So, you’re thinking about moving to Alberta, but you’re stuck in the ultimate showdown: Calgary vs Edmonton.
It’s like choosing between pizza and burgers — they’re both great, but they offer something different. Let’s break down this battle and figure out which city is your next home sweet home.
Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of which city suits your needs best.
If you’re deciding between Calgary or Edmonton, one of the biggest factors is the cost of living. While both cities offer a great quality of life, Calgary is slightly more expensive compared to Edmonton.
Housing is one of the most significant expenses when you’re thinking of moving, and whether you want to live in Calgary or Edmonton, it’s a major decision.
Fun Fact: The cost of living in Calgary is about 18% higher in terms of housing, which makes Edmonton a more affordable choice, especially if you’re eyeing family-sized homes.
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Buying a Home
If you’re looking to settle permanently, Calgary’s average home price is around $553,800, while Edmonton offers more affordable homes, averaging $374,100. For first-time buyers, this difference might be the deciding factor.
Note: If you want to find a home in a more affordable area, consider northern Edmonton for cheaper real estate or northwest Calgary for good value.
Utilities in Calgary are higher too — expect to pay around $347 per month, while Edmonton comes in at about $295 per month. Internet services, surprisingly, are also more affordable in Edmonton, where a 60 Mbps plan costs about $86, compared to $96 in Calgary.
When it comes to work, both cities offer solid options, but Calgary has a slight edge if you’re looking at higher-paying private sector jobs.
Calgary is the hub for Canada’s oil and gas industry, making it the go-to for energy professionals. On the other hand, Edmonton is more government-centric, with many residents employed in public sectors such as healthcare and education.
Want to know who earns more? Here’s a quick breakdown:
It’s clear: Calgary tends to offer higher salaries across industries. However, Edmonton still provides steady job growth, particularly in emerging fields like tech and renewable energy.
Pro Tip: If you’re in the public sector, Edmonton might be a better bet. But if you’re chasing higher paychecks, Calgary’s where the money is.
Read…
Both Calgary and Edmonton have a lot to offer in terms of culture, climate, and fun. But when it comes to choosing a city to call home, you’ll want to look closely at the details.
Calgary is known for its Chinook winds, which can warm up the city even in the dead of winter. However, Edmonton gets more snow and has colder winters, but also enjoys long summer days.
Weather in Calgary can swing dramatically, whereas Edmonton is slightly colder, but more predictable. Personally, I think the occasional surprise warm day in winter is a bonus, but if you’re a snow lover, Edmonton might win your heart.
Let’s talk fun! Both cities offer amazing outdoor and cultural activities.
For those who love nature, Edmonton’s River Valley offers scenic beauty right in the city, while Calgary’s proximity to the mountains is unbeatable.
Both cities boast excellent public school systems, but Edmonton may have a slight edge in terms of innovative programs. Calgary Board of Education and Edmonton Public Schools offer French immersion, bilingual, and alternative programs, giving families a range of educational options.
If higher education is a priority, both cities house some of Canada’s top universities. The University of Alberta in Edmonton is known for its strong research programs, while The University of Calgary shines in engineering and business.
Want a more hands-on education?
NAIT (Northern Alberta Institute of Technology) in Edmonton and SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology) in Calgary offer excellent trade and vocational programs.
Healthcare access is crucial, and both cities excel here. With well-regarded hospitals and clinics, you can expect quality care in both places. However, wait times can be a factor, and Calgary‘s larger population sometimes means longer queues.
So, should you choose to live in Calgary or Edmonton? Here’s the summary of the pros and cons to help you decide:
| Pros | Cons |
Living in Calgary | ● Higher average salaries ● Proximity to the Rockies for outdoor adventures ● Famous for the Calgary Stampede and a vibrant nightlife | ● Higher cost of living ● Real estate is pricier than in Edmonton |
Living in Edmonton | ● Lower cost of living ● Fantastic park system and West Edmonton Mall ● Strong public sector job opportunities | ● Colder winters and more snow ● Slightly lower average salaries |
Ultimately, both Calgary and Edmonton offer a great balance of job opportunities, culture, and lifestyle.
It really comes down to what you value more: a higher cost of living with bigger paychecks and mountain access in Calgary, or more affordable living with a strong sense of community in Edmonton. As far as I’m concerned, you can’t go wrong either way!
Whatever city you choose, you’re sure to find a great place to call home in either of these fantastic Alberta cities.
Until next time!
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Executive Moving Concierge: Calgary and Edmonton are both great Alberta cities with their own unique characteristics. Calgary is known for its vibrant economy and proximity to the Rocky Mountains, while Edmonton is the capital of Alberta and offers a rich cultural scene with numerous festivals and events.
Executive Moving Concierge: The cost of living in Calgary is generally higher than in Edmonton. Calgary is more expensive when it comes to housing, with luxury homes in Calgary being particularly costly. Additionally, everyday expenses such as groceries and dining out tend to be pricier in Calgary compared to Edmonton.
Executive Moving Concierge: Both cities offer strong employment opportunities, but Calgary is often seen as the financial hub of Alberta, attracting many businesses and corporations. Edmonton also has a diverse job market, particularly in government, education, and healthcare sectors.
Executive Moving Concierge: The weather in Calgary is typically milder compared to Edmonton. Calgary also experiences more sunshine throughout the year. Edmonton, on the other hand, tends to have colder winters with more snow. Both cities can experience varying weather patterns due to their northern location.
Executive Moving Concierge: The real estate market in Calgary is generally more expensive than Edmonton, with higher property values and rental prices. Edmonton, however, offers more affordable housing options, making it a more budget-friendly choice for homebuyers and renters.
Executive Moving Concierge: Calgary transit is well-developed with an extensive network of buses and light rail transit (LRT). Edmonton transit also has a comprehensive system, including buses and an LRT network. Both cities provide reliable public transportation options for residents.
Executive Moving Concierge: Yes, both cities have reputable educational institutions. Calgary is home to the University of Calgary, which is known for its strong research programs. Edmonton also boasts several prominent institutions, including the University of Alberta, which is one of the top universities in Canada.
Executive Moving Concierge: Both cities offer vibrant cultural and recreational scenes. Calgary hosts numerous events and festivals, such as the Calgary Stampede, and has a variety of outdoor activities due to its proximity to the Rockies. Edmonton is known for its arts and culture, with numerous festivals, theaters, and museums.
Executive Moving Concierge: Deciding between Calgary or Edmonton depends on your personal preferences and priorities. Consider factors such as employment opportunities, cost of living, weather, and lifestyle. Both cities have their own unique advantages and can provide a high quality of life for residents.
Executive Moving Concierge: Both Edmonton and Calgary are family-friendly cities with a range of amenities and activities for families. Calgary is known for its excellent parks and recreational facilities, while Edmonton offers numerous family-oriented events and attractions. Residents of either city can enjoy a supportive and safe environment for raising children.
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