Varsity Homes for Sale — University Access, Market Mall, Established Living
Varsity offers northwest Calgary's exceptional blend of established character and urban convenience. From top-rated Marion Carson School to immediate access to University of Calgary, this mature community balances family living with tree-lined streets and convenient amenities. Developed in the 1960s and 1970s, the neighbourhood features three distinct areas—Varsity Acres, Varsity Village, and Varsity Estates—each with unique character.
With Market Mall within the community, access to Bowmont Natural Park, and proximity to Dalhousie LRT Station, Varsity combines suburban tranquillity with urban accessibility.
Quick Search: Find Your Varsity Home
49 Properties for Sale In Varsity
1 Bed1 Bath636 SqFt1/19 19New$240,000
1 Bed1 Bath846 SqFt1/6 6New$589,000
2 Beds3 Baths2,000 SqFt1/44 44New$759,900
1 Bed1 Bath603 SqFt1/30 30Active$230,000
3 Beds3 Baths1,174 SqFt1/32 32Active$424,900
2 Beds2 Baths1,048 SqFt1/39 39Active$439,000
7 Beds4 Baths2,273 SqFt1/46 46Active$1,350,000
2 Beds3 Baths1,552 SqFt1/35 35Active$739,900
2 Beds1 Bath997 SqFt1/29 29Active$269,000
2 Beds2 Baths1,127 SqFt1/35 35Price Dropped by $10K$317,000
2 Beds1 Bath1,140 SqFt1/27 27Pending$366,000
2 Beds1 Bath825 SqFt1/22 22Price Dropped by $5K$279,900
2 Beds2 Baths905 SqFtActive$359,900
1 Bed1 Bath663 SqFt1/32 32Active$240,000
5 Beds3 Baths1,693 SqFt1/40 40Active$1,189,000
5 Beds4 Baths2,004 SqFt1/50 50Price Dropped by $50K$1,399,900
3 Beds3 Baths1,232 SqFt1/49 49Active$719,900
2 Beds1 Bath834 SqFt1/35 35Active$194,900
2 Beds1 Bath896 SqFt1/24 24Active$294,900
1 Bed1 Bath593 SqFt1/39 39Active$270,000
3 Beds3 Baths1,958 SqFt1/40 40Active$589,000
4 Beds4 Baths1,885 SqFt1/46 46Price Dropped by $60K$1,030,000
5 Beds4 Baths1,253 SqFt1/50 50Price Dropped by $10K$949,900
2 Beds1 Bath901 SqFt1/27 27Price Dropped by $15K$174,900
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Varsity Community Snapshot
Price Range & Property Types
- Single-family homes: Starting from $700,000+
- Townhomes: Starting from $450,000+
- Condos: Starting from $300,000+
- Diverse housing from 1960s-1970s development with mature character
- Three distinct areas: Varsity Acres, Varsity Village, Varsity Estates
- Wide lots, mature landscaping, and tree-lined streets
Location & Transit
- Northwest Calgary bordered by Crowchild Trail, Bow River, 32nd Avenue NW
- 10-15 minutes to downtown Calgary via Crowchild Trail
- Immediate access to University of Calgary campus
- Access to Dalhousie LRT Station nearby
- Quick connections to Foothills Medical Centre and Alberta Children's Hospital
- University of Calgary Research Park within community
Parks & Natural Areas
- Dale Hodges Park adjacent with Bow River access and trails
- Unique pedestrian pathway system connecting parks behind houses (Radburn Plan design)
- Numerous neighbourhood parks with playgrounds and sports fields
- Access to Bow River pathway system
- Silver Springs Golf and Country Club nearby
- Varsity Ravine Park within community for walking and outdoor activities
Schools
- Marion Carson School (K-6) - includes Mandarin bilingual programme
- F.E. Osborne School (6-9)
- Sir Winston Churchill High School (10-12)
- St. Vincent School (K-9) - Catholic option
- Top-rated schools consistently ranked among Calgary's best
- Varsity Acres School offers French Immersion programme
Amenities & Shopping
- Market Mall - major regional shopping centre within Varsity Village
- Northland Village nearby with Walmart and additional retail
- Dalhousie Station Shopping Centre close by
- Local Safeway within Market Mall for convenience
- Active Varsity Community Association since 1965
- Varsity Community Centre with programmes, childcare, facilities
Who Lives in Varsity?
