West Hamilton is a vibrant community in Ontario, comprising three districts and seven neighbourhoods used to separate areas in the Real Estate Market. The borders of West Hamilton extend west of James Street, south of Hamilton Harbour (Lake Ontario), north of the base of the Escarpment, and east of Dundas, Ontario. Each district and neighbourhood offers unique advantages and lifestyle options.
Districts & Neighborhoods
District 10: Strathcona | Central South | North West Bayfront
District 11: Westdale | Ainslie Wood
District 12: Kirkendall | Durand
Real Estate
Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or a retiree, West Hamilton provides a welcoming and dynamic environment to call home. This community offers a diverse housing market, featuring heritage homes, detached bungalows, 2.5-storey Victorian homes, townhomes, and condominium apartments. Real estate prices are varied, with District 10 being the most affordable and District 12 having the highest average prices. West Hamilton has always been a favourite destination for commuters due to its proximity to Highway 403 and the West Harbour GO Train Station.
Lifestyles
West Hamilton, Ontario, offers a vibrant and diverse lifestyle that combines cultural richness, recreational opportunities, family-friendly amenities, and a strong sense of community. Many neighbourhoods in West Hamilton are walkable and bike-friendly, featuring ample trails and bike lanes that promote an active lifestyle. Numerous parks, playgrounds, and family-oriented events make it an ideal place for raising children, with community centres often hosting activities and programs for kids and families. The area boasts a mix of independent boutiques, specialty shops, and major retail outlets. Westdale Village and Locke Street are popular shopping destinations, known for their unique stores and charming atmosphere. West Hamilton also features a diverse culinary scene with various restaurants, cafés, and pubs, offering everything from gourmet dining to casual eateries to suit every palate. Residents have access to quality healthcare through the presence of hospitals, clinics, and wellness centres, ensuring their well-being is well taken care of.
Education
West Hamilton boasts a variety of educational institutions catering to students of all ages, from elementary and secondary schools to specialized programs. It is also home to McMaster University. If you are contemplating a move to the area and have specific educational requirements or preferences, it's wise to research the local schools' offerings. Consider factors such as academic performance, extracurricular activities, and the school's proximity to your prospective home. Below you will find more information about each district including a list of schools that serve each community.
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West Hamilton Real Estate Districts & Neighbourhoods
Strathcona | Central South | North End Bayfront
Real Estate
Historically, real estate prices in this part of West Hamilton were significantly lower compared to the South and West Districts. However, recent improvements, including the opening of the Harbour GO Train Station, the development of modern condo units, and plans for the nearby revitalized waterfront, have led to a substantial increase in property values. You will find detached homes, semi-detached houses, condominium apartments and some row townhomes. Average Selling Prices range from $400,000 to $900,000 for Detached and $400,000 to $700,000 for Condominium Apartments.
Shopping & Dining
Jackson Square Shopping Mall is an indoor Mall in downtown Hamilton that caters mostly to locals and businesses and has hours to reflect that, closing at 6 pm Mon-Sat, and 5 pm on Sunday. Hamilton Farmers Market is right behind Jackson Square and is a fantastic place to get a variety of fresh produce, including seasonal fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices. You'll find artisanal baked goods, dairy products, meats, and seafood, along with handmade items like crafts, soaps, and lotions and it is open Wed-Sat till 5 pm. Hutches Harbour Front near Bayfront Park is the 2nd location for the iconic original Hutches on the beach in East Hamilton. Mulberry Coffee House, MESA Mexican, and Claudio's Italian are 3 of the great restaurants near James and Hess Village has lots of restaurants including Electric Diner, Gown & Gavel, Radius, Koi, and The King George Pub.
