Calgary, a vibrant city in Alberta, Canada, offers a plethora of family-friendly neighbourhoods, each with its unique charm and advantages. With its high quality of life, excellent schools, abundant parks, and family-oriented amenities, Calgary is an ideal place for families with children to settle down. With the help of some local agents, this article explores some of the best neighbourhoods in Calgary for families, and what aspects make them stand out.
Varsity- Recommended by Tim Lind
“Located in the northwest of Calgary, it is one of the most sought-after communities for families with children. Situated on the plateau above the Bow River Varsity consists of Varsity Estates, Varsity Village and Varsity Acres. It is mostly comprised of single-family homes on wide established lots with large backyards, perfect for children! Conveniently located close to the University of Calgary, two hospitals, schools, the market mall and the Bowmont Park connected pathway system. Varsity Estates is set around the Silver Springs Golf & Country Club that winds through coulees and plateaus spanning over 300 acres, providing families with lots of open space and nature!”- Tim Lind
“It is the perfect neighbourhood to raise a family as it is conveniently minutes to downtown for work, yet centrally located to amenities for kid’s activities such as Olympic Oval at The University of Calgary, Hockey Arenas and Winsport/Canada Olympic Park. Varsity has always faired better than the average community through Calgary’s boom and bust real estate cycles due to it’s proximity to The University of Calgary and two hospitals.” – Tim Lind
There are several highly-rated schools in Varsity including:
- Public schools: Marion Carson Elementary School rated 7.8 by Fraser Institute (K-6) and F.E. Osborne Middle school (Grades 6-9)
- French Immersion: Varsity Acres (K-5)
- Catholic elementary and Junior high school: St Vincent De Paul highly rated at 9.1 (K-9). Sir Winston Churchill High School highly ranked at 8.2 is only minutes away in the neighbouring community of Brentwood (Grades 10-12).
The housing prices in the Northwest as of April 2024 are also mostly lower than the Calgary average according to CREB:
- Detached: $788,700
- Apartment: $313,300
- Semi-detached: $652,700
- Row: $455,200
West Springs- Recommended by Jesse Davies
“West Springs is located in the southwest part of Calgary and is renowned for its excellent schools. The neighborhood boasts numerous parks and green spaces, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities for kids. There are also several daycares and preschools in the area to cater to young children. Amenities such as shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational facilities are conveniently located nearby, giving families more time to spend with their children.” -Jesse Davies
“At the Jesse Davies Team, we recognize the paramount importance of community to raise children. The neighborhoods we spotlight offer a rich tapestry of attributes crucial to families, and emphasize good schools, abundance of green spaces, childcare facilities, and nearby amenities. These characteristics empower busy parents with more quality time to share with their children, rendering these little “villages” optimal choices for families seeking a place to call home in Calgary. West Springs hosts annual events such as the West Springs Cougar Ridge Community Festival, featuring live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Additionally, the neighborhood often organizes community clean-up days where residents come together to beautify local parks and green spaces.” – Jesse Davies
Popular schools in this neighbourhood include:
- Public Schools: West Springs School (K-4) and Dr. Roberta Bondar rated 8.6 (K-6)
- Catholic: St. Joan of Arc School rated 8.7 (K-9)
According to Jesse Davies, Calgary is currently witnessing historically low inventory levels coupled with a heightened level of demand. This is evident by the fact that despite the price tag, these homes are averaging 11 days on market, indicating a highly competitive real estate landscape. The average house prices in the area according to CREB are:
- Detached: $1,077,323
- Apartment: $355,900
- Semi-detached: $791,000
- Row: $473,300
Richmond- Recommended by Arce Morales
Richmond is located in the southwest quadrant of Calgary and is known for its diverse community and natural surroundings. The Glenmore Reservoir and Fish Creek Provincial Park are family favourites! It is also a shopping and dining hub with diverse stores, restaurants, and cafes. This neighbourhood has multiple large shopping centres, including the Southcentre Mall, which has an extensive selection of shopping and dining options. Marda Loop is a neighbourhood only minutes away, and home to the largest street festival, Marda Gras.
Well-known schools in the neighbourhood include:
- Public Schools: Richmond School rated 6.1 (K-6)
- Arts School: Calgary Arts Academy (K-12)
According to CREB, the average house prices for the region are:
- Detached: $940,900
- Apartment: $311,300
- Semi-detached: $521,800
- Row: $401,800
Aspen Woods- Recommended by Jesse Davies
“Aspen Woods is another family-friendly neighborhood in southwest Calgary that is surrounded by parks and playgrounds, offering plenty of opportunities for children to play and explore outdoors. There are also several daycares and childcare centers in the vicinity to support working parents. With amenities like shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational facilities nearby, families can easily access everything they need without spending excessive time commuting.” – Jesse Davies
“There are many family friendly events like the Aspen Woods Christmas Market, where residents can shop for handmade gifts, enjoy festive entertainment, and participate in activities like cookie decorating and pictures with Santa.” -Jesse Davies
Top-rated schools in the neighbourhood include:
- Private School: Webber Academy rated 10 (K-12)
- Private French Immersion: Calgary French & International rated 10 (K-12)
- Catholic: Guardian Angel rated 8.9 (K-6)
Average house prices in the quandrant are:
- Detached: $1,419,480 (average of 28 days on the market)
- Apartment: $311,300
- Semi-detached: $521,800
- Row: $401,800
Cranston- Recommended by Jesse Davies
“Cranston is a vibrant community located in southeast Calgary which features numerous parks, playgrounds, and pathways, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation for families. There are also several daycares and preschools within the community to cater to the needs of young children. Cranston boasts a range of amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational facilities, making it convenient for families to balance work and family time.” -Jesse Davies
“Cranston hosts events like the Cranston Winter Carnival, featuring activities such as sleigh rides, ice skating, and hot chocolate stations. Additionally, the neighborhood often organizes community garage sales and movie nights in the park during the summer months.” -Jesse Davies
Most liked schools in the neighbourhood include:
- Public School: Cranston School (K-5)
- Catholic: Christ the King School (K-9)
The average house prices in southeast Calgary are:
- Detached: $778,073 (average of 13 days on the market)
- Apartment: $369,600
- Semi-detached: $515,900
- Row: $463,800
Calgary offers a wide array of neighbourhoods that cater to families with children, each with its unique features and amenities. Whether you prefer the upscale environment of Aspen Woods, the shopping and dining hub of Richmond, or the convenience of Varsity, there’s a perfect neighbourhood for every family in Calgary. When choosing a neighbourhood, consider the quality of schools, availability of parks and recreational facilities, and the strength of community services to ensure the best environment for your family’s growth and well-being.
