8 Best South East Calgary Neighbourhoods: Top SE Calgary Communities

Living in Southeast Calgary is enhanced by its dynamic neighbourhoods, each offering a unique blend of urban convenience and suburban charm. This quadrant boasts diverse living options to suit every lifestyle, from the bustling streets of trendy districts to the serene communities nestled along the Bow River. Whether you're drawn to vibrant shopping and dining scenes or tranquil parks and pathways, Southeast Calgary's neighbourhoods provide a welcoming and enriching environment for residents to call home.

Inglewood

Inglewood, a vibrant neighbourhood adjacent to Downtown Calgary, offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities, making it a popular choice for residents seeking a dynamic urban lifestyle. Homes in Inglewood are wide-ranging, from condos starting in the $300s to detached homes listing from around $600,000. In 2014, the Canadian Institute of Planners recognized Inglewood as Canada's Greatest Neighbourhood. 

Inglewood stands out as one of the best in Calgary for shopping and dining, thanks to its proximity to downtown. When it comes to restaurants, Inglewood boasts a mix of local favourites and trendy newcomers. Notable spots like The Hose and Hound, with its historic 1906 firehall, and Deane House, set amidst beautiful grounds, offer unforgettable dining experiences. For those looking for newer culinary adventures, options like Vegan Street, The Attic Bar & Stage, and Madison's 1212 offer innovative menus and welcoming atmospheres.

Riverbend

Located in Southeast Calgary, Riverbend sits east of Bow River and south of Glenmore Trail, offering residents a range of amenities and housing options. The neighbourhood was established in 1982, and most homes were built in the following decade. Homes in Riverbend typically list from the $200s to the $800s.

Discover a few reasons why Riverbend is a great place to call home:

• Fast food and restaurants like Boston Pizza and The Station Pub + Grill create a vibrant culinary scene.
• Deerfoot Meadows, a prominent shopping mall across the river, boasts a variety of stores such as Best Buy, Gap, and IKEA, along with large eateries like Shark Club and Moxie's.
• The neighbourhood's proximity to the Bow River and some of Calgary’s top walking and jogging trails offer opportunities for outdoor activities and picnicking along the riverbanks.

Riverbend provides a mix of affordability and convenience, making it an attractive place to live in Southeast Calgary.

Auburn Bay

Auburn Bay, a charming suburban neighbourhood in Southeast Calgary, offers a delightful blend of cottage country ambiance and modern amenities. Established in 2005, this community delivers a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of cottage living while providing all the conveniences of modern life. Nestled in Southeast Calgary, Auburn Bay is bordered by Seton Boulevard to the south, Deerfoot Trail to the west, 52 Street East to the east, and Stoney Trail to the north.

One of the highlights of Auburn Bay is its picturesque 43-acre freshwater lake, a serene retreat for residents to enjoy water activities or simply relax by the shore. With over 6,000 homes in Auburn Bay, the lakefront community offers a wide range of housing options. While the average property price in Auburn Bay is $639,507, the area boasts home values ranging from $339,900 to $1,550,000, catering to different budgets. Whether you're seeking a peaceful lakeside escape or a vibrant suburban lifestyle, you can find it in Auburn Bay.

Legacy

Nestled along Calgary's southern border with Foothills County, Legacy offers a myriad of amenities and natural attractions, making it a desirable residential location. With about nine miles of walking trails, three ponds, 10 parks, four soccer fields, and 300 acres of protected natural reserve, Legacy provides ample outdoor activities. The neighbourhood also boasts spaces for three commercial sites, adding convenience to its charm.

Homes for sale in Legacy list from the $300s to around $1.2 million, and properties in the neighbourhood work well as vacation rentals, personal retreats, or permanent residences. Additionally, the nearby Shawnessy Shopping District and the new South Health Campus offer the convenience of city living without sacrificing the tranquillity of suburban life.

For dining, Legacy residents enjoy a variety of restaurants, including Shawarma King, the MASH, Bobby's Place Pub, Jon Smith Subs, Thé Moon Tea House, and more, catering to diverse culinary preferences.

