Located in Alberta, Calgary is the province’s economic and cultural center. Alberta has a western border with British Columbia, an eastern border with Saskatchewan, and a northern border with the Northwest Territories; all these provinces and territories border the United States.

Calgary has all the energy of a big city and the warm and friendly atmosphere of a close-knit community. Economist Intelligence Unit said that Calgary is the third best place to live in the world. Calgary is a city with many different neighbourhoods and a lot of opportunities. It might surprise you.

People often refer to Calgary as the Gateway to the Rocky Mountains. Keep reading to learn more about this beautiful area.

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Calgary’s Character City

The provincial capital of Edmonton is around 2.5 hours north of Calgary, although Calgary is significantly larger. The city is located at the confluence of the Bow River and Elbow River in the south of the province. Calgary anchors the south end of what Statistics Canada defines as the “Calgary–Edmonton Corridor.”

Calgary, an important urban center, serves as a hub for the whole southern part of Alberta. A stunningly beautiful, naturally abundant, and relatively untouched landscape surrounds this area.

It is home to a diverse population of over 1 million people from all over the world who are attracted to it for its high standard of living, economic opportunities (especially in the energy sector), and cultural attractions such as theatre, music, and festivals.

Calgary’s diversified economy is based on natural resources, manufacturing, and tourism. Significant industries in Calgary include oil and gas production, coal mining, construction, transportation, and logistics; technology firms; telecommunications; agriculture-related industries; and retail trade. 

In 2018 Calgary had a GDP of US$1653B and was named by Forbes as one of North America’s Top 10 Fastest Growing Cities for business. 

In 1988 Calgary became known as “Canada’s Olympic City” when it hosted the XV Olympic Winter Games. The city has hosted many international events, including the 1988 Winter Olympics, the 2001 World Championships in Athletics, and World water ski Championships in 2009.

Moreover, if we talk about its culture, we would say Calgary is a lively, vibrant place where people come together to celebrate life and all its many facets. It’s considered a gateway to many outdoor activities in the province, including skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and camping.

Calgary is known as “Cowtown” because it’s famous for its rodeo culture and Western heritage. You’ll also find plenty of opportunities for leisure activities like hiking and biking in our beautiful outdoor spaces.

Cost of Living in Calgary

The city of Calgary is located in the prairies of Western Canada and is one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada. It has become a hub for business and culture, attracting many new residents worldwide.

A lot of people are moving to Calgary, Alberta. And that is a great thing. But there are some things you should know before moving, and the cost of living can’t be overlooked.

The cost of living in Calgary is higher than the national average but still lower than in many other major Canadian cities. The city is home to an oil and gas industry that has fluctuated over the years but remains one of the province’s largest employers.

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 According to Numbeo, the cost of living in Calgary is 36% lower than Canada’s average.

But what does that mean for you? If you’re moving to Calgary from another province or country, here’s how much you can expect your monthly budget to increase:

Housing and Real Estate.

The cost of living in Calgary is high, but the quality of life is top-notch. Housing prices are higher than in most other cities in Canada, but that’s partly because few neighbourhoods aren’t close to downtown.

If you’re looking for a house or condo, expect to pay more than $500,000 for an average-sized home. This is affordable compared to other major cities in Canada and the United States.

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $1,000/month. Renting a two-bedroom is between $1,500 and $2,000 per month. If you’re willing to share an apartment with someone else, your monthly rent could be significantly less expensive.

A typical monthly bill for utilities might include hydro (electricity), water, heating, air conditioning, garbage collection, and sewage treatment. The average monthly bill for all utilities could range from $150 to $250, depending on where and how many people live in your home.

In addition to your utilities, you’ll probably have other regular expenses, including cell phone bills, cable television bills, Internet access service fees, and other household items like groceries and personal care items. 

These expenses can add up quickly, so you must budget each month accordingly so that you don’t fall behind on any payments or find yourself having trouble paying the bills when they come due each month.

Transportation

The cost of transportation in Calgary is meager, especially considering the quality of its public transportation. The city has an excellent bus and light rail system connecting many of the city’s most popular areas. A monthly pass for public transit costs $100, and a monthly car insurance policy will run you around $200.

The average cost of transportation in Calgary is about $2,000 per year. This includes the cost of owning and maintaining a car, driving costs, and public transit costs.

