Introduction
Bankview is an older neighbourhood located in the SW quadrant of Calgary that was established in 1908. The boundaries are 17th Avenue SW, 26th Avenue SW, 14th Street SW and 19th Street SW. It is very close to the bustling streetside restaurants, boutiques and conveniences of 17th Avenue SW. The corner of 14th Street SW and 17th Avenue is a very busy intersection.
Lifestyle
The residents of Bankview live a very active, city-centric lifestyle. Bankview is home to many young professionals, students and young families, making for a very vibrant and thriving neighbourhood. The fine food, great boutiques and plenty of parks are all reasons why residents love living in this area. This is also a very active community that bikes, runs and walks on a regular basis throughout the neighbourhood.
Dollars & Sense
Bankview is an above average neighbourhood for rentals. It's located in a high traffic, dense area making it a desirable spot for people who want to live a busy, inner city lifestyle. When you look at the cost of a cup of coffee it varies between Starbucks prices and higher end café prices – you won’t find many cheap options in this area but it also isn’t the most expensive.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Bankview is a vibrant and thriving neighbourhood that is truly becoming its own destination in terms of new businesses opening up in the area. It is already a desirable community for renters and homeowners thanks to its close proximity to the downtown core. Since this is such a high density area the transient nature may not appeal to some prospective homeowners or renters.
3.3 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Bankview is a pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly neighbourhood. It is quite hilly, so expect a good daily workout. It has great public transportation with several buses running regularly from the area to downtown, and the downtown LRT stations. Despite the walkability of the area, many residents still do rely on cars for their main mode of transportation which can make parking a struggle in such a dense area.
In the Area
Bankview has a great variety of small parks as well as a tennis court and community garden run by the Bankview Community Association. Access to these amenities can be obtained through membership. They also have a community hall available for rental and other community events. There are no schools directly in Bankview but several in nearby communities such as Dr. Gordon Townsend School, Richmond Elementary and Sacred Heart Elementary.
Meet the Neighbours
Residents are mostly students, young professionals and young to middle-aged. According to the 2002 City of Calgary Municipal Census, the median household income was $32,474 and 31.4 per cent of residents were low income. Since this area is mostly condominiums and apartments, the majority of residents are renters. In 2000, it was reported that 80 per cent of all housing in Bankview was used for renting.
The Vibe
Bankview is a hip and happening neighbourhood for people who love living where the action is. With new restaurants and boutiques opening in and around Bankview, this area is a great place to be if you love food and style. It's an older neighbourhood that has a nice mix of heritage homes, infills, condos and apartments. If you love architecture it's a great place to explore.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Union Athletica
Fitness lovers of Bankview frequent Union Athletica, a yoga and fitness studio. Classes include yoga, barre, TRX and spin classes. Their spin classes feature top of the line Spinner Blade bikes and some of the most motivating instructors in Calgary.
more infoThe Heather Company
Fine linens, pillows and home accessories will welcome you warmly as you enter The Heather Company boutique. Founded by Heather Draper, The Heather Company is a home décor boutique with designers available to help you.
more infoOur Daily Brett
Our Daily Brett is your answer to the daily question of “What is for dinner”? Each day they announce a tasty new dinner menu available for takeout. They also have sandwiches, cheeses and more.
more infoLuna Blue Shoes
Luna Blue is the shoe mecca of Bankview. Founded by sisters who saw a need for more small boutiques in Calgary, Luna Blue is a destination for anyone who loves to shop for unique items.
more infoAlexander Calhoun Library
The perfect place to spend an afternoon reading or browsing books, not only is it conveniently located right on 14th Street SW but it also has great programs for residents like the summer reading club.
more infoBikeBike
Looking for a new ride to zip around town on? Look no further than BikeBike. They have everything from road bikes to cruisers to city bikes – and a fantastic selection of family-oriented accessories.
more info