It’s the time of the year again when everyone’s thoughts turn to St. Nick. But this Christmastime, homebuyers looking for a new home would be well-advised to turn to St. Albert, the dynamic young municipality just north of Edmonton, where the gift of finding a new home can be more easily found.

Christmas in St. Albert is really something special. The popular Perron Districtdressed up in Holiday lights and tinsel is an Instagram-worthy scene, the St. Albert Christmas Market is also said to be the largest indoor Christmas market in Western Canada with 250 vendors, live performances and where the small-town Christmas spirit is alive and well.

Many have, in fact, seem to have chosen to settle in this city as St. Albert’s population increased by 9.2 per cent from 2018 to 2024, and the 2024 municipal census counted 72,316 residents, a 6,234 increase from 2023.

What do people love about it? Easy. St. Albert boasts a family-friendly vibe with lots of parks and recreational opportunities, so much so that it has been consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in Alberta. Now, it’s becoming known for the modern – even cosmopolitan – lifestyle to be found in its many new communities, including in Nouveau and Riverside.

Loving St. Albert

It’s no secret that St. Albert has become one of the most sought-after residential destinations in Alberta. The balanced lifestyle it offers of big city amenities with a small-town feel, has struck a chord among homebuyers.

“St. Albert is a city that perfectly blends small-town charm with big-city convenience,” says Tara Van Horn, Director, Marketing & Communications at Coventry Homes.

Coventry Homes has been building in St. Albert for a decade, offering a range of duplex, laned, and front-drive garage homes in the established community of Riverside, and recently in the young community of Nouveau. They have some insight in what makes this municipality – sometimes called “Botanical Arts City” – such a fantastic place to live.

“St. Albert is known for its beautiful parks, strong sense of community, and top-rated schools, it’s a place where families can truly put down roots. The city’s trail system, local markets, and year-round community events create a warm, connected atmosphere, while proximity to Edmonton ensures that residents have access to everything they need,” she adds.

Enhanced quality of life

Located just outside the northwest corner of Edmonton, St. Albert has gained its own identity as a medium-sized city with plenty of room for growth, with plenty of amenities – including its own hospital – and where life can be enjoyed at a leisurely pace.

It has been named the safest city in Alberta with an excellent public education system and great healthcare facilities. It also has a livelier downtown and nightlife than most Albertan cities of similar size, according to several real estate websites.

St. Albert offers well-planned neighbourhoods, exceptional community services, and plenty of opportunities to own a new home. The city offers well-planned neighbourhoods, exceptional community services, and an abundant mix of cultural and recreational opportunities.

Plenty of new home opportunities

Coventry Homes has been proudly building in St. Albert for nearly a decade, starting with the award-winning community of Riverside and more recently expanding into Nouveau.

“Riverside offers a beautiful natural setting close to the Sturgeon River and Big Lake, perfect for those who appreciate the outdoors,” Van Horn says. “One of its standout features is the larger lot sizes, which allow for spacious single-family homes with front attached garages – many of which can accommodate up to a triple garage.”

She adds that while these aren’t considered estate homes, they come close in terms of size, curb appeal, and overall lifestyle. “The community’s generous green spaces, walking trails, and proximity to amenities make it an exceptional place to call home.”

Nouveau, on the other hand, brings a more modern and efficient approach to homeownership. Featuring Zero Lot Line homes, it’s designed to maximize space and affordability without sacrificing style or function. “It’s a vibrant, growing area in north St. Albert that’s perfect for young families and first-time buyers looking for a well-connected community with nearby shopping, schools, and easy access to major routes.”

Across both communities, Coventry offers a wide selection of single-family homes and duplexes, with floor plans designed to fit a range of lifestyles from growing families to downsizers looking for comfort and style.

Peaceful, easy living

St. Albert has a reputation as one of the safest communities in Alberta with its Crime Severity Index significantly lower than the provincial and national averages.

St. Albert also offers well-planned neighbourhoods, exceptional community services, and plenty of opportunities to own a new home, as well as an abundant mix of cultural and recreational opportunities.

“In St. Albert, single family homes compared to Edmonton, prices are generally a little higher, reflecting St. Albert’s premium location, established infrastructure, and sought-after reputation,” Van Horn says. “That said, buyers often find the investment worthwhile for the quality of life, resale value, and sense of community that come with living here. Coventry offers a variety of home styles and specifications to help buyers find the right fit for their lifestyle and budget.”

Natural, cultural haven

Beyond its well-known Farmers’ Market and downtown boutiques, St. Albert has a growing number of local gems worth discovering. The Enjoy Centre offers unique shopping and dining experiences with local food, plants, and artisan products all under one roof.

“The city’s vibrant dining scene includes cozy cafes, family-run restaurants, and upscale spots for date nights. Outdoor enthusiasts love the Red Willow Trail System, while families can enjoy attractions like the St. Albert Botanic Park or the Arden Theatre’s live performances. The mix of nature, culture, and convenience makes it easy to see why so many choose to call St. Albert home,” Van Horn adds.

Nature is ever close at hand in St. Albert, and there are plenty of spots to enjoy lush, green scenery. The Sturgeon River which runs through the heart of St. Albert is a great spot for walks, picnics and communing with nature.

The capital region’s only provincial park, the Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park, is also right at its doorstep. It is located along the western edge of St. Albert and Edmonton and Big Lake is its defining feature, taking up 59 per cent of the park’s total area.

The St. Albert Botanic Park is also a sight to behold. It is a top tourist destination in the city, featuring five acres of beautifully landscaped, themed gardens. These are a few of the reasons why St. Albert is also called “Botanical Arts City.”

Coventry’s latest showhomes in St. Albert

“Coventry’s showhomes in both Riverside and Nouveau highlight the craftsmanship and thoughtful design we’re known for,” Van Horn says.

The newly opened Odessa showhome in Riverside is one of Coventry’s most popular models that perfectly balances style and function. “The home has a Refined Heritage design with features such as stone fireplace and backsplash, transom windows and custom millwork throughout.” Highlights include a spa-like primary retreat and a basement gym with a dual-sided fireplace for added comfort and charm. Visit it at 193 Rankin Dr, St. Albert.

With a Nordic inspired aesthetic, the Dione showhome in Nouveau features the standard floorplan option with an open main floor and large central kitchen which opens on to the dining nook and great room. “The Nordic design is carried into the basement which features an Oilers® Fan Cave – complete with smoothie bar, training gym and sauna,” she adds. Check it out at 6 Nouveau Drive, St. Albert.

For more about what Coventry Homes offers in St. Albert and elsewhere, go to coventryhomes.ca.