5 Reasons to Live in Calgary’s University District

University District Neighbourhood Guide: Why Live in the University District?

The University District neighbourhood in Calgary is a prime example of exceptional city planning, offering a convenient living experience that caters to a variety of lifestyles. This vibrant and eclectic mixed-use community combines residential excellence, retail convenience, and strategic location to create an environment that appeals to students, professionals, and empty nesters alike.

Below we explore why living in the University District might be ideal for you, and what there is to look forward to in future phases of development.

#1 – University District offers a superb selection of multi-family properties

Condos and townhomes are the name of the game in the University District. As a potential buyer, you have a huge selection of builders, floor plans and price ranges to choose from, making the buying experience as exciting as it gets.

Many of these developments are quite exceptional. Some are geared toward property investors looking to rent out to university students over the long term. In contrast, others are perfect for luxury buyers looking to enjoy a convenient lifestyle and all the UD has to offer.

Below is a quick list of all University District condos and townhomes in the UD’s north phases of development:

• Argyle Condos by AVI Urban
• August Condos by AVI Urban
• Autumn Condos by AVI Urban
• Capella Condos by Brookfield Residential
• Dean’s Landing by Rohit Communities
• Esquire Condos by Truman
• GUILD Townhomes by Crystal Creek
• IVY Townhomes by Brookfield Residential
• Magna by Jayman BUILT
• Maple Condos by Truman
• Noble Condos & Townhomes by Truman

All of UD’s developments adhere to sustainable design and utilize smart home technologies. The sheer variety of floor plans available for sale accommodates many different lifestyle needs - from efficient studio layouts for students to spacious three-bedroom units for families.

#2 – University District’s retail avenue makes life convenient for residents

Living in the University District neighbourhood means you’ll have quick-and-easy access to several restaurants, shops and services located along its central amenity streetscape. A cup of your favourite coffee, groceries to make dinner, and medicine at the pharmacy will all be just a few blocks, if not less, from your front doorstep.

Designed with walkability in mind, the new community features wide pedestrian boulevards and public gathering spaces. Future phases will introduce even more specialty boutiques, health and wellness facilities, and nightlife venues. The mix of retail ensures residents can find everything, including daily necessities like food, groceries, banking, and entertainment without leaving the neighbourhood.

These are but just a few examples of the benefits of living in the UD. Phase one and two of the central retail avenue are now complete, with phase three and four coming soon in addition to the new south section!

#3 – University District’s close-to-everything location is exceptional

• Post-secondary students will love that it takes just a few minutes to reach the university grounds while having convenient public transportation access via 32nd Avenue and Brentwood Station.

• Young professionals will love that driving downtown to work takes less than 10 minutes, and that parking spots at Brentwood are just a minute away for C-Train passengers.

• Retired empty nesters will love the convenience of the retail district and inner city location that puts them just a short walk away from the Bow River, and even a shorter drive can escape to the mountains out west while skipping the big city traffic.

• Everyone will love having “across the street” access to Market Mall, home to countless shops, restaurants and services where you’ll find hundreds of businesses ready to serve you.

Let’s not forget that Calgary’s University District is situated at the confluence of Shaganappi Trail and the Trans Canada Highway, providing residents with convenient access to the mountains.

Enjoy quick access to several major hospitals, including the Alberta Children's Hospital and Foothills Medical Centre – making the UD an ideal place for seniors looking for assisted living residences (Maple and Cambridge Manor).

Meanwhile, the neighbourhood's bike paths connect to Calgary's extensive pathway system and have multiple parks and green spaces for outdoor recreation, helping to promote a healthy and active lifestyle.

#4 – University District’s upcoming second (south) phase of development

The University District will soon release further phases of just south of the Children’s Hospital. Expect to see several new northwest condos and townhome projects in this area and additional ground-level retail spaces in the apartment complexes. The south phases will introduce:

• three new retail/office buildings up to eight storeys high
• six new medium-density low-rise condo buildings
• seven low-density residential parcels for townhomes

At the sound end of this future developmental area, residents can enjoy an environmental reserve with paved pathways and a beautiful pond. This green space expands north towards 24th Avenue, providing easy access to the rest of UD’s amenities and parks.

Little is known about upcoming residential projects in the area, but we will provide this information when it becomes publicly available.

#5 – University District's sustainable and future-savvy design

The University District (UD) stands as a shining example of sustainable urban development in Calgary, incorporating cutting-edge environmental initiatives and smart city technologies that set new standards for community planning. A few examples include:

Environmental Leadership:

- LEED-certified buildings throughout the development incorporate energy-efficient design, sustainable materials, and water conservation features

- State-of-the-art solar-powered street lighting reduces energy consumption while ensuring well-lit public spaces

- Comprehensive recycling and waste management programs, including dedicated sorting facilities and educational initiatives for residents

- Green building practices including high-efficiency windows, enhanced insulation, and sustainable construction materials

- Rainwater harvesting systems and drought-resistant landscaping to minimize water consumption

Smart City Integration:

- Strategically placed electric vehicle charging stations support the growing adoption of sustainable transportation

- Advanced traffic management systems utilizing AI and real-time data to optimize traffic flow and reduce emissions

- Smart parking solutions to minimize time spent searching for spaces

- Digital information kiosks providing community updates and real-time transit information

- Fiber optic infrastructure supporting high-speed internet connectivity throughout the district

Living in the University District neighbourhood means you’ll take part in its commitment to sustainability and an interconnected ecosystem of environmentally conscious design and technologies. This forward-thinking approach helps reduce the community's environmental footprint and ensures long-term value for residents living in the University District. 

Why Move to the University District?

The University District represents more than just a place to live – it's a glimpse of Calgary's sustainable future. With its thoughtfully planned phases of development, incredible list of built-in amenities, and integration of environmentally-sound construction, UD sets a new standard for urban living in Calgary.

Whether you're a student looking for convenience, a professional seeking a connected lifestyle, or an empty nester ready to embrace a maintenance-free luxury lifestyle, the University District offers something for everyone. From its exceptional location near major amenities to its diverse selection of multi-family properties, this community truly embodies modern urban living at its finest.

As the south phase development continues to unfold, bringing new residential options and green spaces, the University District neighbourhood will only enhance its position as one of Calgary's most desirable places to live.

Ready to make University District your home? Contact the Calgaryism Real Estate Team today to discover the perfect property that aligns with your lifestyle and experience the exceptional quality of life that UD has to offer.