Varsity attracts University of Calgary faculty and staff seeking convenient access to campus, established families valuing top-rated schools and safe neighbourhoods, and professionals who appreciate the mature character with 10-15 minute commutes to downtown. The community's proximity to Foothills Medical Centre and Alberta Children's Hospital draws healthcare professionals, while the combination of Market Mall convenience and Bowmont Park natural beauty appeals to those seeking balanced urban-suburban living.
The typical resident values Varsity's unique community design—morning walks through pedestrian pathways connecting neighbourhood parks, quick drives to University of Calgary or downtown, afternoon shopping at Market Mall within the community, and evening strolls along Bow River pathways at Bowmont Park. With historically above-average household incomes and very low turnover (many residents stay 40+ years), the community demonstrates strong satisfaction with quality of life and the active Varsity Community Association that has served residents since 1965.
Why Varsity? This northwest Calgary community offers a rare combination of established character and exceptional convenience. Developed in the 1960s and 1970s, Varsity features mature tree-lined streets and innovative pedestrian pathway design unique in Calgary. Immediate access to University of Calgary, Market Mall shopping within the community, and Bowmont Natural Park create unmatched urban-suburban balance. Families appreciate consistently top-ranked schools and extraordinarily low turnover—residents often stay decades, demonstrating lasting satisfaction with neighbourhood quality.
Living in Varsity: A Complete Guide
Daily Life in Varsity
Varsity seamlessly blends mature neighbourhood character with exceptional urban convenience. Morning commuters enjoy 10-15 minute drives to downtown Calgary via Crowchild Trail, while University of Calgary faculty and students walk or bike to campus in minutes. The community's innovative pedestrian pathway system—unique in Calgary—connects neighbourhood parks behind houses rather than along streets, creating park-like settings throughout Varsity Village and maintaining the original Radburn Plan design intent from the 1970s.
Residents enjoy Market Mall shopping within the community itself, providing one-stop convenience for retail, dining, and services. The Varsity Community Centre hosts over 25 weekly programmes and one of Calgary's largest childcare centres. Adjacent Bowmont Natural Park offers immediate access to Bow River pathways and natural areas.
Homes & Real Estate in Varsity
Established from the 1960s through 1980s, Varsity features three distinct areas with unique characteristics. Varsity Acres (1960s) offers traditional grid streets with rear lanes. Varsity Village (late 1960s-early 1970s) showcases the innovative Radburn Plan with cul-de-sacs and pedestrian pathways behind homes. Varsity Estates (1980s) presents open-concept two-storey homes with modern amenities, many backing onto Bowmont Natural Park or Silver Springs Golf and Country Club. The mature neighbourhood features tree-lined streets and established landscaping throughout.
Single-Family Homes
Starting from $700,000+ with many homes in the $800,000-$1,000,000+ range in Varsity Estates. Properties feature wide lots, mature trees, and varied architectural styles from mid-century to contemporary. Premium pricing for golf course or park-backing properties.
Townhomes
Starting from $450,000+ for 2-3 bedroom units. Popular with university staff, downsizers, and professionals seeking low-maintenance living near University of Calgary. Many feature attached garages and modern updates.
Condominiums
Starting from $300,000+ for 1-2 bedroom units, primarily concentrated in Varsity Village near Market Mall. Condo fees typically range from $250-$400/month. Excellent option for university proximity and transit access.
Location & Commuting
Varsity's northwest location on a plateau north of the Bow River offers exceptional connectivity:
- Downtown Calgary: 10-15 minutes from Varsity to downtown Calgary via Crowchild Trail during off-peak hours—one of northwest Calgary's shortest commutes.
- University of Calgary: Immediate access to University of Calgary with many residents walking or biking to campus.
