If you are ready to set up residence where the Rocky Mountains meet rolling foothills and the Bow River sweeps through a prairie metropolis, then Calgary awaits. Known for its oil industry and annual Stampede, the city’s real estate market is in flux, making it a land of opportunity for buyers. Whether you’re looking for central and bustling or quiet and secluded, finding the right neighbourhood to call home is no issue in this city. Take in the scenery in one of these high-value Calgary neighbourhoods.
Mount Royal
Historic and contemporary collide in downtown-proximate Mount Royal. Some of the neighbourhood’s most valued estates date back more than a century. The area is popular among residents who appreciate Calgary’s rail and trade past, as well as those who are drawn to the modern trappings of 17th Avenue. Boutiques, restaurants, seasonal festivals, and community events are some of the neighbourhood’s biggest draws. Visit The Glencoe Club nearby for premier sports and recreational facilities.
Cliff Bungalow
With a charming combination of modern condo-style living and gorgeously-maintained hundred-year-old homes, this inner-city community is simultaneously historic and vibrant. Residents enjoy easy walking access to Calgary’s famous Stampede Park, and can take their bikes for a spin or walk their dogs along the freshly upgraded Elbow River Pathway. Outside of the ten days in mid-July when the Calgary Stampede reigns supreme, the park’s venues host a range of events, including concerts, Flames hockey games, and trade shows.
Parkhill
Steps away from Stanley Park and the Elbow River is the highly desirable Parkhill neighbourhood, one of Calgary’s oldest communities. Residents continue to flock here, whether it’s for a gorgeous new build or one of the area’s historical homes. The spectacular setting and heritage of Parkhill are second only to its central location, moments away from the central shopping areas of 4th Street and 17th Avenue, as well as the Chinook Centre mall. Access to the city’s bike path network means car-light living is possible, and the drive to Calgary’s downtown core is only a few minutes long.
East Village
Described as Calgary’s urban centre, the East Village community is a hub for arts and culture. After a walk along Riverfront Avenue, the neighbourhood’s residents can visit Studio Bell—home of the National Music Centre—or Calgary’s new Central Library, an instant local architectural icon that links the East Village with Calgary’s downtown core. With dining options including the eclectic charbar and local coffee roasters like Phil & Sebastian, East Village is expected to continue to flourish, with new residential towers and amenities already in the planning stages.
Panorama Hills
Among the many reasons to live in Panorama Hills, one of the best is the wealth of recreational amenities available to community members. Residents of this relatively new northwest community enjoy access to a six-acre private park that features a splash pad, a beach volleyball court, a cascading waterfall, basketball courts, a children’s playground, picnic areas, and a toboggan run. The entire neighbourhood is also carefully stewarded and maintained, resulting in spectacular entry features, pathways, fountains, and green spaces.
Springbank Hill
If spectacular vistas are on your wish list, look no further than Springbank Hill. Situated near the western city limit of Calgary, many properties in this neighbourhood boast exceptional views of nearby Springbank, the Rocky Mountains, or the Elbow River. Featuring mostly detached, upscale luxury homes, Springbank Hill also offers easy access to shopping and other services in the Westhills and Signal Hill retail areas. Families will appreciate having several nearby schools, as well as a quick escape route to the Rocky Mountains on weekends.
Hidden Valley
Tucked in the northwest quadrant of Calgary is the family-friendly neighbourhood of Hidden Valley. Still a quick commute to the downtown core, parks and pathways abound in Hidden Valley, and outdoor activities are a popular community pastime. The community plays host to two outdoor ice surfaces, perfect for skating or ice hockey. Residents can find their essential amenities at the Hidden Valley Centre and Hanson Ranch Plaza.
Aspen Woods
An upscale community just outside of Calgary’s western city limit, Aspen Woods offers residents an ideal balance of natural surroundings and city living. Conveniently located near top retailers and unique, locally-owned boutiques at the Aspen Landing Shopping Centre, Aspen Woods is a short 20-minute drive from downtown Calgary. The quiet neighbourhood is also home to well-preserved native trees, natural wetlands, greenspaces, and wooded areas. Aspen Woods has many playgrounds and sports fields for active families, all connected by walking trails and cycle paths, and is a desirable location for avid golfers, with at least three of the city’s top courses just minutes away.
A diverse range of communities means anyone can find the luxury they are looking for in Calgary. Whether you favour a quiet mountain view with quick access to the Rockies, or a bustling central setting that surrounds you with the best art and culture the city has to offer, you’re sure to find it here.
Want to know more about Alberta’s biggest city? Read our guide to what makes Calgary one of the world’s most liveable cities.
Photo Credits: Jeff Whyte / Shutterstock Inc, Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, gvictoria / Shutterstock Inc, Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, Sotheby’s International Realty Canada
This article was originally published on October 31, 2017, updated on August 28, 2019.