Parks & Recreation
Hamilton Harbour Waterfront Trail is 7.5 km and follows Hamilton Harbour from Princess Point (Cootes Paradise) through Bayfront Park and Pier 4 Park. Pier 4 Park overlooks Lake Ontario and has a splash pad and a playground with a tugboat play structure. Bayfront Park is also right on the tip of the Lake and is over 40 acres with an expansive green space area and a 1.5 km asphalt pathway. Dundurn Castle is one of Hamilton's most recognized landmarks and a National Historic Site. Designed by local architect Robert Wetherell for Sir Allan MacNab, it features a panoramic view of Burlington Bay. Now owned by the City of Hamilton, this 18,000-square-foot neoclassical mansion offers tours by costumed interpreters, showcasing the life and times of Sir Allan MacNab and his family in the 1850s. The Royal Hamilton Yacht Club, Macassa Bay Yacht Club, and the Leander Boat Club are in the Hamilton Harbour area.
Neighbourhood Notables & Highlights
The Art Gallery of Hamilton was founded in 1914 and is the oldest and largest art museum in the region with a permanent collection that is recognized as one of the finest in Canada. Embracing Canadian historical, international, and contemporary art, the collection consists of more than 10,000 works. The Gas Works Community Centre is Hamilton's cultural hub for arts, education, and community started by the John and Ellie Voortman Charitable Foundation. The First Ontario Concert Hall was originally known as Hamilton Place and features year-round concerts and live theatre. Hotels in the area include Sheraton, Admiral Inn, Hampton Inn, Staybridge Suites, and Homewood Suites. The Cathedral Basilica of Christ the King Catholic Church overlooks Highway 403 at King Street West and is a significant architectural and historical landmark as is the Tuckett Mansion - Scottish Rite which hosts public events, shows, dinners, and more.
Schools in or Serving District 10
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Strathcona Elementary
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Hess Street Elementary
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Hamilton Downtown Islamic
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St. Mary Catholic Secondary
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Westdale Public Secondary
Westdale | Ainslie Wood
Real Estate Market
This part of West Hamilton is known for its blend of academic excellence, natural beauty, cultural richness, high walkability score, and a strong sense of community. Being home to McMaster University, you will find a mix of student housing, young families and many established long-time residents in this area. Westdale Village is the go-to for residents and visitors to Hamilton and is known for its unique stores, restaurants, coffee shops, restored movie theatre, a public library, and its proximity to hiking trails and canoeing at nearby Cootes Paradise. The majority of the homes were built in the early to mid-1950s. You will find mostly detached homes, a few townhomes and some condominium apartments, with more condos being built. Average Selling Prices tend to range from $700,000 to $1,100,000 for Detached and $300,000 to $550,000 for Condominium Apartments. It is bordered by Highway 403 to the east, the base of the escarpment to the South, Cootes Paradise (at the western end of Lake Ontario), The Royal Botanical Gardens to the north, and Dundas to the west.
Shopping & Dining
Some of the notable Westdale Village dining options include The Burnt Tongue (great soup and sandwiches!), Chung Chun Rice Hotdogs (for the unique corn dogs), Smokes Poutinerie, Chef Martin's Sushi (takeout), Delirious Burger, Nannaa Persian Eatery, and Dragon Court Chinese Restaurant (one of the longest standing restaurants in this area). Second Cup, Mikel Coffee, and Paisley Coffeehouse are all great spots for a coffee or snack. Across from McMaster Children's Hospital and University, you can grab a coffee at Starbucks, or check out Pinks Burgers, and Williams Fresh Cafe. Further west make sure to check out Grain and Grit Beer Co.
Parks & Recreation
Churchill Park is a huge park surrounded by a natural woodlot, ravine lands, and Cootes Paradise. It has a playground, spray pad, baseball diamonds, and soccer pitches. Alexander Park has baseball diamonds, a skate park, and a spray pad. Princess Point is a picturesque and popular area located at the western tip of Lake Ontario, near the mouth of Cootes Paradise. It is part of the Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) and offers a variety of recreational, natural, and scenic attractions. Princess Point is a starting point for several trails, including the Hamilton Waterfront Trail and the Cootes Paradise Trail, and is an entry point for canoeing and kayaking.