Queensland

Queensland, a Southeast Calgary suburb since 1961, offers a blend of modern living options and a fantastic lifestyle. The residential development that began in 1973 has transformed the neighbourhood into a vibrant community. Bounded by Diamond Cove, the Bow River, Fish Creek Provincial Park—one of Calgary’s best parks—Canyon Meadows Drive, and Bow Bottom Trail, Queensland boasts a prime location with easy access to nature and city amenities.

Homes in Queensland are usually priced from $300,000 to the $800s, and the neighbourhood’s natural surroundings enhance its appeal. Here are a few reasons to consider calling Queensland home:

• Low prices: Queensland provides affordable housing options, making it an attractive choice for many budgets.
• Solid work-life balance: The suburb offers a peaceful environment that allows residents to unwind after a busy day.
• Convenient shopping and dining: With many shopping options and diverse dining, including the Gordon Ramsay Restaurant, Regal Beagle, and Atlas Pizza, Queensland offers many places for residents to explore.

McKenzie Towne

McKenzie Towne, a charming suburb of Calgary, captivates residents with its neo-traditional architecture, tree-lined streets, and vibrant community atmosphere.This transit-oriented community offers convenient access to downtown Calgary with two daily express bus round trips and a light rail feeder bus route. Homes in McKenzie Towne include Victorian, craftsman, and Georgian styles, along with Southeast Calgary townhomes and condos, providing a diverse architectural landscape.

One of the community's focal points is the Copperfield and McKenzie Towne Hall, a bustling hub for various events and activities catering to residents of all ages. From fitness classes to seasonal markets, this hall serves as a gathering place for neighbours to connect and support local businesses. The charming architecture reminiscent of traditional European neighbourhoods adds to the allure of McKenzie Towne, making it an attractive option for those seeking a welcoming and picturesque community to call home.

Mahogany

One of Calgary’s top lake communities, Mahogany, has established itself as a highly acclaimed area in Southeast Calgary, boasting prestigious accolades and many housing options. Mahogany was named Calgary's New Community of the Year in 2009 and has continued to impress, earning titles such as Calgary Community of the Year and Alberta's Community Development of the Year in 2012, 2013, and 2014. 

Mahogany offers a convenient location, bounded by 52 St Southeast to the west, Auburn Bay to the south, Stoney Trail to the north, and the projected East Freeway to the east. Residents can explore the area’s varied housing market, with homes in Mahogany listing from the high $300s to more than $3 million. The neighbourhood features a mix of single detached homes, ranging from older properties with character to newly constructed dwellings. 

Mahogany is a sought-after location for real estate buyers due to its many housing options, vibrant restaurant scene, and lively ambiance. With a mix of affordability and luxury, Mahogany caters to individuals seeking a tranquil and welcoming community in Southeast Calgary.

Copperfield

Copperfield, a newer community in Calgary, offers residents the opportunity to invest in their future with cost-effective homes in a thoughtfully planned neighbourhood. The neighbourhood, situated just north of Highway 22X, borders New Brighton, McKenzie Towne, and Mahogany. 

Copperfield provides many outdoor recreation opportunities, including biking along the area’s paths. If you're a nature enthusiast, Copperfield boasts plenty of green spaces and parks and proximity to natural reserves like Fish Creek Provincial Park. The community is home to five schools and two extracurricular programs.

Copperfield homes range from $300,000 to the $800s. Discover these additional advantages of living in Copperfield:

• Enjoy the convenience of nearby green spaces featuring paved walks, playgrounds, and lush vegetation.
• Immerse yourself in the tight-knit community known for its friendly atmosphere and love for the outdoors.
• Discover the simplicity of enjoying Copperfield parks, such as the picturesque Red Hipno Park in the southwest part of the neighbourhood.

Find a Neighbourhood for You in Southeast Calgary

Southeast Calgary offers a variety of vibrant neighbourhoods to explore. Whether you enjoy waterfront living in Auburn Bay, Inglewood's trendy vibe, or Riverbend's peaceful surroundings, you can find a neighbourhood that suits your lifestyle. With amenities, parks, and Calgary schools nearby, residents can enjoy a high quality of life in any of these neighbourhoods. Consider exploring Southeast Calgary for your next home.