Living in St. John's
The capital city: historic downtown, harbour views and the region's widest range of homes.
St. John's is the capital and largest city of Newfoundland and Labrador, on the eastern edge of the Avalon Peninsula. It has the region's widest range of housing, from colourful downtown row houses to established suburbs and newer subdivisions. It is also home to Memorial University, the province's main hospitals and St. John's International Airport.
On , the 198 homes listed for sale in St. John's had a median asking price of $399,900 (average $528,284; single-family average $566,594), based on active residential MLS® listings. L|S Real Estate Group, a St. John's team with Keller Williams Platinum Realty, helps buyers and sellers in St. John's in English, French, Ukrainian, Hindi, Punjabi and Urdu.
St. John's at a Glance
- Municipality
- City of St. John's
- Region
- Northeast Avalon, Newfoundland and Labrador
- Drive to downtown St. John's
- Most neighbourhoods are within 10–20 minutes of downtown by car
- Housing character
- Urban core, established suburbs and newer subdivisions
- Median asking price*
- $399,900
- Active residential listings*
- 198
- Official website
- stjohns.ca
About St. John's
St. John's is one of the oldest cities in North America, and its history shows in the brightly painted row houses, steep streets and working harbour of the downtown core. Beyond downtown, the city spreads into established residential areas, busy retail corridors and newer subdivisions, plus semi-rural areas such as Kilbride and the Goulds within city limits.
For buyers, that variety is the main draw: heritage homes and condos within walking distance of Water Street, mid-century bungalows near Memorial University, and newer family homes in subdivisions on the west end. Most of the region's jobs, health care, post-secondary education and shopping are in the city, which makes St. John's the natural starting point for many newcomers.
Choosing the right neighbourhood is one of the most important parts of buying a home in St. John's. Each area of the city offers a distinct lifestyle, housing style and sense of community, from walkable downtown streets to family-friendly suburbs and growing communities just outside the city. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, relocating to Newfoundland or looking for your next move, understanding the neighbourhoods can help you narrow your search and find a home that fits both your lifestyle and long-term goals. Below is an overview of some of the most popular neighbourhoods in St. John's. Surrounding communities such as Mount Pearl, Paradise and Conception Bay South have their own guides.
Neighbourhoods in St. John's
Downtown
Downtown St. John's is known for its historic charm, colourful row houses and vibrant cultural scene. It is the most walkable part of the city, close to Water Street, George Street, the harbour and Signal Hill, with easy access to restaurants, cafés, offices, nightlife and year-round local events. The neighbourhood is rich in character, with heritage properties, unique architecture and a strong connection to the city's history and arts community. Buyers are drawn to its lively atmosphere, waterfront access and the chance to enjoy city living without relying heavily on a vehicle, and often choose it for character homes. Many homes are older and parking can be limited. For those seeking an urban lifestyle with personality and convenience, downtown offers a distinctive living experience in the heart of the city.
East End
The East End of St. John's is one of the most sought-after areas in the city, known for its newer subdivisions, schools, shopping centres and recreational amenities. It offers a well-balanced lifestyle, with access to parks, walking trails and community facilities, and is especially appealing to families and professionals. Convenient access to major roads, the Stavanger Drive retail area, the airport and key employment areas supports easy commuting while keeping a suburban feel. Housing ranges from modern detached homes to townhouses and condominiums, with flexibility for different budgets and stages of life. Buyers are often drawn to the East End for its newer construction, strong amenities and long-term value.
West End
The West End of St. John's offers a strong mix of affordability, convenience and well-established neighbourhoods. It is close to shopping centres, schools, healthcare services and public transit, which appeals to first-time buyers, professionals and anyone looking for practical city living. Housing includes detached homes, townhouses and smaller multi-unit properties, with options across a range of budgets. Many buyers consider the West End good value compared to other parts of St. John's, with accessibility, established communities and a central location without the higher price points found elsewhere in the city.
Airport Heights
Airport Heights is a family-friendly neighbourhood in St. John's, known for its newer homes, quiet streets and convenient location. It has a suburban feel, with well-planned streets, parks and nearby schools, which is especially appealing to families and buyers looking for a comfortable residential setting. It is close to shopping centres, recreational facilities and major roadways, with easy access to downtown St. John's, the airport and other parts of the city. Buyers are drawn to its newer construction, efficient layouts and balance between peaceful living and everyday convenience.