- Transit Access: Nearby Dalhousie LRT Station provides Red Line service to downtown. Multiple bus routes serve the community.
- Healthcare: 5 minutes to Foothills Medical Centre and Alberta Children's Hospital.
- Calgary Airport: 20-25 minutes from Varsity to Calgary International Airport via Crowchild Trail and Stoney Trail.
- Mountain Access: 90 minutes from Varsity to Banff via Highway 1 for weekend mountain adventures.
Shopping & Dining
Varsity residents enjoy exceptional shopping convenience with major retail within the community:
- Market Mall: Major regional shopping centre within Varsity Village with department stores, specialty shops, Safeway, restaurants, and services—walk to shopping from many Varsity homes.
- Northland Village: Large retail complex minutes away with Walmart, Canadian Tire, GoodLife Fitness, and diverse dining options.
- Dalhousie Station Shopping Centre: Nearby shopping with additional grocery, services, and restaurants.
- University District: New development near University of Calgary with restaurants, shops, and urban amenities.
Outdoor Recreation & Activities
Varsity's location creates exceptional outdoor living opportunities:
- Dale Hodges Park: One of Calgary's largest natural parks bordering Varsity Estates with extensive trail system, Bow River access, wildlife viewing, and natural prairie landscape.
- Varsity Pathway System: Unique pedestrian pathways connecting parks behind houses throughout Varsity Village—the Radburn Plan design creates park-like settings and safe walking routes separated from streets.
- Bow River Pathways: Access to city-wide pathway network connecting to downtown, Edworthy Park, and beyond.
- Silver Springs Golf Club: Private golf course adjacent to Varsity Estates.
- Community Parks: Numerous neighbourhood parks with playgrounds, sports fields, and green spaces throughout all three Varsity areas.
- Varsity Ravine Park: Local green space within community for walking, running, and outdoor activities.
Schools & Education
Varsity offers exceptional educational options consistently ranked among Calgary's best:
- Marion Carson School (K-6): Top-rated public elementary school within Varsity offering Mandarin bilingual programme—one of five CBE schools with Chinese-English bilingual curriculum.
- F.E. Osborne School (6-9): Public junior high school within Varsity serving grades 6-9, including early French immersion grades 6-9. Named after former Calgary mayor Frederick Ernest Osborne.
- Sir Winston Churchill High School (10-12): Prestigious public high school offering International Baccalaureate programme.
- St. Vincent School (K-9): Catholic elementary and junior high option serving kindergarten through grade 9.
- Varsity Acres School: Offers French Immersion programme for elementary grades.
- University of Calgary: Immediate access to post-secondary education, research facilities, and recreational amenities.
Community & Lifestyle
The Varsity Community Association, incorporated in 1965, has served residents for over 50 years with the mission of "Enhancing and Enriching the Quality of Community for Varsity Residents." The Varsity Community Centre hosts over 25 weekly programmes and events including one of Calgary's largest childcare centres, educational programmes, sports activities, and community gatherings.
Varsity offers innovative programmes including the Good Samaritans (aiding seniors with tasks from gardening to home maintenance) and Youth Scholarship Programmes (rewarding outstanding leadership and volunteerism). The community demonstrates extraordinary stability—most residents stay 40+ years, with very low turnover. This lasting satisfaction reflects Varsity's exceptional combination of mature character, convenient location, top schools, and strong community engagement.
Buying a Home in Varsity
Varsity's combination of University of Calgary proximity, downtown accessibility (10-15 minutes), Market Mall convenience, Bowmont Park access, and top-rated schools creates consistent strong demand. The community particularly appeals to university faculty and staff, healthcare professionals at nearby Foothills Medical Centre and Alberta Children's Hospital, established families seeking top schools and mature neighbourhoods, and professionals valuing short downtown commutes with suburban character.
Market Dynamics
- Pricing Range: Starting from $300,000+ for condos, starting from $450,000+ for townhomes, starting from $700,000+ for single-family homes. Varsity Estates properties often $800,000-$1,000,000+.
