There are many things to love about Calgary. That’s why the “best neighborhoods in Calgary” is a subjective statement.
It really depends on what your priorities are. Some areas in Calgary are better for a family-friendly atmosphere, some stand out due to their proximity to amenities, but there are some that are overall good.
For this reason, as we review some of the top communities in Calgary, we sectionize them into various categories to match the various preferences you might have as you plan to move into this amazing part of Alberta, Canada.
Key Takeaways From This Article
One thing is clear: Each part of the city has its own vibe and is suited to different kinds of residents.
In the table below, we compare Calgary’s residential areas based on location, lifestyle, and cost.
| Area | Cost of living | What to expect | Ideal For |
| Central Calgary | Medium to High | Trendy, busy, full of shops, bars, and nightlife | Young professionals, nightlife lovers |
| Northeast | More Affordable | Diverse, multicultural, lively communities | Immigrants, budget-conscious residents |
| Northwest | Moderate | Family-friendly, close to mountains, upwardly mobile crowd | Young families, outdoor enthusiasts |
| Southwest | High | Upscale, stylish, more expensive homes | Affluent buyers, professionals |
| Southeast | Medium | Quiet, stable, family-oriented | Long-term residents, families, and peaceful living |
Calgary has over 200 distinct neighborhoods, and the City of Calgary uses the term “communities” when referring to them. Before picking an area of residence, you want to pay attention to important factors like housing options and their price points, nightlife, transportation and walkability, amenities, schools, and hospitals.
These informed our decision when ranking the best neighborhoods to live in Calgary.
Best Downtown and Inner-City Neighbourhood
When you talk of downtown and inner city neighborhoods, the focus is on communities that offer unique urban experiences with easy access to employment. In Calgary, places like Beltline, Kensington, and Mission/Cliff Bungalow quickly come to mind.
1. Beltline
Beltline is one of Calgary’s best downtown neighborhoods because it’s super close to everything. No matter where you are in this neighborhood, you can walk or bike almost anywhere, which saves time and money.
It feels young. There are many bars, events, and cafes around. Plus, you get to enjoy both city life and nature with nearby green spaces like Central Memorial Park.
If you want to live downtown without the stress, the Beltline is a top choice.
2. Sunnyside
If you stay in Sunnyside, you can walk to nearby parks like Prince’s Island and St. Patrick’s Island or spend a day at the Calgary Zoo.
Getting downtown is quick and simple, making it easy for parents to get to work or for students to reach nearby schools like SAIT and the University of Calgary. And, the lively Kensington area is next door, with over 100 places to eat, shop, and explore.
3. Mission
One of the main highlights of living in the Mission neighborhood is 4th Street. Here, you’ll find public art, patios for outdoor dining, and wide sidewalks that are great for a relaxed stroll.
Just a bit further north is 17th Avenue, a popular spot known for shopping, restaurants, and nightlife. It’s a good option if you’re looking for an affordable inner-city neighborhood.
Homes here, mostly condos, can start in the low $200,000s and go up to around $1 million, with average prices in the high $400,000s.
Best Family-Friendly Neighbourhoods
The ideal neighborhood for families in Calgary will have strengths in aspects like easy access to recreational spaces, quality schools nearby, and a high security rating. That’s why these communities are highly recommended:
4. Signal Hill
If you’re raising kids and want space, peace, and convenience, Signal Hill checks all the boxes. It contains the residential neighborhoods of Sienna Hills and Signal Ridge.
The cost of living here is generally high, but that’s relative. There are a lot of opportunities for hiking, with Lion’s Head as a popular destination. There’s so much to do as a family here. And the safety ratings are high as well.
The great views of LA and Long Beach you get when you stay in this neighborhood are unmatched.
5. Auburn Bay
If your priority as a family is to live in an environment of suburban oasis with a touch of lakeside charm, consider Auburn Bay. This neighborhood is in the southeast and is centered around a stunning 43-acre freshwater lake.
There are also many highly rated Calgary schools for children in this community. So, people with kids prefer staying here. Examples are Auburn Bay School (K-4) and Prince of Peace School (K-9).
While there are many things to love about Auburn Bay, it attracts families because:
- You enjoy the peaceful suburban lifestyle
- Live in a community with plenty of recreational activities
Best Up-and-Coming Neighbourhoods
In some situations, settling in an ‘up-and-coming’ neighborhood makes more sense. This is especially true when you’re on a budget for your housing options and also prefer an environment with a decent cost of living. And of course, you don’t have to access all these at the expense of safety.
