Calgary Cost of Living: Calgary, Alberta Living Expenses Guide

When you contemplate settling down in Calgary, Alberta, the cost of living can be a significant factor to consider. You might have heard varying opinions on whether it's truly affordable, so before moving to Calgary, an in-depth exploration of the costs associated with the city is vital. Let's take a closer look at the specifics and nuances that shape the financial landscape of this vibrant city. From housing costs to everyday expenses, understanding the intricacies of the cost of living in Calgary can help you make informed decisions about your future.

Housing Costs in Calgary

When considering the cost of living in Calgary, renting a property is an important expense to consider. Studio apartments downtown start at around $1,300, while three-bedroom rentals begin at around $2,400, providing a range of housing options to suit different needs. Despite a recent increase, Calgary remains relatively affordable compared to places like Vancouver and Toronto. 

The benchmark price for homes in Calgary—a mix of townhomes, single-family houses, and apartment-style condos—typically ranges from $200s to more than $5 million, depending on location and size. Luxury homes in Calgary range from amenity-filled condos to exquisite mansions, with prices falling from $1 million to more than $8 million.  

Bills for heating, electricity, and broadband are also reasonable in Calgary, contributing to the overall living costs. Whether you are looking for a cozy studio or a spacious home, Calgary's market aims to meet your needs without breaking the bank. Choosing the right property is important when aiming to balance comfort and cost in this vibrant city.

Transportation Expenses

Transportation expenses in Calgary can greatly impact your overall cost of living. Car ownership is common in Calgary due to the city's sprawling layout. However, Calgary Transit provides public transit to the city that can be highly convenient and useful depending on your neighbourhood. For example, in Calgary’s City Centre, public transit is highly accessible and convenient.

With the rising cost of housing and other necessities, managing transportation expenses becomes vital for residents living in Calgary. Car-sharing services like Uber offer convenient alternatives for getting around the city.

Considering the increasing cost of housing and goods and services in Calgary, allocating a portion of your budget toward transportation is essential for maintaining a comfortable standard of living. Whether you rely on public transport or drive a car, understanding the impact of transportation expenses on your monthly budget is key. By factoring in transportation costs, you can better manage your overall cost of living as a resident of Calgary.

Grocery and Food Prices

Shifting our focus to grocery and food prices in Calgary reveals further insights into the city's cost of living. In Calgary, the cost of groceries is expected to continue to rise, making groceries essential to your overall expenses. Basic food items like fruits, vegetables, and protein may boast higher prices, but they’re typically still manageable with proper budgeting. 

Popular chain grocery stores in Calgary include: 

• Save-On-Foods
• Real Canadian Superstore 
• Safeway 
• Calgary Co-op 

In terms of eating out, residents have abundant choices throughout the city. Dining out can be relatively affordable in areas further away from Downtown Calgary, but restaurants in areas like the Bridgeland-Riverside neighbourhood are likely to charge a premium. 

Utilities and Monthly Bills

The cost of utilities and monthly bills in Calgary can greatly impact your overall living expenses. As a resident of this major Canadian city, you can expect to spend an average of $200–$300 per month on utilities. This amount covers bills for heating, electricity, and broadband, which are considered essential compared to other cities. The estimated monthly cost for utilities plays a significant role in Calgary's overall cost of living.

Despite the affordability concerns in the city, efficiently managing your utility expenses can help you maintain a comfortable standard of living without exceeding your budget. Make sure to monitor and adjust your utility usage to align with your financial goals and ensure a balanced approach to your monthly bills.

Entertainment and Leisure Budget

When mapping out your entertainment and leisure budget, exploring various affordable options is important to maximize your monthly spending. In Calgary, the average monthly spending on miscellaneous expenses, including leisure and entertainment, is around $100 to $200. This budget allows you to enjoy a variety of entertainment choices, such as dining out, nightlife experiences, and engaging in recreational activities.

For those seeking more budget-friendly options, public swimming pools and fitness centers in Calgary offer affordable leisure activities. The beautiful parks and open spaces provide free entertainment, and Calgary’s top festivals, including the Calgary Stampede, can be enjoyed without breaking the bank.

If you're into fitness, you can expect to pay around $70 for a monthly fitness club pass. Additionally, the Calgary Sport & Social Club offers team sports opportunities, providing a fun and active way to spend your leisure time.

Healthcare Costs in Calgary

Healthcare costs in Calgary are primarily covered by the publicly funded Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP), which includes essential medical services like doctor visits, diagnostic procedures, and oral surgeries. However, without AHCIP registration, routine doctor visits can add up. There are also services like dental coverage that are not included in the AHCIP, such as cleanings and fillings. 

Veterinary expenses for pets are also separate expenses. While AHCIP alleviates some financial burdens, individuals may face additional expenses for non-insured healthcare services in Calgary.

Enjoy Living in Calgary

Living in Calgary, Alberta, can be affordable compared to other major Canadian cities. With manageable transportation expenses, reasonable grocery prices, and a variety of leisure activities ranging from beautiful Nose Hill Park to the dynamic GlobalFest Calgary, the city offers a balanced lifestyle for residents.

If you're interested in Calgary real estate, contact Justin Havre Real Estate Team with eXp Realty with Calgary Homes at (403) 217-0003 to get in touch with a local real estate agent who can help you find your Calgary dream home today.