Calgary is one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities, known for its beautiful mountain views, booming economy, and high quality of life. But if you're considering moving there — or already live in the city and want to plan your finances better — understanding the cost of living in Calgary is essential.
Housing Costs in Calgary
Housing is often the biggest expense, and Calgary offers a range of options — from downtown condos to suburban family homes.
Average Monthly Rent (2025 estimates):
- 1-bedroom apartment (downtown): CAD $1,650 – $2,000
- 1-bedroom apartment (outside city center): CAD $1,300 – $1,600
- 3-bedroom apartment (downtown): CAD $2,700 – $3,500
- 3-bedroom apartment (outside center): CAD $2,200 – $2,800
Buying property? According to RE/MAX, Calgary’s average home price in early 2025 is around CAD $560,000, though this varies greatly by neighborhood.
Groceries and Food Prices
Calgary’s grocery prices are fairly typical for a large Canadian city. On average, a single person might spend CAD $350–$500/month on groceries, depending on diet and preferences.
Sample Grocery Costs:
- 1L milk: CAD $2.50
- Loaf of bread: CAD $3.00
- 1 dozen eggs: CAD $4.00
- Chicken breast (1kg): CAD $13.00
- Rice (1kg): CAD $4.00
- Apples (1kg): CAD $5.00
Dining out?
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: CAD $20–$25
- Mid-range three-course meal for two: CAD $80–$100
- Coffee (regular cappuccino): CAD $4.50
Transportation Costs
Calgary has a decent public transit system (bus and C-Train), and many residents also drive.
Public Transit (Calgary Transit):
- Monthly adult pass: CAD $115
- Single adult fare: CAD $3.70
- Youth monthly pass: CAD $82
Driving a car? Expect:
- Gasoline (per liter): CAD $1.55 – $1.75
- Insurance: CAD $1,200–$1,800/year, depending on driving history
- Parking (downtown): CAD $150–$400/month
For route planning and schedules, visit Calgary Transit.
Utilities and Internet
Monthly utilities for a standard 85m² apartment generally cost between CAD $150–$250. This typically includes:
- Heating
- Electricity
- Water
- Garbage
Internet plans cost:
- Basic internet (50–100 Mbps): CAD $60–$80/month
- Faster plans (300+ Mbps): CAD $90–$130/month
Popular providers include Shaw and Telus.
Clothing, Fitness & Entertainment
Clothing:
- Jeans (Levi’s or similar): CAD $70–$100
- Summer dress: CAD $50–$80
- Running shoes (Nike or Adidas): CAD $100–$140
Gym & Fitness:
- Monthly gym membership: CAD $50–$80
- Drop-in yoga class: CAD $15–$25
Entertainment:
- Movie ticket: CAD $15–$18
- Local beer (pint): CAD $7–$9
- Banff day trip (rental + food): around CAD $80–$150
Calgary also has free or low-cost outdoor options — parks, trails, and city festivals are accessible year-round.
Education and Childcare
If you have kids or plan to study:
- Daycare (full-time, monthly): CAD $1,000–$1,400
- Private elementary school: CAD $12,000–$18,000/year
- University tuition (international undergrad): CAD $18,000–$25,000/year
- University tuition (domestic): CAD $6,000–$8,000/year
For a breakdown of tuition and program costs, check University of Calgary's official page.
Salary vs Cost of Living
The average salary in Calgary in 2025 is approximately CAD $70,000–$85,000 per year, depending on industry and experience. Calgary remains more affordable than cities like Vancouver or Toronto, especially when comparing real estate and commute times.
Is Calgary Expensive to Live In?
Pros:
- Lower housing costs than Toronto/Vancouver
- No provincial sales tax (just the federal 5% GST)
- Strong job market in energy, tech, healthcare
Cons:
- Cold winters (higher heating bills)
- Car ownership is more common than in transit-heavy cities
- Rapidly changing rental prices in some areas
FAQ
Q: Is Calgary cheaper than Toronto or Vancouver?
A: Yes, especially in terms of rent and real estate. Day-to-day expenses are slightly lower too.
Q: Can I live in Calgary without a car?
A: Yes, particularly if you live near a C-Train station. But many locals find owning a car convenient.
Q: What’s a good salary to live comfortably in Calgary?
A: Around CAD $65,000–$80,000 per year for a single person or CAD $100,000+ for a family.
Q: Is healthcare free in Calgary?
A: Alberta has publicly funded healthcare. Residents need to register for the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).
Q: Is Calgary a good place to raise a family?
A: Absolutely — safe neighborhoods, good schools, lots of parks, and family-friendly events year-round.
Conclusion
The cost of living in Calgary is quite reasonable for a major Canadian city. It offers a balance between career opportunities, outdoor lifestyle, and affordable housing — especially compared to its west coast counterparts.
Whether you're planning a move or just budgeting for the year ahead, Calgary provides strong value without compromising on quality of life.
Tip: Use tools like Numbeo to keep tabs on live price updates, and consider budgeting apps like YNAB or Mint to stay on track financially.
