This part of the city is populated by an estimated 2,500 residents across approximately 1,600 homes. Of the Downtown West End properties, well over 90% of them are condominiums and apartments. Single-family detached homes account for less than 2% of the community. Thanks to its central location and the number of apartments and condominiums, the rental market makes up over half of all residents in the area. In particular, young professionals are drawn to the area, since it is affordable for those working in the city, and is smack in the middle of the bustling Downtown area.

Downtown Calgary has been around for 130 years. Its establishment was prompted by the Canadian Pacific Railway, which reached the area in 1883. What is now the Downtown Calgary neighbourhood was then the entire city. As the city has expanded, Downtown became its own area, and subsequently was split into separate recognized areas.

Although this is an inner city neighbourhood, there are still plenty of family-friendly amenities and services scattered throughout the area. The Devonian Gardens and the Bow River are perfect for leisurely days out, and Shaw Millennium Park and the TELUS World of Science are always favourites. For transportation, the C-Train goes down 7th Avenue through Downtown, making it simple and easy to get around.

The Downtown West End is also popular with home buyers for its entertainment and services industry. All along 8th Avenue you’ll find a huge selection of shops, restaurants and bars that have something for everyone. The TD Square and the Calgary Eaton Centre are popular amongst shoppers, and the historic sights of the Fairmont Palliser Hotel and the Hyatt Regency Hotel are also in the area. When you put this all together, it adds up to a fantastic location for young professionals and young couples to live a convenient and exciting life.

The area is a part of the Downtown West Community Association which offers a variety of volunteer opportunities.

The Downtown West End has a number of schooling choices for parents purchasing a condo here. These include the Kingsland Elementary School, the Mount Royal Junior High School and the Western Canada Senior High School.

• Downtown West End Public Schools: Calgary Board of Education (CBE)
• Downtown West End Separate Schools: Catholic Separate School Board
• Downtown West End French Immersion Schools: Calgary Board of Education (CBE)

If you’re thinking about buying a home, it’s critical that you find out what to expect cost-wise before jumping in and making an offer. To assist you, we’re happy to share with you the following calculators, designed to make the research process easier.