Over the years, I’ve noticed that some Calgary communities seem to remain consistently desirable through changing market conditions while others experience sharper swings in pricing,,
Detached homes may still grab most of the spotlight in Calgary real estate, but in today’s market, row homes are the quiet achievers. They blend affordability, modern layouts, and—right now—a level of selection we haven’t seen in years. Looking for active listings? See Calgary row homes real estate — homes for sale.
What is a Row Home?
Row homes (often called townhomes) are single-family dwellings sharing one or two walls with neighbours. Unlike apartment condos, you typically own both the home and the land beneath it. Many Calgary row homes feature private entries, attached garages, small yards or patios, and contemporary three-bedroom layouts. With fewer condo-style amenities, monthly fees are often lower—or non-existent.
In short, row homes deliver the feeling of a detached home at a fraction of the cost. They’re ideal for buyers who want independence and space without the price tag of a full lot.
The Current Market: More Supply, Softer Prices
CREB®’s July 2025 housing report showed total city-wide inventory reaching 6,917 units, a level not seen since before the pandemic and above long-term trends. While supply rose across all property types, row homes saw one of the steepest increases.
For row homes specifically:
- Months of Supply: Tightest in the North West (2.24), South (2.51), and City Centre (2.65). Balanced in the South East (2.92) and West (3.18). Buyer-leaning in the North (4.04), North East (4.82), and especially the East (5.00).
- Pricing: Year-over-year declines occurred in every district, ranging from a modest −1.57% in the North West to a steep −6.48% in the North East. North (−6.39%) and West (−4.20%) also posted significant drops, while the City Centre (−1.84%) and South East (−2.33%) were comparatively stable.
- Sales Activity: Demand has slowed compared to last year, while new listings rose, giving buyers more leverage and choice than at any point in recent years.
Why This Matters for Buyers
- Choice: With inventory high, buyers can compare communities, layouts, and features without rushing.
- Negotiation: Softer conditions—especially in the NE, North, and East—mean sellers may be more flexible on price, conditions, or possession.
- Affordability: Row homes still cost tens of thousands less than detached homes, even before considering recent price declines.
- Future Potential: Buyers who enter now may benefit when supply tightens again, particularly in central or high-demand areas.
Row Homes vs. Detached Homes (2025 Snapshot)
| Feature | Row Homes | Detached Homes |
|---|---|---|
| Price Trend (YoY) | Down across all districts (−1.57% to −6.48%) | Down <1% city-wide |
| Months of Supply | 2.24 to 5.00 (district-dependent) | ~3 months city-wide |
| Inventory Trend | Rising sharply | Rising, but more balanced |
| Buyer Leverage | High (esp. NE, North, East) | Moderate |
District-by-District Highlights
North East: 4.82 months of supply and the steepest price decline at −6.48%. Strong buyer leverage here.
North: 4.04 months of supply, with prices down −6.39%. Another district firmly in buyer territory.
East: The highest supply at 5.00 months, though prices fell a milder −2.27%. Buyers benefit from abundant choice.
West: 3.18 months of supply with prices down −4.20%. Balanced but softening, giving buyers room to negotiate.
City Center: 2.65 months of supply, prices down −1.84%. Still relatively tight, appealing to urban buyers.
North West: Tightest conditions at 2.24 months, with a modest price dip of −1.57%. Limited leverage compared to other districts.
South: 2.51 months of supply, prices down −3.89%. Balanced with opportunities in select communities.
South East: 2.92 months of supply, prices down −2.33%. Stable and balanced, with modern row home offerings.
Historical Context: How Today Compares to the Past
To put today’s row home market in perspective, it helps to look back. During the pandemic years (2020–2021), Calgary experienced extremely tight conditions, with row home inventory often dipping below two months of supply. This created strong upward pressure on prices, with double-digit gains in some districts.
By mid-2022 and 2023, as interest rates began to climb, demand cooled but inventory remained low. Buyers faced stiff competition, especially in the North West, South, and City Centre, where months of supply regularly stayed below 2.5. Sellers held most of the power during that period, and bidding wars were not uncommon.
Fast forward to July 2025, and the story has shifted. With 4.82 months of supply in the North East and 5.00 months in the East, buyers now enjoy options and negotiating leverage not seen in years. Even though every district is reporting year-over-year price declines, the adjustment follows several years of sustained growth. In most cases, today’s prices remain above pre-2020 levels—creating opportunity for buyers while preserving long-term stability for owners.
Buyer and Investor Scenarios
First-time buyer: Comparing Skyview Ranch (NE) and Evanston (NW) might reveal lower prices and more negotiating room in the NE, while the NW offers tighter supply and faster-moving listings.
Investor: With softer prices in the NE, North, and West, there’s an opportunity to acquire at a discount relative to 2024. Solid tenant demand near transit and amenities can support yields.
Downsizer: Trading a large yard for a West Springs row home can reduce maintenance while keeping a private entrance and garage—without sacrificing comfort.
Buyer Q&A: Row Homes in Calgary
Are row homes a good investment in 2025?
Yes—especially in districts where supply has surged. Prices are down between ~2% and ~6% year-over-year, but rental demand remains healthy. Investors can enter at lower purchase prices while capturing long-term equity growth when supply balances out. The North East and North stand out for value-seekers.
How do row homes compare to condos in terms of monthly costs?
Many row homes have little to no condo/HOA fees, unlike apartment-style condos that often charge several hundred dollars monthly for amenities. This makes row homes appealing for budget-conscious buyers who want ownership without ongoing high fees.
Will row home prices keep falling?
Prices have trended down for three consecutive months, but Calgary’s market history suggests these cycles are temporary. Districts like the North East and East could see further short-term adjustments given their high supply, while tighter markets like the North West and City Centre may stabilize sooner. For buyers, this window represents opportunity.
Which Calgary communities are best for family-friendly row homes?
How do I know if a row home is right for me?
If you want more space than a condo, prefer a private entrance and garage, and don’t mind shared walls, row homes are an excellent fit. They balance affordability and comfort for first-time buyers, families, and downsizers alike.
Who Should Consider a Row Home Right Now?
- First-time buyers priced out of detached homes but wanting more than an apartment.
- Young families seeking three bedrooms, garages, and proximity to schools/parks.
- Investors capitalizing on supply-heavy districts and softer pricing.
- Downsizers who prefer modern, low-maintenance homes with private entrances.
Key Takeaways
- Inventory Surge = Choice: With 6,917 homes city-wide and row home supply highest in the East (5.00) and NE (4.82), buyers have more selection than in recent years.
- Row Prices Under Pressure: Every district saw year-over-year price declines, ranging from −1.57% (NW) to −6.48% (NE). The NE, North, and West posted the steepest drops.
- District Matters: City Centre and NW remain relatively tight, while NE, North, and East are clearly buyer-leaning.
Final Thoughts
Row homes have always balanced affordability and functionality. In 2025, they also deliver something rarer: choice and negotiating leverage. If you are buying your first home, scaling up from a condo, or investing for the long term, Calgary’s row home market offers unique opportunities this year.
Now is an excellent time to explore row homes if you value space, modern layouts, and price flexibility. The combination of affordability and supply growth makes this segment one of the most buyer-friendly in Calgary.
Data is supplied by Pillar 9™ MLS® System. Pillar 9™ is the owner of the copyright in its MLS® System. Data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed accurate by Pillar 9™. The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos are owned by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify the quality of services provided by real estate professionals who are members of CREA. Used under license.
