Kensington Community Information Guide

Kensington Real Estate Housing Market Snapshot

As of November 3, 2026, there are 21 new active listings for sale in Kensington, Innercity. The average asking price is $613,477 , with a high of $2,390,000 and a low of $170,000. Daily Open houses are currently scheduled in Kensington, but new listings are added regularly. Residents have submitted 1 new review of Kensington, covering schools, transit, safety, affordability, and local amenities. There are 3 upcoming community events listed for Kensington. Market data is refreshed every 10 minutes. For a personalized valuation or current market advice, speak with a verified Kensington REALTOR®.

Kensington Community Overview

Find answers to the most common questions about Kensington, one of Calgary's most beloved inner-city neighbourhoods, known for its charming main street, independent shops, and vibrant community spirit.

Where is Kensington located in Calgary?

Kensington is located in the northwest quadrant of Calgary, just across the Bow River from downtown. The neighbourhood is part of the larger community of Hillhurst, with Kensington Village forming the commercial heart. The area is bordered by the Bow River to the south, 14th Street NW to the west, and the community of Sunnyside to the north. The historic Sunnyside LRT Station is located at the southern edge of the neighbourhood.

What is the history of Kensington?

Kensington is one of Calgary's oldest residential areas, with development beginning in the early 1900s. Originally known as "The Village of Kensington," the area grew around the streetcar line that crossed the Louise Bridge. The commercial strip along Kensington Road and 10th Street NW became a thriving local shopping district. After a period of decline in the 1970s and 1980s, Kensington experienced a revitalization in the 1990s, transforming into one of Calgary's most eclectic and desirable inner-city neighbourhoods, known for its heritage buildings, independent shops, and walkable charm.

What makes Kensington unique among Calgary neighbourhoods?

Kensington is beloved for its intimate, walkable main street, independent retailers, and strong sense of community. The neighbourhood's unique character comes from its historic brick buildings, tree-lined residential streets, and the mix of boutiques, bookstores, cafes, and restaurants. Kensington is also known for its artsy, bohemian vibe, with public art installations, community events, and a vibrant patio culture. The location on the Bow River provides stunning downtown views, and the community's nickname is "Kensington Village."

What types of homes are available in Kensington?

Kensington features a mix of early 20th-century character homes, including Victorian, Edwardian, and Craftsman-style houses. The area also has modern luxury infills replacing older homes, low-rise condominium buildings, and converted warehouse lofts in the commercial area. Many character homes have been beautifully restored, while others have been replaced with contemporary infills. The neighbourhood is popular with professionals, artists, and families seeking an inner-city lifestyle.

What is the average home price in Kensington?

The average home price in Kensington varies significantly by property type. Single-family detached homes (character homes and luxury infills) typically range from $800,000 to over $2 million. Condominium apartments are more affordable, ranging from $350,000 to $850,000 depending on size and building. The average household income in the wider Hillhurst community is approximately $110,000, reflecting the neighbourhood's desirability.

What schools are in or near Kensington?

Kensington is served by several excellent schools in the surrounding area:

Hillhurst School (K-6) – Located just north of Kensington on 12th Street NW
Queen Elizabeth School (6-9) – Located in nearby Scarborough
Western Canada High School (10-12) – Across the river, offering International Baccalaureate and French Immersion programs
St. Mary's High School – Catholic high school in Beltline
University of Calgary – Approximately 10 minutes away via the C-Train

What are the best shops and boutiques in Kensington?

Kensington is famous for its independent shops and boutiques. Favourites include:

Martha Viola – Women's fashion boutique with curated collections
Pages Books – A beloved independent bookstore
Steeling Home – Unique home décor and gifts
Reid's Stationers – High-quality stationery and paper goods
Little Shop of Claire – Vintage and retro clothing
Blackwell Candle Company – Locally made candles and home fragrance

What are the best restaurants and cafes in Kensington?

Kensington's dining scene is diverse and creative. Local favourites include:

Cookie Lab – Famous for gourmet cookies and late-night treats (open until midnight)
Irving's Kitchen – Farm-to-table breakfast and lunch
Hi Ground Coffee – Popular coffee shop with plant-based options
Ox and Berkeley – Modern British gastropub
Coup de Moi – French-inspired brunch and lunch
The Belvedere – Irish pub with live music and roof patio
VJ's Drive Inn – Legendary burger spot since 1976

What parks and green spaces are in Kensington?

