Living in Thorncliff, Edmonton
An Affordable Entry to the West End
Thorncliff is an established west Edmonton community bounded by 87 Avenue to the north, Whitemud Drive to the south, 170 Street to the east and 178 Street to the west.
Most of it was built in the 1970s, with some homes from the 1960s and 1980s. With condos, row houses and detached homes side by side, it's one of the more accessible ways to buy in the west end.
Homes and Prices in Thorncliff
Thorncliff has a real mix: apartment condos, detached homes and row houses, with a few duplexes. You'll see both owner-occupiers and investors here.
Apartment condos are usually the most affordable way in, row houses come next, and detached homes sit at the top of the range. For current prices, see my monthly Edmonton market update or browse the live listings below.
Schools, Parks, Shopping and Commute
Schools. Thorncliffe School, a public elementary school, is in the community. Check the Edmonton Public Schools and Edmonton Catholic Schools locators for the designated schools for the address you're considering.
Parks and recreation. The local community league and neighbourhood green spaces serve the area.
Shopping. West Edmonton Mall is close by, and shops along 170 Street and 87 Avenue are a short drive.
Commute. Whitemud Drive is on the south edge, with a direct route east to the University of Alberta and Southgate. Drive times downtown vary a lot with traffic, so test your commute at rush hour. Check ETS trip planning for current transit routes.
Is Thorncliff a Good Fit for You?
Thorncliff tends to work well if you want:
- A more accessible price point in the west end
- A choice of condos, row houses and detached homes
- An elementary school in the community
- West Edmonton Mall and Whitemud Drive close by
It may not be the right fit if you want a newer home or a quiet street of single-family homes.
What I'd Watch Out For
- Building and home age. Most homes and buildings are several decades old. Budget for the roof, windows, furnace, electrical and plumbing, and check what's been updated.
- Condo health. Review the reserve fund study, financial statements, minutes and fees. Older buildings may face major repairs.
- Rental rules. Some units are rented out. Ask about rental rules in condo buildings.
- Traffic noise. Homes along Whitemud Drive, 170 Street and 87 Avenue can hear steady traffic.
Thorncliff FAQ
Where is Thorncliff in Edmonton?
In west Edmonton, between 87 Avenue and Whitemud Drive, from 170 Street to 178 Street.
When was Thorncliff built?
Mostly in the 1970s, with some homes from the 1960s and 1980s.
What types of homes are in Thorncliff?
Apartment condos, detached homes and row houses, plus a few duplexes.
Is there a school in Thorncliff?
Yes. Thorncliffe School, a public elementary school, is in the community. Use the school board locators to confirm designated schools for any address.
Homes for Sale in Thorncliff
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