Gilkson

Gilkson, Hamilton: Your Family's Hub in South Hamilton

Welcome to Gilkson, a vibrant and family-friendly neighbourhood nestled in the southern part of Hamilton. Known for its strong sense of community, diverse population, and abundance of green spaces, Gilkson offers a balanced lifestyle with convenient access to urban amenities. This predominantly residential area is designed for active living and nurturing families, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a welcoming and well-equipped place to call home.

Geographical Context: South Hamilton's Residential Core

Gilkson is strategically located in south Hamilton, offering a peaceful residential setting with accessibility to key city features.

• Location: Situated in the south end of Hamilton, the neighbourhood is largely residential.
• Key Feature: The community is centered around a large park and a school, forming a central hub for neighbourhood activities.
• Commercial Access: While primarily residential, Gilkson has convenient access to restaurants and stores along Stone Church Road West and Garth Street, providing essential amenities within easy reach.

Safety and Community Atmosphere

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

• Family-Friendly Environment: A high percentage of families with children contributes to a supportive and engaged community.
• Community Bonds: The neighbourhood's central park and school serve as gathering points, encouraging interaction and strengthening community ties.
• Safety Perception: Hamilton as a whole consistently reports lower overall crime rates compared to provincial and national averages, contributing to a general sense of security for Gilkson residents.

Demographics: Diverse, Growing, and Family-Focused

Gilkson is a dynamic neighbourhood with a consistent population that strongly appeals to families at various life stages, from young children to teens.

• Population Size: The neighbourhood has a consistent population, popular with families with teens, individuals in their 20s, 50s, and 60s.
• Household Composition:
• Families with children comprise a significant 55% of households.
• Couples without children make up 24%.
• One-person households account for 16%.
• Ethnic Diversity: Residents hail from 55 different ethnic origins, with 33% being first-generation immigrants and 25% second-generation immigrants, enriching the neighbourhood's cultural tapestry.
• Age Profile:
• 0-14 years: 17%
• 15-64 years: 65%
• 65 years and over: 17%
• Housing Tenure: The majority of homes are owner-occupied (77%), while 21% are condominium, and the rest are renter-occupied.
• Household Size: The most common household sizes are 2 persons (32%) and 3 persons (21%).
• Education Level: 20% of adult residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, and 59% have any postsecondary education.

Educational Opportunities: Comprehensive Local Learning

Gilkson is well-served by both public and Catholic schools, offering a range of robust educational options for students.

• Public Schools (Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board):
• R.A. Riddell PS
• 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
• 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 Hamilton area offer specialized programs, including French Immersion and Advanced Placement (AP), catering to diverse academic interests.

Amenities and Recreation: Active Living and Green Spaces

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

• Parks and Green Spaces: The neighbourhood features 1 central park with 12 recreational facilities, including:
• 1 playground
• 1 basketball court
• 4 baseball diamonds
• 4 sports fields
• 1 splash pad
• 1 sports court
• This variety makes it an excellent hub for sports and outdoor play.
• Local Conveniences: Restaurants and stores along Stone Church Road West and Garth Street provide essential shopping and dining options within the neighbourhood.
• Community Services: The Gilkson Community Pantry is a local resource, and broader Hamilton community services are accessible to residents.

Community Services and Healthcare Access

Residents of Gilkson 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: Gilkson's location provides convenient access to major Hamilton hospitals and healthcare networks, ensuring comprehensive medical care. Health care and social assistance is one of the top industries for employed residents (16%).
• Social Support: Various community support organizations operate across Hamilton, providing assistance and fostering overall well-being.

Transportation and Connectivity: Efficient Commutes

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

• Transit Accessibility: The neighbourhood has 21 transit stops, facilitating local travel via the Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) bus system. 9% of residents commute by transit.
• 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 (73%), with typical commute times ranging from 15 to 29 minutes (43%), and a significant portion having commutes of less than 15 minutes (21%).
• Active Transportation: A small percentage of residents commute by walking or biking (2%), indicating potential for growth in active transportation options.

Cultural Attractions and Entertainment

Gilkson's location in south 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

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

• Neighbourhood Park: The central park with its diverse recreational facilities serves as a vital green space within the residential area, offering accessible outdoor activities.
• 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

Gilkson is an established residential neighbourhood with a mix of older and newer homes. Future development is likely to focus on maintaining its character and enhancing existing amenities.

• Stable Community: The prevalence of owner-occupied homes and a consistent population suggest a stable and desirable living environment.
• Community Enhancements: Future initiatives will likely focus on improving local parks, community facilities, and transportation infrastructure to support the existing population.
• No Major Development Plans: There's no indication of large-scale new urban boundary expansions or significant greenfield development projects directly within Gilkson, implying a focus on maintaining its current residential charm.

Real Estate Market Trends: A Balanced Family Market

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

• Predominant Housing: Housing stock is diverse, featuring:
• Single-detached houses: 50%
• Row houses: 31%
• Semi-detached houses: 15%
• Home Sizes: Homes in Gilkson commonly have 3 bedrooms (63%) or 4+ bedrooms (32%), indicating properties with ample space suitable for families. Only 4% have 2 bedrooms.
• Housing Age: The neighbourhood features a mix of older and newer homes, with spacious layouts.
• Condominium Status: 21% of homes are condominiums.
• Market Snapshot: While specific real estate data for "Gilkson" alone is often aggregated into broader "Hamilton South" or "Hamilton Mountain" trends, the overall Hamilton real estate market has seen average residential property prices around $791,384 (as of May 2025). Gilkson's housing types and family appeal typically position it within a desirable price range for those seeking a balance of value and space on the Hamilton Mountain.

Cost of Living: Affordable Family Living

The cost of living in Gilkson 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. Gilkson, 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.
• Household Income: A significant portion of households have incomes between $60,000 and $149,999, indicating a stable middle-income demographic.
• Overall Affordability: Gilkson provides an appealing balance of community amenities and relative affordability within the Hamilton market.

Martin Group: Your Trusted Partner in Gilkson Real Estate

Navigating the vibrant and family-friendly real estate market of Gilkson 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 Gilkson'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 Gilkson's close-knit spirit and abundant green spaces, helping you find a home where your family can flourish.

Conclusion

Gilkson stands as a prime example of a thriving, family-oriented community in south 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, Gilkson offers an exceptional choice. Partner with the Martin Group to explore the opportunities in Gilkson and discover your perfect family sanctuary.