With more than 40 kilometres of missing sidewalks, Calgary has historically been known as a car city, but changing demographics have demonstrated a shift in preferences.
From young professionals from Toronto and Vancouver who made Calgary their new home to lifelong Calgarians looking to downsize, this new audience looks for an inter-connected urban lifestyle that offers ease and convenience.
But what does walkable mean? Walkability refers to the design and accessibility of neighbourhoods that support walking as a primary mode of transportation.
Walking has minimal impacts on the environment and is strongly associated with positive physical, mental and social health benefits.
Walkable communities in Calgary
Some of Calgary’s oldest neighbourhoods such as Inglewood and Kensington are walkable by nature. Here’s a breakdown of other walkable communities in the city, by quadrant:
• NW: Hillhurst, Sunnyside
• NE: Bridgeland, Riverside, Crescent Heights
• City Centre: East Village, Downtown West End, Beltline, Eau Claire
• SW: Lower Mount Royal/Mission, Sunalta, Marda Loop
• SE: McKenzie Town
Actual property value
Many of Calgary’s walkable communities (as you read above) are located in high-demand areas with increased property value.
In addition, a property in a neighbourhood with a high walking score may get more demand during a resale but also appeal to renters and investors due to neighbourhood buzz.
Things to look out for
When searching for a property in a walkable neighbourhood, it doesn’t hurt to pay close attention to the crosswalks, street lighting and the services nearby that will make it a convenient neighbourhood to live in.
If there’s a specific neighbourhood you’re thinking of – don’t be shy. Consider visiting the area and walk around to experience it and get a sense of how it would be to live there. Is it too quiet or too loud? Take your time to pay attention to the details.
Talk to your REALTOR®
Your REALTOR® will know more details you might not have thought about. Are there any events throughout the year or plans for further neighbourhood development and construction? You can count on your REALTOR® to help you make an informed decision.
Overall, Calgary’s walkable communities provide high value, not only for the property but also on intangible assets such as improved health, convenience and a sense of familiarity and community. You may also be more likely to support the local economy and save time by not driving to the mall as much.