If you have a car and need to fill up on gas, expect to spend about $1.30 for a liter of regular unleaded fuel. The average driver spends about $2,360 on gas each year.

In addition to owning and maintaining a car, there are other transportation costs. The average person spends about $1,250 per year on public transit fares in Calgary.

Healthcare Services

The cost of healthcare services in Calgary can vary depending on where you live, but generally speaking, it’s not cheap! If you need medical attention from a physician or other healthcare professional, expect to pay anywhere from $60 to $200 per visit.

Hospitals in Calgary are operated by Alberta Health Services, which is a provincially-funded agency that oversees all medical facilities throughout the province.

Additional hospital support comes from the Alberta Ministry of Health and Wellness, which operates several specialized health clinics throughout Calgary.

Pharmaceuticals are covered by Alberta’s public drug plan, which provides prescription medications at no cost to patients who qualify for coverage. Residents who do not qualify for coverage can purchase drugs through private insurance plans or with their cash payments at most pharmacies across Calgary.

AHCIP (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan) is a mandatory health insurance program for all residents of Alberta. It ensures that all residents have access to the same level of health care, regardless of their ability to pay.

You must register for AHCIP when you become a permanent resident and may be liable for a one-time premium if you are not eligible for coverage under another plan.

Dining Costs

According to Numbeo’s Cost of Living Index, groceries cost an average of $139 per month. That’s roughly $1.50 daily for those who eat three meals daily. If you’re single or married without children, this amount is probably enough for you to get by on most days. 

You’ll need to be extra frugal if you already have kids or plan to have them shortly. If you go out with friends often and order appetizers or drinks along with your meal, this will add up quickly!

Dining costs can be reasonable or pricey depending on where you eat; there are plenty of cheap options around town; if you go to sit-down restaurants or casual dining places, expect to pay between $10-$15 per meal. 

However, in case you want a nice meal out with friends or family, expect to pay more than $30 per person on average at any local restaurant.

A cup of coffee will cost you around $4, but if you’re looking for a nice latte or cappuccino, it will cost closer to $5 or $6.

If you’re planning to drink after work or on weekends, expect to pay around C$10 for a pint of beer. A glass of wine will cost around C$7-$8 at most restaurants and bars. A single cocktail will typically cost around C$9-$12 in most Calgary establishments.

Recreational Activities

The great thing about Calgary is that it’s an outdoor lover’s paradise. Mountains surround the city, and in the winter, you’ll be hard-pressed to find someone who’s not skiing or snowboarding. There are also plenty of trails for those who prefer to hike, cycle or run instead.

Calgary has several large fitness centers which offer a range of classes, including yoga, Pilates and spinning. There are also small gyms throughout the city that offer more affordable options for those on a budget. If you’re looking for somewhere to swim, there are several community pools around Calgary.

Swimming pools are one of the biggest attractions in Calgary. The city offers numerous public swimming options. Access to all of the pools is included in the one flat rate. The cost for an adult ranges from $6 to $8.

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How To Move to Calgary From Abroad?

Moving to Calgary can be a rewarding and exciting experience. The city offers various jobs, career opportunities, and an incredible quality of life.

Moving to Calgary from abroad is not as simple as it might seem. A lot of paperwork and documentation will need to be completed before you can get your permanent residency in Canada.

The first step in moving to Calgary from abroad is finding out what immigration options are available. There are several ways that people can become permanent residents of Canada, each with its requirements and restrictions.

You must choose which option works best for you based on your circumstances and personal preferences.

You can apply for a temporary work or study permit if you’re already in Canada. However, if you don’t meet the requirements of these programs or want permanent residence status, you will need to apply through one of these immigration programs.

  • Working Holiday Visa
  • Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program
  • Canadian Experience Class
  • Express Entry
  • Business Programs

Calgary’s Transportation Services

Calgary’s Transportation Services provides safe, reliable, and efficient transportation services to citizens, businesses, and visitors. The Transportation Department provides transportation services, including roads, sidewalks, bikeways, and pathways.

Moreover, It also manages traffic safety and parking to ensure road users are safe and can get around safely.

Calgary’s transportation system is one of the most advanced in North America. It includes a network of highways, roads, bridges, and tunnels that connect Calgary to surrounding communities. 

