Whether you’re moving to Edmonton without a vehicle or a longtime resident rethinking your daily commute, Edmonton has a lot to offer, especially when it comes to getting around without a car. From efficient public transit to bike-friendly paths, this guide will help you navigate the city with ease.
Public Transit: Buses and the LRT
The Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) is the backbone of the city’s public transportation network. With a combination of buses and the Light Rail Transit (LRT), getting around key areas of the city is quite convenient. The LRT includes the Capital Line and Metro Line, which connect downtown with key spots like University of Alberta and Commonwealth Stadium. With future expansions already in the works, the LRT is becoming an even more viable option for daily commuting.
Complementing the LRT is an extensive bus system that reaches most neighbourhoods in the city. The city also introduced an online trip planner to access live routes, making it easier for residents in Edmonton to enjoy smooth, reliable transit without needing to own a car.
Walking Trails and Bike Routes
Edmonton has become increasingly pedestrian and cyclist-friendly in recent years. Shared-use paths and trails run through the scenic river valley and continue into many urban areas, making walking or biking a pleasant and practical way to get around. The Downtown Bike Network, features protected bike lanes that connect central neighbourhoods and offer a safe alternative to driving.
Cycling in Edmonton isn’t limited to just the summer months either. The city has improved its winter bike lane maintenance, including plowing key routes so that year-round biking is a realistic option. Whether you’re cycling to work, running errands, or just going for a walk, Edmonton’s active transportation infrastructure supports a car-free lifestyle.
Transportation Networks and Ride Sharing
Even without owning a vehicle, there are still flexible options when you need to get somewhere fast. Transportation network services like Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Edmonton, providing a convenient way to get around for special outings, errands, or those times when public transit isn’t the best fit.
For those who prefer to drive themselves occasionally, car-sharing programs like Communauto or Turo are a great solution. These services allow you to rent a car by the hour or day without the responsibilities that come with ownership, such as insurance, maintenance, or parking.
Airport Transit Service
Getting to Edmonton International Airport (YEG) without a car is straightforward thanks to Route 747, an express bus route between the Century Park Transit Centre and YEG. Service runs frequently throughout the day, 7 days a week, ensuring you can catch a ride that fits your flight schedule. It’s a reliable and affordable option, especially compared to taxi fares or airport parking fees.
Neighbourhood Walk Scores
If you’re considering a move and want to live without a car, it’s important to choose a neighbourhood that supports that lifestyle. Downtown and Wîhkwêntôwin (Oliver) are excellent options in the heart of the city, offering close proximity to shops and key transit hubs.
Strathcona and Central McDougall are vibrant, walkable neighbourhoods known for their charm and access to both bus routes and bike lanes. They are also just minutes away from Edmonton’s downtown core, making them popular hubs to live if you rely on alternative modes of transportation.
Garneau is a popular area for students at the University of Alberta, with excellent access to the LRT and nearby amenities. Garneau is part of the city's historic district and is one of the area's oldest neighbourhoods, overlooking the River Valley.
Westmount offers a quieter atmosphere with strong bus connections and a mix of local shops and services. Many of these neighbourhoods also feature low-rise rental apartments, offering a great balance between affordability and convenience.
Consider how living without a car might simplify your daily routine. When searching for your next apartment, think about how close you'll be to transit routes, bike paths, and essential services. With a growing transit system, walkable and bikeable neighbourhoods, and flexible transportation alternatives, living car-free in Edmonton is not only possible—it’s practical and sustainable.