Neighbourhood Notables & Highlights
Westdale Theatre is a historic, independent cinema showcasing a mix of mainstream, indie, and classic films. McMaster University is one of Canada's top universities, attracting students and professionals globally with a beautiful campus, advanced research facilities, libraries, and cultural venues. McMaster Hospital, officially known as McMaster University Medical Centre (MUMC), is a prominent healthcare facility that is part of the Hamilton Health Sciences network and closely affiliated with McMaster University. The hospital is home to McMaster Children's Hospital, one of Canada's largest pediatric healthcare facilities, offering specialized care for children from infancy to adolescence. There is one hotel in the area, the Visitors Inn.
Schools in or Serving District 11
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Cootes Paradise Elementary
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Dalewood Middle School
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Canadian Martyrs
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Glenwood Elementary
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Hamilton Hebrew Academy
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Westdale Public Secondary
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St. Mary Catholic Secondary
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Columbia International College
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McMaster University
Kirkendell | Durand
Real Estate Market
Southwest Hamilton, known for trendy Locke Street (Antiques, great eats, and other unique stores) and the exclusive Durand Neighborhood, boasts excellent Walk Scores. Bordered by James Street, Main Street West, Highway 403, and the Niagara Escarpment, this historic area was once home to industrialists. It features a concentration of early 20th-century mansions in Tudor, Georgian, and Edwardian styles, with homes showcasing original charm like gumwood floors, leaded glass, and beamed ceilings. You will find a mix of detached houses, condominium apartments, and a few townhomes. Average Selling Prices tend to range from $600,000 to $3,000,000 for Detached and $300,000 to $900,000 for Condominium Apartments. Southwest Hamilton's rich array of parks and recreational facilities, combined with its vibrant community spirit, makes it a fantastic area for active and leisurely pursuits. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, climbing, or simply enjoying a day at the park, there's something for everyone in this dynamic neighbourhood.
Shopping & Dining
Southwest Hamilton, especially along Locke St., offers diverse eateries and unique shopping experiences. Some notable food options include Donut Monster for gourmet donuts, Starbucks for your coffee fix, Democracy and Planted for delicious vegan meals, West Town Bar & Grill for a casual bite, Peruviano for authentic Peruvian cuisine, Bardo for eclectic dishes, Beasley House Bistro for a cozy meal, and Bitten Cupcakes for sweet treats. Aberdeen Tavern stands out for fine dining with an elegant atmosphere. For shopping, don't miss LuLu & Lavigne Home Studio on Locke, which offers a delightful mix of new and vintage home decor, lifestyle accessories, and gifts. Other unique shops include Pure Home Couture, offering luxurious home fragrances and decor, and The Pale Blue Dot, known for sustainable and eco-friendly products.
Parks & Recreation
Soccer World, Gravity Climbing Gym, World Class Gymnastics, Chedoke Gulf Club, Dundurn Stairs, Chedoke Stairs, Chedoke Radial Trail (part of the Bruce Trail), Beulah Park, Highland Gardens Park, Durand Park, Kanetskare Recreation Centre, Public Library.
Neighbourhood Notables & Highlights
Southwest Hamilton is home to several notable landmarks. Hamilton City Hall, a modernist architectural gem, serves as the city's administrative hub. The McMaster Innovation Park Research Centre, an "idea factory," employs top Canadian minds and drives innovation. Whitehern Historic House and Garden, a National Historic Site, showcases a blend of Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian styles, with meticulously preserved interiors. Once home to the influential McQuesten family, it offers guided tours, special exhibits, and educational programs, and hosts cultural events and private functions, providing a fascinating glimpse into Hamilton's past.
Schools in or Serving District 12
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St. Joseph Elementary
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Earl Kitchener Elementary
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Kanetskare Elementary
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Central Elementary
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Westdale Public Secondary
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St. Mary Catholic Secondary