The city’s public transit system consists of buses and light rail transit (LRT) that operate on several routes throughout Calgary, making it easy to get from A to B without driving. Let’s go over some of Calgary’s more common means of transportation.

Through Bus

The first method is by bus. The city has a vast network of buses that can take you from one end of the city to the other end. The bus system also connects with other major cities in Alberta and BC, including Edmonton and Vancouver.

The Calgary Transit system is the best way to get around town and is incredibly easy to use. Calgary Transit operates a very straightforward bus system. The buses are clean and comfortable, and you can pay for your ticket on the bus with pre-loaded transit cards.

Riding a bus costs $3.30 for adults and $2 for children under 12 years old. There are also daily passes available, allowing limited rides on all buses within Calgary for only $11. 

Through Train,

The main form of transportation in Calgary is the C-Train, a light rail train that runs from downtown to the suburbs. There are two lines: Red and Blue. 

The Red Line runs north to the southwest and stops at several stations. The Blue Line runs south to north, connecting Saddletowne to Tuscany. In addition, it also makes stops at a considerable number of stations along the route.

The two lines meet again at City Hall station, connected by a third line known as the Green Line. Tickets can be purchased at any station and come in different denominations: a one-way ticket costs $3.15 for adults and $1.65 for youth/seniors; an unlimited monthly pass costs $103.

Through Air,

Calgary is a central air transportation hub for Canada. The city is served by two airports, the Calgary International Airport (YYC) and the Calgary/Springbank Airport (YBW).

YYC is the main airport for commercial airlines in Calgary. It’s just west of the city center and about 30 minutes away from downtown by car. 

Several airlines operate at this airport, including Air Canada, WestJet,Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines. There are several non-stop flights from YYC to cities across Canada and the United States.

The Springbank Airport serves as a reliever airport for YYC. This airport is primarily used for corporate or private planes flying into Calgary for business purposes. 

Through Taxi/ Uber

The taxi system in Calgary is pretty good, especially compared to other Canadian cities. Several taxi companies operate in the city, and they can be found almost anywhere at any time of day or night.

The rates depend on the type of cab you want (regular cab vs luxury car), but they’re not too expensive compared to other places.

Uber is a popular app that allows you to request a driver to come to pick you up. This is great if you are going somewhere specific or want to avoid driving in the city. Uber is more expensive than a taxi, but it’s convenient and helpful if you need to get somewhere quickly or don’t feel like driving in rush hour traffic.

You can use your phone to track the driver on their way to your location, which makes it easy for them to find where you are.

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Through Car2Go,

Car2go is another popular option for getting around Calgary. Depending on how long you need, you can rent cars by the minute or hour and drop them off at any legal parking space within their service area. It’s an excellent way for newcomers who aren’t sure about owning a car yet.

Moreover, This service is excellent because it allows people with limited funds to access cars without paying expensive monthly rates like they would if they owned their vehicle.

Weather in Calgary

The weather in Calgary is pretty much the best. Calgary is a city that has four distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold winters.

Summers are long, hot, and sunny, which can shock you if you’re used to the rainier parts of Canada. But once you get used to it, you’ll spend every spare minute outside. The average high temperature in July is 30°C or more additional days.

The city’s most famous weather event is The Chinook, a warming wind blowing down from the Rocky Mountains. It can bring temperatures up to 30 degrees above the average high temperature for an entire week.

The Chinook winds are so powerful that they can change the course of rivers and blow over buildings.

But don’t worry, the chinooks aren’t as intense in winter. If you’re visiting Calgary during winter, you’ll probably get some chilly days (and nights). Temperatures during this time of year tend to hover around -10° C, which is still much better than in other cities.

This is because the city’s proximity to the mountains creates a sort of “snow shadow,” keeping it warmer than it would otherwise be.

During the winter, you can expect to see lots of snow and ice on the roads and sidewalks. Alberta has some of the worst weather conditions in Canada, so you must be prepared for all weather-related mishaps.

The best time to visit Calgary if you’re interested in experiencing nice weather is from June to August. These months are called the “beautiful months” because they fall between summer and winter. They are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking or camping at one of our many provincial parks.

Practiced Culture in Calgary

Calgary is a city of many cultures, and the diversity of its people is one of its greatest strengths. Since Europeans and immigrants from other countries began settling in the area, many different cultures have called Calgary home.

