Best Neighborhoods in Calgary to Live in for Young Families and Seniors

Considering a move to Calgary, Alberta for its blend of urban culture and proximity to nature? Situated at the foothills of the majestic Rocky Mountains, Calgary promises scenic beauty right at its doorstep, with iconic locations like Banff Lake, Lake Louise, and Red Deer just a short drive away.

But beyond its natural attractions, Calgary, as Alberta’s largest city, is an urban hub boasting vibrant neighborhoods ideal for setting up a home. Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences, bustling city life, natural mystique, or a community-oriented environment, Calgary has it all.

To assist your decision-making, we’ve curated this guide highlighting the best neighborhoods in Calgary to live in, ensuring you find the perfect spot to call home.

Best Neighborhoods in Calgary to Live in

Brentwood

Located in Northwest Calgary, Brentwood is known for its tranquility, affordability, and high livability, making it one of the best neighborhoods in Calgary to live in. Established in 1960, it offers a mix of homes, condos, and townhomes that are valued from the low $200,000s to over $1.4 million as of 2023.

Brentwood boasts an array of educational institutions catering to students of all age groups. The area is well-connected, with easy access to John Laurie Boulevard and the CTrain’s Brentwood Station.

A standout feature is Nose Hill Park, offering residents a haven with walking trails, panoramic city views, and recreational activities like bird watching and cross-country skiing. Notably, Brentwood stands out as one of Calgary’s safest and most charming neighborhoods, making it ideal for families.

Key attractions include Nose Hill Park, the University of Calgary, and Brentwood Village Shopping Center.

Crescent Heights

Founded in 1895, Crescent Heights is an upscale inner-city community offering panoramic views of the Bow River. Bound by Edmonton Trail, the Trans-Canada Highway, Memorial Drive, and the Bow River, it’s strategically positioned opposite Downtown Calgary.

The neighborhood boasts a variety of real estate, from luxury homes exceeding $2 million to modest properties ranging between $400,000 and $600,000 as of 2023.

Outdoor enthusiasts love its proximity to Sunnyside Bank Park, Rotary Park, and Prince’s Island Park, while Centre Street North offers a plethora of dining and shopping options. Crescent Heights is lauded for its closeness to Chinatown and the commercial district. Key activities include the Bow River Pathway and Crescent Heights Hill.

Get the best views of the city’s skyline. Crescent Heights is perfect for those who enjoy tranquil surroundings yet want proximity to the bustling city.

Beltline

Located adjacent to Calgary’s downtown, Beltline is a lively and urban district, making it one of the best neighborhoods in Calgary to reside in. Beltline boasts a mix of apartments and condos, a reflection of its urban density and design. Residents and visitors alike are drawn to its diverse nightlife, plethora of restaurants, and rich tapestry of urban culture.

One cannot mention Beltline without highlighting the iconic 17th Avenue, a hub for dining, shopping, and entertainment. The avenue came alive as the “Red Mile” during the 2004 NHL playoffs, showcasing the city’s spirited sports culture. In addition to the vibrant lifestyle, Beltline houses the historically significant districts of Connaught and Victoria Park. While Connaught, established in 1905, oozes old-world charm, Victoria Park, with its Warehouse district, is named in homage to Queen Victoria, emphasized by the monument at Central Memorial Park.

Beltline’s rapidly growing population, coupled with its unbeatable combination of historical appeal and urban sophistication, marks it as one of the best neighborhoods in Calgary to live in.

With a median home price of roughly $500,000 as of 2023, Beltline offers both luxury and affordability.

Arbour Lake

Established in the 1990s, About Lake stands as one of Calgary’s safest and most family-friendly neighborhoods. Located in northwest Calgary, the neighborhood includes Country Hills Boulevard, Nose Hill Drive, and major highways – Stoney and Crowchild Trails. The community’s centerpiece is a picturesque, trout-filled, 10-acre man-made lake offering year-round recreational activities – from skating in winter to summer swims.

This unique lake community boasts a Southern Californian design influence. The area pulsates with life, given its access to parks, shopping hubs like Crowfoot Crossing, and eateries. Stunning views of the Rockies, combined with trails and parks, enhance its desirability. Arbour Lake’s demographics present a harmonious mix of families, singles, and seniors, with activities catering to all age groups.

Key attractions include the expansive Crowfoot Crossing shopping centre, stocked with cinemas, restaurants, and essential services. The region enjoys seamless connectivity, thanks to the main roads and the C-Train station. While its location on Calgary’s northwest edge means a longer downtown commute, the trade-off is the quicker access to the Rockies. As an upper-middle-class suburb, the median home price of roughly $500,000 as of 2023.

Varsity

Varsity, established in the 1960s and 70s, is a sought-after Calgary neighbourhood, segmented into Varsity Estates, Varsity Village, and Varsity Acres. Nestled between Crowchild Trail NW and the Bow River, residents enjoy convenient transit options, including two C-Train stations. Housing spans from condos to luxury homes, with prices averaging around $650,000 as of 2023.

A highlight of the area is its proximity to the University of Calgary, the Research Park, and several schools for younger students. The Silver Springs Golf & Country Club is a favourite for golfers, while parks like Bowmont offer natural escapes and off-leash dog areas. The CF Market Mall enriches the locale with ample shopping options.

The district is characterized by its combination of upscale residences and multi-family complexes, imbuing an eclectic atmosphere. With the University nearby, it attracts a younger demographic, yet families gravitate towards the northern section. Local amenities, like Market Mall and McMahon Stadium, offer shopping, entertainment, and sports facilities.

Even with the hustle and bustle, residential streets maintain their tranquility. The neighbourhood ensures accessibility for all budgets, from luxury offerings to budget-friendly venues, making Varsity a harmonious blend of urban convenience and natural charm, and one of the best neighborhoods in Calgary.

Hillhurst

Hillhurst, one of Calgary’s oldest communities, blends historical charm with modern vibrancy. Centrally located near the Bow River and Kensington Road, it boasts a mix of classic homes and contemporary high-rises, making it diverse in demographics and interests. The neighborhood is also recognized as Kensington, an inner-city hotspot with direct downtown access, making it appealing for downtown workers. Local Kensington and 10th Main Streets are lined with boutique shops, eateries, and services, adding to its urban appeal.

Hillhurst’s demographic largely comprises young professionals and students, attributed to the proximity of post-secondary institutions and a predominance of rental properties. The 2014 civic census indicated that only 38% owned their homes. The community offers a variety of entertainment, from the hip Kensington shopping district to festivals at the nearby Prince’s Island Park.

With its walkability and easy transit access via the C-Train, Hillhurst connects seamlessly to other city parts. However, its dense population and high turnover, mostly from students and budding professionals, give it a transient feel.

But this dynamism contributes to its unique energy. Housing ranges from luxury homes to student accommodations, mirroring its diverse population. Hillhurst apartments start at about $300,000, while single-family homes are often valued at over $1 million.

Best Neighborhoods in Calgary to Live In

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Still contemplating your next residence? Check out our blog for comprehensive guides to the most cost-effective major Canadian cities, as well as upcoming in-depth reviews of the best neighborhoods in Canada to live in.

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