Best Neighbourhoods in Calgary: 8 Best Areas to Live in Calgary

Are you moving to Calgary and wondering where to find the best neighbourhoods? Look no further! The best neighbourhoods in Calgary each have unique character and charm. From trendy and bustling to quiet and suburban, Calgary's neighbourhoods offer something for everyone. Are you ready to find your dream home? Here's everything you need to know about the best neighbourhoods in Calgary. 

Brentwood

Established in 1960, Brentwood is a quiet community in the Northwest Calgary area. This quiet community has an excellent liveability rating and a relatively low cost of living. Homebuyers can choose from a variety of homes, condominiums, and townhomes. Prices range from the low $200,000s to the high $800,000s, although some homes for sale in Brentwood easily exceed $1 million asking prices. 

The Brentwood neighbourhood is also home to many schools for students of all ages. Whether working locally or commuting to surrounding areas, transportation options are excellent. Commuters can access John Laurie Boulevard to the north as well as the CTrain Park and Ride at Brentwood Station. 

Homeowners in the Brentwood neighbourhood benefit from having Nose Hill Park nearby. It provides them with access to miles of walking and hiking trails, beautiful panoramic views of the city, and a natural escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The park also provides residents with recreational opportunities such as picnicking, bird watching, and cross-country skiing during the winter months. 

Varsity

The Varsity neighbourhood was established in the 1960s and 70s and comprises three distinct developed areas: Varsity Estates, Varsity Village, and Varsity Acres. With Crowchild Trail NW bordering the neighbourhood to the east and the Bow River to the west, along with Shaganappi Trail and two C-Train stations, residents have quick access to many of the area's local dining, shopping, and entertainment venues.

Varsity homes for sale range from single- to multi-family residences with single-level and split-level floor plans to luxury condominiums. Prices average from $176,000 to $1,500,000, with an average price of $508,000.

The University of Calgary and the University of Calgary Research Park are just a short drive away from Varsity. For younger students, several elementary schools and one junior high school serve the community. Golfers living in the neighbourhood love being able to play a round at the Silver Springs Golf & Country Club, whereas dog owners appreciate the neighbourhood's off-leash area. With access to so many beautiful parks and the beloved CF Market Mall, it's no surprise that Varsity is widely regarded as one of the best neighbourhoods in Calgary. 

Altadore

Altadore, one of Calgary's most sought-after neighborhoods, offers a perfect blend of modern living and historic charm. Situated in Southwest Calgary, Altadore is known for its tree-lined streets, beautiful homes, and vibrant community spirit. The neighborhood features a mix of stylish new builds and charming older homes, catering to diverse preferences and lifestyles. Homes in Altadore typically list from the $500s to $1.8 million.

Altadore is adjacent to the popular Marda Loop, a bustling retail and entertainment district filled with trendy shops, cafes, restaurants, and local businesses. This proximity ensures residents have easy access to a variety of amenities and entertainment options. The neighborhood is also home to several schools, making it an ideal location for growing households.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of green spaces and recreational facilities in Altadore. The nearby River Park and Sandy Beach Park offer scenic spots for picnicking, walking, and enjoying the outdoors. The community is also close to the Glenmore Athletic Park, which provides facilities for various sports and activities.

Altadore's location offers convenient access to Downtown Calgary, making it a great choice for professionals seeking a short commute. With its blend of modern conveniences, family-friendly amenities, and a strong sense of community, Altadore stands out as one of Calgary's premier neighborhoods, attracting residents looking for a balanced and enriching lifestyle.

Crescent Heights

Crescent Heights was founded in 1895. It became a village in 1908 and was annexed to Calgary in 1911. In 1914, Crescent Heights was established as a community in the inner-city area just east of downtown. Edmonton Trail, the Trans-Canada Highway, Memorial Drive, and the Bow River comprise its boundaries.

Crescent Heights offers its residents plenty of scenic outdoor adventures and magnificent views of the Bow River. Potential residents can choose from various properties ranging in size, such as a one-bedroom, one-bath residence or split-level homes with four bedrooms and two baths.

