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The convenience of being close to major post-secondary institutions, downtown and a vibrant nightlife make Banff Trail a popular northwest Calgary neighbourhood for young professionals and students. Bordered by 16th Avenue NW from Crowchild Trail to 19th Street NW, the community stretches up to Morley Trail in the northwest and Canmore Park in the northeast.
It’s not surprising that this community has a large student population, considering its proximity to the University of Calgary, SAIT and the Alberta College of Art and Design. Banff Trail is right on the C-Train line, so public transit is readily accessible. While development here is mainly residential, Banff Trail offers major shopping and tons of restaurant choices that keep the area extremely walkable.
Because of the high population of students and young people renting apartments, the median income for the neighbourhood is lower than the city average. The fact that everything – from shopping to restaurants and entertainment –?is a short walk away makes it easily affordable to enjoy what Banff Trail has to offer without breaking the bank.
The high number of rental units in Banff Trail suggests the majority of the population are fairly transient, as students will only spend a couple of years here before moving on. Banff Trail was first developed in the 1950s and some homes are showing their age, but recent infill development is replacing some of those older homes and encouraging people to stay and settle down in the community.
For many who live here, having public transportation so easily accessible is a huge feature. The Banff Trail C-Train station is only a few minutes’ walk from anywhere in the community, and there are also major bus routes along the main corridors. Having the Trans-Canada Hwy. (16th Avenue NW) and Crowchild Trail at the borders also make it easy to get anywhere in the city within minutes.
Recreational, professional and retail amenities are all around Banff Trail. The public Confederation Golf Course is right next door, and McMahon Stadium and Foothills Athletic Park sit just across Crowchild Trail. Shopping is close by with Brentwood Town Centre and North Hill Centre, and education options are in abundance with University of Calgary and SAIT, plus a high school and junior high school.
According to the 2014 Civic Census, only 35 per cent of residences in Banff Trail are owner-occupied. Combined with the proximity to common work and school destinations, this high rental rate attracts lots of young singles and students. These factors bring the median income level down, but there is a real mix of people who choose Banff Trail. Many residents love the area and invest a lot into the community.
Residents of Banff Trail enjoy an active, youthful lifestyle. More than half are between the ages of 20 and 35. The convenience of having work, school and social life all within a few blocks makes the neighbourhood attractive to people starting out in their careers. Recently there have been a number of infill developments that are bringing in more homeowners and more density to the centrally located neighbourhood.
This is a high-quality coffee shop for residents with refined tastes. Postino serves perfectly crafted coffee, craft beers and artisan eats. It offers a cozy setting with large windows and a modern design.
more infoA little piece of Ireland in Calgary, the pub features live music on Saturday nights. The kitchen serves up traditional pub fare and contemporary options, making it ideal for brunch or a late-night snack.
more infoAdjacent to the Community Association Hall, the park features a ball diamond, outdoor rink and community garden. There is also a playground and plenty of park space to throw a Frisbee or enjoy the outdoors.
more infoThis European delicatessen and import store provides a large variety of imported German and Scandinavian favourites. It is a unique shopping experience whether you are looking for food or household gifts.
more infoAlso known as North Capitol Hill Park, it features tennis courts, a ball diamond and spray park. Lush trees provide shade in the summer. The park is perfect for a picnic or relaxing walk.
more infoNick’s has been a staple of the area since 1979. It is a great hangout for families of any size and has one of the best patios in the city.
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