Where Does Your Housing Dollar Go Furthest?
Calgary’s northwest has no shortage of new‑build communities, but three names dominate every “where should we live?” conversation: Nolan Hill, Sage Hill, and Evanston. They share a postal code and a skyline view of Nose Hill, yet the real‑estate math behind each address tells a different story. If you’re trying to decide where your hard‑earned down payment will stretch the most—or which neighbourhood gives you the best chance of cashing out later—read on.
Price Tags in Plain English
All figures reflect 2024 year‑to‑date averages for detached homes and are rounded for clarity.
Community | Avg. Sale Price | Median Lot Size | Typical Condo Fees* |
Nolan Hill | $690K | 34 ft × 110 ft | $290/mo |
Sage Hill | $715K | 36 ft × 115 ft | $305/mo |
Evanston | $675K | 32 ft × 105 ft | $275/mo |
*Condo fees based on two‑bedroom townhomes.
At first glance, Nolan Hill slots neatly between Sage Hill’s higher price point and Evanston’s budget‑friendlier average. Yet those numbers only hint at why buyers ultimately choose one street over another.
What You Get for the Money
1. Streetscape & Curb Appeal
Nolan Hill leans into a story‑book, “Scottish Highlands” theme: castle‑like stone accents, steep rooflines, and timber trim. The aesthetic feels cohesive without being cookie‑cutter, a detail that often boosts resale because buyers can picture the whole block aging gracefully.
2. Lot Dimensions & Backyard Potential
While Sage Hill lots edge out Nolan Hill by a few feet, Nolan Hill parcels are flatter, making them easier (and cheaper) to landscape. Evanston lots, meanwhile, can be narrower, which matters if you dream of a three‑car driveway or a trampoline for the kids.
3. Commuter Math
All three communities back onto Stoney Trail, but Nolan Hill sits closest to Sarcee Trail—a direct line to downtown during off‑peak hours. Sage Hill’s extra two kilometres may not sound like much, yet it can add ten minutes to a 7 a.m. commute.
4. Amenities at Your Doorstep
Sage Hill currently wins the retail race with Sage Hill Crossing and a second commercial node under construction. Nolan Hill shoppers rely on Beacon Hill (Costco, Home Depot) just three minutes south; Evanston residents head to Creekside. If “walk to groceries” is a must, Sage Hill edges ahead, but Nolan Hill’s quick hop to big‑box bargains is tough to beat for value‑hunters.
Investor Angle: Appreciation & Rental Demand
Over the last five years, Nolan Hill has posted a 6.8 % average annual appreciation, narrowly surpassing Sage Hill (6.5 %) and Evanston (6.1 %). The spread isn’t dramatic, but paired with Nolan Hill’s mid‑range entry price, it produces an appealing price‑to‑growth ratio for investors. Rental demand also skews younger here—think tech workers at the University District—making Nolan Hill’s three‑bedroom townhomes a perennial favourite on rental platforms.
The Verdict
If your budget caps at the high‑600s and you value quick highway access over a walkable grocery run, Nolan Hill gives you the strongest mix of curb appeal, price, and long‑term upside. Buyers with deeper pockets—or a passion for brand‑new retail plazas—may favour Sage Hill. Budget‑first shoppers willing to trade lot width for savings can still find deals in Evanston.
Bottom line: run the numbers, but also stand on each street at sunset. Chances are Nolan Hill’s rolling hills, cohesive architecture, and mid‑market sweet spot will make a persuasive case for your next move—or your next listing.
Houses for Sale Nolan Hill
Whether you’re buying your first home or condo, Nolan Hill provides options for every family.
