Whether you’re looking to buy or rent, the real estate market in Halifax can be frustrating, especially for young Haligonians. The Coast spoke with realtors and a property manager to find out what’s going on in the market, and where people should be looking.
“For students, the main hubs are typically around the universities in downtown Halifax or Dartmouth,” says property manager Arjun Sharma, highlighting accessibility and proximity to campus as key priorities. Sharma has worked in the industry for over 15 years and is the owner of Land Nova Property Management. He currently oversees hundreds of rental units in Halifax.
For young professionals, he recommends areas like Joseph Howe Drive, the Halifax Peninsula, and the Bedford Highway. “Those without a car generally prefer to stay in Downtown Halifax, where everything is within walking distance or easily accessible by public transit,” he explains.
When it comes to middle-aged professionals—particularly those between 28 to 45 years old—Sharma notes a shift toward family-oriented areas. “Neighbourhoods like Clayton Park, near the Canada Games Centre, and the Larry Uteck Belt offer a quieter atmosphere, which appeals to working professionals seeking a balanced lifestyle.”
Sharma said that, as of May 2024, Halifax had approximately 55,000 rental units, with the vacancy rate rising slightly from 1% to 2%. “The Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) aims to increase this to 3 to 5%, and we’re expecting a wave of new residential developments starting in the third quarter of 2025 through 2029.”
Navigating Halifax’s real estate market takes more than just knowledge—it takes up-to-date insight into trends and buyer behaviour. Colton Collins and Kelli Thain, the duo behind KC Real Estate Group, have been licensed in Halifax for the past three years.
“Right now, the market is shifting towards a balanced market from a sellers market, however we are still in a sellers market currently,” says Collins, reflecting on the changes that have taken hold in recent months. “The current month’s supply is 2.3 months, meaning that if all the homes that were currently on the market sold, it would only take 2.3 months to sell all of them. Anything less than 7 months is a sellers market. “
According to Thain, Halifax has remained relatively stable. “Unlike some major cities where people are moving out, Halifax is still seeing steady inbound migration.” She adds that the post-pandemic period was especially competitive: “It was a seller’s market. Prices were at their peak, and buyers had a hard time entering the market.”
For first-time homebuyers, affordability remains the top concern. “They often don’t have existing equity, so price point becomes the key factor. That’s why we’re seeing strong interest in places like Lower Sackville, Eastern Passage, and Dartmouth,” Thain explains. These communities offer a more accessible entry point without sacrificing amenities or commute time.
Most buyers right now fall into two main categories—out-of-province buyers and first-time homeowners, Thain said. “We’re also seeing more investors entering the Halifax market, drawn by the city’s long-term growth potential.”
On the financial side, Thain points to broader macroeconomic factors shaping buyer decisions. “Interest rates are currently being held steady, but a decrease is projected. When that happens, demand will go up—and so will prices.” She also notes that home values have already increased. “There’s been a 4% rise in home prices since last year.”
Here are some of the best neighbourhoods for young Haligonians to look at to either rent or buy a home.
1. Bedford: Suburban living with big city access
Bedford is a top choice for families who want it all: top-tier schools, shopping, parks, and quick access to Halifax, Dartmouth, and the airport. New developments like Brookline Park blend modern design with walkable amenities, making it a fast-growing hotspot. In this area, homes average $720K, with 1-bed rentals near $1,900.
2. Fall River: Privacy, space and community vibes
Fall River offers treed 1+ acre lots and a serene semi-rural lifestyle. Though it lacks transit access, it makes up for it with community spirit, great schools, and an ideal location for commuters. It’s popular with growing families, with homes averaging $680K and 1-bed apartment rents around $1,650.
3. Hammonds Plains: Room to breathe, close to the city
Starting from $690K, this family-favourite area is known for large properties, top-rated school zones, and access to the scenic Glen Arbour golf community. 1-bed apartments rent for about $1,750 in this neighbourhood. This area strikes a balance between space and convenience, bordering Bedford and Timberlea.
4. Upper Tantallon & Timberlea: Growth, value and space
If you’re looking for value and space, homes in this area start around $550K for older homes and $700K+ for newer builds. These fast-growing communities offer excellent access to the 103 Highway, family-friendly streets, and expanding amenities.
5. Lower Sackville: Affordability meets convenience
Lower Sackville is booming. Ideal for first-time buyers, it offers strong transit connections, established schools, and a welcoming, family-oriented vibe—making it one of the best values near Halifax. It is popular with families and first-time buyers, the average home prices are around $420K, with 1-bed rentals near $1,200.
6. Middle Sackville & Indigo Shores: More land, more value
This area blends older rural charm with modern lakefront subdivisions like Indigo Shores. Priced between $550K–$800K, it’s perfect for buyers seeking privacy, space, and scenic surroundings within a short drive of the city. 1-bed rentals in this neighbourhood average $1,650.
7. Dartmouth: Lakeside living and urban convenience
From $550K, Dartmouth offers a diverse mix of walkable neighbourhoods, top schools, lakes, and an emerging arts and food scene. Areas like Portland Estates and Colby Village are particularly popular with families looking for balanced lifestyles. Areas like Downtown Dartmouth and Cole Harbour, are pretty popular, and 1-bed rents are around $1,950.
8. Downtown Halifax: Historic charm in the heart of the city
For those who want to be in the centre of it all, downtown homes start at $900K. Though pricier, it’s unbeatable for culture, walkability, and heritage homes. Ideal for professionals or downsizers wanting an active, car-free lifestyle. In this area, 1-bed apartments rent for about $2,295.
9. Spryfield: Affordable urban/suburban blend
Spryfield offers homes from $450K to $650K and is one of the last affordable spots within city limits. New construction, proximity to Long Lake Provincial Park, and improving infrastructure make it a rising star for families. To rent a 1-bed apartment, the renting is estimated to be about $1,250.
10. Enfield, Elmsdale & Lantz: Rural living with room to grow
These rural communities, starting at $499K, offer space and value just 30–45 minutes from Halifax. With thousands of new homes planned, they’re increasingly popular with budget-conscious buyers and those working near the airport.
11.Eastern Passage: Seaside charm with small-town vibes This coastal village offers waterfront views, boardwalks, and a relaxed pace just 25 minutes from Halifax. With a strong sense of community and affordable homes averaging $494K, it’s a favorite among retirees and young families. 1-bed rent is around $1,560.
12. Portland Hills: Lakeside living with easy access Located near Morris Lake in Dartmouth, Portland Hills is a peaceful, family-friendly area just 22 minutes from downtown. Known for its trails, green space, and safety, homes average $650K, with 1-bed rentals around $1,875.
13. Clayton Park: Convenient access with urban perks A quick 18-minute drive to Halifax, Clayton Park combines city access with shopping, parks, and recreation. With diverse housing and a modest 0.13 crime rate per 1,000, it attracts young professionals. Homes average $749K; 1-bed rent is $2,480.
14. Herring Cove: Coastal living with a community feel Just 26 minutes from downtown, this scenic coastal suburb offers ocean views, nature trails, and top-tier safety with 0 crimes per 1,000 people. Popular with families, homes average $762K, while 1-bed apartments rent for around $1,995.
15. Portland Estates: Suburban peace near the lake This quiet Dartmouth neighborhood offers safety and green space just 19 minutes from Downtown Halifax. With Russell Lake nearby and a crime rate of 0 per 1,000, it’s ideal for families and retirees. Homes average $1.04M, with 1-bed rentals around $1,600.
For families seeking the right mix of lifestyle, affordability, and access, these communities provide standout options across the Halifax region.
This article appears in Jun 1-30, 2025.
