Gilbert

Gilbert, Hamilton: A Welcoming Community for Families

Discover Gilbert, a vibrant and family-friendly neighbourhood nestled in the west end of Hamilton. Known for its strong sense of community and abundant green spaces, Gilbert offers a welcoming environment for residents of all ages. This predominantly residential area combines the tranquility of suburban living with convenient access to amenities, making it an ideal choice for growing families seeking a balanced and active lifestyle.

Geographical Context: West Hamilton's Green Heart

Gilbert is strategically located in west Hamilton, offering residents easy connections while maintaining a distinct neighbourhood feel.

• Location: Situated in the western part of Hamilton, the neighbourhood is primarily residential.
• Key Feature: It is notably centered around a large baseball park, serving as a prominent green space and recreational hub for the community.
• Surroundings: The area features a mix of detached and semi-detached homes, contributing to its established and family-oriented character.

Safety and Community Atmosphere

Gilbert is celebrated for its safe and inclusive atmosphere, fostered by a strong community spirit and a focus on family well-being.

• Family-Friendly Environment: The high percentage of families with children contributes to a vigilant and supportive community.
• Low Crime Rates: Hamilton as a whole generally reports lower crime rates compared to provincial and national averages, contributing to a sense of security for Gilbert residents.
• Active Community: The presence of a central park and recreational facilities encourages outdoor activities and neighbourly interaction, further enhancing safety and community bonds.

Demographics: A Diverse and Growing Family Base

Gilbert is a dynamic neighbourhood with a consistent population that strongly appeals to families at various stages of life.

• Household Composition:
• Families with children comprise a significant 57% of households.
• Couples without children make up 22%.
• Single-person households account for 15%.
• Population Size: The neighbourhood is home to approximately 3,264 people across 1,105 households.
• Age Profile: Gilbert is particularly popular with:
• Families with kids under 5
• Families with kids aged 5 to 9
• Families with teens
• Individuals in their 30s and 40s
• Overall age ranges: 0-14 years (21%), 15-64 years (62%), 65 years and over (15%).
• Ethnic Diversity: Residents come from a wide array of ethnic origins (68 different origins), with 38% being first-generation immigrants and 26% second-generation immigrants, adding to the neighbourhood's rich cultural fabric.
• Housing Tenure: The majority of homes are owner-occupied (72%), while 28% are renter-occupied.
• Housing Types: The housing stock is diverse, featuring:
• Single-detached houses: 58%
• Row houses: 31%
• Semi-detached houses: 6%
• Homes were predominantly built between 1961 and 1980 (56%), giving the area a mature and established feel.

Educational Opportunities: Local and Comprehensive Learning

Gilbert is well-served by a range of public and Catholic schools, providing robust educational options for students within and near the neighbourhood.

• Public Schools (Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board):
• Chedoke PS
• Westwood PS
• Westview Middle
• Norwood Park ES
• Sir Allan MacNab SS
• ÉÉ Pavillon de la jeunesse (French-language elementary)
• ÉS Georges-P-Vanier (French-language secondary)

• Catholic Schools (Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board):
• Annunciation of Our Lord Catholic ES
• Regina Mundi Catholic ES
• St. Thomas More Catholic HS
• ÉSAC Mère-Teresa (French-language secondary)
• ÉÉC Monseigneur-de-Laval (French-language elementary)

• Specialized Programs: Both public and Catholic schools in the wider area offer specialized programs, including French Immersion and Advanced Placement (AP), enhancing diverse learning needs.

Amenities and Recreation: Active Living and Green Spaces

Gilbert offers convenient access to everyday amenities and dedicated recreational facilities, promoting an active and engaging lifestyle.

• Parks and Green Spaces: The neighbourhood features a central park with 7 recreational facilities, notably including:
• 1 playground
• 6 baseball diamonds
• This focus on baseball facilities makes it a vibrant hub for sports enthusiasts.
• Local Conveniences: The area is almost entirely residential, but nearby commercial zones provide access to shops, services, and dining options.
• Community Centre: While not directly within Gilbert, the Hamilton Community Centre in Richmond, BC (note: this is a different Hamilton, not Hamilton, Ontario) offers insights into community programming that local Hamilton community centres nearby might replicate, providing various programs and activities.

Community Services and Healthcare Access

Residents of Gilbert benefit from accessible community services and healthcare facilities throughout Hamilton.

• Libraries: Branches of the Hamilton Public Library are within a reasonable distance, offering diverse resources and community programs.
• Healthcare Facilities: Gilbert's location provides convenient access to major Hamilton hospitals and healthcare networks, ensuring comprehensive medical care for residents.
• Social Support: Various community support organizations operate across Hamilton, providing assistance and fostering overall well-being.

Transportation and Connectivity: Efficient Commutes

Gilbert offers good transportation options, catering primarily to vehicle commuters while also providing public transit access.

