Short answer: if you want the shortest commute, look at Oromocto. If one of you works in Fredericton, look at Lincoln. If you want a quieter suburb near the city, look at New Maryland or Hanwell. If you want land, look at Burton or Geary.
Start with three questions
- Who drives where? If both of you commute, one to the base and one to Fredericton, the middle ground matters more than anything.
- What do the kids need? Check school catchments for each address, including French immersion and francophone options.
- Town or country? Country lots mean more space, but also a well, septic and longer winter drives.
How the areas compare
- Oromocto: home of 5th Canadian Division Support Base Gagetown. A few minutes to work, with shops, schools and riverfront trails in town. The most popular choice for military families.
- Burton: just southeast of Oromocto along Route 102, next to the training area. Quieter and more rural, still close to the gates.
- Lincoln: between Oromocto and Fredericton on the Saint John River, by the airport. A good split for two commutes, often with larger lots.
- Fredericton: the provincial capital, with the most amenities, about 20 to 25 minutes from Oromocto.
- New Maryland: a quiet village just south of Fredericton with its own elementary school and services.
- Hanwell: southwest of Fredericton, with subdivisions and bigger lots.
- Geary and Gagetown: rural space south of Oromocto. Note that the village of Gagetown has no direct access to the base, despite the name.
Compare drive times side by side on my areas page.
Tips for your House Hunting Trip
- Drive your likely commute at rush hour before you choose.
- Shortlist homes by video before you arrive, so your trip is for deciding, not browsing.
- Get pre-approved first, so you can write an offer the same day.
Want a full plan? Here's my House Hunting Trip checklist.
Talk to Nick
Let's make a plan
Have a question about your own move? Call or text 506-304-9292, or send me a note and I'll reply within one business day.