Best Neighbourhoods in Calgary, Alberta

Are you considering a move to Calgary, Alberta? Good choice! Calgary, once dubbed “North America’s most livable city,” is a charming city with a diverse array of neighbourhoods to suit a variety of lifestyles. Whether you're a young professional seeking an energetic urban environment, or a family in search of a safe and family-friendly community, Calgary has it all.

In this guide, we will explore the best neighbourhoods in Calgary and help you research and find the perfect place to call home. From factors to consider when choosing a neighbourhood to top picks for families and young professionals, U-Box® by U-Haul has you covered.

So, let's dive in and uncover the hidden gems that Calgary has to offer!

Living in Calgary: Quick Facts

  • Local Economy: One of the major draws of Calgary is its economy. The city is known for its strong job market and diverse industries, including oil and gas, technology, finance, and healthcare. With a low unemployment rate and a high average income, Calgary provides ample opportunities for career growth and financial stability.
  • Population: Calgary is the largest city in Alberta. As such, it’s has the largest population at just over 1.3 million. The population here is known for being highly diverse, with about one-third of residents being born outside of Canada. Some of the larger non-Canadian-born communities include Filipino, Indian, and Chinese.
  • Culture: With such a large, diverse population, the culture in Calgary has a little bit of everything. However, as the “Texas of Canada,” Calgary is primarily known for its cowboy western culture. Country music is a staple, and you’ll find there are plenty of festivals and events that highlight the city’s rich heritage and connection to ranching and agriculture, such as the annual Calgary Stampede rodeo and festival.
  • Cost of Living: Even though Calgary is a big city with a large population, the cost of living is relatively low when compared with other major Canadian cities (like Vancouver, for example). Because there’s no provincial sales tax and gasoline and natural gas tend to be less expensive (due to the city’s involvement in these industries), everyday expenses are lower on average than many other big cities.
  • Things to Do: There is no shortage of things to do in Calgary. From countless museums and galleries to energetic nightlife and annual festivals. If urban amenities aren’t your thing, you’ll find some of the most beautiful outdoor recreation around Banff National Park, which only about an hour away. There’s also Fish Creek Provincial Park and Prince’s Island Park within the city.
  • Weather: If you’re from the southern United States, Calgary might seem cold. However, when compared to other Canadian and northern U.S. cities, the climate is quite mild, offering low humidity and plenty of sunshine. Summers are short but there are four distinct seasons. Keep an eye out for the Chinooks, coastal winds that bring plenty of unexpected warmth in the winter.
  • Housing: Like many other major metros, the housing marketing in Calgary has seen a steep rise in housing costs and demand, in large part due to interprovincial migration. However, Calgary is more affordable than places like Vancouver and Toronto, leading to better accessibility for those looking to buy.
  • Getting Around: Despite being a large city, Calgary is known for its spacious layout, resembling more of a suburb than a bustling metropolis. The abundance of open space between buildings and homes may appeal to some, but it can also present challenges when it comes to navigating the city. Owning a car is highly advantageous in Calgary, as the public transportation options, such as the bus system and the C-Train light rail system, do not provide as extensive coverage as in other major cities.

Best Calgary Neighbourhoods for Families

Altadore

Located in southwest Calgary, Altadore offers a mix of urban amenities and suburban living. You’ll be close enough to downtown Calgary for convenient commuting, though not far from great local shopping and dining at the Marda Loop district. A family-friendly community, you’ll find good schools, plenty of green spaces, and quick access to the Elbow Rivers pathways in Altadore. Housing here is a mix of newer condos, homes, and older bungalows.

Brentwood

Over in the northwest, Brentwood is a highly regarded community known for its excellent schools, ideal location, stunning scenery, and plenty of other must-haves for anyone looking to raise a family (or simply enjoy a peaceful, urban lifestyle). Situated along Highway 1A, residents enjoy convenient access to points of interest like downtown Calgary and the University of Calgary. Additionally, on the northeast border of the neighbourhood lies Nose Hill Park, one of Canda’s largest urban parks.

