Is Spruce Grove a Good Place to Live? Moving Guide for New Residents

Located 34 kilometers from Edmonton, Spruce Grove is a city that’s been quietly growing. With over 38,000 residents, it’s a place that offers the charm of small-town living with the convenience of urban amenities.

But is it the right fit for you?

This guide will examine various factors to evaluate if Spruce Grove is a good place to live, such as climate, safety, and healthcare.

So, let’s dive in and explore the lovely Albertan city of Spruce Grove.

Living Conditions in Spruce Grove

With a low crime rate, abundant green spaces, quality healthcare, and a friendly community vibe, Spruce Grove offers a relatively high quality of life. Read further as we break down the city’s living conditions.

A. Climate and Weather

If you’re considering moving to Spruce Grove, you should be someone who embraces all four seasons. Here, summers are a dream with highs just under 30°C—think barbecues and baseball games. Come winter, the mercury dips to an average low well into -10°C.

If you’re not a fan of bundling up, you might find the winters a bit daunting with plenty of snow and wind.

B. Environmental Quality and Green Spaces

If you’re green at heart, you’ll be pleased to know Spruce Grove is flush with over 550 acres of parks and trails. The city is dedicated to preserving green spaces as it aims to protect wildlife habitats and wetlands while providing recreation opportunities. It’s a breath of fresh air—literally—with commendable air and water quality.

Spruce Grove also offers many parks and playgrounds including Jubilee Park, Fairway Park, Fuhr Sports Park, and a splash park on the East side of the city (Ken Morrison/ REMAX Spray Park).

C. Safety and Public Safety Services

Safety is a selling point here. According to the Canada Crime Index, Spruce Grove’s crime rate is lower than bigger cities like Calgary and Montreal on a per capita basis. The city prioritizes community safety programs, education, and crime prevention. Police, fire, and emergency services are provided by the city and RCMP.

D. Healthcare Services and Facilities

When it comes to healthcare, Spruce Grove has the essentials covered with a community health center that ticks all the basic boxes. Immunizations, health assessments, counseling, referrals, and more.

The city also has a designated supportive living centre for seniors and adults with health issues. For more complex needs, Edmonton’s major hospitals are only a 20 to 30-minute drive away.

E. Community Lifestyle

Spruce Grove has been rated as one of the best places to live in Canada. Residents cite the friendly community, proximity to Edmonton, recreation facilities, and family-friendly atmosphere as benefits, making Spruce Grove recognized as one of Canada’s hidden gems. The city hosts many community events year-round.

Community and Culture in Spruce Grove

Boasting historic sites, lively festivals, art galleries, and top-notch recreation facilities, Spruce Grove offers an abundance of cultural attractions and leisure activities for residents. In this section, we’ll break down the city’s lifestyle.

A. Cultural Scene and Historical Attractions

Spruce Grove has several cultural and historical attractions for residents and visitors to enjoy. The Heritage Park Pavilion showcases local history through interactive exhibits and historic buildings, while the Allied Arts Council Gallery features rotating exhibits by local artists.

Meanwhile, Happy Acres U-Pick farm offers a hands-on educational experience picking fruits and vegetables for locals.

B. Festivals, Fairs, and Community Events

Throughout the year, Spruce Grove hosts many lively community events and festivals. These include the popular Agra Fair showcasing agriculture, Canada Day celebrations and the Ribfest, arts and crafts markets. The city also puts on free music concerts, movie nights, and other family-friendly activities.

These events foster community spirit and provide entertainment for all ages.

C. Arts, Entertainment, and Nightlife

For arts and entertainment, the Horizon Stage Performing Arts Centre and Allied Arts Council Gallery are hubs for local theatre, dance, music, and public art displays.