 It’s home to the Calgary Stampede, one of the world’s largest rodeos, and the world-famous Calgary Folk Music Festival. The city has over 100 live-music venues and hosts several festivals annually, including the Calgary International Film Festival and the Calgary International Blues Festival.

Calgary has 18 museums and galleries that are open to the public. It also offers many art galleries and studios where you can purchase original art or learn about local artists. Venues and theatres that are popular include

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Best Things To Do in Calgary

Calgary is a city on the rise. It’s home to some of Canada’s biggest companies and most innovative startups, and it’s also a tourist destination. There’s plenty to see and do, from the arts to the food scene in Calgary.

 Here are some of the best things to do in Calgary:

Check Out the Calgary Stampede

The Calgary Stampede is a ten-day rodeo and festival every July. It’s one of the most significant events in the city and draws visitors from all over the world. 

There are different events and activities, including chuckwagon racing, barrel racing, bull riding, and calf roping. The Stampede also has concerts, dances, parades, and fireworks.

Take the Calgary Tower

The Calgary Tower is the city’s most famous landmark and is also home to a public observation deck 1200 feet above ground level. It’s an excellent way to get a bird’s eye view of Calgary’s city center and see how it has grown over the years.

The tower offers 360-degree views of the city and surrounding area, including downtown and the Rocky Mountains. When you reach the top of The Calgary Tower, you’ll be rewarded with amazing views of this beautiful city.

You’ll see across the mountains in one direction and another; you can look over downtown Calgary and see all of its beauty too.

Visit the Calgary Zoo.

The zoo is home to over 5,000 animals representing more than 500 species worldwide. With so many animals on display, there’s something for everyone here.

If you’re looking for something special, check out the zoo’s annual Penguin Plunge or Polar Bear Plunge events, where visitors can get up close with these amazing creatures.

Visit the Saddledome To Get Your Flame On.

The Saddledome is a multi-purpose facility in downtown Calgary that hosts concerts, sporting events, and other special events throughout the year. It is home to the National Hockey League team, the Calgary Flames (formerly the Atlanta Flames). 

You can take your kids with flames and red dresses to see their favorite team play or watch other exciting events like monster truck shows, rodeos, and indoor soccer games!

Discover Nature in Banff and the Rockies.

Banff National Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Canada. The park is home to many mountain cliffs and glaciers.

 In summer, you can hike or bike through the park and see wildlife like elk, deer, and bears. In winter, you can ski or snow on one of the many slopes in Banff National Park.

Lake Minnewanka is another popular place to visit outside Banff National Park. It is surrounded by mountain peaks, making it a perfect spot for water sports like boating, fishing, and wakeboarding.

Many hiking trails along the lake lead to small waterfalls where you can stop for lunch on your way back down.

Try Some of the World’s Cuisine

Calgary is a city known for its beautiful landscapes and open spaces. But there’s more to the city than just nature. The food scene is also booming, with many restaurants adding their spin on traditional Canadian dishes.

Calgary is a hub for international cuisine because of its diverse population. You can find restaurants serving Thai, Indian, Persian, Korean, and Japanese food. 

If you’re looking for something more Canadian, hit up local pubs or try some poutine, French fries with gravy, and cheese curds at one of many poutine joints around town.

Some of the best restaurants include

  • Julios Barrio (Mexican),
  • Mercato (Italian),
  • Gaucho Grill (Steakhouse),
  • Bolero ( Brazilian)
  • Kingo ( Japanese Sushi)

Visit Calgary Olympic Park.

Calgary Olympic Park is home to the 1988 Winter Olympics and has been one of the most popular attractions in Calgary ever since it was built. The facility includes many attractions, including Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame and WinSport Climbing Centre. 

The park has several activities, including skating rinks, curling clubs, and even an Olympic ski jump. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the winter, there’s also an outdoor ice rink where kids can learn how to skate or play hockey.

Paint the Calgary Town Crimson

When it comes to nightlife, Calgary has it all. Calgary has everything, whether you’re looking for a place to dance or kick back with a few drinks and some good conversation. Check out these Calgary bars for some of the best drinks:

  • The Rose and Crown
  • Jameson’s
  • National
  • Ranchman’s
  • Roadhouse
  • Cowboy

Work up a Sweat With Sports and Adventure

The best way to get a sweat going? Head over to Calgary’s sports and adventure scene. The city is home to everything from alpine skiing and snowboarding on the mountain to kayaking and rafting in the waters of the Bow River.

