If you’re new to Halifax, you’ve probably already heard locals throw around the term “HRM” — short for Halifax Regional Municipality. It’s a big area that includes not just Halifax city proper, but also Dartmouth, Bedford, Sackville, and dozens of small coastal and rural communities.

Think of HRM as one big family of neighbourhoods — each with its own vibe, perks, and price points. Understanding the layout is key to making smart housing choices, especially if you’re stationed at CFB Halifax or Shearwater.

Halifax (The Peninsula & Mainland)

The Feel:

Historic, walkable, and full of energy. Halifax is the heart of the region — a mix of business, universities, and coastal charm.

Who It’s For:

Professionals, couples, and anyone who loves being close to cafés, restaurants, and the waterfront.

Real Estate Snapshot:

Expect a mix of character homes, renovated Victorians, and modern condos. Prices here are higher, with detached homes often starting around $700,000+ depending on the area.

Hot Spots:

• South End: Near hospitals, universities, and Point Pleasant Park.

• North End: Trendy and creative, with breweries, lofts, and great food.

• West End: Family-friendly with a growing mix of renovated older homes.

Commute to Base:

About 5–15 minutes to Stadacona and Dockyard.

Dartmouth (Including Shearwater)

The Feel:

Halifax’s energetic twin across the harbour — friendly, a little quirky, and full of local pride. Dartmouth has evolved from a commuter town to a destination in its own right.

Who It’s For:

DND members posted to Shearwater, families, and first-time buyers looking for value and shorter commutes.

Real Estate Snapshot:

Homes are generally more affordable than on the Halifax side. You’ll find post-war bungalows, split-levels, and new developments popping up near Russell Lake and Portland Hills.

Hot Spots:

• Downtown Dartmouth: Walkable, waterfront, and full of character.

• Cole Harbour: Great schools, good-sized lots, and close to beaches.

• Eastern Passage: Coastal community minutes from Shearwater with beautiful ocean views.

Commute to Base:

5–20 minutes depending on which base site you’re at.

Bedford

The Feel:

Bedford blends suburban comfort with small-town charm. It’s known for excellent schools, a family-oriented atmosphere, and stunning views of the Bedford Basin.

Who It’s For:

Families looking for space, newer homes, and a community feel. Popular with military families who want easy access to both Halifax and Dartmouth.

Real Estate Snapshot:

Mostly newer construction — two-storey homes, townhouses, and some upscale developments. Prices typically start around $550,000–$600,000 for detached homes.

Hot Spots:

• Bedford South: Newer homes with parks, schools, and walking trails.

• Ravines & Ridgevale: Established neighbourhoods with mature trees.

• Larry Uteck Boulevard: Mixed residential and commercial, close to everything.

Commute to Base:

20–30 minutes to Stadacona or Dockyard, depending on traffic.

Sackville (Lower, Middle & Upper)

The Feel:

Affordable, growing, and friendly. Sackville offers great value for buyers and a strong sense of community.

Who It’s For:

First-time buyers, young families, and anyone looking for space without leaving HRM.

Real Estate Snapshot:

Homes here are typically larger lots and more affordable, often under $500,000.

Hot Spots:

• Lower Sackville: Established area with schools and shopping.

• Middle & Upper Sackville: Larger properties, newer builds, and quiet streets.

Commute to Base:

25–35 minutes to central Halifax, depending on time of day.

Beyond the Core: Coastal and Rural Options

If you want more elbow room — or dream of ocean views — HRM’s outer communities deliver.

Eastern Shore:

Quiet and scenic with affordable real estate. Perfect for retirees or anyone craving coastal serenity. Commutes to base can be longer, but the peace and beauty are unmatched.

Fall River & Waverley:

Spacious lots, top-rated schools, and executive-style homes. Great balance of nature and access to Bedford/Halifax.

Hammonds Plains & Tantallon:

Lakes, trails, and newer subdivisions — ideal for growing families who don’t mind a bit of a drive.

How to Choose Your Ideal Area

It all comes down to lifestyle, commute, and budget.

• Want walkability? Stick to the Halifax Peninsula.

• Need a quick Shearwater commute? Look to Eastern Passage or Cole Harbour.

• Looking for family comfort and schools? Bedford and Fall River are standouts.

• Want space and quiet? Hammonds Plains or Eastern Shore will make you happy.

Each area offers its own mix of convenience, affordability, and community — and as someone who’s helped hundreds of families relocate here, I can help you match your wish list to the right HRM neighbourhood.

