Edmonton Community Spotlight: Strathearn in Southeast Central Edmonton

Blog Revamp: Edmonton Community Spotlight: Strathearn in Southeast Central Edmonton Featured Image

Located near the south banks of the North Saskatchewan River Valley, Strathearn is a historic community celebrated for its quiet, tree-lined streets, picturesque views, beautiful homes and proximity to the downtown core. First established in the early 1900s, this highly sought-after area offers the distinct character and charm that only Edmonton's most mature riverside neighbourhoods can provide.

Did you know? "Strathearn" is a Scottish term meaning "the valley of the river Earn" or "the valley of the Irish." Though unconfirmed, Strathearn is thought to take its name from Prince Arthur, the first Duke of Connaught and Strathearn (U.K) and Canada's Governor-General at the beginning of WWI.

Strathearn Homes for Sale and Real Estate

Formerly a part of the City of Strathcona, Strathearn was annexed by the greater City of Edmonton in 1912. However, despite Strathearn's lengthy history, residential development didn't take hold until the mid to late 1940s. As such, the neighbourhood includes several mid-century bungalows and two-storey homes on large lots – many of which offer River Valley/Gallagher Park views, plenty of character and recent upgrades:

Renovated, open floorplans
New roofing, shingles, insulation
New appliances and systems
Granite countertops
New cabinetry
Eat-in kitchen islands
Wood burning fireplaces
Flex rooms
Bonus rooms
Vaulted ceilings
Wood flooring
Wainscotting
Built-in shelving
Ample storage
Ultra large lots
Heated, double detached garages
RV parking
Mature landscaping
New fencing
And more!

It was also during the mid-1900s that Strathearn saw an increasing number of low-rise condos. Following single-family homes, these apartment-style condos are the predominant home style within Strathearn, making it an ideal location for first-time buyers and working professionals who want to stay close to the city center. Strathearn's apartments are also popular among knowing Edmonton real estate investors.

Check out our Real Estate Investing Blog

Though many of these multi-family developments are older, they too feature a wealth of modern upgrades with prices starting as low as the mid-100s for two bedrooms. In addition, these units are located toward the center of the neighbourhood and offer easy access to the local community league, school, and transit.

Infill homes are becoming increasingly popular in Strathearn, as many of the area's older properties give way to elegant laned homes and duplexes. These new construction homes are perfect for home buyers searching for modern living in one of Edmonton's oldest neighbourhoods. A brand new, four-bedroom and bathroom infill property in Strathearn may boast one-of-a-kind features such as rooftop patios, loft spaces, finished basements and bespoke finishes for upwards of $800,000. Vacant lot opportunities (build your dream home from the ground up) start in the 300s.

See Edmonton Downtown Condos for Sale

Average Listing Price: $591,000

See Homes For Sale In Strathearn

Did you know? Two of Strathearn's original landowners included W. Bird, builder of one of Edmonton's first water-powered grain mills and J. McKernan, Edmonton's first telegraph operator.

Abundant Amenities

Thanks to its formidable location near downtown Edmonton and the river valley, Strathearn remains one of the most amenity-rich neighbourhoods in the capital region. In addition to a local commercial complex featuring a convenience store, restaurants and several services, Strathearn sits within less than 10 minutes of Edmonton City Centre mall and the many boutique shops, services, restaurants and pubs of trendy Jasper Ave.

Other popular amenities in and around Strathearn include:

Did you know? Edmonton's Downtown Farmers’ Market wasn't always known as such. Established in 1903, the Rice Street Market was overseen by what was then known as the Town of Edmonton council. As such, the market has remained a regular weekend shopping destination for Edmontonians for over 100 years and counting.

The Top Ten Amenities Near Strathearn:

1. The Muttart Conservatory – The Muttart Conservatory is one of Canada's largest indoor botanical exhibits. The conservatory comprises three climate-regulated biodomes (arid, temperate and tropical), four beautiful botanical gardens and 700 species of plants spread across four pristine glass pyramids.

2. Gallagher Park – Nestled alongside the Muttart Conservatory and the Edmonton Ski Hill, Gallagher Park has been home to the Edmonton Folk Music Festival for over 40 years. In addition to hosting great musical acts and fantastic views of the Edmonton city skyline, it also boasts one of the best tobogganing hills in the city.

3. Henrietta Muir Edwards Park – One of the "Famous Five" parks of Edmonton, Henrietta Muir Edwards Park features walking trails and riverfront green spaces perfect for a picnic. The area also sits adjacent to Accidental Beach and the Edmonton Riverboat.

4. Bonnie Doon Shopping Centre – The recently renovated Bonnie Doon Centre offers over 100 stores and services, including big-box retailers, grocers, medical services and restaurants. Edmonton's future LRT Valley Line will also feature a stop outside the shopping hub.

5. Louise McKinney Riverfront Park – Louise McKinney Park is referred to as "the front door" to the larger river valley park and trail system. The park offers breathtaking river views, a Chinese Garden, access to the Trans-Canada Trail Pavilion and more.

6. Whyte Ave - Whyte Ave is one of Edmonton's most celebrated cultural hubs. In addition to hosting many of the capital region's most popular festivals (including Ice on Whyte and the Edmonton Fringe Festival), it's also home to many boutique shops, services and eateries. In fact, this famous street features some of the best-rated restaurants in the city, such as DaDeO, MEAT and Dorinku Tokyo.

