Introduction
Southwood is a residential community in southwestern Calgary, offering a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, apartments, and commercial properties. With Macleod Trail as the eastern boundary and 14 Street SW on the west, the community provides easy commuting to downtown. The northern and southern borders are formed by Southland Drive and Anderson Road, respectively.
Lifestyle
A primarily residential neighbourhood, Southwood is home to many families looking to live close to amenities, services, and youth programs. The apartments and townhouses attract a younger crowd taking their first steps into the housing market. Access to nearby shopping centres, major restaurant chains, and major parks makes Southwood a desirable location for renters and owners alike.
Dollars & Sense
Just like the diversity in the area's population, the income levels of Southwood residents are varied. A great thing about this community is it offers so much for any price range. You can have a nice dinner out or grab an affordable meal on the go. There are two private golf clubs nearby, as well as Glenmore Park or Fish Creek Provincial Park where your recreation is free.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Southwood is a busy neighbourhood. The commercial and retail development on the east side along Macleod Trail brings hundreds of people into the area every day. Southwood also has a major arterial road cutting through the middle of the community, though that extra attention brings a vibrancy to the area and ensures local businesses enjoy plenty of exposure.
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Planes, Trains & Automobiles
One of the most attractive features of Southwood is the ease with which residents can get around. The community has two C-Train stations – Southland and Anderson – to get downtown. Elbow Drive is a major roadway that cuts through the middle of the neighbourhood, while all the roads that border the community are excellent avenues to other parts of the city.
In the Area
Southwood is an incredibly walkable neighbourhood. Southwood Corner is in the area's north, with dozens of retail shops and restaurants, and on the other side of Macleod Trail is Southcentre Mall. Within a few minutes' drive you can go for a swim at Southland Leisure Centre or explore nature at Fish Creek Provinicial Park.
Meet the Neighbours
Seventeen percent of residents are in their 20s according to 2011 Census of Canada statistics. That is the largest demographic group, although just slightly higher than the 16 percent of people in their 40s, which accounts for the next largest group. Given the low living cost and easy commuter routes, Southwood attracts a variety of families and singles.
The Vibe
The neighbourhood is relatively close to restaurants, shopping centres, and other services, so it has a great walkability factor. Being surrounded by major commuter roads and bisected by Elbow Drive (a main access road), residents have the flexibility to spend a day in the neighbourhood or hit other nearby attractions without fuss.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Bull and Finch Pub
The Calgary-based pub is a popular destination to watch the game with friends or enjoy a meal. Its extensive menu features an authentic Philly Cheese Steak and homemade beer-battered cod.
more infoSouthland Park
This commercial and retail complex consists of four buildings and more than one million square-feet of office space. The complex employs 4,000 people, with Alberta Health Services being one of the major tenants.
more infoSouthwood Community League Park
Located in the heart of the community, this park connects Harold Panabaker Jr. High School, the Community League Hall, and Ethel Johnson School. It includes an outdoor rink, four baseball diamonds, and a soccer field.
more infoSacramento Drive Park
Located between the C-Train tracks and Sacramento Drive, the park is a long green space that incorporates two soccer fields and a small playground for the little ones to burn off their energy.
Planet Organic
This store caters to area residents who are health-conscious and want to keep up with their green-friendly habits. Planet Organic stocks groceries and products that are both good for you and good for the earth.
more infoBlack Swan Ale House
The Swan is known for being a great hangout for any crowd. It serves up a tremendous business lunch during the week and is a party spot on the weekend.
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