Calgary is divided into four separate quadrants including the northeast, northwest, southeast and southwest. While any other city can be cut into a pie like this you need to get familiar with these names if you're planning a move to Calgary. These divisions are commonly referred to by residents in the city and the media.

Here's a brief overlook at these four different sections with each having their own personality and distinction to them.

Northeast Calgary

The northeast section is separated by the Deerfoot Trail from the rest of the city. Much of Calgary's commuting traffic uses this freeway and it can get quite busy during rush hour. There is a lot of industrial area in this quadrant as well as older neighborhoods for the working class. Attractions include the Prehistoric Park, Botanical Garden and the Calgary Zoo. This area boasts affordable living, easy access to the rest of Calgary and is a good place to live if you travel frequently with the airport nearby.

Northwest Calgary

This is the area where you will find a lot of the city’s athletic facilities and academic institutions. McMahon Stadium, Canada Olympic Park and the University of Calgary are all located in this section. The northwest has its fair share of upscale residential neighborhoods and is also the home to Kensington Village; an area that attracts an artistic crowd. This is a great place to live if you love to take to the mountains on weekends.

Southeast Calgary

The southeast area of Calgary homes the largest industrial sector of Calgary with fabrication plants, oil refineries etc. There are a lot of housing developments springing up in the area and the neighborhoods that have already been planted here are beautiful. You'll also find many of the best parks of the city here. Attractions include the stampede grounds, the Saddledome and the Spruce Meadows equestrian site.

Southwest Calgary

This is a mix of business and residential areas with a number of upscale communities. If you live in this area you'll have easy access to the downtown core without having to cross any bridges. Here you will find the North Glenmore Reservoir, the 17th Avenue shopping district and the Fourth Street restaurant section for people that are looking for fine cuisine.