Signal Hill

Located on the western outskirts, Signal Hill is a prestigious area boasting two distinct residential neighbourhoods: Sienna Hills and Signal Ridge. This region is renowned for its top shopping destinations, including Westhills Towne Centre and Signal Hill Centre. Signal Hill is an upscale neighbourhood, featuring lush mature trees, charming older homes, strong community feel, and some top-notch schools. As another plus, this region is still only a short drive from downtown and other urban areas, making it as convenient as it is desirable.

Best Calgary Neighbourhoods for Young Professionals

Currie

Located just southwest of downtown Calgary, Currie seamlessly blends suburban living with urban convenience. Embracing the principles of New Urbanism, this unique community prioritizes walkability and provides ample communal spaces, fostering a strong sense of community among its residents. What sets Currie apart is its rich history as a former Canadian Forces Base, which was redeveloped in the late 1990s. Thoughtfully designed to reduce reliance on cars, Currie offers a unique living experience that sets it apart from traditional suburban neighbourhoods.

Beltline

If you’re looking for more of a vibrant and trendy place to live, check out Beltline. This inner city neighbourhood is home to the 17th Avenue district, which features a plethora of retail shops, entertainment venues, and nightlife hotspots. You’ll be just south of downtown, so public transportation is readily available in this neighbourhood. However, Beltline is one of the most walkable neighbourhoods in Calgary, so you’ll have no trouble getting around. Choose from a variety of apartments and condos; most are just steps away from all the excitement and activity that Beltline has to offer.

Kensington

Located in northwest Calgary, Kensington is a vibrant neighbourhood that attracts a diverse community of young professionals and creatives. This trendy area is filled with stylish boutiques, cozy coffee shops, and other artsy destinations that cater to its unique population. Like Beltline, Kensington is known for being one of the most walkable areas in the city, making it easy for residents to explore all it offers. Kensington is also nestled along the shore of the Bow River. This provides residents with the opportunity to enjoy nature and outdoor activities, all while being just a stone's throw away from the convenience and excitement of urban living.

Best Calgary Neighbourhoods Overall

Mount Royal

If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, see what Mount Royal (upper or lower) has to offer. This neighbourhood is known as one of the more luxurious destinations in the city, offering historic homes, mature tree-lined streets, and a prestigious reputation, all without being too far from downtown (only about four kilometres). Many of the homes here are estate-style, although lower Mount Royal does feature some townhomes, duplexes, and multifamily homes. If you’re a fan of luxury and eye-popping architecture, Mount Royal might be the perfect place to call home.

West Springs

A bit further outside the city toward the southwest is West Springs, a newer community that families should heavily consider for their next home. This up-and-coming community features unbeatable proximity to Canada Olympic Park and Banff National Park. And with quick access to the Bow Trail expressway, you’ll never be too far from the amenities within Calgary (downtown is less than 20 minutes away). Enjoy the green spaces, good schools, and spacious homes of West Springs!

Bridgeland

Another neighborhood near downtown Calgary that offers a tranquil and welcoming atmosphere is Bridgeland. Located in the city’s northeast, Bridgeland is perfect for both families and young professionals. Its charming, walkable streets are lined with distinctive shops and boutiques, giving the area a cozy, small-town feel. In the summer, don’t miss the local farmers' market, and be sure to explore the nearby Calgary Zoo for an unforgettable experience.

Moving to Calgary with Help From U-Box® by U-Haul

Are you considering making one of these Calgary neighbourhoods your new home? If so, U-Box portable storage and moving containers are here to make your move seamless and stress-free. Our affordable and convenient U-Box container delivery options cater to both local and long-distance moves, providing you with flexibility and peace of mind. Whether you choose to keep your U-Box container at your own location or in one of our secure facilities, we will handle the shipping when you are ready.

No matter where you decide to settle in Calgary, you can trust U-Box to provide a convenient storage solution for your belongings. Whether you are moving into a house, apartment, or simply need temporary storage while you get acquainted with your new surroundings, U-Box has got you covered. Simplify your move with U-Box!

Tell Us When and Where You Need Your U-Box® Containers

  •  
Back
To Top