University Heights Business & Community Reviews

University Heights is located in the northwest quadrant of Calgary, bordered by the University of Calgary to the north, 16th Avenue NW (Trans-Canada Highway) to the south, Shaganappi Trail to the west, and University Drive NW to the east. The neighbourhood is within close walking distance to both the Foothills Medical Centre and the Alberta Children's Hospital, as well as McMahon Stadium. The community is represented in Calgary City Council by Ward 7 Councillor Terry Wong.

University Heights was established in 1963. The neighbourhood developed primarily during the 1960s and 1970s, taking advantage of its prime location adjacent to the expanding University of Calgary campus. Today, it remains one of Calgary's most desirable inner-city communities for students, faculty, medical professionals, and families seeking central location and excellent transit access.

University Heights offers a diverse mix of housing options. The neighbourhood features single-family detached homes, condominium apartments, and townhomes. Approximately 65% of dwellings are condominiums or apartments, and about 67% of housing is used for renting, reflecting the community's popularity with students and medical professionals. The area has seen new luxury condominium construction in recent years, including modern buildings with amenities such as central air conditioning, quartz countertops, titled parking, and in-suite laundry.

Home prices in University Heights vary by property type. Condominiums range from approximately $305,000 for a well-maintained 2-bedroom unit to $614,900 for newer luxury condos with 1,026 sq ft of living space. Single-family detached homes command premium prices due to the neighbourhood's central location. The median household income in the community is approximately $43,079, though this figure is influenced by the high proportion of student and rental residents.

University Heights' location is its defining feature. The neighbourhood is bordered by the University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Alberta Children's Hospital, and McMahon Stadium. This makes it an ideal location for students, faculty, healthcare professionals, and sports fans. The community also offers excellent walkability and transit scores, with a neighbourhood Walk Score of 73 and many nearby public transportation options.

University Heights is served by several excellent educational institutions:

• Westmount Charter School – A highly-regarded charter school located within the neighbourhood
• University Elementary School – Public elementary school serving the community
• Banff Trail School – Nearby elementary option
• Queen Elizabeth High School – Serves the area for junior and senior high
• William Aberhart High School – Offers French Immersion programs
• University of Calgary – One of Canada's leading research universities, located immediately north of the neighbourhood

University Heights is exceptionally well-connected for commuters:

• University C-Train Station – Located adjacent to the neighbourhood on the Red Line
• Banff Trail C-Train Station – Accessible at the southern edge
• Multiple bus routes – Routes 9, 19, 20, 72, 73, 90, 104, and 119 serve the area
• Walk Score – The neighbourhood has a Walk Score of 73, making it very walkable with a specific location walk score of 84
• Commute to Downtown – Approximately 10-15 minutes by car or C-Train
• Major roads – Easy access to Crowchild Trail, 16th Avenue NW (Trans-Canada Highway), and Shaganappi Trail

University Heights is adjacent to two of Calgary's major healthcare facilities:

• Foothills Medical Centre – One of Alberta's largest hospitals, offering comprehensive medical services, trauma care, and specialized treatments
• Alberta Children's Hospital – Specialized paediatric care facility
• Medical clinics and pharmacies – Numerous healthcare services available within walking distance

University Heights offers several parks and recreational options:

• University Heights Community Rink – Outdoor skating rink behind the alley connecting Utah Crescent and Utah Place NW, maintained through the City of Calgary Adopt a Rink program
• Karl Baker Off-leash Park – Dog park located nearby
• Canmore Park – Green space within walking distance
• Saint Andrews Park – Neighbourhood park with playground
• Bow River Pathway System – Accessible via nearby roads for walking and cycling
• University of Calgary Athletic Facilities – Indoor pools, gymnasiums, and sports fields available to the public

University Heights residents have convenient access to a wide range of shopping and dining options:

• Save-On-Foods – Grocery store located within walking distance
• University District Retail – Vibrant main street with restaurants including The Canadian Brewhouse, Cobs Bread, Freshii, and a cocktail bar
• Market Mall – Major shopping centre with over 200 stores, located a short drive away
• Tim Hortons – Located at 1820B Uxbridge Road NW
• Cineplex Cinema – Movie theatre in the nearby University District

University Heights has a unique demographic profile shaped by its proximity to the university and hospitals:

• Population: Approximately 2,928 residents (2012 municipal census)
• Population Density: 3,660 people per square kilometre
• Median Household Income: $43,079 (reflecting high proportion of students)
• Low-Income Residents: 30.3%
• Immigrant Population: 28%
• Housing: 64.6% condominiums or apartments, 66.5% rental housing

Yes, University Heights offers several advantages for families. The neighbourhood features Westmount Charter School (K-12) and University Elementary School within the community, with nearby junior and senior high options including Queen Elizabeth High School and William Aberhart High School. Parks and the community skating rink provide outdoor recreation, and the central location offers convenient access to all parts of the city. However, families should note the high proportion of rental and student housing in the area.

Yes, University Heights is a dog-friendly community. The neighbourhood features the Karl Baker Off-leash Park nearby, as well as several parks and green spaces for walking dogs. The adjacent University District also offers off-leash areas and green spaces. The community's walkable streets and proximity to pathways make it easy for pet owners to enjoy daily walks.

The University Heights Community Association (UHCA) serves residents of the neighbourhood, organizing community events and advocating for local issues. The association maintains the University Heights Community Rink, available through the City of Calgary Adopt a Rink program. The community also hosts a seasonal Farmers' Market on Thursdays between 10 am and 1 pm at the Foothills Mennonite Church south parking lot. For more information, residents can contact the association via the community website or attend their meetings, typically held at University Elementary School.