One of the first questions anyone asks when moving to a new city is: “Which neighborhood should I live in?”
If you’re considering a move to Saint John, New Brunswick, you’ve probably already discovered how affordable the real estate market is compared to the rest of Canada. But affordability is just one factor. Choosing the right neighbourhood also comes down to your lifestyle:
Families want safety, good schools, and parks.
Retirees often look for peace, accessibility, and a strong sense of community.
Young professionals may want walkability, trendy spots, and proximity to downtown.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best neighbourhoods in Saint John for families, retirees, and young professionals — helping you picture life in Canada’s historic port city.
1. Understanding Saint John’s Layout
Before diving into neighbourhoods, it helps to understand the city’s structure. Saint John sits on the Bay of Fundy, famous for the world’s highest tides. The city is made up of diverse districts, each with its own character:
Uptown – The historic downtown core with restaurants, shops, and heritage architecture.
West Side – A mix of established neighbourhoods and newer developments, close to the beach and highway access.
East Side – Known for shopping, family-friendly subdivisions, and schools.
North End – A blend of up-and-coming areas and established communities.
Outlying Suburbs – Quispamsis, Rothesay, Grand Bay-Westfield, and Hampton, which offer a more suburban lifestyle.
With that context, let’s dive into the best places to live in Saint John depending on your stage of life.
2. Best Neighbourhoods for Families
Families moving to Saint John often prioritize affordable homes, safe streets, quality schools, and easy access to parks and activities. Here are some top picks:
East Saint John (Forest Hills & Lakewood Heights)
Why families love it:
Access to great schools such as Lakewood Heights and Forest Hills School.
Spacious homes with yards for kids to play.
Close to malls, grocery stores, and sports facilities.
Lifestyle vibe: Suburban with everything families need within a short drive.
Millidgeville
Why families love it:
Close to UNB Saint John campus and Saint John Regional Hospital.
Excellent mix of waterfront properties, townhouses, and family homes.
Parks, yacht clubs, and easy access to nature.
Lifestyle vibe: Upscale, family-friendly, with a mix of professionals and established residents.
Quispamsis & Rothesay (Suburbs)
Why families love it:
Highly ranked schools, including Rothesay High and Quispamsis Middle.
Strong sense of community with family-oriented events and recreation.
Access to the Kennebecasis River for boating, swimming, and skating in winter.
Lifestyle vibe: Safe, suburban, and ideal for families looking for more space.
Family Takeaway: Families moving from larger Canadian cities are often shocked at the size of homes they can afford in these neighbourhoods, plus the community feel is a major draw.
3. Best Neighbourhoods for Retirees
Retirees moving to Saint John often want peace, convenience, healthcare access, and a slower pace of life. These neighbourhoods stand out:
West Saint John (Greendale & Fundy Heights)
Why retirees love it:
Affordable single-level homes and bungalows.
Proximity to Irving Nature Park and Bay of Fundy beaches.
Short drive to uptown for shopping and services.
Lifestyle vibe: Relaxed coastal living with easy access to nature.
Grand Bay-Westfield
Why retirees love it:
Quiet suburban community along the Saint John River.
Mix of single-family homes and condos.
Community feel with farmers’ markets, local shops, and a slower pace.
Lifestyle vibe: Perfect for retirees looking for space, safety, and charm without being too far from the city.
Uptown (Heritage Condos & Apartments)
Why retirees love it:
Low-maintenance condos with character in restored heritage buildings.
Walkable access to restaurants, arts, and healthcare.
Strong sense of community among condo residents.
Lifestyle vibe: Vibrant but relaxed — perfect for retirees who want activity without the hassle of a house.
Retiree Takeaway: Many retirees choose Saint John for its affordability and healthcare access, while still enjoying coastal scenery and a welcoming community.
4. Best Neighbourhoods for Young Professionals
Young professionals often look for walkability, nightlife, trendy areas, and affordable housing. Saint John offers several great options:
Uptown (Core)
Why young professionals love it:
Walkable to offices, shops, pubs, and restaurants.
Beautiful historic buildings converted into lofts and condos.
Thriving arts and cultural scene.
Lifestyle vibe: Lively, social, and convenient — like a small-scale Halifax or Montreal.
Millidgeville (Urban-Suburban Mix)
Why young professionals love it:
Close to the hospital, university, and tech companies.
Modern townhouses and condos are available.
Quick access to kayaking, boating, and outdoor fitness.
Lifestyle vibe: Professional and active, with a mix of students, healthcare workers, and young families.
North End (Crescent Valley & Portland Place)
Why young professionals love it:
Up-and-coming neighbourhoods with more affordable housing.
Community initiatives and growing local businesses.
Close to Uptown without the higher price tag.
Lifestyle vibe: Trendy, evolving, and budget-friendly.
Young Professional Takeaway: Uptown is the clear hotspot, but Millidgeville offers a balance of modern living with access to both work and play.
5. Comparing Neighbourhoods at a Glance
Here’s a quick breakdown for clarity:
6. Real Estate Prices by Area (2025 Snapshot)
Uptown condos: ~$220,000–$350,000
Millidgeville houses: ~$400,000–$600,000
East Saint John family homes: ~$280,000–$350,000
West Side bungalows: ~$250,000–$320,000
Quispamsis/Rothesay: ~$400,000–$650,000
Grand Bay-Westfield: ~$300,000–$450,000
👉 Compared to Toronto or Vancouver, where condos alone average $700,000–$1M, Saint John’s affordability is undeniable.
7. Lifestyle Considerations Beyond Price
When choosing a neighbourhood, think about:
Commute Times: Most Saint John commutes are under 20 minutes, even from the suburbs.
Healthcare Access: Living near Saint John Regional Hospital (Millidgeville/Uptown) is a plus for retirees.
Outdoor Lifestyle: Love the ocean? Consider West Saint John. Prefer river life? Quispamsis or Grand Bay.
Community Vibe: Uptown for arts and culture, suburbs for family events, West Side for coastal peace.
Saint John offers a neighbourhood for every stage of life — whether you’re raising a family, enjoying retirement, or starting your professional journey.
Families will thrive in East Saint John, Millidgeville, and the suburbs of Quispamsis and Rothesay.
Retirees will love the West Side, Grand Bay-Westfield, or Uptown’s walkable condos.
Young professionals will feel right at home in Uptown, Millidgeville, or the growing North End.
With its affordable housing, coastal beauty, and welcoming community, Saint John is a city where you don’t have to sacrifice lifestyle for affordability.
👉 Thinking of moving here? Reach out today to explore which neighbourhood fits your lifestyle best.
