Is It Costly to Live in Calgary?

    If you are considering migrating to Canada but quite confuse about what part of Canada you would like to go to, you may want to consider Calgary. With its population of more than 1.4 million people, and ranked as the most livable city in North America and the fifth livable city in the whole world according to the Economist Intelligence Unit, then what else are you looking for? Furthermore, Calgary is the largest city in the province of Alberta, Canada, and the third most diverse major city with more than 120 languages spoken in the city. Calgary sits within the prairies just east of the Rocky Mountains, where the Bow and Elbow rivers meet.

    But if you want to know if it is costly to live in Calgary. Well, for one, you must have a decent job that could get you through with Calgary's cost of living. My sister is currently living in Canada and she said one job is not enough to have both ends meet if you are just new there. Before, she used to have two to three part-time jobs. Good thing she found a permanent job that allows her to work 8 hours a day. The minimum wage in Canada is $15 per hour and Calgary's salary is typically above the Canadian average. The economy in Calgary focuses much on the petroleum industry thus making Calgary the wealthiest city in Canada. The city continues to be known for its 'can-do' attitude and business-friendly environment. The cost of living in Calgary is high relative to smaller towns around Alberta, but quite reasonable compared with most Canadian cities. Residents in Alberta pay no Provincial Sales Tax, instead, they are paying General Goods and Services Tax charged at 5%.

    House prices and rent prices in Calgary are competitive, with plenty of accommodation supply. Purchasing a house in Calgary will cost you at most $420,000, which still depends on the house's size, location, amenities, age, and condition. Before owning a house, you need to check your financial capability, otherwise, you can have other options like a monthly mortgage and the like. If you are living alone, you can opt for a condominium which is a whole lot cheaper of almost 50% compared to a single-detached house. There is also a good supply of rental properties, most of which are unfurnished. Renting a standard one-bed apartment will cost around $1,000 per month, while two-bed versions cost around $300-400 more. But if you really want to make the most out of your money just simply browse on the internet and you can find Calgary Homes For Sale.

    For the mode of transportation in Calgary, they have their Calgary Transit, a public transit service owned and operated by the city of Calgary. A monthly pass will cost you around $100 per month. Living in Calgary without access to vehicles can be totally challenging. It can be difficult to get around Calgary if you don't have a car.

    Calgary has a variety of cafes, restaurants, and pubs available which have impressive offerings in terms of dining out. There are a lot of steak options across the city and most restaurants offer daily specials that are worth a penny if you want to treat yourself any day of the week. But if you are looking for a greater place to pig out, then 17th Avenue is typically the best place to go as many of the best pubs and restaurants are situated here.

    Calgary was also known for its annual Calgary Stampede, a 10-day rodeo festivity that happened every month of July. it is also known as the "Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth." It is participated by cowboys from different places gathered together to showcase their talents.

    Why live in Calgary? Aside from the fact that they are the most livable city, Calgary is clean and beautiful with a modern, attractive downtown, a good-sized meandering river, and the Rocky Mountain backdrop. The Rockies are easily accessible by car from Calgary, with world-class skiing in the winter and incredible vistas in the summer. It has clean air, one of the sunniest climates with low rainfall and most of all with its friendly people.

    So what else are you looking for? Come and live in Calgary!