in. It’s peaceful, safe and walkable with nearby schools and stores. The neighbours are kind and always say hello. It has a true community feel.” – Tina Kiklevski
Established circa: 1946 Population: 3,194 Hidden Gem: Hathaway’s Diner
“Alberta Avenue has beautiful old character homes, quirky yards and neighbours that actually know each other and hang out. It also has walkable shaded streets, lots of small local shops and restaurants, festivals and amenities.” – Olena Ingerova
Established: 1894 Population: 6,581 Hidden Gem: Coliseum Steak and Pizza
“I love my current neighbourhood of North Glenora. It’s such a warm, beautiful community, and despite its small size, it’s full of diversity and energy. It is convenient, walkable and feels like home.” – Kristine Tonks
Established: 1950s Population: 2,043 Hidden Gem: Bliss Baked Goods
“The Strathcona neighbourhood — just steps away from Mill Creek ravine where I can get in my run. Afterwards I can walk up and get a delicious brunch at Darling. At night, I can people-watch on Whyte Avenue or take in a show at the Grindstone.” – Chantal Lacasse
Established: 1891 Population: 9,173 Hidden Gem: Alhambra Books
“The Wîhkwêntôwin neighborhood has been an amazing place to live. It’s so close to the downtown core, but is tucked away so it’s really quiet. The shops, cafes and bike trail are awesome to have.” – Nicole Cari
Established: 1890s Population: 18,180 Hidden Gem: Paul Kane Park
Populations: 2019 Municipal Census
This article appears in the July/August 2025 issue of Edify