- Seasonal Patterns: Spring and early summer typically see peak market activity as university hiring cycles and family school planning align.
- Days on Market: Well-priced homes typically sell within 30-45 days in balanced conditions. Properties near University of Calgary, backing onto Bowmont Park, or in prestigious Varsity Estates often receive multiple offers.
- Community Fees: Condo fees typically $250-$400/month. Annual community association fees approximately $185 for standard membership.
- Historical Growth: Historically, Varsity has maintained strong property values driven by university proximity, exceptionally short downtown commutes, Market Mall convenience, and low turnover demonstrating lasting resident satisfaction.
Buyer Considerations
Varsity Estates properties command premium pricing for Bowmont Park backing, golf course proximity, and modern amenities. Varsity Village's unique pedestrian pathway design creates park-like settings highly valued by families. University of Calgary proximity is major draw for faculty, staff, and families with university-bound children. Verify condo reserve fund status and planned special assessments. Work with a realtor experienced in northwest Calgary who understands Varsity's three distinct areas and can match properties to specific lifestyle priorities—university access, Market Mall walkability, or natural park proximity.
Compare to Other Northwest Calgary Communities
vs. Montgomery
Montgomery is adjacent inner-city community with similar University of Calgary proximity. Both offer mature character and Bow River access. Varsity provides Market Mall convenience within community and unique pedestrian pathway design. Similar pricing with different architectural styles.
vs. University Heights
University Heights shares University of Calgary proximity and similar vintage (1960s-1970s). Both feature mature trees and family orientation. Varsity offers Market Mall within community and Bowmont Park access. Comparable pricing with similar appeal to university community.
vs. Dalhousie
Dalhousie is nearby with LRT access advantage and similar age. Both offer established character and family focus. Varsity provides superior University of Calgary proximity and Market Mall convenience. Similar pricing with different transportation priorities.
vs. Hawkwood
Hawkwood is established northwest community with similar vintage (1970s). Both feature mature landscaping and family orientation. Varsity offers shorter downtown commutes (10-15 vs. 20-25 minutes) and immediate university access. Varsity typically 15-20% higher pricing due to location advantages.
The Varsity Advantage: Established family living with 10-15 minute downtown commutes—one of northwest Calgary's shortest—immediate University of Calgary access, Market Mall shopping within the community, Bowmont Natural Park on doorstep, and consistently top-ranked schools creates exceptional value. The unique Radburn Plan pedestrian pathway design, extraordinary resident loyalty (40+ year average tenure), and strong community association since 1965 demonstrate lasting satisfaction. Few communities combine this level of urban accessibility, educational excellence, shopping convenience, and natural beauty in one mature, established neighbourhood.
Frequently Asked Questions About Varsity
What can I afford in Varsity?
Varsity offers diverse housing options with single-family homes starting from $700,000+, townhomes starting from $450,000+, and condos starting from $300,000+. The community provides excellent value for families seeking University of Calgary proximity, short downtown commutes, and established neighbourhoods with Market Mall convenience in northwest Calgary.
What lifestyle does Varsity offer?
Safe, established neighbourhood with mature tree-lined streets, 10-15 minute downtown commutes, immediate University of Calgary access, Market Mall shopping within the community, Bowmont Natural Park on doorstep, top-rated schools, and unique pedestrian pathway system. Active community association with over 25 weekly programmes and extraordinary resident loyalty.
How's the commute from Varsity?
Excellent connectivity with 10-15 minutes to downtown Calgary via Crowchild Trail—one of northwest Calgary's shortest commutes. Transit access via nearby Dalhousie LRT Station. Immediate access to University of Calgary for walking or biking. Five minutes to Foothills Medical Centre and Alberta Children's Hospital.
What should I know before buying in Varsity?
Varsity is an established community developed from 1960s-1980s with mature landscaping and three distinct areas (Varsity Acres, Varsity Village, Varsity Estates). Condo fees typically $250-$400/month. Properties in Varsity Estates or backing onto Bowmont Park command premium prices. Extraordinary resident loyalty means low inventory—most homeowners stay 40+ years. Market Mall within community and University of Calgary proximity maintain strong property values.
