Calgary

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Neighborhood Selection

Guidance on selecting a neighborhood based on lifestyle, budget, and proximity to amenities.

Sections

1. Overview of Calgaryโ€™s Housing Market

Calgary offers a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, duplexes, apartments, and condominiums. The city is divided into four quadrants: NW (Northwest), NE (Northeast), SW (Southwest), and SE (Southeast), each with its own character, amenities, and price ranges.

  • Average Housing Costs (2023):
    • Renting:
      • 1-bedroom apartment: CAD 1,300โ€“1,800/month
      • 2-bedroom apartment: CAD 1,600โ€“2,400/month
      • 3-bedroom house: CAD 2,200โ€“3,500/month
    • Buying:
      • Average home price: CAD 540,000 (varies by neighborhood and property type)
      • Condos: CAD 250,000โ€“400,000
      • Detached homes: CAD 500,000โ€“1,000,000+

2. Popular Neighborhoods by Lifestyle

For Families:

Families often prioritize safety, access to good schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities. Calgary has several neighborhoods that cater to these needs:

  • Brentwood (NW):

    • Known for its excellent schools, including proximity to the University of Calgary.
    • Family-friendly parks like Nose Hill Park.
    • Housing: Mostly single-family homes; average rent for a 3-bedroom house is CAD 2,500/month.
    • Amenities: Grocery stores, libraries, and recreational facilities.

  • Signal Hill (SW):

    • Quiet, suburban feel with great schools and shopping centers.
    • Housing: Mix of single-family homes and townhouses; average rent for a 3-bedroom house is CAD 2,800/month.
    • Amenities: Westhills Shopping Centre, parks, and playgrounds.

  • Evanston (NW):

    • A newer community with modern homes and a strong sense of community.
    • Housing: Detached homes and townhouses; average rent for a 3-bedroom house is CAD 2,400/month.
    • Amenities: Schools, grocery stores, and green spaces.

For Young Professionals:

Young professionals often prefer vibrant neighborhoods with easy access to downtown, nightlife, and public transit.

  • Beltline (SW):

    • Trendy and urban, close to downtown and 17th Avenue (a hub for restaurants, bars, and shops).
    • Housing: High-rise apartments and condos; average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is CAD 1,600/month.
    • Amenities: Walkable, with grocery stores, gyms, and cultural venues nearby.

  • Kensington (NW):

    • A lively area with boutique shops, cafes, and a strong arts scene.
    • Housing: Mix of apartments, condos, and townhouses; average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is CAD 1,700/month.
    • Amenities: Close to the Bow River, bike paths, and public transit.

  • Mission (SW):

    • Known for its riverside location and trendy vibe.
    • Housing: Condos and apartments; average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is CAD 1,600/month.
    • Amenities: Restaurants, coffee shops, and access to the Elbow River pathways.

For Students:

Students typically look for affordable housing near universities or colleges, with good transit options.

  • Varsity (NW):

    • Close to the University of Calgary and SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology).
    • Housing: Apartments, condos, and shared accommodations; average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is CAD 1,500/month.
    • Amenities: Grocery stores, malls (Market Mall), and public transit.

  • Banff Trail (NW):

    • A quiet neighborhood near the University of Calgary and the C-Train (light rail).
    • Housing: Apartments and shared houses; average rent for a room in a shared house is CAD 700โ€“1,000/month.
    • Amenities: Proximity to schools, parks, and transit.

  • Bridgeland (NE):

    • Affordable and close to downtown, with a mix of students and young professionals.
    • Housing: Apartments and shared accommodations; average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is CAD 1,400/month.
    • Amenities: Cafes, grocery stores, and public transit.

For Nature Lovers:

If you enjoy outdoor activities and green spaces, these neighborhoods are ideal:

  • Aspen Woods (SW):

    • Upscale area with large homes and proximity to the mountains.
    • Housing: Detached homes and townhouses; average rent for a 3-bedroom house is CAD 3,000/month.
    • Amenities: Parks, trails, and high-end shopping.

  • Crescent Heights (NW/NE):

    • Offers stunning views of downtown and the Bow River.
    • Housing: Apartments, condos, and single-family homes; average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is CAD 1,500/month.
    • Amenities: Close to Princeโ€™s Island Park and the Bow River pathways.

3. Commuting Considerations

Calgary has a well-developed public transit system, including buses and the C-Train (light rail). When choosing a neighborhood, consider your commute to work, school, or other destinations.

  • C-Train Lines:

    • Red Line: Runs north-south, connecting downtown to the University of Calgary and southern suburbs.
    • Blue Line: Runs east-west, connecting downtown to the northeast and western suburbs.

  • Driving:

    • Calgary is a car-friendly city with major roads like Deerfoot Trail, Crowchild Trail, and Glenmore Trail. However, traffic can be heavy during rush hours.

  • Walkability:

    • Inner-city neighborhoods like Beltline, Kensington, and Mission are highly walkable, while suburban areas may require a car.

4. Proximity to Schools and Universities

  • University of Calgary (NW): Nearby neighborhoods include Brentwood, Varsity, and Banff Trail.
  • SAIT (NW): Close to Banff Trail, Capitol Hill, and Hillhurst.
  • Mount Royal University (SW): Nearby neighborhoods include Lincoln Park, Glamorgan, and Signal Hill.
  • Public and Private Schools: Calgary has excellent public, Catholic, and private schools. Suburban neighborhoods like Tuscany, Evanston, and Signal Hill are known for their top-rated schools.

5. Access to Amenities

  • Grocery Stores: Major chains like Safeway, Co-op, and Superstore are spread across the city. Inner-city neighborhoods often have smaller specialty stores.
  • Parks and Recreation: Calgary is home to numerous parks, including Nose Hill Park, Fish Creek Provincial Park, and Princeโ€™s Island Park.
  • Shopping and Dining: Suburban areas have large shopping centers (e.g., Chinook Centre, Market Mall), while inner-city neighborhoods offer boutique shops and diverse dining options.

6. Safety

Calgary is generally a safe city, but like any urban area, some neighborhoods have higher crime rates. The Northeast quadrant, particularly areas like Forest Lawn, has a reputation for higher crime, though it is also more affordable. Always research specific streets and consult local crime maps when choosing a home.

7. Cultural Considerations

Calgary is a multicultural city with a welcoming atmosphere. Neighborhoods like Forest Lawn and Marlborough (NE) are known for their diversity, with many ethnic restaurants and cultural events. If youโ€™re looking for a community with a specific cultural presence, these areas may be worth exploring.

8. Practical Tips for Choosing a Neighborhood

  • Set a Budget: Factor in rent/mortgage, utilities, and commuting costs.
  • Visit the Area: Walk around the neighborhood at different times of the day to get a feel for the environment.
  • Check Transit Options: Ensure the area is well-connected if you rely on public transit.
  • Research Schools: If you have children, look into school ratings and proximity.
  • Consider Future Growth: Some newer suburbs may lack amenities now but are rapidly developing.

By considering your lifestyle, budget, and priorities, you can find a neighborhood in Calgary that suits your needs. Whether youโ€™re a family, a young professional, or a student, Calgary offers a wide range of options to make you feel at home.