• Transit Accessibility: The neighbourhood has 18 transit stops, facilitating local travel via the Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) bus system.
• Vehicle Dominance: The majority of residents commute by vehicle (84%), with easy access to major roads for efficient city-wide travel.
• Commute Patterns: Most residents commute within Hamilton (72%), with typical commute times ranging from 15 to 29 minutes (45%), indicating relatively efficient travel within the city.
• Active Transportation: While less prevalent, a small percentage of residents commute by walking or biking (1%), though the focus is primarily on vehicle and transit use.

Cultural Attractions and Entertainment

Gilbert's location in west Hamilton provides convenient access to the city's broader cultural attractions and entertainment venues.

• Proximity to Urban Hubs: Residents can easily access downtown Hamilton's vibrant arts scene, including the Art Gallery of Hamilton, Theatre Aquarius, and various live music venues.
• Local Charm: The neighbourhood's strong community fosters local events and gatherings, contributing to its unique character.
• Natural Escapes: The abundance of parks and proximity to larger green spaces and conservation areas in Hamilton provides opportunities for outdoor recreation and appreciating nature.

Natural Environment: Urban Greenery and Nearby Escapes

Gilbert features its own green spaces and benefits from Hamilton's extensive natural environment.

• Neighbourhood Park: The central park with its baseball diamonds and playground serves as a vital green lung within the residential area, offering accessible outdoor space.
• Broader Green Access: Residents are a short drive from other Hamilton green corridors and natural features, including parts of the Niagara Escarpment and various conservation areas, offering hiking, birdwatching, and scenic views.

Future Development and Growth Outlook

Gilbert is a stable, established residential neighbourhood, and future development is likely to focus on maintaining its character and enhancing existing amenities rather than large-scale new construction.

• Established Community: The high percentage of owner-occupied homes and mature housing stock suggests a stable environment.
• Infill Opportunities: Any new development will likely come in the form of infill projects that integrate with the existing residential fabric.
• Community Enhancements: Future initiatives will likely focus on improving local parks, community facilities, and transportation infrastructure to support the existing population.

Real Estate Market Trends: A Family-Oriented Market

The real estate market in Gilbert is characterized by a strong presence of family homes, reflecting its appeal to a steady population.

• Predominant Housing: Single-detached houses make up 58% of the housing stock, with row houses also being a significant component (31%), catering to families.
• Housing Age: A majority of homes were built between 1961 and 1980, indicating an established neighbourhood with well-maintained properties.
• Home Sizes: Homes in Gilbert commonly have 3 bedrooms (60%) or 4+ bedrooms (27%), suggesting ample space for families.
• Market Snapshot (As of May 2025): While specific data for "Gilbert" alone is often aggregated into broader "Hamilton West" trends, the overall Hamilton real estate market has seen average residential property prices around $791,384. Gilbert's prevalence of detached and row homes typically positions it within a desirable price range for families seeking value and space.

Cost of Living: Affordable Family Living

The cost of living in Gilbert aligns with Hamilton's general affordability, offering a more budget-friendly option compared to larger metropolitan areas.

• Housing Costs: Compared to Toronto, Hamilton generally offers lower housing costs, making homeownership more accessible. Gilbert, with its mix of detached and row houses, provides attractive price points for families.
• Utility Expenses: Typical monthly utility costs for a Hamilton household (electricity, heating, water, garbage, internet) generally range from $250 to $400, varying by home size and usage.
• Overall Affordability: Gilbert provides an appealing balance of community amenities and relative affordability within the Hamilton market.

Martin Group: Your Trusted Partner in Gilbert Real Estate

Navigating the vibrant and family-friendly real estate market of Gilbert requires a knowledgeable and dedicated partner. The Martin Group is committed to being that guide, helping you find your ideal home in this welcoming Hamilton neighbourhood.

• Local Expertise: We possess a deep understanding of Gilbert's unique character, its family-centric atmosphere, and its diverse housing opportunities.
• Tailored Solutions: Whether you're looking to buy a spacious family home or sell your property in this thriving community, we craft personalized strategies to meet your specific needs.
• Informed Decisions: We provide comprehensive market insights and transparent guidance, empowering you to make confident and well-informed real estate choices.
• Seamless Process: From initial consultation to final closing, our meticulous attention to detail and proactive support ensure a smooth and stress-free transaction.
• Connecting You to Community: We share a genuine appreciation for Gilbert's close-knit spirit and abundant green spaces, helping you find a home where your family can flourish.

Conclusion

Gilbert stands as a prime example of a thriving, family-oriented community in west Hamilton. Its abundance of green spaces, strong community bonds, comprehensive educational opportunities, and diverse housing stock make it an incredibly appealing place to call home. If you're seeking a neighbourhood where children can grow, families can connect, and a vibrant, active lifestyle is within reach, Gilbert offers an exceptional choice. Partner with the Martin Group to explore the opportunities in Gilbert and discover your perfect family sanctuary.