Real estate in Crescent Heights includes detached or attached dwellings, luxury residences, lakefront homes, condominiums, and townhomes. As one of the most expensive neighbourhoods in Calgary, it's easy to find home prices that exceed $2 million. That said, there are also many smaller properties that cost between $400,000 and $600,000/

The neighbourhood boasts a desirable position, just across the Bow River from Downtown Calgary. Residents enjoy access to many outdoor spaces, such as Sunnyside Bank Park, Rotary Park, and Prince's Island Park. Centre Street North runs through the heart of the neighbourhood, providing countless options for dining and shopping. 

Hillhurst

Hillhurst is one of the oldest and most walkable communities in Calgary. This vibrant community offers residents plenty to do year-round and features historical buildings from the 1900s. Situated near downtown, there are plenty of shopping opportunities at over 100 retail venues, scheduled events, festivals, a farmers market and flea market, and nearby Prince's Island Park.

Hillhurst has a central location near the Bow River and Kensington Road, which is one of the features that makes it stand out among Calgary neighbourhoods. With its short distance to downtown and area transit, residents can walk or ride to area businesses and attractions. This quaint neighbourhood provides residents with many property choices, from historic and classic to modern single-family homes. Homes for sale in Hillhurst start at about $300,000 for condos and townhouses. Single-family homes will often cost between $1 and $2 million. 

Inglewood

Inglewood, Calgary's oldest neighbourhood, exudes a unique charm and vibrant energy that makes it one of the best areas to live in the city. Established in 1875, Inglewood boasts a rich history with its heritage buildings, quaint streets, and an eclectic mix of shops, galleries, and restaurants along 9th Avenue, the main thoroughfare. Most homes for sale in Inglewood are priced from the low $400s to $1.5 million.

The neighbourhood is a cultural hub, home to the National Music Centre and the Calgary International Fringe Festival, which draw visitors and locals alike. Inglewood's thriving arts scene is complemented by numerous antique stores, boutique shops, and artisanal cafes, creating a vibrant community atmosphere. Part of Calgary's City Centre, Inglewood boasts culinary delights and plenty of pubs.

Nature lovers will appreciate Inglewood's proximity to the Bow River and its extensive network of pathways and parks. Pearce Estate Park, the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary, and the Calgary Zoo offer residents plenty of green spaces and outdoor activities. These natural areas provide a serene escape from the urban hustle and bustle, making Inglewood a perfect blend of city living and nature.

Inglewood's strong sense of community is evident in its active community association, which organizes events and initiatives that foster neighbourhood pride and connectivity. With its historic charm, cultural vibrancy, and natural beauty, Inglewood stands out as one of the most dynamic Calgary neighbourhoods.

Bowness

Bowness made its debut in 1963 when it became part of Calgary. Prior to that, Bowness had been a small town of its own. The community still exudes a small-town vibe and friendly atmosphere while it experiences continued growth with new residents and businesses. Its convenient location along Highway 1 provides quick access for commuters to travel to neighbouring locales, such as Canmore and Banff.

Day or night, residents aren't limited when it comes to things to do and places to go in Bowness. No matter the time of year, something of interest is always available for everyone. During the winter, WinSport is everyone's go-to spot for snow-day fun. This former Olympic park boasts ski hills, ice ranks, and more. Over in Bowness Park, the famous skating trail provides several kilometres of ice skating. Warmer weather sets the scene for boating, picnics, and fun afternoons at the playground. 

Acadia

Acadia had its beginnings in 1960 and continues to offer its residents a quiet, well-maintained, and pet-friendly community that expertly blends urban and rural living. Its boundaries include Macleod Trail, a multi-lane expressway, the scenic Bow River, Heritage Drive, and Southland Drive. Residents also have the convenience of the Heritage C-Train Station for transit.

The neighbourhood ranks as one of Calgary's best neighbourhoods featuring well-maintained homes on large tree-lined lots. Even amid rising real estate prices, Acadia is one of the most affordable neighbourhoods in Calgary. Located south of downtown, Acadia homes start at prices around $650,000 and span upwards of $1 million—significantly cheaper than most other communities around town. 

What's Your Favourite Neighbourhood in Calgary?

Whether you're looking for a new construction home or a high-rise condo, these best-of-the-best neighbourhoods will surely deliver. Highlights include plenty of nearby schools, easy access to shops, and tons of fun things to do. When you move to town, you won't want to waste any time finding your dream house. By sticking to this list of the best neighbourhoods in Calgary, you'll be settled in at home in no time.