Buenos AiresvsCalgary
Overall
💰+80.0%
Buenos Aires is 80.0%more expensive
Rent
🏠+100.0%
Housing is 100.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+114.3%
Restaurants 114.3% pricier
Groceries
🛒+110.5%
Food shopping 110.5% more
Comparing the cost of living between Buenos Aires, Argentina and Calgary, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Buenos Aires is more expensive than Calgary by approximately 80.0%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Buenos Aires are lower than in Calgary by 50%. A one-bedroom apartment in Buenos Aires's city center costs around ARS 400,000, while the same in Calgary is approximately CA$1,600.
Dining out in Buenos Aires offers significant savings compared to Calgary. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ARS 4,000 in Buenos Aires versus CA$20 in Calgary.
Public transportation in Buenos Aires is more expensive, with monthly passes at ARS 2,500 compared to CA$112 in Calgary.
Purchasing power in Calgary is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Buenos Aires.
Grocery shopping in Buenos Aires is more affordable by approximately 53%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Buenos Aires can expect to spend approximately ARS 101,900 per month (excluding rent), while in Calgary, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$730. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ARS 356,650 monthly in Buenos Aires versus CA$2,555 in Calgary. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Buenos Aires to Calgary, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Calgary to Buenos Aires requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Buenos Aires
Calgary
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Buenos Aires more expensive than Calgary?
Yes, Buenos Aires is approximately 80.0% more expensive than Calgary overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Buenos Aires compared to Calgary?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.8x of your Calgary salary when living in Buenos Aires. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Calgary, you'd need about $90,000 in Buenos Aires for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Buenos Aires and Calgary?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 53%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Calgary offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Calgary provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Buenos Aires if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Calgary for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Buenos Aires vs Calgary?
In Buenos Aires, a single person needs approximately ARS 401,900 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ARS 956,650. In Calgary, these figures are CA$2,030 for singles and CA$4,755 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Buenos Aires and Calgary in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Calgary to maintain your lifestyle from Buenos Aires
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