Safest, Most Affordable Rental Neighbourhoods In Hamilton

A former port city located on the western side of Lake Ontario, Hamilton is a thriving city of over half a million residents and surrounded by a stunning forest ridge, known as the Niagara Escarpment.  Strong economic development and affordable housing rates have caused Hamilton to flourish in recent years and truly become a city of its own, stepping away from Toronto’s shadow. A vibrant art and music scene, plenty of restaurants and night clubs along with rich traditions of Italian festivals and famous Portuguese bakeries, Hamilton apartments offer a great lifestyle for its residents. A major benefit is being surrounded by nature with close access to hiking trails, ravines and lakes to spend leisurely afternoons and weekends.

We scoured the entire city to find the top 10 Hamilton neighbourhoods that had the most affordable and safest apartments for rent. The rankings were based on the 10 neighbourhoods that had the lowest combination of crime and average rental rates.

Westdale North
Population: 2,604
Crimes per 100,000 people: 3,815
Average 1 Bedroom Rental Rate: $1,020

A residential neighbourhood centered around a bustling shopping district, Westdale North was Canada’s first master planned community and located nearby McMaster University. It is bordered by a large nature reserve and Lake Ontario, making it sought for apartment rentals by both students and outdoor enthusiasts.  It is incredibly pedestrian friendly and for those that need to commute, there is GO train service, public bus routes and close access to Highway 403. There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Westdale North such as visiting the botanical gardens, numerous parks with soccer fields and baseball diamonds, movie theatres, and coffee shops.

Gourley
Population: 4,571
Crimes per 100,000 people: 3,243
Average 1 Bedroom Rental Rate: $1,050

A thriving residential neighbourhood sought after by families looking for apartment rentals, Gourley has close proximity to numerous public and private schools as well as an active community association. Bordered by Stone Church Road and West 5th Road, commuting to other areas of Hamilton is easy and readily accessible along with fantastic public transportation options. Gourley is a nature enthusiast's dream, hosting plenty of hiking trails and ravines within the community. No longer just a suburb, Gourley has access to every amenity imaginable and has grown to become a self-contained neighbourhood.

Buchanan
Population: 2,752
Crimes per 100,000 people: 3,641
Average 1 Bedroom Rental Rate: $1,100

Nestled amongst tree-lined streets and numerous public parks, Buchanan is a neighbourhood primarily dominated by families and a fantastic option for apartment rentals. Located within Hamilton's mountain escarpment, the majority of the neighbourhood's amenities can be reached on foot and excellent public transit options can get commuters into the city centre in 15 minutes and the Lake Shore GO station is also within 1 km.  Buchanan is a great balance between small town charm and big city convenience. There are numerous public schools, the Isaac Buchanan public library and plenty of recreational and sporting activities that are perfect for families to enjoy.

Westcliffe East
Population: 2,841
Crimes per 100,000 people: 3,300
Average 1 Bedroom Rental Rate: $1,150

Located in eastern Hamilton with close proximity to Highway 403, Westcliffe East is a bustling residential, family-friendly neighbourhood.  Nearby access to several major malls, plenty of retail establishments and public schools make everything needed within a moments reach. Commuters have access to frequent and reliable public transportation bus routes and many students choose apartment rentals in Westcliffe East due to its close proximity to Hillfield Strathallan College and Mohawk College.  In the heart of the neighbourhood lies Colquhoun Park that offers numerous leisure activities from baseball diamonds, playgrounds and ample picnic space for residents to enjoy.

Kennedy East
Population: 2,069
Crimes per 100,000 people: 3,721
Average 1 Bedroom Rental Rate: $1,210

Located just south of Rymal Road West and East, Kennedy East is a small, close-knit community that particularly appeals to families seeking apartment rentals. The quiet and laid back feel is appreciated by residents and although commercial establishments and retail options are limited, excellent public transportation allows residents to reach other areas of Hamilton quickly to run errands or go out for an evening of entertainment. Kennedy East Park is a neighbourhood favorite and popular activity gathering space that contains several playgrounds, sports fields and a water spray pad during summer months.

Sunninghill
Population: 2,352
Crimes per 100,000 people: 3,951
Average 1 Bedroom Rental Rate: $1,200

Part of Hamilton's mountain escarpment, Sunninghill is a small community that also offers plenty of convenience with groceries stores, retail establishments, and several public schools. Transportation options are decent with the Hamilton GO station located 4 km away, numerous bus routes servicing the neighbourhood and close proximity to the QEW & Centennial Pkwy which gives residents plenty of commuting options to reach various areas of the GTA.  Favored by families seeking apartment rentals, Sunninghill is home to Highview Public Park which contains basketball courts, outdoor picnic benches, and a skating rink.

Gilkson
Population: 3,319
Crimes per 100,000 people: 4,043
Average 1 Bedroom Rental Rate: $1,240

Located just south of the Lincoln M. Alexander Pkwy, Gilkson is a charming little community with beautiful tree lined streets and a laid back feel. Gilkson has an active community association that is particularly involved in supporting their local soccer league and raising funds to improve the community park. The neighbourhood is relatively self-contained with grocery stores, nearby access to the Lime Ridge Mall and has several public schools and afterschool programs. Preferred by families seeking apartment rentals, Gilkson offers a nice mix of small town living with excellent public transportation services for commuters to quickly reach other areas of Hamilton.

Hill Park
Population: 3,355
Crimes per 100,000 people: 4.418
Average 1 Bedroom Rental Rate: $1,250

Hill Park is located in eastern Hamilton between the Lincoln M. Alexander Pkwy and Main St East. Close access to the Chedoke Civic Golf Course and many community green spaces make it a popular choice for those seeking apartment rentals. A main feature of the community is the Hill Park Recreation Centre which contains basketball courts, a fitness centre, a swimming pool and regularly hosts family fun nights.  Hamilton's reliable public transit services the neighbourhood providing quick and convenient commuting options to residents.

Red Hill
Population: 4,329
Crimes per 100,000 people: 4,470
Average 1 Bedroom Rental Rate: $1,275

Located in southeastern Hamilton, Red Hill is surrounded by valleys, a large creek and three waterfalls making it a fantastic choice for nature enthusiasts seeking apartment rentals. The neighbourhood is home to a large community and continuing education centre which provides a variety of programs for both youth and adults. Nearby access to the Red Hill Valley Parkway offers convenience for commuters as well as the numerous public bus routes that run through the neighbourhood. Although there is limited commercial presence, the neighbourhood does have a variety of grocery stores and necessities within reach.

Vincent
Population: 7,423
Crimes per 100,000 people: 4,466
Average 1 Bedroom Rental Rate: $1,280

Bordered by Red Hill Valley Parkway and close to the QEW, Vincent is a fantastic location for those seeking apartment rentals that like a small community feel but want quick access to downtown Hamilton and Toronto. Vincent is self-contained with numerous public schools, daycares, shopping centres, and outdoor green space areas to enjoy. A favorite among residents and especially families is Heritage Green Sports Park which is a 32-hectare park packed with soccer fields, baseball diamonds, and leisure areas.