Introduction & Overview

📍 Neighbourhood Name & Location

Hillhurst is a vibrant and historic community located in northwest Calgary, just north of the Bow River and adjacent to downtown. It is bordered by Sunnyside to the east, West Hillhurst to the west, and Kensington to the south, making it an ideal location for those who seek urban convenience with a suburban feel. With quick access to Crowchild Trail, Memorial Drive, and 14th Street NW, commuting is a breeze whether you’re heading downtown or beyond.

🏙️ Neighbourhood Vibe & Lifestyle

Hillhurst is known for its trendy, diverse, and community-oriented atmosphere. This lively neighborhood is home to professionals, families, and students, offering a mix of charming historic homes, modern condos, and infill developments. The heart of the area is Kensington Village, a bustling hub filled with boutique shops, unique restaurants, coffee shops, and entertainment spots. With its tree-lined streets, walkable avenues, and access to outdoor spaces, Hillhurst offers a balanced urban lifestyle that attracts those who enjoy both culture and convenience.

📊 Key Stats & Quick Facts

• Population: Approx. 6,558 residents

• Average Home Price: $674,000 (as of 2025)

• Property Types: Single-family homes, townhomes, condos, modern infills

• Walk Score: 87 (Highly walkable)

• Transit Score: 75 (Well-served by public transit)

• Bike Score: 89 (Very bike-friendly)

Additional Details:

• Safety & Emergency Services: Hillhurst is known for its low crime rates and strong community presence. The Calgary Police Service and Fire Station No. 6 provide local emergency response.

• Pet-Friendliness: The neighborhood features multiple off-leash dog parks and pet-friendly businesses.

• Community Engagement: The Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association hosts frequent events, markets, and initiatives to foster a strong neighborhood connection.

• Nearby Hospitals: Foothills Medical Centre, Alberta Children’s Hospital, and Riley Park Medical Centre are within close proximity.

Real Estate Market & Housing Options

🏠 Types of Homes Available

• Single-Family Homes: A mix of historic character homes and contemporary new builds

• Condos & Townhouses: Many modern developments appeal to young professionals and downsizers

• Luxury Estates: Exclusive properties with high-end finishes and river views

📈 Market Trends & Pricing Insights

The Hillhurst real estate market is competitive, driven by its desirable location. Prices have steadily risen, with the average price per square foot currently at $500. Whether you're a first-time buyer or an investor, Hillhurst offers promising opportunities.

📍 Homes for Sale in Hillhurst 

🏗️ Future Developments & Investment Potential

Upcoming developments include modern high-rise condos and mixed-use buildings in Kensington, which will add more retail and residential space. With its close proximity to downtown and increasing demand, Hillhurst remains an attractive investment opportunity.

Schools & Education

🎓 Top-Rated Schools Nearby

• Hillhurst School (K-6, Public)

• Queen Elizabeth School (7-9, Public)

• Queen Elizabeth High School (10-12, Public, AP Program)

• Madeleine d'Houet School (Catholic, French Immersion)

• SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology)

🚸 Walkability & School Catchment Areas

Most schools are within walking distance, with clear catchment zones ensuring accessibility for local families.

📚 Daycares, Preschools, & After-School Programs

Hillhurst offers various daycare and preschool options, including Montessori and private childcare centers.

Local Amenities & Lifestyle Perks

🛍️ Shopping & Retail

• Kensington Village: Boutiques, bookstores, and specialty shops

• North Hill Centre: Shopping mall with grocery stores and services

🍽️ Dining & Restaurants

• Vendome Café: Cozy brunch and coffee spot

• Hayden Block Smoke & Whiskey: Renowned BBQ and bourbon bar

• Brasserie Kensington: French-inspired bistro

🌳 Parks & Outdoor Spaces

• Riley Park: Features a wading pool, cricket pitch, and gardens

• Bow River Pathway: Ideal for cycling, jogging, and walking

🏋️ Fitness & Recreation

• Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Centre: Offers fitness classes and recreational activities

• Nearby gyms and yoga studios cater to all fitness levels

🎭 Arts, Culture & Entertainment

• Plaza Theatre: A local favorite for independent films

• Various galleries and performance venues contribute to the arts scene

Commuting & Transportation

🚗 Proximity to Major Roads & Highways

Hillhurst is conveniently located near major roadways, including:

• Crowchild Trail

• Memorial Drive

• 16th Avenue NW (Trans-Canada Highway)

🚆 Public Transit Access

• Sunnyside C-Train Station (part of the Red Line, connecting to downtown in minutes)

• Multiple bus routes serving the community

🚴 Bike Lanes & Walkability Scores

• Dedicated bike lanes provide safe cycling options

• High walkability ensures easy access to amenities

Community & Safety

🏘️ Neighbourhood Associations & Community Events

The Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association hosts:

• Weekly farmers’ markets

• Yoga and fitness classes

• Seasonal festivals and holiday events

🚔 Crime Rates & Safety Reports

Hillhurst maintains a reputation for being a safe neighborhood with active community patrols and neighborhood watch programs.

