If you’re a first-time buyer or real estate investor looking to get into one of Edmonton’s most established yet evolving neighbourhoods, Britannia Youngstown deserves a spot at the top of your list. Located in West Edmonton and rich with history, amenities, and accessibility, this dynamic community blends old-school charm with modern-day convenience.
Whether you’re looking for an affordable starter home, a revenue property, or just curious about what this pocket of the city has to offer—this guide covers everything you need to know.
Where Is Britannia Youngstown?
Britannia Youngstown is bounded by:
156 Street to the east
Mayfield Road to the west
Stony Plain Road to the south
107 Avenue to the north
Once part of the former Town of Jasper Place, this area officially joined Edmonton during the 1964 annexation. The neighbourhood is now part of the city’s Mature Neighbourhood Overlay, meaning it benefits from mature tree-lined streets, wider lots, and the kind of character newer suburbs simply can’t offer.
A Glimpse Into the History
The area we now call Britannia Youngstown has deep historical roots. It began as two separate subdivisions within the Town of Jasper Place:
Britannia, appearing on city planning maps as early as 1912, may have been named after the Latin term for Britain. Development in Britannia didn’t take off until the early 1950s, when postwar expansion spurred demand for single-family homes.
Youngstown, its western neighbour, followed suit with residential development in the late 1950s, catering to Edmonton’s growing population during Alberta’s oil boom.
At the time, most of the homes were modest, single-detached bungalows, built to accommodate working-class families. One of the earliest and most defining landmarks, Westlawn Memorial Park, was established during this development wave, reinforcing the neighbourhood's role as a long-standing residential hub.
In 1964, both subdivisions were amalgamated into the City of Edmonton during the annexation of Jasper Place—a major urban planning milestone that led to the westward expansion of the city. Since then, Britannia Youngstown has experienced gradual redevelopment and densification, with infill projects and commercial expansion along its borders, particularly near Stony Plain Road and Mayfield Common.
Demographics and Housing Snapshot
According to the City of Edmonton’s municipal census:
Population: 4,759 residents
Dwellings: 2,398
Area: 1.64 km²
Population Density: Approx. 2,902 people/km²
Housing Types:
~48% apartments in low-rise buildings
~40% single-family homes
~6% row houses
~5% duplexes and infill
Notably, about 60% of homes are renter-occupied, making this a popular area for both investors and residents seeking affordable rentals or first-time homes.
Schools in Britannia Youngstown
Families will appreciate the convenient access to several schools right in the neighbourhood:
Youngstown Elementary School (Public)
Britannia Junior High School (Public)
Elves School – A specialized institution for children with disabilities, operated by the Elves Special Needs Society
Nearby options also include Catholic schools and additional junior/senior high schools in surrounding communities like West Jasper Place and Glenwood.
Community Amenities and Local Highlights
🏫 Britannia Youngstown Community League
Founded in 1959, the community league is the heart of the neighbourhood. It maintains:
A community hall
Outdoor rink (perfect for winter skating)
Basketball courts
Tennis courts
All facilities are located at 159 Street and 105 Avenue.
🛍️ Shopping and Retail
Mayfield Common sits at the southwest corner of the community, offering everything from groceries to fashion and restaurants.
Stony Plain Road is a commercial corridor featuring local businesses, chain stores, auto services, and diverse dining options.
🏞️ Parks and Green Spaces
Britannia Off-Leash Dog Park (just to the northwest)
Westlawn Memorial Park – Not just a cemetery but a quiet green space with mature trees and walking paths
Quick access to MacKinnon Ravine Park and Jasper Place Bowl for outdoor activities
Accessibility and Commuting
One of Britannia Youngstown’s greatest strengths is how central and connected it is. You’ll enjoy fast commutes by car, bus, or bike:
🚗 Driving
Downtown Edmonton – 12–15 minutes via Stony Plain Road or 107 Ave
West Edmonton Mall – Just 7 minutes west along 87 Ave
University of Alberta – Around 15–20 minutes south via Groat Road
🚍 Public Transit
Several ETS bus routes serve the area along 107 Avenue, 156 Street, and Stony Plain Road
Direct connections to:
Downtown core
West Edmonton Mall Transit Centre
Jasper Place Transit Centre
🛒 Nearby Groceries
Safeway in Mayfield Common
Superstore on Stony Plain Road
Loblaws City Market and smaller ethnic grocery stores scattered throughout the corridor
Why Buyers Love Britannia Youngstown
✅ Affordable real estate compared to central or west-end counterparts
✅ Infill opportunities and upzoning potential under Edmonton’s new zoning bylaws
✅ Family-friendly amenities and schools within walking distance
✅ Rich community spirit and long-standing residents
✅ Transit accessibility with future transit-oriented development possibilities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is Britannia Youngstown a good neighbourhood for first-time buyers?
Yes! With a mix of affordable single-family homes and rental suites, it’s perfect for first-timers looking to get a foot in the market or house-hack by renting out a basement suite.
Q: Is this a safe neighbourhood?
Like many mature Edmonton communities, Britannia Youngstown has seen waves of revitalization. With active community league support, crime prevention programs, and improved lighting and patrols, safety continues to trend upward.
Q: Are there parks or trails for kids and dogs?
Absolutely. You’ll find parks, sports courts, and even an off-leash dog park nearby. The community is walkable, and larger natural areas are just a few minutes' drive away.
Q: How is the rental market here?
Strong. With nearly 60% of dwellings rented, there’s constant demand. This makes the neighbourhood attractive for investors and homebuyers looking to offset their mortgage with rental income.
Q: Is there redevelopment happening in the area?
Yes. Britannia Youngstown is part of Edmonton’s infill and redevelopment push. The mix of aging homes and high-density zoning along Stony Plain Road is encouraging revitalization and modern housing options.
Final Thoughts
Britannia Youngstown is a neighbourhood in transition—in all the best ways. It offers charm, character, and unbeatable value in a city that's rapidly growing westward. For new buyers, it’s a chance to buy into a central location without the central Edmonton price tag. For investors, it’s a goldmine of rental potential and long-term appreciation.
If you’re curious about listings in the area, want to schedule a private tour, or just have questions about real estate in West Edmonton, I’d be happy to help. Call or text me at (780) 232-2064.
