Calgary is the third-largest city in Canada. The population is approximately 1.6 million people. The cost of living in Calgary is generally considered moderate by Canadian standards. It is cheaper than the other two big cities in Canada, Toronto and Vancouver, but more expensive than smaller cities in Canada, such as Alberta and Edmonton. The average monthly cost of living in Calgary ranged from $1800 to $2500 for a single person. The cost for a household family of four is between $4500 to $5500.
Monthly Expense Breakdown
1. Housing Cost
The average sold home price in Calgary is about $620,000. For some specific Calgary data, let’s check the benchmark prices as per the latest data.
- Detached homes price – $750,000
- Semi-detached homes price – $690,000
- Rawhouse – $450,000
- Apartments – $300,000
2. Renting Cost
The average rental home in Calgary ranges from $1,200 to $2,000 for a one-bedroom apartment. Two or three-bedroom homes range from $2,200 to $3,000. Let’s look at the benchmark prices as per the latest data.
- Studio apartments average rent – $1,200 to $1,400
- One-bedroom average rent – $1,500 to $1,700
- Two-bedroom average rent – $1,800 to $2,000
- Three-bedroom average rent – $2,200 to $2,500
- Four bedrooms and above – $3,000 and above
3. Average Food and Grocery Cost
The expense for food and groceries in Calgary is well balanced against the national average price. The average food costs for a single person are about $400 to $550 in Calgary. These prices can vary based on individual eating habits and preferences. For a family of four, the cost ranges between $800 and $1,200.
4. Utility Breakdown Cost
Basic electricity, heating, cooling, water and garbage for a smaller apartment can cost you around $250 to $350 on average every month. Natural gas is the primary energy source for heating, which is affordable and abundant due to the prominence of the oil and gas industry in Calgary. These monthly costs may vary based on factors such as the size of the apartment and individual usage.
5. Transportation Cost
The monthly public transport pass costs between $100 and $120. For drivers, gas and insurance for a car can cost you around $500 to $700 per month. The public transport is affordable, and many options are available, such as buses and the CTrain, making it easy for travellers. The detailed structure is following below.
- Single ride – $4, whereas it’s free for children under 12
- Daily pass – $12 to $13
- Monthly pass – $100 to $120
- Free transit fare for leashed dogs riding with you
6. Lifestyle and Entertainment Cost
The cost of lifestyle and entertainment options also adds to the overall cost of living. Apart from the essentials, Calgary has something for everyone, from night owls to sports enthusiasts and cinema lovers. For foodies, there are various options available from casual fast-food meals to more upscale dining experiences. The monthly gym membership fee cost betwen $50 to $150. Playing golf costs you around $30 to $80 for a round of golf. If you are going for this, then the cost is included in your monthly cost of living.
7. Tax Landscape
The residents pay 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) with no additional provincial sales tax, land transfer tax or health premium. For a $620,000 home value, property taxes are estimated to be around $4,123 or 0.665%.
8. Healthcare and Insurance Cost
Public healthcare coverage in Calgary is funded through taxes, including doctor visits, diagnostic procedures, and hospital stays. Thus, basic health coverage to all residents in Canada. But the private healthcare costs you have to even cover emergency medical services, dental care, vision care, physiotherapy, medication, and other non-emergency services, which are not typically included in public healthcare.
9. Education and Childcare Cost
Education is free in government-funded public schools in Calgary. However, parents need to pay for additional fees for activities. For those who opted for private education, annual tuition fees can range from $3,000 to $28,000, depending on the institution. The average monthly cost of daycare services in Calgary ranged from around $300 to $1000.
Ready for your move to Calgary?
As we have seen, all aspects of Calgary’s cost of living, from housing and daily living expenses, to taxes, healthcare and education, show affordable living. Calgary’s cost of living is less than all the other major cities of Canada, and the quality of living is not sacrificed with Calgary’s rich culture, economy, lifestyle, and entertainment. Calgary balanced cost of living and quality of life.
Salary needed to live comfortably in Calgary
Recent estimates suggest:
- Single renter: about CAD 55k–65k/year
- Couple: around CAD 90k–105k combined
- Family with children: CAD 120k+ combined income
Also, explore more related content about Pros and Cons of Living in Calgary to know more about Calgary and make an informed decision.