West Hill's name comes from its elevated position on the west side of Highland Creek, a deep glacial ravine. Until after World War II, West Hill was largely rural, although it had some commercial development, some even dating back to the late 19th century. The majority of the housing stock in this neighbourhood was built in the 1940s through the 1960s and some newer townhouses and recently added custom-built homes are also sprinkled throughout the community. The area is bordered to the west, north and east by Highland Creek.