I went through exactly this dilemma two years ago and ended up choosing downtown – specifically the Oliver or Ice District area – and I don't regret it. The energy is great, you can walk to Rogers Place, dozens of cafes, and the river valley trails are literally minutes away. Parking is indeed an extra cost, but many newer buildings include underground spots in the rent if you negotiate. What surprised me most was the variety of floor plans – from compact studios to spacious two‑bedroom lofts with exposed brick and high ceilings. Those loft‑style units are perfect for remote work because they feel open and bright, not like a typical box apartment. I also found that downtown buildings often have better soundproofing than older suburban walk‑ups. If you value convenience and a vibrant lifestyle, I'd highly recommend looking at loft conversions in historic buildings – they have character and usually come with fibre internet already installed. A friend recently moved into a beautiful complex and sent me this link: lofts edmonton – they have exactly the modern finishes and community vibe you're describing. Definitely worth a virtual tour before you decide.