Kensington has excellent access to parks and natural areas:

Bow River Pathway System – Direct access to Calgary's extensive riverside trail network
Riley Park – A beautiful historic park with a picnic shelter, gardens, and the Hillhurst-Sunnyside Community Centre
McDougall Centre Park – Small green space at the southern edge of Kensington
Bow River Promenade – Scenic walking path along the riverbank with downtown views
Queen Elizabeth Park – Just across the river, featuring a lagoon and walking trails

What are the transportation options in Kensington?

Kensington is exceptionally well-connected:

Sunnyside LRT Station – Located at the southern edge, providing direct C-Train access to downtown, SAIT, and the University of Calgary
Multiple bus routes – Including Route 1 (Bowness/Forest Lawn) and Route 19 (Dalhousie/Lynnwood)
Bow River Pathway – Connects to the city's extensive cycling network
Car Share & E-Scooters – Multiple Communauto vehicles and e-scooter rentals available
Walk Score – Excellent, most errands can be accomplished on foot
Commute to Downtown – Less than 5 minutes by car, 10 minutes by LRT, or 15 minutes by bike

What annual events take place in Kensington?

Kensington hosts several beloved community events:

Kensington Sunfest & Sidewalk Sale – A summer celebration with street performers, live music, and sidewalk sales
Kensington Art Walk – Annual event showcasing local artists
Kensington's Night of Lights – Holiday season celebration with Christmas tree lighting
Halloween on Kensington Road – Family-friendly trick-or-treating with local businesses
Community Yard Sales – Occasional neighbourhood-wide garage sales

What is the demographic profile of Kensington?

The wider Hillhurst-Sunnyside area (which includes Kensington) has a population of approximately 8,500 residents. The neighbourhood has a young, educated demographic, with many professionals, artists, and students. The average age is around 35, and the average household income is approximately $110,000. The homeownership rate is about 55%, with a mix of owners and renters. The area is known for its high walk score, cycling-friendly streets, and active community association.

Is Kensington a good place for families?

Yes, Kensington is an excellent community for families. The neighbourhood is home to Hillhurst School, which has a strong reputation, and families have access to Riley Park, the Bow River pathways, and the community centre. The area has a strong, engaged community association that organizes family-friendly events throughout the year. While denser than suburban neighbourhoods, families value Kensington for its walkability, green spaces, and central location.

Is Kensington dog-friendly?

Absolutely! Kensington is a very dog-friendly neighbourhood. The Bow River pathways are popular for dog walking, and Riley Park has plenty of green space. Many cafes and pubs have dog-friendly patios, including Ox and Berkeley and several coffee shops. You'll also find pet supply stores like Petcetera within walking distance.

What is the Hillhurst-Sunnyside Community Association?

The Hillhurst-Sunnyside Community Association (HSCA) is one of Calgary's most active community associations. It operates the community centre located in Riley Park, offering programs and events for all ages including fitness classes, children's programs, community dinners, and seasonal festivals. The HSCA also advocates for local issues and helps maintain community green spaces. Membership is open to all residents and provides voting rights at annual general meetings.

Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions About
Kensington

Get instant answers to the most common questions about living in Kensington, real estate housing market trends, schools, transit, and community amenities. Updated with current market data.

1. Is Kensington a good place to live?

Yes, Kensington is considered one of Calgary's best neighbourhoods. It offers an exceptional quality of life with a walkable main street, local shops and restaurants, and a strong sense of community. The area features excellent schools, parks, and is known for its safe, family-friendly atmosphere. With its central location, residents enjoy convenient access to downtown Calgary while having direct access to pathway systems and parks.

2. What types of homes are available in Kensington?

Kensington offers a variety of property types including single-family detached homes, townhomes, condominiums, duplexes, and new construction developments. The community has options for first-time homebuyers, growing families, and downsizers. Housing styles range from character homes and bungalows to modern luxury infills and townhome complexes.

3. What schools are in Kensington?

Kensington is served by several highly-rated public and private schools. The community falls within the Calgary school district, which is known for its strong academic programs, extracurricular activities, and diverse educational options including regular programming, French immersion, Catholic education, and private school alternatives.

4. What is the commute time from Kensington to downtown Calgary?

Commute times from Kensington to downtown Calgary typically range from 10 to 30 minutes depending on traffic conditions, time of day, and mode of transportation. The community has excellent access to public transit including bus rapid transit routes, as well as major roadway connections that make driving into the downtown core convenient.