Cowan Heights
Cowan Heights is a well-established residential neighbourhood in St. John's, known for its parks, schools and strong sense of community. It has a mix of detached homes and townhouses, and is a popular choice for families, first-time buyers and move-up buyers looking for more space. Nearby recreation areas, local services and convenient access to major roadways give it a balance between suburban comfort and city convenience. Buyers are drawn to its affordability, family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to shopping, schools and everyday amenities.
Churchill Square & Memorial University area
Mid-century homes on quiet streets near Memorial University and the Health Sciences Centre, with a neighbourhood shopping plaza at Churchill Square.
Kenmount Terrace
Kenmount Terrace is a centrally located neighbourhood in St. John's known for its convenience and accessibility. It is close to shopping centres, schools, healthcare services and major roadways, which appeals to buyers who want easy access to everyday amenities and shorter commute times. Housing includes a mix of single-family homes and two-apartment homes, which makes Kenmount Terrace a practical option for first-time buyers, professionals and families looking for established city living with strong resale appeal.
Southlands
Southlands is one of St. John's newer and fastest-growing neighbourhoods, known for its modern homes, larger lots and thoughtfully planned suburban layout. Newer construction with contemporary designs, wider streets and a residential feel appeals to buyers seeking space, comfort and long-term value. With ongoing development and expanding infrastructure, Southlands continues to attract families, professionals and move-up buyers who want a newer home within city limits. Nearby schools, shopping, recreational facilities and major roadways make daily commuting and errands straightforward.
Galway
Galway is one of St. John's newest master-planned communities, offering modern living with a mix of residential, commercial and recreational spaces. It is known for newer construction, contemporary home designs and close proximity to shopping, dining and essential services, and offers a convenient, well-connected lifestyle within the city. Designed with long-term growth in mind, the community continues to expand with thoughtfully planned streets, amenities and housing options. Galway attracts families, professionals and buyers seeking a modern suburban lifestyle within city limits, as well as those who want a newer home in a carefully designed neighbourhood with strong future potential.
Goulds & Kilbride
Goulds is a historic community on the southwest side of St. John's that offers a more rural feel while remaining within comfortable commuting distance of the city. It is known for its larger lots, detached homes and strong sense of local identity, and appeals to buyers looking for space, privacy and a quieter pace of life. The community offers access to schools, local services and outdoor recreation, which makes it a practical choice for families and buyers who value both independence and connection. Many residents appreciate the balance Goulds provides between country-style living and convenient access to St. John's amenities, for a more relaxed lifestyle without feeling far removed from the city. Nearby Kilbride is also popular with first-time buyers.
Amenities & Lifestyle
Landmarks & culture
- Signal Hill National Historic Site and Cabot Tower
- Quidi Vidi Village and Quidi Vidi Lake, home of the Royal St. John's Regatta
- The Rooms, the provincial museum, gallery and archives
- Water Street and George Street dining, shops and live music
Parks & outdoors
- Bowring Park
- The Grand Concourse walking-trail network
- East Coast Trail access from the city
- Harbourfront walks and lookouts
Everyday convenience
- Avalon Mall and the Kenmount Road and Stavanger Drive retail areas
- Memorial University of Newfoundland
- The Health Sciences Centre and other major hospitals
- St. John's International Airport (YYT)
Municipal Services
- Water & sewer
- Municipal water and sewer serve most of the city. Some rural areas use private wells and septic systems, so confirm services for any specific property.
- Garbage & recycling
- Curbside garbage and recycling collection by the City.
- Public transit
- Metrobus provides public transit across the city.
- Policing
- The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC).
- Snow clearing & recreation
- City-run snow clearing, recreation centres and programs. See the City of St. John's website for schedules, property tax rates and permits.
Service details change over time. Always confirm services, tax rates and zoning for a specific property with the City of St. John's, and ask us to check them during your due diligence.
St. John's Housing Market Snapshot
| Median asking price | $399,900 |
|---|---|
| Average asking price | $528,284 |
| Average asking price, single-family (131 listings) | $566,594 |
| Average asking price per sq. ft. | $217 |
| Active residential listings | 198 |
* Asking prices of active residential MLS® listings for sale in each municipality on the date shown (compiled from DwellSmart market data). Asking prices are not sold prices and change daily — ask us for a comparative market analysis on any specific home. Data as of .
St. John's FAQs
Sources
- City of St. John's
- Metrobus Transit (City of St. John's)
- Government of Newfoundland and Labrador: RNC jurisdiction
- Market snapshot: Asking prices of active residential MLS® listings for sale in each municipality on the date shown (compiled from DwellSmart market data). Asking prices are not sold prices and change daily — ask us for a comparative market analysis on any specific home.