- Purchase the complete Expat Arrivals Calgary Guide (PDF)
While not quite as expensive as Toronto's or Vancouver's, Calgary's cost of living is still relatively high in some aspects. Mercer's 2022 Cost of Living Survey placed Calgary 141st out of 227 cities surveyed, making it the fifth most expensive city in Canada.
Cost of accommodation in Calgary
Housing is likely to be the biggest expense expats in Calgary will incur. There is a significant shortage of affordable accommodation in the city, which has driven up rental prices in the city centre and forced many families into the outlying areas and suburbs of Calgary.
Cost of entertainment in Calgary
Luckily, most of what Calgary has to offer in terms of lifestyle is focused on the outdoors and is therefore relatively inexpensive. With an abundance of green spaces, expats in Calgary will likely spend most of their time on the hiking and biking trails in the Rockies instead of splurging their hard-earned dollars at a shopping mall.
Cost of eating out in Calgary
In terms of dining opportunities, Calgary lags behind the more cosmopolitan Canadian cities. While much of the cuisine is American, expats can explore the city to discover some of its hidden culinary gems. Those who like to eat out will find the cost quite reasonable.
Cost of education in Calgary
Expats relocating to Calgary with children will be glad to know they have the option of sending their child to a public school in the province at no cost. Alberta’s education system benefits from extensive government funding, and some of the province’s best performing public schools are in Calgary. Nevertheless, childcare outside of school hours can be eye-wateringly expensive, and expat parents with little ones will have to budget for this.
Cost of transportation in Calgary
The cost of travelling in Calgary is relatively affordable, especially compared to other major Canadian cities. A monthly integrated travel pass is the most cost-effective means of getting around in Calgary. While taxis are readily available in the city centre, they are not cheap. Running a vehicle is also becoming increasingly expensive, so expats should consider car ownership carefully.
Cost of living in Calgary chart
Prices may vary depending on product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for August 2022.
Accommodation (monthly rent in a good area) |
|
One-bedroom apartment in city centre |
CAD 1,372 |
One bedroom apartment outside city centre |
CAD 1,160 |
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre |
CAD 2,630 |
Three-bedroom apartment outside city centre |
CAD 1,989 |
Shopping |
|
Milk (1 litre) |
CAD 2.32 |
Loaf of white bread |
CAD 2.88 |
Chicken breasts (1kg) |
CAD 13.82 |
Rice (1kg) |
CAD 3.12 |
Dozen eggs |
CAD 3.77 |
Pack of cigarettes |
CAD 16 |
Eating out |
|
Big Mac meal |
CAD 11.99 |
Coca Cola (330ml) |
CAD 2.25 |
Cappuccino |
CAD 4.89 |
Bottle of beer (local) |
CAD 7 |
Three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant |
CAD 82.50 |
Utilities |
|
Mobile call rate (per minute – mobile to mobile) |
CAD 0.28 |
Internet (average per month) |
CAD 86.63 |
Basic utilities (per month for a small apartment) |
CAD 237.33 |
Transportation |
|
Taxi rate/km |
CAD 2 |
City centre bus/train fare |
CAD 3.60 |
Petrol (per litre) |
CAD 1.78 |
Further reading
► Accommodation in Calgary provides a detailed overview of the city's property market
Expat Interviews
"The cost of living in Calgary is high compared to back home, but it’s all relative once you start earning a Canadian salary. Housing is quite reasonable, and pretty much on par, if not cheaper than what we would have paid in Cape Town. Food is expensive, especially meat. Fresh produce is also expensive and not always the best quality – we really miss the beautiful fresh South African produce. Cars are affordable and gas is cheap, but insurance is exorbitant. Schooling and healthcare are free, although dental, optometry and medicines are not included under Alberta Health, and they are expensive. However, most companies offer their employees health benefits to help cover these costs."
Read about South African expat Catherine's experiences in Calgary.
Are you an expat living in Calgary?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Calgary. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global
If you’re thinking about taking out private health insurance, our trusted partner Cigna Global is very aware of all the difficulties that expats can face when it comes to healthcare in a new location, so they have created a range of international health insurance plans specifically designed for expats, which you can tailor exactly to the needs and ensure access to quality care for you and your family.
Moving Companies
Moving Internationally?
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.