If you’re looking for an indoor activity, try curling or ice skating at one of the many arenas around town. You can also check out one of Calgary’s many golf courses or play a round of disc golf at any number of locations around town. 

And once you’ve worked up a sweat, head downtown for dinner and drinks—there are tons of great restaurants with live music venues nearby. 

Visit the Historical Village at Heritage Park.

For those who love history, this museum is a must-see attraction. The village includes indoor and outdoor exhibits that offer visitors a glimpse into life from the past century through various stages of development, including early settlement, World War II, and more recent times.

Animal Services in Calgary

Calgary is a great place to live if you have a pet and want to get involved in the local community. Pet owners can volunteer their time, educate others about responsible pet ownership, and become part of the city’s fabric.

Various organizations offer help and support to people who have lost their pets or are looking for a new home for their animals.

How Does Skill Assessment Works in Calgary?

Skill Assessment is a process that helps you determine what job you are best suited for. It is a part of the immigration process and is mandatory for new immigrants wishing to work in Canada.

Skill assessment usually involves a series of tests or questions that measure the abilities associated with specific tasks. These tests may be designed by the employer or supplied by a third party. 

They are usually administered over a few days to several weeks, depending on how long it takes for candidates to finish all required tasks.

Candidates may be asked to solve problems, take multiple-choice exams, write essays and other assignments, or complete simulations of actual work situations. When hiring new employees, employers usually use these assessments and other tools, such as interviews and background checks.

Government of Alberta – Self-Assessment Test

The government of Alberta has created a self-assessment test that allows you to determine what skills you have and what skills you will need to get ahead in your career. Many companies in Calgary use this test to help them determine where they can place you when they hire you.

International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS)

International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) is an Alberta Advanced Education division responsible for assessing international educational credentials. IQAS will assess the equivalency of your foreign credential and issue you an Alberta Education equivalent if it meets Alberta standards.

Calgary Organization for Immigrants

Many organizations in Calgary also welcome immigrants, as several resources are available to help newcomers. Here are some we recommend checking out:

FAQs

What province is the richest in Canada?

The wealthiest province in Canada is Alberta. The per capita GDP of $69,000 is almost double the national average.

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A GDP per capita is the total value of all goods and services produced in a region divided by the total population of that region.

Alberta’s economy is diverse and robust, benefitting from oil and gas production and agriculture. Alberta has also been an important center for manufacturing since the early 1900s.

The province’s capital, Edmonton, is home to several major corporations, including PCL Constructors Inc., Alberta Health Services (AHS), Alberta Motor Association, and WestJet Airlines Ltd.

What is the wealthiest area in Calgary?

The area that is the richest in Calgary is Springbank. It’s located northwest of the city and is known for its large lots, beautiful views, and high-end homes. Springbank’s average household income is $340,00, nearly twice as much as Calgary’s average household income.

Springbank has undergone many changes over the last few years, including opening a new elementary school and fire station.

This area has become increasingly popular among those who want to be close to nature while still having access to all the amenities that come with living in a major city.

Are groceries more expensive in Calgary?

Yes, groceries are more expensive in Calgary. This has been true for many years and will continue to be so. The reasons are many and complex, but they mostly boil down to the fact that Calgary is an outlier in the Canadian market.

The average Canadian family can expect to pay an extra $966 per year for food due to the 5-7% increase predicted in Canada’s Food Price Report for 2022. The cost of doing business in Calgary is higher than anywhere else in Canada, which translates into higher prices at the grocery store. 

But don’t fret! There are plenty of ways to save at the grocery store — especially if you’re willing to buy in bulk or get creative with your recipes.

Final Thoughts

Whether you are moving from Toronto or USA, you’ll find Calgary as a great place to live, and it’s only improving. The cost of living is lower than in many other Canadian cities, and the quality of life is high. You can find almost everything you need within walking distance—and if you can’t, there are plenty of options for public transportation.

There are many things to do in Calgary, and there are also many opportunities for career advancement. Whether you’re looking for a place to settle down or passing through on your way to somewhere else, we’re sure you’ll find it worth the visit.

We hope this guide has helped you to see some great things about Calgary and the difficulties of living here if you are new to Calgary.

We wish you all the best as you prepare for your move!