🏥 Hospitals, Clinics & Emergency Services

• Foothills Medical Centre

• Alberta Children’s Hospital

• Various walk-in clinics and pharmacies nearby

Local Testimonials & Stories

🏡 Resident Interviews & Insights

“I love the small-town feel within the city. Everything I need is within walking distance, and the community is so welcoming!” – Sarah, Hillhurst Resident

⭐ Real-Life Homebuyer & Seller Experiences

“Hillhurst was the perfect investment for me. The value keeps increasing, and I love the mix of old and new homes.” – James, Homebuyer

Neighborhood Ranking & Comparisons

📊 Compare with Nearby Communities

• Hillhurst vs. Kensington: More residential, quieter at night

• Hillhurst vs. Sunnyside: Larger lots and more single-family homes

💡 Who is This Neighbourhood Best For?

• Young professionals seeking a trendy, walkable lifestyle

• Families looking for great schools and parks

• Retirees who enjoy a lively but peaceful setting

Your Trusted Partner in Real Estate

Are you thinking of Selling or Buying your dream home? Connect with our expert team and learn how we make every real estate decision a confident one.

Community Profile

Population Projection 

Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, financial, tax, or investment advice. While we strive to ensure accuracy, real estate laws, market conditions, and regulations change frequently. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with qualified professionals such as real estate attorneys, financial advisors, mortgage brokers, or tax experts before making any decisions related to buying, selling, or investing in real estate. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided in this blog.

Introduction & Overview

📍 Kensington's Location & Accessibility

Kensington is one of Calgary’s most iconic and lively neighborhoods, located just north of downtown along the Bow River. It spans the communities of Hillhurst and Sunnyside, making it a prime location for urban dwellers.

• Proximity to Downtown: 5-minute drive or a 15-minute walk across the Peace Bridge.

• Major Roads & Highways: Quick access to Memorial Drive, Crowchild Trail, and 14th Street NW.

• Public Transit: Sunnyside CTrain Station connects to the downtown core and beyond.

🏙️ Neighbourhood Vibe & Lifestyle

Kensington is vibrant, walkable, and full of character. Known for its artsy vibe and boutique shopping, it attracts:
✔️ Young professionals drawn to its trendy coffee shops, coworking spaces, and nightlife.
✔️ Families who appreciate nearby schools, parks, and community events.
✔️ Artists & Creatives inspired by the murals, theaters, and independent bookstores.

The neighborhood balances heritage charm with modern urban living, offering a mix of historic homes, new condos, and lively streetscapes.

📊 Key Stats & Quick Facts

• Population: ~10,000 residents

• Average Home Price: ~$550,000

• Property Types: Single-family homes, townhouses, high-end condos, lofts

• Crime & Safety: Low to moderate, with active community patrols

• Walkability Score: 93/100 – One of Calgary’s most walkable areas

• Bike Score: 97/100 – Excellent cycling infrastructure

🏥 Safety, Emergency Services & Community Engagement

• Hospitals & Medical Facilities: Close to Foothills Medical Centre and Riley Park Health Centre.

• Police & Fire Services: Covered by District 3 Calgary Police Service.

• Community Associations: The Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association hosts events like Night Markets, Farmers' Markets, and outdoor movie nights.

• Pet-Friendly Areas: Off-leash dog parks at Hillhurst & Sunnyside, and nearby Riley Park is great for walks.

🏠 Real Estate Market & Housing Options

Types of Homes Available

✔️ Condos & Lofts – Modern, high-rise living for professionals.
✔️ Townhomes – Great for families wanting space with minimal maintenance.
✔️ Single-Family Homes – Classic character homes with historical charm.
✔️ Luxury Estates – High-end, custom builds near the Bow River.

📈 Market Trends & Pricing Insights

• Average Sale Price: $550,000+

• Luxury Condos: $700K - $1M+

• Single-Family Homes: $850K - $1.5M+

• High Demand: Kensington properties sell faster than city averages, given the location and lifestyle.