Posted to Halifax? Let’s make your move seamless — from your first call to your first key.

Landing in Halifax is like stepping into a postcard — ocean views, friendly faces, and that salty Atlantic breeze that somehow smells like adventure. But before you dive into home hunting or unpacking boxes, your first week here should be about getting your bearings.

I’ve worked with hundreds of families moving to Halifax — military, corporate, and cross-country transfers — and this is the insider’s guide I wish everyone had for their first seven days.

Where to Stay: Short-Term Accommodations That Make You Feel at Home

Whether you’re waiting for your posting to finalize, your new home to close, or just exploring neighbourhoods, temporary housing in Halifax is plentiful — but choosing the right area can save you a ton of stress.

Downtown Halifax & the Waterfront

If you love being in the middle of the action, stay near the waterfront. You’ll be close to dining, museums, and the boardwalk.
Popular options:

• The Sutton Place Hotel – elegant, brand-new, and connected to the Scotiabank Centre.

• The Muir Hotel – a luxury stay right on the harbour (and yes, the views are unreal).

• The Westin Nova Scotian – historic charm with easy access to the train station and Seaport Market.

Bedford & Clayton Park

These areas are perfect if you’re here with family and want to explore potential neighbourhoods while staying comfortable.
Check out:

• Château Bedford – reliable and close to major routes.

• Airbnbs or extended-stay suites – often better value if you’re here for a couple of weeks.

Dartmouth & Eastern Passage

If your posting is near Shearwater, consider a stay in Dartmouth Crossing or Eastern Passage.
Options include:

• Hampton Inn & Suites Dartmouth Crossing – easy access to shopping and restaurants.

• Coastal Airbnbs – affordable and peaceful with ocean views.
  

Where to Eat: Halifax’s Must-Try Food Spots

The food scene here punches way above its weight. Whether you’re craving comfort food or fine dining, Halifax has you covered.

For Local Flavour

• The Bicycle Thief – upscale Italian with a waterfront view; locals love it for good reason.

• The Old Triangle Irish Alehouse – live music, hearty food, and that East Coast pub energy.

• Waterfront Warehouse – fresh lobster, oysters, and seafood towers worth photographing.

Casual & Family-Friendly

• Smitty’s or Cora’s – breakfast staples before house-hunting.

• RustiCo – wood-fired pizza and a cozy vibe.

• Ela! Greek Taverna – great for groups and consistently delicious.

Coffee & Quick Stops

• Java Blend – a Halifax institution with locally roasted beans.

• Two If By Sea Café in Dartmouth – famous for croissants as big as your head.

• Lucky Penny Coffee Co. – my personal pick for coffee near Quinpool.

What to Explore: Get to Know Your New City

You’ll feel at home faster when you start exploring. Halifax isn’t a “wait until later” kind of city — it’s all about diving in.

1. Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

Stretching nearly 4 km, it’s packed with shops, cafés, and attractions like the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. You’ll also find the iconic Theodore Tugboat for the kids (and nostalgic adults).

2. Citadel Hill National Historic Site

Perched above downtown, the Citadel gives panoramic views of the city and harbour. You’ll often hear the noon cannon — it’s tradition, not an invasion.

3. Point Pleasant Park

Locals love it for dog walks and ocean views. The trails are dotted with historic ruins and lookout points.

4. Peggy’s Cove

If you have a free afternoon, take the 45-minute drive to this world-famous lighthouse. It’s breathtaking, but bring good shoes — those rocks are slippery!

5. Dartmouth Ferry Ride

Spend a loonie or two and take the ferry from Halifax to Dartmouth. It’s the best view of the skyline for the price of a coffee.

Neighbourhood Preview for Future Homebuyers

As you explore, keep an eye out for where you might want to settle long-term.

• Bedford: Great schools and family amenities.

• Clayton Park: Central, with newer builds and shopping.

• Eastern Passage: Affordable seaside living.

• Fall River: Spacious lots and quiet living.
  Each has its own personality — just like the people who move here.

Local Tips for Settling In Smoothly

• Parking: Downtown parking can be tricky — use the HotSpot app to pay from your phone.

• Transit: Halifax Transit and ferries are reliable and affordable.

• Community: Join the Halifax Newcomers Club or Military Family Resource Centre events — great way to meet people fast.

• Weather: Halifax can go from sunny to sideways rain in ten minutes. Keep an umbrella handy and a sense of humour even handier.
  