Is Varsity good for families?
Absolutely. Varsity is one of Calgary's most family-friendly neighbourhoods with safe streets, consistently top-ranked schools including Marion Carson (K-6), F.E. Osborne (6-9), and Sir Winston Churchill High School (10-12). Unique pedestrian pathway system connecting parks, Bowmont Natural Park access, Market Mall convenience, and active community association with childcare centre support family lifestyles.
How do I get to downtown from Varsity?
Two convenient options: Drive via Crowchild Trail (10-15 minutes during off-peak hours—one of northwest Calgary's shortest commutes), or use transit via nearby Dalhousie LRT Station with Red Line service to downtown. Many University of Calgary faculty walk or bike to campus. Close proximity to major hospitals and downtown makes Varsity exceptionally convenient.
What schools serve Varsity?
Public schools include Marion Carson School (K-6) with Mandarin bilingual programme, F.E. Osborne School (6-9), and Sir Winston Churchill High School (10-12) offering International Baccalaureate. Catholic option is St. Vincent School (K-9). Varsity Acres School offers French Immersion. All consistently ranked among Calgary's best schools. Immediate access to University of Calgary.
How quickly are homes selling in Varsity?
Well-priced homes typically sell within 30-45 days in balanced market conditions. Properties with desirable features like University of Calgary proximity, Market Mall walkability, Bowmont Park backing, or in prestigious Varsity Estates often receive multiple offers and sell faster. Low turnover (40+ year average tenure) and consistent demand maintain strong market activity year-round.
What's included in Varsity home prices?
Most single-family homes include landscaped yards, attached garages, and mature trees. Property taxes typically starting from $4,000-$5,000/year. Condo fees (if applicable) cover building maintenance, insurance, and some utilities. Community association fees approximately $185/year. Market Mall shopping, University of Calgary access, and Bowmont Park within walking distance for many homes. Always verify specifics with individual listings.
What makes Varsity unique compared to other northwest communities?
Varsity's combination of 10-15 minute downtown commutes (shortest in northwest), immediate University of Calgary access, Market Mall within the community, unique Radburn Plan pedestrian pathway design, Bowmont Natural Park on doorstep, and extraordinary resident loyalty (40+ year average tenure) is unmatched. Few communities offer this blend of urban accessibility, shopping convenience, natural beauty, and proven lasting satisfaction.
How convenient is daily life in Varsity?
Exceptionally convenient with Market Mall within the community for one-stop shopping, dining, and services. University of Calgary accessible by walking or biking for many residents. Foothills Medical Centre and Alberta Children's Hospital within five minutes. Bowmont Natural Park on doorstep for immediate outdoor recreation. Unique pedestrian pathway system creates park-like settings throughout Varsity Village. Downtown accessible in 10-15 minutes.
What outdoor activities are available in Varsity?
Bowmont Natural Park bordering community offers extensive trail system, Bow River access, wildlife viewing, and natural prairie landscape. Unique pedestrian pathway system connecting parks behind houses throughout Varsity Village—rare Radburn Plan design creates safe, car-free walking routes. Access to city-wide Bow River pathway network. Silver Springs Golf Club adjacent. Numerous neighbourhood parks with playgrounds and sports fields. Varsity Ravine Park within community.
Still Have Questions About Varsity?
Every home purchase in Varsity involves unique considerations from University of Calgary proximity to Market Mall walkability, unique pathway systems to Bowmont Park access. Justin Newman provides specialised consultation for northwest Calgary communities with deep knowledge of Varsity's three distinct areas and off-market opportunities.
Local Expertise: Contact Justin for exclusive access to new listings, private showings, and tailored insights on this sought-after neighbourhood where most residents stay 40+ years.
Ready to Experience Varsity Living?
Justin Newman specialises in Varsity and northwest Calgary's established communities, from university-adjacent properties to Market Mall walkable homes, ensuring you find your perfect match.
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