🏗️ Future Developments & Investment Potential

• New mixed-use developments adding more retail and residential space.

• Future transit expansions increasing accessibility.

• High rental demand due to proximity to SAIT, ACAD, and the University of Calgary.

🎓 Schools & Education

Top-Rated Schools Nearby

• Hillhurst School (K-6) – Highly rated public school.

• Queen Elizabeth High School (7-12) – Excellent academics & sports programs.

• Sunnyside School (K-6) – A great option for younger students.

• Westmount Charter School – Recognized for its gifted student programs.

🚸 Walkability & School Catchment Areas

• Most schools are within walking distance or a short transit ride.

• School bus routes serve families commuting from nearby neighborhoods.

📚 Daycares, Preschools & After-School Programs

• Hillhurst Sunnyside Daycare

• Kensington Kids Academy

• YMCA Before & After School Programs

Local Amenities & Lifestyle Perks

🛍️ Shopping & Retail

• The Naked Leaf – Specialty tea shop.

• Pease Blossom Flowers – Local florist with a vintage touch.

• Pages Books on Kensington – One of Calgary’s best independent bookstores.

• Eau Claire Market – A short walk for more retail and entertainment.

🍽️ Dining & Restaurants

✔️ Vendome Café – Famous for brunch and artisanal pastries.
✔️ Hayden Block Smoke & Whiskey – Best BBQ in town.
✔️ Brasserie Kensington – French bistro with a cozy vibe.
✔️ Pulcinella – Authentic Neapolitan pizza.

🌳 Parks & Outdoor Spaces

• Riley Park – Huge green space with a cricket pitch & playground.

• Prince’s Island Park – Nearby urban park with festivals & scenic paths.

• Bow River Pathway – Walk, run, or bike along the river.

🏋️ Fitness & Recreation

• Kensington Fitness Studio – Small but top-rated gym.

• YYC Cycle – Spin classes with an energetic atmosphere.

• Breathe Hot Yoga – Popular for hot yoga and pilates.

🎭 Arts, Culture & Entertainment

• Plaza Theatre – Classic arthouse cinema showing indie films.

• Kensington Sinfonia – Calgary’s chamber music ensemble.

• Street Art & Murals – Stunning local art across the neighborhood.

🚗 Commuting & Transportation

• 🚆 CTrain Access: Sunnyside Station, just minutes from downtown.

• 🚗 Proximity to Major Roads: Quick access to Memorial Drive & Crowchild Trail.

• 🚴 Bike & Walkability: Top-tier infrastructure for pedestrians & cyclists.

Community & Safety

🏘️ Neighbourhood Associations & Community Events

• Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association – Organizes farmer's markets, summer festivals & fitness programs.

• Kensington Night Markets – Monthly markets with live music & artisan vendors.

🚔 Crime Rates & Safety Reports

• Generally safe, with community patrols enhancing security.

• Nightlife areas may have occasional disturbances but are well-policed.

🏥 Hospitals, Clinics & Emergency Services

• Foothills Medical Centre – One of Calgary’s top hospitals.

• Riley Park Health Centre – Walk-in and specialized care.

🏡 Resident Testimonials & Stories

• “Kensington feels like a small town inside a big city.” – Local business owner.

• “I can walk to everything – no need for a car!” – Young professional.

📊 Neighborhood Ranking & Comparisons

Compared to Nearby Areas:
✔️ More walkable than Inglewood.
✔️ More affordable than Mission.
✔️ Better public transit than Bridgeland.

Who is this neighborhood best for?
🏡 Young professionals, creatives, and families looking for a walkable, vibrant community.

Real Estate Agents in Kensington

Looking to buy a home in Kensington, Calgary? Call PK Realty with RE/MAX Key at 403-324-5656. Our local experts will guide you through the Bridgeland real estate market. 

📢 Thinking of selling? Try our Free Home Evaluation Tool to price your home instantly! 

Search for homes listed in Kensington

 Your Trusted Partner in Real Estate

Are you thinking of Selling or Buying your dream home? Connect with our expert team and learn how we make every real estate decision a confident one.

Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, financial, tax, or investment advice. While we strive to ensure accuracy, real estate laws, market conditions, and regulations change frequently. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with qualified professionals such as real estate attorneys, financial advisors, mortgage brokers, or tax experts before making any decisions related to buying, selling, or investing in real estate. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided in this blog.