The city comes alive with major annual events like the Blueberry Bluegrass Festival and the City Centre Market. While Spruce Grove offers a more limited selection of nightlife venues, with local favourites such as The Beer Hunter, TRAC Public House, Talking Dog Brewery, The Grape & Olive, the dynamic nightlife of Edmonton is just a short drive away, featuring hotspots like Temple Ballroom and Evolution Wonder lounge.

D. Sports Programs and Leisure Facilities

The city is equipped with facilities like the Tri Leisure Centre that includes a host of physical activities. The facility includes a fitness centre, running track, 10-lane pool, NHL-sized ice rinks, indoor fields, and more. For the kids, the facility features an indoor playground.

When it comes to the outdoors, Spruce Grove hosts a full 18-hole golf course.

These venues cater to a range of sports and activities, supporting an active lifestyle for residents of all ages.

E. Sports Entertainment

Living in Spruce Grove is about to get even more exciting with the upcoming Myshak Metro Ballpark, set to open in 2024 after some delays.

This $50 million stadium, located just 10 minutes from Edmonton in Spruce Grove, will offer a 3,470-seat capacity and a range of amenities including luxury suites, a microbrewery, and a restaurant. The stadium will be the new home of the Edmonton Prospects baseball team, who currently play in the Western Canadian Baseball League (WCBL).

However, it’s not just a ballpark; it’s a community hub with an outdoor amphitheater, a field house, fitness center, and even a residential condo building named “The DiMaggio.”

If you’re craving for more sports entertainment, 30 mins away you’ll have access to the Edmonton Oilers (hockey), Edmonton Elks (football), and more.

Education and Family Life in Spruce Grove, Alberta

With plentiful schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, abundant youth and senior services, pet-friendly parks, and engaging recreation amenities, Spruce Grove fosters education and quality family life. Read further as we dive into these factors that may make Spruce Grove your preferred city to live in.

A. Spruce Grove Education System Overview

Spruce Grove, Alberta, presents an educational landscape that caters to a diverse set of needs and aspirations. As a resident, you’re part of the Parkland School Division No. 70, a network of 22 public schools known for their above-average performance. The region also offers six Catholic schools under the Evergreen Catholic Separate Regional Division No. 2, not to mention private educational options like the Living Waters Christian Academy.

If you’re eyeing higher education or adult learning, the proximity to Edmonton’s institutions, such as MacEwan University and NAIT, is a boon. Plus, the Spruce Grove Learning Centre caters to those seeking local continuing education.

B. Family-Friendly Neighborhoods and Activities

For families, neighborhoods like Prescott, McLaughlin, Fenwyck, and Spruce Ridge, are not just about the homes, but also the lifestyle. These communities are brimming with playgrounds, parks, and centers that foster family bonds. They include playgrounds, green spaces, and community centres.

Here’s an overview of family activities in Spruce Grove:

• Tri Leisure Centre – swimming, skating, gym, fitness, indoor field facilities
• Public library – story times, Lego club, family events
• Horizon Stage – live family theatre
• Agrena – concerts, rodeos, trade shows
• Over 80 parks, trails, spray parks, and playgrounds

C. Youth Activities and Services for Seniors

Youth in Spruce Grove aren’t left wanting, with programs that support everything from mentorship to LGBTQ support. For the golden years, services like the Golden Age Club, meals on wheels, and transit options ensure a quality of life that’s both active and connected.

D. Pet-Friendliness and Public Parks

Spruce Grove is a very pet-friendly city with over 550 acres of parks and trails that are open to leashed dogs. Popular off-leash areas include West District Park and Mayor Ross Estates Park.

And for those who cherish the environment, Natural areas like the Clifford E. Lee Nature Sanctuary provide outdoor recreation and nature education. The city’s commitment to green spaces and wetlands preservation is a testament to its dedication to a sustainable future.

Employment and Economy in Spruce Grove

Spruce Grove has a diverse local economy and job market powered by major employers in sectors like oil/gas, education, and healthcare, though it has faced some fluctuations in recent years. The city also provides various support programs for its local economy. Read further as we break down the factors.