7. Bonnie Doon Leisure Centre – A family-friendly facility, the Bonnie Doon Leisure Centre features an 8-lane, 25-metre swimming pool, sauna, steam room, running track and tennis courts. The centre also offers a wide range of fitness programs.

8. Old Strathcona Farmers Market – Edmonton's original indoor farmers' market! The OSFM has been operating since 1983 and features some of the best locally grown and produced goods in the capital region.

9. Riverside Golf Course – Just as its name implies, this 18-hole course offers spectacular views of the North Saskatchewan River Valley. Suitable for all skill levels, Riverside includes both men's and ladies' golf clubs and youth golf.

10. Forest Heights Park- Forest Heights Park is defined by river valley trails, sports fields, a tennis court and running track. The park also connects to the greater river valley trail system and offers several scenic rest and vantage points.

Did you know? According to the Areavibes Livability Index, crime rates in Strathearn are 7% lower than the Edmonton average. The community has also received A+ ratings for its amenities and cost of living.

The Best in Parks, Green Space and Recreation

Besides the broad network of walking trails and bike paths of the nearby river valley, Strathearn residents enjoy having some of Edmonton's best recreation venues at their doorsteps. These include access to some of the city's most famous hidden gems (i.e. Accidental Beach and the 100th Street Funicular) and famous events and attractions such as the Strathearn Artwalk and the Edmonton Ski Club.

Other recreational amenities near Strathearn include:

Did you know? The Strathearn Art Walk is an annual art and music festival celebrates local emerging artists.

Strathearn Schools

Ideal for families, Strathearn sits within close proximity of several different schools, providing academic opportunities for every age, stage and learning ability. In addition to public and Catholic schools in the surrounding communities, Strathearn is home to a local francophone school, providing French-immersive education from Kindergarten to Grade 12.

Designated Public Schools:

Holyrood School (Designated Grade K-6 School)
Rutherford School (Designated Grade K-6 School)
Kenilworth School (Designated Grade 7-9 School)
McNally School (Designated Grade 10-12 School)

Designated Catholic Schools:

St. Monica Catholic School (Designated Grade K-6 School)
St. Brendan Catholic School (Designated Grade K-9 School)
Austin O'Brien Catholic School (Designated Grade 10-12 School)

Other:

Did you know? Named after Alexander Cameron Rutherford, Alberta's first premier, Rutherford School remains one of Edmonton's oldest schools (est. 1911).

Minutes Away From Downtown Edmonton

Strathearn is a triangular-shaped community, defined by Connors Road to the southwest, Strathearn Drive to the north and 85th Street to the east. Residents of this Southeast Central neighbourhood can easily reach downtown in less than 10 minutes, while nearby 98th Ave provides access to greater Southeast Edmonton via 75th Street/Wayne Gretzky Drive (Yellowhead Trail and Whitemud Drive) and Baseline Road. Bordering 85th Street also intersects with 82nd (Whyte) Ave, Edmonton's vibrant arts and culture district.

Public transportation is considered extremely good in Strathearn, with several stops throughout the area. Edmonton's Central LRT Station can also be reached in less than 6 minutes via car or transit.

Summing It All Up: The Top Ten Reasons to Live in Strathearn

1. A Wide Range of Home Styles - Single-family homes (character and infill), duplexes and low-rise apartments.

2. An Established Community Atmosphere – Tree-lined streets, mature landscaping, well-tended parks and pathways.

3. Fantastic Green Spaces – There are over 160 km of maintained trails connecting 20 major parks in the nearby river valley.

4. Proximity to Downtown – Residents can easily access Edmonton's city center (only 7 minutes via car or half an hour on foot).

5. Trendy Shops and Services – Edmonton's Whyte Ave is home to a variety of locally-owned and operated shops and services.

6. Arts and Culture – Strathearn sits within a short distance of Edmonton's most celebrated arts and culture venues, such as the Muttart Conservatory, Gallagher Park, art galleries, theatres, concert venues and more.

7. Family-Friendly Amenities- Strathearn sits within a short distance of schools, grocers, parks, medical services, etc.

8. A+ Bike Score – Leave the car at home and save on gas. Biking is convenient for trips in and around Strathearn.

9. Enjoy Many of Edmonton's Hidden Gems - The 100th Street Funicular, Accidental Beach, and the Edmonton River Boat, to name a few.

10. Historical Charm - Established over 100 years ago, Strathearn was first annexed by the City of Strathcona in 1907 and then by the larger City of Edmonton in 1912. The community's history dates back to some of the earliest settlers.

For more information on Edmonton real estate opportunities and homes for sale in Strathearn or any other community in the capital region, get in touch with us! And don't forget to take advantage of any one (or all!) of our free buyer's resources, including:

Edmonton's Top Infill Communities – Unique homes, mature tree-lined streets and accessible amenities are just the beginning! Learn more about Edmonton's many popular infill neighbourhoods with our free guide.
Your All-in-One Guide to Choosing the Right Neighbourhood – Find your perfect home in your ideal community!
Your Ultimate Guide to Edmonton Real Estate - Our comprehensive eBook provides detailed information regarding Edmonton's distinct quadrants and their vibrant communities- from home styles and features to average prices and amenities.
The Terry Paranych Real Estate Group Blog – From home buying tips to home selling advice (and everything in between), our blog has all the information you need.

Originally published July 7, 2021, updated Feb 10, 2023

Photo credits: shutterstock.com

Posted by Terry Paranych on February 10th, 2023