Top 5 Cheapest Neighborhoods to live in Calgary with the Best Quality of Life - 2024

In Calgary, accommodating rapid population growth requires diversifying housing options across neighborhoods. This ensures residents can find homes that match their lifestyle, budget, and location preferences. Another important factor that comes into play when deciding living in Calgary is the cost of living, the safety and choosing an affordable neighborhood to live in compared to nearby major cities like Vancouver.

Read on to discover the top 5 cheapest neighborhoods to live in Calgary City that offer the best quality of life in 2024.

Methodology

We based our ranking of the 5 cheapest neighborhoods to live in Calgary City on the average cost of buying a property, the average cost of rent for a 1-bed apartment in November 2023, and the quality of life. Statistics come from Realtor.ca for the average cost of buying a property and Zumper for the average cost of rent for a 1-bedroom apartment.

The “Best quality of life” aspect is measured based on feedback from real people who have moved to this area in our database or real people from trusted online forums. More specifically, we look for positive feedback on job opportunities, quality of education, quality of healthcare, feeling of safety, public transportation, environment (cleanliness), as well as availability of recreational facilities and parks.

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Cheapest Neighborhoods to live in Calgary

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1. Varsity

varsity-neighborhood-image-april-2024 - university
  • Average rent for 1-bedroom apartment: $1,665
  • Average cost of buying a property: $448,895

In northwest Calgary, near the University of Calgary, Varsity is a serene residential area surrounded by wide parks. With a population of around 12,040, mostly young residents in their 20s to mid-30s, the neighborhood consists of single-family and individual homes.

Varsity offers diverse housing, including apartments and single-detached houses catering to students. As of November 2023, the average cost of buying a property is $448,895, with an average cost of rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,665.

Local Logic (Nov 2023), Realtor.ca (Nov 2023) & Zumper (Nov 2023)

Varsity, Calgary

Sunnyside

sunnyside calgary
  • Average rent for 1-bedroom apartment: $1,788
  • Average cost of buying a property: $682,614

Sunnyside, situated north of downtown Calgary along the Bow River, offers its residents convenient access to the city center by walking, biking, or public transportation. Its location along the river provides easy access to green spaces and outdoor activities, including the popular Prince’s Island Park, for recreation.

People here are typically aged from twenty to forty years old. Housing options include apartments, condominiums, and a few detached houses. As of November 2023, the average cost of buying a property is $682,614, with an average cost of rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,788.

Sunnyside (Oct 2023), Local Logic (Nov 2023), Realtor.ca (Nov 2023) & Zumper (Nov 2023)

Sunnyside, Calgary

Radisson Heights

Apartment in Radisson Heights
  • Average rent for 1-bedroom apartment: $1,650
  • Average cost of buying a property: $758,980

Albert Park/Radisson Heights, established in 1910, is bordered by the Bow River, Deerfoot Trail, Memorial Drive, and International Avenue; it offers ample open space and views of the Bow River Valley, Downtown, and the Rockies. The community has good access to schools including Radisson Park Elementary, Albert Park Elementary, Sir Wilfrid Laurier Junior High, Holy Family School, and Bishop Kidd schools. Additionally, the Max Bell Centre is conveniently located nearby.

Despite its proximity to Downtown and attractions like Inglewood and the Calgary Zoo, locals mention that it faces challenges such as short-cutting traffic. As of November 2023, the average cost of buying a property is $758,980, with an average cost of rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,650.

Realtor.ca (Nov 2023) & Zumper (Nov 2023)

Radisson Heights, Calgary

4. Charleswood

Apartment in Charleswood
  • Average rent for 1-bedroom apartment: $1,639
  • Average cost of buying a property: $837,220

Charleswood, centrally located in Northwest Calgary, offers great access to downtown, the University of Calgary and Market Mall. Its appeal lies in its abundance of parks and recreational opportunities, including Canmore Park, Confederation Park, Senator Patrick Burns School Field, and Triwood Park, providing residents with ample outdoor spaces. The community falls under the service of the Triwood Community Association, which offers a range of amenities such as fitness classes, summer camps, an ice arena, and community events.

If you wish to live in Charleswood with tree-lined streets and beautiful architectural styles, as of November 2023, the average cost of buying a property is $837,220, with an average cost of rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,639.

Realtor.ca (Nov 2023) & Zumper (Nov 2023)

Charleswood, Calgary

Mayland Heights

Apartment in Mayland Heights
  • Average rent for 1-bedroom apartment: $1,279
  • Average cost of buying a property: $1,086,925

Mayland Heights offers an abundance of green spaces and convenient access to major recreational pathways and the city zoo. This residential community blends city convenience with suburban tranquility, making it ideal for homeowners seeking easy access to nature. 

Online reviews often describe it as the inner-city, with reasonable transit options, bike-friendly streets, a locally owned grocery store, Fiasco gelato, and stunning views of downtown and the mountains. Overall, Mayland Heights provides a serene ambiance that appeals to homebuyers who appreciate spending time outdoors.

As of November 2023, the average cost of buying a property is $1,086,925, with an average cost of rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,279.

Realtor.ca (Nov 2023) & Zumper (Nov 2023)

Mayland Heights, Calgary

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Conclusion

When seeking the cheapest neighborhood with a high quality of life in Calgary, it’s essential to consider various factors. Look for areas with accessible amenities, including public transport links and quality schools. Additionally, neighborhoods with family-friendly parks, recreational facilities, and green spaces can enhance overall well-being. By prioritizing these factors, you can find a neighborhood that offers both affordable housing options and a satisfying standard of living in Calgary.

Are you moving soon? Find the best moving companies in Calgary in advance.

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Ann Nacario

The author

Meet Ann – our head writer with a knack for making moving and city living a breeze. From the many details of moving to picking the perfect moving company, she’s your guide. Ann has a friendly yet detailed approach to ensure your move goes off without a hitch. When she’s not writing about relocation, it will always be on her mind, but you’ll catch her spending time with her three furry friends.
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