A. Local Economy and Major Employers

When it comes to the local economy of Spruce Grove, Alberta, you’ll find a blend of sectors fueling the local job market. The city’s major employers span across oil and gas, healthcare, education, retail, manufacturing, construction, and public administration. The city’s top employers are Parkland School Division, Real Canadian Superstore, Evergreen Catholic School Division, the City of Spruce Grove, Walmart, TransAlta Tri-Leisure Centre, and Cargill Protein.

B. Employment Rate and Job Opportunities

In 2021, Spruce Grove’s employment rate was 63%, down from 68% in 2016 due to the pandemic and oil prices. With the economy rebounding, job opportunities are increasing in healthcare, trades, business services, construction, and hospitality.

As of 2021, Spruce Grove’s unemployment rate of 10% is slightly more favorable than the Alberta provincial average of 11%, which reflects the Greater Edmonton Area’s diverse job opportunities.

C. Business Development and Startup Ecosystem

As a resident, you’ll witness a city in motion, with a steady population growth of 3% and a strategic push to diversify its economy. Business parks and entrepreneurial support programs are part of Spruce Grove’s blueprint for sustainable economic development.

For those looking to upskill or enter the workforce, the city offers a wealth of resources for training and skills development, backed by initiatives like the Canada-Alberta Job Grant. This commitment to workforce empowerment is a cornerstone of the city’s economic resilience.

D. Local Businesses and Artisans

The local business scene is a mosaic of manufacturing, retail, and professional services, enriched by the unique offerings of artisans and family-run shops. While the median household income in Spruce Grove is over $100,000 as of 2021, it’s important to note a slight decline in recent years.

This dip, however, is cushioned by the city’s higher-than-average income levels and its ongoing retail expansion, with areas like Grove Drive, Pioneer Road, and Spruce Grove Common at the forefront.

In crafting a narrative about Spruce Grove’s economy, one must balance the optimism of a robust job market and the reality of economic fluctuations. Yet, the city’s strategic location near Edmonton, combined with its economic initiatives, positions Spruce Grove as a community with both feet firmly planted in the fertile ground of opportunity.

E. Shopping Options

As you navigate the retail landscape of Spruce Grove, you’ll see the city’s major shopping areas in downtown, Grove Drive, Spruce Grove Common mall, and Westland Market Mall. These areas have big box retailers like Walmart, Winners and SportChek, co-existing with local boutiques, antique/gift stores, and weekly farmer’s markets.

It’s worth noting that for those with a penchant for more eclectic or high-end shopping, a short drive to Stony Plain or Edmonton broadens the horizon.

F. Dining Options

When it comes to dining, Spruce Grove serves up the familiar comfort of major chains to the unique flavors of local eateries, pubs, and family restaurants. Top rated restaurants include Porta Romana, Canadian Brewhouse, State & Main, Broadway & Grand, Jack’s Drive-In, Barbacoa, and Red Chili Leaf.

For those nights when you prefer the comfort of your own dining table, most restaurants are just a few taps away on delivery apps like SkipTheDishes and UberEats.

However, if it’s a bustling nightlife you’re after, Spruce Grove may leave you yearning for more. The city’s evening offerings are modest, but the vibrant bars and entertainment districts of Edmonton are a mere stone’s throw away, ensuring that a lively night out is never too far out of reach.

Transportation in Spruce Grove

Spruce Grove offers residents a local on-demand transit system with connectivity to Edmonton through commuter bus routes, providing public transportation options within the city and to surrounding areas.  In this section, we’ll dive into whether Spruce Grove’s transportation infrastructure suits your needs.

A. Public Transportation System

Spruce Grove offers a flexible on-demand local transit system, operational from 5 am to 7 pm on weekdays, serving the city and neighboring areas like Stony Plain, Parkland Village, and Acheson, with the convenience of app-based booking available up to a week in advance.

