Overview
Highwood is a sought-after, established residential neighbourhood in the northwest quadrant of Calgary, Alberta. Developed in 1954, it is highly regarded for its mature tree-lined streets, strong sense of community, and desirable central location. Offering a suburban lifestyle with quick access to the downtown core, Highwood attracts professionals, growing families, and downsizers alike. The local real estate market remains strong and competitive, with an average sale price and homes typically spending on the market.
Location
Strategically situated in Calgary's inner-suburban northwest, Highwood is bounded by McKnight Boulevard to the north, 4th Street NW to the east, 40th Avenue NW to the south, and John Laurie Boulevard to the west. This prime positioning places residents just minutes from the city centre while providing easy access to major transportation arteries like Deerfoot Trail and the Trans-Canada Highway (16th Avenue NW).
Housing character
The architectural character of Highwood is defined by its mid-century roots, featuring spacious lots and classic 1950s bungalows. As the neighbourhood undergoes revitalization, there is a growing presence of custom-built new infills that complement the original housing stock. Detached homes are the dominant property type, catering to diverse buyer needs. Currently, there are 11 active listings in the area, with an average list price of $886,236, reflecting the neighbourhood's mid-range price positioning and steady demand.
Schools
Families in Highwood benefit from excellent local educational options within the Calgary Board of Education. The community is home to Highwood School, which offers a popular Mandarin Bilingual program for elementary students, and Colonel Irvine School, serving middle school students with both English and Mandarin Bilingual tracks. Other nearby options include North Haven School, making the area highly attractive to families focused on academics.
Transit
Highwood is a well-connected neighbourhood, offering residents convenient transit and commuting options. With a Walk Score that makes it somewhat walkable, many locals take advantage of the Calgary Transit bus routes that service the area, providing quick connections to the LRT network. Commuting to downtown Calgary typically takes just 20 to 30 minutes by transit or car, thanks to the adjacent primary corridors of 14th Street NW and John Laurie Boulevard.
Shopping and dining
While Highwood is primarily residential, its central location means excellent shopping and dining are always close at hand. Everyday essentials, local cafes, and services can be found along 14th Street NW and Northmount Drive. For a more extensive retail experience, residents are a short 10-minute drive from Market Mall—one of the largest indoor malls in the northwest—and North Hill Shopping Centre, which offers grocery stores, national retailers, and essential services.
Parks and recreation
Access to exceptional green spaces is a major draw for Highwood residents. The neighbourhood is located just east of Nose Hill Park, one of Canada's largest urban parks, offering extensive trails, off-leash areas, and sweeping city views. Nearby Confederation Park features picnic sites, tennis courts, and a golf course. Within the community, the Highwood Outdoor Pool and an active community hall provide seasonal recreation, while the prestigious Calgary Winter Club is only minutes away.
Lifestyle
Highwood offers a peaceful, family-oriented lifestyle that beautifully balances quiet suburban living with urban convenience. The active Highwood Community Association hosts year-round events, fostering a tight-knit and welcoming environment. With low crime rates, abundant parks, and a demographic where many families walk their kids to school, the neighbourhood embodies a relaxed, active, and highly livable atmosphere. Buyers can expect strong value here, with a highly competitive market reflecting a sale-to-list ratio and homes sold in the past 12 months.
