Why did the budget-conscious Calgarian cross the road? To get to the other side… where 🏠 rent was just a little cheaper 💰! Read on to find out the actual cost of living in Calgary.
Don’t worry, have some Budget Savvy Recommendations 🤠 Enjoy life in Calgary without breaking the bank.
Just make sure to hold on tight to your wallet, or you might end up paying more for that Alberta beef than you’d expect.
The average cost of living in Calgary is $1,593.40 without rent per month. 🏙️ Calgary, the biggest city in Alberta, is well-known for having one of the world’s biggest rodeos, the Calgary Stampede. That’s why people often refer to it as “Cowtown” and “Stampede City.”
It’s a popular choice for those seeking a better quality of life and promising opportunities. However, it’s important to note that Calgary’s cost of living is relatively high, although it’s still more affordable than major cities like Toronto or Vancouver.
Calgary’s housing market, like Toronto’s, is a hot commodity—everyone wants a piece of it!
It’s no wonder Calgary is a desirable place to live even though it’s not as crowded as Toronto. Calgary is known for its strong economy and is considered one of the best places to live in Alberta.
If you’re thinking about renting, here’s what you can expect to pay in Calgary:
Area/Neighborhood | 1-Bed Apartment | 3-Bed Apartment |
Calgary (Outside of Center) | $1,630.47 | $2,659.46 |
Source: Numbeo (Sept 2024)
Whether you’re opting for a cozy one-bedroom or need a bit more space with three bedrooms, Calgary’s rental market has options to fit various needs.
💭 Remember, these prices tend to be more expensive in popular neighborhoods.
Buying a home in Calgary is an exciting prospect, especially when you consider the benefits of owning property in one of Canada’s most economically vibrant cities.
Buying a home can be a wise investment, particularly when considering the long-term appreciation and the chance to build equity in a growing city like Calgary.
📚 Read more about Living in Calgary and movers in Calgary:
Q: What is the average monthly cost of utilities in Calgary?
A: The average monthly cost of utilities in Calgary is $379.59.
Utilities are another significant component of the overall cost of living in Calgary. In Calgary, whether you own or rent, utility bills are an important part of your budget.
Natural gas is significant in Alberta, serving as a major energy source and economic driver. Many homes in Alberta use natural gas for heating because it’s affordable.
Here’s a look at what you can expect to pay on a monthly basis for utilities in a 915 sq. ft apartment:
Utilities | Cost |
Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) | $291.18 |
Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | $88.41 |
Total | $379.59 |
Source: Numbeo (Sept 2024)
Q: What is the average monthly cost of groceries in Calgary?
Ans: The average monthly cost of groceries in Calgary is ~$350.
Grocery costs in Calgary are more reasonable compared to other major cities like Toronto or Vancouver. Additionally, basic items such as dairy, eggs, cereals, vegetables, meat, fish, coffee, and more are tax-exempt when purchased in grocery and convenience stores.
Here’s a breakdown of some typical grocery items:
Grocery Item | Cost |
Milk (regular), (1 liter) | $2.69 |
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | $3.47 |
Rice (white) (1 kg) | $4.99 |
Eggs (regular) (12) | $5.31 |
Local Cheese (1 kg) | $20.24 |
Chicken Fillets (1 kg) | $18.44 |
Beef Round (1 kg) | $21.13 |
Apples (1 kg) | $5.83 |
Banana (1 kg) | $1.88 |
Oranges (1 kg) | $5.34 |
Tomato (1 kg) | $5.71 |
Source: Numbeo (Sept 2024)
Q: What is the Calgary Transit monthly pass price?
Ans: The Calgary Transit 🚋 monthly pass price is $115.00.
Getting around Calgary is a breeze, thanks to its efficient public transit system, which includes buses and two Light Rail Transit (LRT) lines, known as the CTrain.
Tickets and passes can be purchased at CTrain stations, online, via the transit app, or at city stores. Payment options at CTrain stations include cash and credit cards, but buses only accept cash and do not give change.
Here’s what you’ll pay for public transit in Calgary:
Canada has three types of sales taxes that vary by province. In Alberta, there’s the GST only, set at about 5%, which applies to purchases of goods and services.
While some items, like basic groceries and sometimes feminine hygiene products, are exempt from sales taxes, the rate for other products depends on the specific province.
Housing costs in Calgary are relatively lower, making it an attractive choice for those looking to buy a Calgary home or invest in condos. The absence of a provincial sales tax and land transfer tax, along with lower living expenses, adds to its appeal. Additionally, the Calgary economy is robust, contributing to the city’s reputation as an economic powerhouse.
In terms of affordability, Calgary stands out among major cities across Canada. Unlike Ontario, which has a provincial tax and higher housing costs, Calgary offers a more budget-friendly living environment.
The absence of a provincial sales tax in Alberta further reduces overall living expenses. For those looking to settle down, the city’s registry services make the process of buying property straightforward and efficient. Overall, Calgary is known for being one of the most affordable major cities in the country, making it an attractive destination for both residents and investors.
When moving to Calgary, you need to know about Alberta’s public healthcare system, known as the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). This plan provides coverage for doctor visits, diagnostic procedures, and hospital stays; however, it doesn’t extend to dental care, alternative treatments, or hearing aids.
Here’s a quick overview of potential healthcare costs:
Type of Healthcare | Cost |
Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance | $65.00 |
Non-Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance | $50.00-$250.00 |
Gym Membership | $80.00 |
Summary of Living Costs in Calgary for 2024:
Monthly Living Costs: $1,593.40 without rent
Rent (1-Bed, Outside City Center): $1,630.47
Utilities (915 sq. ft Apartment): $379.59
Groceries: $350.00
Public Transit (Monthly Pass): $115.00
Entertainment: $200.00
Healthcare (Employer-Sponsored): $65.00
This guide should help you navigate the cost of living in Calgary and ensure a budget-friendly smooth transition as you settle into your new home.
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The average monthly cost of living in Calgary is approximately ~$3,100.00.
Rent in Calgary for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center is around $1,650.00, and for a three-bedroom apartment, it’s about $2,700.00.
Compared to other major Canadian cities, groceries in Calgary are relatively affordable, with an average monthly grocery bill of $350.00.
A monthly pass for Calgary Transit costs $115.00, providing unlimited access to buses and the CTrain.
The average monthly utility bill for a 915 sq. ft apartment in Calgary is around $450.00, covering electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage, and internet services.
Alberta’s public healthcare system, AHCIP, covers essential services like doctor visits and hospital stays, but it does not cover dental, alternative treatments, or hearing aids. Private insurance is available to cover these additional services.
While Calgary’s housing market can be competitive, areas like Bowness, Huntington Hills, and Falconridge tend to be more affordable compared to more central or upscale neighborhoods.
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