5. What amenities are available in Kensington?

Kensington features parks, walking trails, playgrounds, shopping centers, restaurants, cafes, and recreational facilities. The community is also served by several highly-rated schools and is conveniently located near major transportation routes. Popular local businesses include coffee shops, bakeries, breweries, and boutique retail stores that create a vibrant main street atmosphere.

6. What is the average home price in Kensington?

Average home prices in Kensington vary by property type. Detached single-family homes typically range from the mid $500,000s to over $1.5 million depending on size, age, and location. Townhomes and condos offer more affordable entry points. For current, accurate pricing specific to your search criteria, request a Kensington market analysis.

7. Is Kensington safe?

Kensington has a reputation as a safe, family-friendly community with low crime rates compared to the Calgary average. For detailed safety statistics, consult the Calgary Police Crime Map or contact the local police department for neighbourhood-specific data.

8. What public transit options serve Kensington?

Kensington is served by multiple Calgary Transit bus routes and rapid transit lines that connect directly to downtown Calgary and LRT stations. The community's transit hub provides frequent service during peak hours, making it a popular commuting option for professionals working in the city core. Travel times to downtown are typically under 20 minutes.

9. What restaurants and shopping are near Kensington?

Kensington is close to a wide range of dining and shopping options including grocery stores, big-box retailers, boutique shops, chain restaurants, and local cafes. Major shopping centres are typically within a 5-15 minute drive, and the community itself features a walkable main street with independent local businesses. See local business reviews for recommendations.

10. Is Kensington a good neighbourhood for families?

Yes, Kensington is considered an excellent neighbourhood for families. It offers safe streets, quality schools, parks, playgrounds, family-oriented community events, and a strong sense of belonging. Many residents specifically cite family-friendliness as a key reason they chose to live in Kensington.

Kensington is a residential neighbourhood in Calgary offering:

Diverse housing options from single-family homes to condominiums
Walk Score of 72/100 - Very Walkable
Proximity to major employment centers and transportation routes
Active community association with year-round events

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Kensington Emergency Resources
& Phone Numbers

Important emergency contacts and resources for Kensington residents:

Calgary Police Service

The Calgary Police Service provides law enforcement and public safety services to the Calgary area.

Emergency: 911

Non-Emergency: 403-266-1234

Website: calgarypolice.ca

Alberta Health Services

Emergency medical care and health information.

Emergency: 911

Health Link: 811

Website: albertahealthservices.ca

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Schools in Kensington

Kensington offers quality educational options for families:

Public Schools

Elementary: Kensington School
Middle: Calgary Middle School
High: Calgary High School

Board of Education

Catholic Schools

Elementary: St. Kensington
High: Bishop Calgary

Catholic School District

Need Kensington real estate advice?

780.897.3520

List of Nearby Kensington
Community Information

Top Kensington Real Estate Agent

Top Kensington real estate agents here to deliver results. Buying or listing your home for sale in Kensington? Find screened Kensington real estate agents reviews , Verified Kensington REALTOR® Referral providing in-depth knowledge of the Kensington housing market. Contact Sean Gillis RE/MAX Grande Prairie directly 780.897.3520 .

Sean Gillis Top Rated Kensington Calgary REALTOR®
for Home Buyers, Sellers, Investment Properties & New Home Builders

Sean Gillis is an experienced Kensington Calgary REALTOR® helping home buyers, home sellers, real estate investors and new home buyers throughout Kensington and Calgary. His Kensington real estate services include resale homes, investment properties, new construction and representation when working with Calgary area home builders.

Verified Reviews: Sean Gillis ecosystem has a list of Verified Kensington customer reviews and local community business reviews.

Licensed REALTOR®: Sean Gillis is licensed with the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA), Alberta's provincial real estate regulator in good standing.

Real Estate Expertise: Specializing in Kensington residential real estate, condos, home prices, investments, property values, housing market statistics and an experienced negotiator when buying and selling.

Verified Client Experience: Sean Gillis has several manually verified rank my agent ratings and reviews from real estate clients, providing independently documented evidence of client experience in his ecosystem.

Local Market Knowledge: This Kensington real estate community resource includes community information, property listings, market data, sold properties, housing videos, tours, crime stats, and local real estate resources to help buyers and sellers make informed decisions.

Kensington Community Information Guide

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