The following communities in Calgary are ideal for this in mind:
6. East Village
Major companies, such as Telus, BMO, and Shaw Communications, are nearby, providing job opportunities in the finance, tech, and energy sectors. East Village is a neighborhood located in the eastern part of downtown Calgary.
This place is also a hub for creative businesses. There are also diverse housing options. This is a good neighborhood to live in if you prefer:
- Lively atmosphere
- Engaging with local culture, events, and the arts.
- Enjoy green spaces along the Bow River
7. Inglewood
Inglewood is a hub for arts and culture. However, what makes it ranks high for the best neighborhood to live in is the easy access to downtown Calgary and public transportation.
For those who love the outdoors, Inglewood doesn’t disappoint. It’s close to the Bow River and offers easy access to parks and walking paths. Places like Pearce Estate Park, the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary, and even the Calgary Zoo are nearby.
8. Bridgeland
If one of the things you hold so dearly about an environment you live in is walkability, then consider Bridgeland. In this neighborhood, it is easy to access shops, cafes, restaurants, and parks on foot.
Just minutes from downtown, it offers easy access via the Bridgeland/Memorial CTrain station and scenic Bow River pathways. You can even enjoy local favorites like OEB Breakfast Co., Bridgeland Market, and the historic Luke’s Drug Mart.
The community is known for its pedestrian-friendly streets and ample green space. The area is a mix of heritage homes and modern condos. That’s why many people call it the perfect blend of old and new.
Best Neighbourhoods for Young Professionals
Young professionals moving into Calgary have to be more intentional about the environment they settle in.
Generally, you want to focus on places with high safety and security, places where you can easily find work, enjoy leisure activities, and feel a sense of community.
With that in mind, the following neighborhoods stand out:
9. Eau Claire
The special thing about Eau Clarie is its central location and proximity to downtown. That makes it favourable for those working in the city center.
You will find Eau Claire immediately north of the downtown core. Meanwhile, they call this neighborhood a “festival district” for a reason. It has a lively social scene and numerous entertainment options.
Another interesting detail is that condos in Eau Claire often boast breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding natural beauty. This is a primary appeal for young professionals.
Best Luxury Neighbourhoods
In our experience, three things define a luxury neighborhood in Calgary: prime location, high-quality amenities, premium housing. There’s also an element of exclusivity in these neighborhoods. With this in mind, the Mount royal community comes to mind.
10. Mount Royal
In mount royal, you are more likely to find beautiful properties, including heritage mansions and modern luxury estates.
The area is home to some of the most expensive homes in Calgary, with average detached home prices reaching over $2 million. Despite this premiumness, Upper Mount Royal is conveniently located close to downtown. So you still have access to the city’s amenities.
Upper Mount Royal isn’t the only Calgary’s wealthiest community. Places such as Altadore, Aspen Woods, Bayview, Bel-Aire, Bearspaw, Elbow Valley, Pump Hill, and Springbank are also premium. Still, Mount Royal is perfect for move-up buyers.
Temporary Accommodation Solutions in Calgary
Visiting Calgary temporarily? Corporate Stays offers comfortable and convenient short-term furnished studios and apartments perfect for business or leisure. We provide the best Short Term and Furnished Apartment Rentals in Calgary.
You will find options like our:
- Underwood: A premier residential complex located in the heart of Calgary’s Beltline. Our luxurious building offers stunning city or Haultain Park views from your private balcony, allowing you to enjoy breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.
- SODO: A contemporary apartment complex situated in the vibrant neighbourhood south of Downtown Calgary. Our prime location places you within walking distance of shops, cafés, restaurants, and retail stores.
If you’re moving to Calgary and still figuring out the best neighborhood to settle in, temporary accommodation is a smart choice. It gives you time to explore the city.
Final Verdict on the Best Neighborhoods in Calgary
What’s considered the “best” really depends on what matters most to you. There are lots of great neighborhoods in Calgary that offer what you’re likely looking for. Almost every area has mountain views, nice parks, places to shop, good schools, and things to do, like movies and community events.
If you leave the decision entirely to us, we’d say you check out newer neighborhoods on the west side. The west side of Calgary is closer to the mountains, so the views are usually better there. Many of the newer communities are designed like small towns.
Meanwhile, also consider where you’d be working so you can pick a place with an easy commute.
