Short answer: Choose west Edmonton if you commute into the city every day and want the most services nearby. Choose Spruce Grove if you want more space and a newer, family-friendly city about 25 to 35 minutes from downtown Edmonton. Choose Stony Plain if you want a small-town feel, townhome living and you don't mind a slightly longer drive.
Commute times are typical off-peak drives and will be longer at rush hour.
Quick comparison
- West Edmonton (Glastonbury area): about 20 to 30 minutes to downtown via the Anthony Henday or Stony Plain Road. A suburban part of the city with big-box shopping close by. Best for daily city commuters. GSK has Guardian Apartments (from $1,550) and Guardian Villas (from $1,650).
- Spruce Grove: about 25 to 35 minutes to downtown via Highway 16A. A growing small city with lots of new builds. Best for families and anyone who wants more space for the money. GSK has Spruce Heights (from $1,500), Stoneshire Villas (from $1,700) and Prescott Place (from $1,775).
- Stony Plain: about 30 to 40 minutes to downtown via Highway 16A. A historic small town with murals and a farmers' market. Best for quiet living and townhome renters. GSK has The Brickyard Townhomes (from $1,475).
West Edmonton: the commuter's choice
The Glastonbury and Guardian Road area gives you suburban quiet with the Anthony Henday close by, so you can reach most of the city without crossing downtown. West Edmonton Mall, Lewis Estates and grocery stores are all a short drive away.
GSK here: Guardian Apartments at 2010 Guardian Rd NW is a 2025-built building with suites from $1,550 a month, with heat and internet included. Guardian Villas next door at 2020 Guardian Rd NW has townhomes from $1,650 a month. Read our full Glastonbury renter's guide.
Spruce Grove: more space, still close
Spruce Grove is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Edmonton region. You'll find newer neighbourhoods, schools, the Tri Leisure Centre, and a full set of shops along Highway 16A, so you rarely need to drive into Edmonton for errands.
Rents generally run a little lower than comparable newer buildings in Edmonton, and units tend to be larger.
GSK here: We operate three Spruce Grove communities:
- Spruce Heights Apartments (111 McLaughlin Dr): apartments from $1,500 a month.
- Stoneshire Villas (92 Longview Dr): townhomes from $1,700 a month.
- Prescott Place (320 Pioneer Rd): townhomes from $1,775 a month.
Stony Plain: small-town living, townhome space
Stony Plain sits just west of Spruce Grove on Highway 16A. It's known for its historic downtown, outdoor murals, the farmers' market and a slower pace. It's a good fit if you work locally, work from home, or only head into Edmonton a few times a week.
Townhomes are a big draw here: more square footage, often your own entrance, and space for pets.
GSK here: The Brickyard Townhomes at 51 Brickyard Dr, from $1,475 a month.
How to choose
- You drive into Edmonton five days a week: west Edmonton. Saving 20 minutes each way adds up to over 150 hours a year.
- You want space for kids or a home office: Spruce Grove.
- You want a townhome and a quieter street: Stony Plain.
- You're new to Alberta and unsure: start in west Edmonton or Spruce Grove. Both keep the whole region within easy reach while you learn the area.
What to check before you sign
- Your real commute. Drive the route at rush hour before signing.
- Utilities. Townhomes often bill utilities separately, while some apartments include heat or internet. Compare with our true monthly cost tool.
- Winter parking. Ask whether you get an energized stall or a garage. See our Edmonton winter renting guide.
- Pet policy. Ask about deposits and fees up front.
FAQ: Renting west of Edmonton
Is it cheaper to rent in Spruce Grove than in Edmonton?
Usually a little, especially for newer units, and you often get more square footage for the same rent. The savings narrow once you factor in commuting costs if you drive into Edmonton daily.
How long is the commute from Stony Plain to Edmonton?
About 30 to 40 minutes to downtown Edmonton by car via Highway 16A off-peak, and longer at rush hour. West Edmonton is closer, at about 20 to 25 minutes.
Is Spruce Grove a good place to live for renters?
Yes. It's a growing city with newer housing, schools, recreation and full shopping, which makes it popular with families and with renters who want more space than central Edmonton offers.
Spruce Grove or Stony Plain: which is better?
Spruce Grove has more services and is slightly closer to Edmonton. Stony Plain is quieter, has more small-town character, and is a good fit for townhome renters.
Does GSK Properties have rentals west of Edmonton?
Yes: Guardian Apartments and Guardian Villas in west Edmonton, Spruce Heights, Stoneshire Villas and Prescott Place in Spruce Grove, and The Brickyard Townhomes in Stony Plain.
Ready to look west? Browse our communities or call (780) 406-5218 to book a viewing.
Starting rents shown are from our listings in October 2026. Availability and rental terms may change.