A Personal Welcome

I’ve helped many families start their Halifax chapters — from short-term stays to finding their dream home. The first week here is your chance to explore, taste, and take it all in.

Once you’re ready to talk real estate, I’m here to help you navigate the Halifax market confidently and make this beautiful city your permanent home.

Posted to Halifax? Let’s make your move seamless — from your first call to your first key.

Moving for a DND posting can feel like juggling a dozen things at once—packing, orders, family logistics, and house hunting from afar. If your next stop is Halifax, you’re in luck. This city doesn’t just welcome military families; it embraces them.

As someone who’s helped countless DND members settle here, I can tell you firsthand—Halifax offers the perfect mix of maritime charm, urban opportunity, and strong military community support.

Understanding the DND Presence in Halifax

Halifax is home to Canada’s largest naval base—CFB Halifax, with more than 10,000 active military and civilian personnel. The base sprawls across multiple sites, including HMC Dockyard, Shearwater, Windsor Park, and Stadacona.

This means you’ll find military families in every corner of HRM (Halifax Regional Municipality)—from downtown condos near Stadacona to quiet family homes in Fall River or Eastern Passage, minutes from Shearwater.

Military-Friendly Neighbourhoods

When DND families move to Halifax, they often ask: “Where do most members live?” Here are some top picks, depending on lifestyle and commute:

1. Eastern Passage & Cow Bay

Perfect for members stationed at Shearwater. It’s affordable, close to the base, and has that small coastal-town vibe—with beaches like Rainbow Haven nearby.

2. Bedford & Hammonds Plains

Ideal for families who want excellent schools, amenities, and newer construction. The commute to Stadacona is about 25–30 minutes, depending on traffic.

3. Clayton Park & Fairmount

Closer to the peninsula with quick access to both bases and downtown Halifax. Great mix of condos, townhomes, and single-family homes.

4. Fall River & Waverley

A favourite for those seeking larger properties, great schools, and privacy. It’s a bit of a drive, but worth it if you want space.

The Halifax Real Estate Landscape

The Halifax market has evolved. After several years of explosive growth, it’s now more balanced—a relief for DND buyers and sellers alike.

If you’re buying, there’s more inventory and less competition than during the 2021–2022 boom. If you’re selling due to a transfer, realistic pricing and strong presentation (think pre-inspection, professional photography, and local marketing) are essential to attract serious buyers quickly.

The average single-family home price in HRM sits around $580,000–$620,000, depending on location and condition, while townhomes and condos provide great entry points for younger members or single relocations.

Tips for DND Moves and BGRS Processes

Whether you’re new to relocations or on your fifth posting, BGRS paperwork can feel like a second job. Halifax agents familiar with military transfers—like me—understand how to navigate those requirements smoothly.

• Know your timelines. Homes here can sell quickly, but possession dates need to align with posting schedules.

• Budget for inspection and appraisal timing. Local inspectors book up fast during peak transfer months (May–August).

• Ask about “house-hunting trip” assistance. I often help members narrow down homes before they even land in Halifax, saving precious days on the ground.

Everyday Life in Halifax

Halifax isn’t just a posting—it’s a lifestyle. Picture this: grabbing a donair on the waterfront, weekend trips to Peggy’s Cove, and meeting friends at one of the city’s many local breweries.

The schools are strong, healthcare is improving with new facilities underway, and the community feels safe and connected. Plus, military families receive support through programs like the Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC)—a key partner for everything from childcare referrals to job resources for spouses.

Local Insights: What Makes Halifax Unique

• Traffic: Manageable compared to major cities, but rush hour on the bridges can test anyone’s patience.

• Weather: Coastal living means a mix of all four seasons—bring your parka and your sandals.

• Culture: Halifax is friendly, diverse, and filled with music, history, and festivals. People say hi on the street, and they mean it.

• Commute: Most military members are within a 20–35 minute drive to base—very manageable for HRM.

Making Your Move Seamless

The smartest moves happen when preparation meets local expertise. From understanding commute patterns to identifying neighbourhood trends, local guidance matters.

I specialize in helping DND members buy and sell confidently, whether you’re relocating to Halifax or being posted elsewhere. Let’s make this move your smoothest yet.

Posted to Halifax? Let’s make your move seamless — from your first call to your first key. Contact Sandra Pike with The Pike Group at Royal LePage Atlantic—trusted by hundreds of DND families for relocation success.