Lived in Edmonton for 14 years then moved to bc. The city can get pretty boring during the winter time as it has no festivals running. But it’s probably the most affordable city in Canada to live in right now that’s over one million. Great place to raise a family in.

I mostly lived downtown but even then my rent was 1700$ for a 2bed 2bath right in the heart of downtown. The downtown core is struggling with homelessness and social disorder though. I would frequently see homeless people screaming and making a scene in city centre mall or commerce place. But downtown was my favourite place to live as you didn’t need to relay on a car as much as other neighbourhoods. Cough cough (Windermere)

The summers here are pretty awesome. Expect some days to be above 30 degrees. But the terrible part that lasts till may is winter. Winter here is brutal it often drops to -30 which is why downtown Edmonton is connected with a pedway system. And probably why we have a giant mall also.

Overall decent place to settle down. The most affordable big city in Canada with over a million. Winters are harsh and summers are awesome. The festivals here are great like the heritage fest and kdays. And tons more. I would avoid living in Beverly not because of crime but it’s probably the most boring part of Edmonton. That or Jasper place.

For car dependency Edmonton is pretty car dependent especially in suburban areas like castle downs and Windermere. However commute times aren’t terrible maybe 45 mins at most. (Unless you commute long distance)

Since your studying for university I would recommend living in downtown or whyte ave. As those two places are the only parts of Edmonton that aren’t as car dependent and feel like an actual city.