Adult fares are set at $3 per trip, with various discounts and monthly passes for youth, seniors, and regular commuters. This service seamlessly connects to commuter bus routes for travel between Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, and Edmonton, with the added benefit of transfer options and an integrated monthly pass for unlimited travel, including access to Edmonton’s public transit.

Additionally, Spruce Grove caters to seniors over 55 and individuals with disabilities through a specialized door-to-door transit service.

Overall, the combination of on-demand and fixed route services provides Spruce Grove with good public transit connectivity within the city and to Edmonton.

B. Traffic Conditions and Commute Times

In Spruce Grove, traffic is generally lighter than in larger cities, though congestion is on the rise, particularly along main arteries such as Highway 16A and Highway 16 during rush hours. The average drive within the city is a swift 10-15 minutes, while the journey to downtown Edmonton typically takes 35-45 minutes by car, though this can extend due to rush hour congestion, accidents, or roadworks.

Public transit is a viable option, with local on-demand services and express buses to Edmonton, but the transit commute can stretch to 60-75 minutes.

The city is actively working to manage traffic through signal optimization and infrastructure improvements, and future transit developments like bus rapid transit are expected to alleviate congestion.

For residents, while traffic is relatively manageable, planning for additional travel time is advisable, especially during peak times or when heading into Edmonton.

Making the Move to Spruce Grove

Thinking of taking the next step of making Spruce Grove your new home? Read further as we break down the best neighborhoods and helpful moving resources.

A. Relocation Services in Spruce Grove

The Spruce Grove Newcomers Club is a community group that helps newcomers settle into the city of Spruce Grove, Alberta. It provides information, resources, and networking opportunities for new residents.

Some of the resources and information provided by the club include tips on schools, healthcare, recreation, shopping, transportation, community events, and more.

The club has been operating for many years and has helped numerous newcomers successfully transition into the Spruce Grove community over that time.

B. Best Neighborhoods in Spruce Grove

If you’re looking to plant roots in a family-friendly neighborhood, Greenbury, McLaughlin, Millgrove, Harvest Ridge, Spruce Ridge, and Prescott, are frequently cited as top neighborhoods, known for their family-friendly amenities, parks/trails access, community feel, and good schools.

If you’re seeking the thrill of more urban living, central neighborhoods like Downtown, East End, and Broxton Park offer proximity to shops, restaurants, schools, parks, trails, and other amenities.

C. Find the Perfect Home in Spruce Grove with Lewis & Co Realty

Navigating the real estate landscape of Spruce Grove? Allow us – Lewis & Co Realty – to be your compass. Our expertise isn’t just in selling homes; it’s in curating your journey to find the perfect match for your lifestyle and budget in the heart of the Greater Edmonton Area.

With a portfolio that spans the charming neighborhoods of Spruce Grove to the bustling streets of Edmonton, our experts will provide you with tailored market analysis, ensuring you’re informed every step of the way.

Contact us for more details.

The Livability of Spruce Grove

Spruce Grove offers an excellent quality of life with both small-town advantages and big city conveniences nearby. For those seeking an affordable, family-friendly community near Edmonton, Spruce Grove is definitely worth considering.

Here’s a recap of what makes Spruce Grove a great city to live in:

• It offers a balance of small-town charm and urban amenities that’s within a 30-min drive from Edmonton.
• The city experiences all four seasons, with lush green spaces and a strong commitment to environmental preservation.
• Healthcare needs are well-served locally, with additional facilities easily accessible in Edmonton.
• The community is friendly and active, with a high livability rating and numerous cultural, historical, and recreational activities.
• Education is a strong suit, with a variety of public, Catholic, and private schools, and higher education opportunities nearby.
• The local economy is strong and diverse, with a lower unemployment rate than the provincial average and a variety of job sectors.
• Public transportation is efficient and improving, while traffic is lighter than in major cities, though peak times can see congestion.

Interested in learning more about Spruce Grove? Contact our realtors today!