The Winner’s Manual: Neighborhood Guide

Owning a Home in Fredericton, New Brunswick

Genuine blend of historic charm, vibrant culture, affordable living comparison (Canada) as a Top 5 City Destination, it's no wonder more people are choosing to call Fredericton home in 2026.

Whether you're relocating from another province or in province to be more central, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about buying a property here from my experience and education the last 5 years in Fredericton Region.

I'll draw on the latest market data, local insights, and practical tips to help you make an informed decision. Let's get started!

Why Fredericton? An Overview of the City Fredericton, the capital of New Brunswick, is a picturesque riverside city with a population of around 65,000 - and growing. Tree-lined streets and preservations, Victorian architecture, and the platinum post-card Saint John (Wolastoq) River.

As the heart of the Capital Region, it offers a high quality of life with a small-town feel but big-city amenities like university and college education, government offices, and festivals.

Reasons people are moving here include affordable housing compared to larger centers, a strong sense of community, and access to nature—think hiking trails that are the LARGEST offering in Canada with the repurposed Rail Route, parks, and winter entertainment from skiing at Crabbe Mountain to watching National Champion Sports. There’s also excitement about the slower pace of life.

The Housing Market in 2025 Fredericton's real estate market remains stable and buyer-friendly in 2025, with moderate price growth and a good inventory of homes.

The average residential sale price has risen 7.8% year-over-year, reflecting influx demand.

For 2026 overall with Interest Rates getting lower and more predictable, expect average prices across all property types to increase by about the inflationary index of 5.5%, with sales volumes staying about the same.

Province-wide, New Brunswick's average home price in September 2025 was $341,101, down 3.4% month-over-month but still up annually. The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) composite benchmark for NB was $327,600 in September 2025, up 5.8% from the previous year. Homes here range from historic district downtown or north water-view condos starting around $220,000 to spacious family houses in suburbs for $300,000–$600,000. Inventory includes single-family homes, townhouses, and new builds, with a focus on increasing density in downtown areas to accommodate growth.

Market trends show a balanced environment—not as overheated as Ontario or BC markets—with opportunities for first-time buyers and investors. I recommend getting pre-approved for a mortgage early, as interest rates are stabilizing and it’s at a sweet spot.

Work with a local agent to navigate listings on platforms like REALTOR.ca.

Popular Neighborhoods for Homebuyers Fredericton has diverse areas to suit different lifestyles: Downtown/ Uptown: Walkable, cultural hub with historic homes and condos. Ideal for young professionals. Average prices: $300,000–$500,000. Expect ongoing density increases for more options.

South Side (e.g., Lincoln, New Maryland): Family-friendly suburbs with larger lots and newer builds. Great for schools and parks. Prices: $350,000–$550,000.

North Side (e.g., Marysville, Devon): Affordable entry-level homes near the river. Strong community vibe, with prices starting at $250,000. Skyline Acres or Brookside: Quiet, established areas with mature trees and proximity to amenities. Popular for retirees or families, around $300,000+. Check with your realtor for flood maps for insurance and knowledge.

Steps to Buying a Home in Fredericton

Research and Budget.

Get Pre-Approved.

Find a Realtor.

View Properties.

Make an Offer.

Close the Deal.

Move In.

Cost of Living Fredericton is affordable compared to national averages. The cost of living for a single person is about $1,883/month (including rent), while for a family of four it's around $4,000–$5,000. Housing is the biggest expense, with average rent for a one-bedroom at $1,200–$1,500. Groceries, utilities, and transportation add up to $800–$1,000/month. The living wage here is $25.88/hour, reflecting moderate costs. Overall, it's 5% higher than the national average in some metrics but lower in housing than major cities.

Education and Schools Fredericton boasts excellent education options. Public schools are managed by Anglophone East and West School Districts, with top-rated institutions like Leo Hayes High and École Sainte-Anne, also Fredericton’s Christian Academy (private school). The city is home to the University of New Brunswick (UNB) and St. Thomas University, making it a hub for higher education. For families, neighborhoods like Southwood Park offer proximity to schools. International students note affordable tuition and welcoming communities. Employment Opportunities The economy is driven by government, education, tech, and healthcare. Major employers include UNB, the provincial government, and companies like IBM and Salesforce hubs.

Average family income is $65,910, with growth in remote work attracting relocators.d993ff Unemployment is low at around 6-7%, and sectors like IT and renewable energy are expanding.

Healthcare Access healthcare through Horizon Health Network, with Chalmers Regional Hospital as the main facility. Wait times can be longer (e.g., for family doctors), so register early via Patient Connect NB. The city has clinics, specialists, and mental health services. Overall, it's reliable but plan ahead if you have specific needs.

Transportation Fredericton is easy to navigate. Fredericton Transit offers bus services ($3/ride), with routes covering key areas. The airport (YFC) connects to major cities, and highways like Route 2 link to Moncton and Saint John. Cycling is popular with extensive trails, and walking downtown is feasible. For longer trips, VIA Rail or Acadian Lines buses are options. Traffic is light, but ongoing roadwork (e.g., Lincoln Road upgrades) may cause minor delays.9315cfef994f Recreation and Lifestyle Enjoy parks like Odell Park, the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, and festivals such as Harvest Jazz & Blues. Outdoor activities include kayaking on the river, skiing at Crabbe Mountain, and trails in Killarney Lake Park.65c5de The craft beer scene is thriving, and community events foster a friendly vibe.

Winters are snowy (great for hockey), summers mild. Realtor Tips for a Smooth Move Timing: Spring and summer see more listings; buy in fall for deals. Inspections: Always get a home inspection—may need updates.

Financing: Explore CMHC incentives for first-timers. Local Perks: NB offers rebates for energy-efficient homes.

Fredericton is a gem—affordable, safe, and full of opportunity. If you have specific questions or want property recommendations, just ask! Ready to make the move?

Key Hood Breakdowns: Lincoln: Serene retreat with modern-classic homes, ideal for newcomers seeking quiet but connected living. Close to essentials, with a welcoming community hug. New Maryland: Vibrant village on the south border—wealthy, low taxes, and buzzing with rec programs. Perfect for social butterflies and families. Southwood Park & Skyline Acres: Southeast faves with green overload. Family paradise with parks, schools, and a mix of homes for every budget.