Gander is one of those towns whose significance vastly exceeds its population. In the 1930s and 40s, Gander International Airport was the most important trans-Atlantic refuelling hub on Earth — every major airline and military power on the planet passed through here. That legacy shaped a town that was literally built for travellers, with wide streets, international-scale infrastructure, and a cultural openness to outsiders that manifested most memorably on September 11, 2001, when 38 diverted aircraft and 6,579 stranded passengers were taken in by a town of 10,000. The Broadway musical Come From Away turned that story into a global phenomenon — and a new wave of visitors has come to see the town that made it happen.
Gander's housing market reflects its role as Central NL's service hub — health care (James Paton Memorial Regional Health Centre), education (College of the North Atlantic), and government services anchor stable, year-round employment. The Trans-Canada Highway runs directly through town, making it a convenient base for exploring the island. Real estate is unpretentious and affordable: detached bungalows and older two-storeys dominate, supplemented by some newer suburban development on the town's eastern edges. For buyers seeking a complete community with all services at genuinely modest prices, Gander delivers.
~$155K – $265K
Detached Bungalows (Core)
Gander's backbone housing stock — solidly built post-war and 1960s–1980s bungalows on generous lots. Wide streets (designed for aircraft-era traffic flows) give neighbourhoods a spacious feel. Great value for first-time buyers and families.
~$220K – $310K
Newer Eastern Subdivisions
More recent subdivisions on Gander's eastern periphery offer modern open-concept builds with garages. Closer to the Trans-Canada access, Walmart, and the airport commercial strip.
~$120K – $220K
Lakefront & Rural Surrounds
Gander — Buyer FAQ
What is the Come From Away connection?
On September 11, 2001, when US airspace closed, Gander Airport received 38 wide-body aircraft carrying 6,579 passengers from 95 countries. The town's residents housed, fed, and cared for these strangers for five days with extraordinary generosity. The 2017 Broadway musical Come From Away dramatizes this event and has since been seen by millions worldwide, creating a permanent tourism draw for the town. The Gander Airport International Lounge now serves as a museum to the event.
How is Gander's economy structured?
Aviation and logistics remain significant — Gander Airport handles cargo and emergency landing operations and hosts several aviation training facilities. James Paton Memorial Regional Health Centre is a major employer for all of Central NL. College of the North Atlantic's Gander campus trains students in trades, business, and healthcare. The Trans-Canada highway makes Gander a natural distribution and trucking waypoint.
What lakes and outdoor recreation are nearby?
Gander Lake (the town literally sits on its shore) offers swimming, boating, and fishing. The 125 km Gander River is famous for Atlantic salmon and is among the most productive salmon rivers in North America. Terra Nova National Park is 75 km east — NL's only national park on the island, with a full campground, trails, kayaking, and golf.
Is broadband internet good in Gander?
Yes — as a regional hub with historical aviation and government infrastructure, Gander has above-average broadband for rural NL. Cable internet is available throughout town. This makes it a viable option for remote workers who want Central NL living without sacrificing connectivity.
What is the school system like in Gander?
Gander has K-12 schooling through the NL English School District, including Gander Collegiate high school. College of the North Atlantic's campus offers post-secondary programs locally. The town is large enough to support full extracurricular programming — hockey, soccer, arts, drama — for students of all ages.