CalgaryvsEdmonton
Overall
💰-5.6%
Calgary is 5.6%cheaper
Rent
🏠-10.0%
Housing is 10.0% lower
Dining
🍽️-6.7%
Restaurants 6.7% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-2.5%
Food shopping 2.5% less
Comparing the cost of living between Calgary, Canada and Edmonton, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Calgary is more affordable than Edmonton by approximately 5.6%. 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 Calgary are higher than in Edmonton by 11%. A one-bedroom apartment in Calgary's city center costs around CA$1,600, while the same in Edmonton is approximately CA$1,400.
Dining out in Calgary costs about the same compared to Edmonton. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$20 in Calgary versus CA$18 in Edmonton.
Public transportation in Calgary is more expensive, with monthly passes at CA$112 compared to CA$100 in Edmonton.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Calgary can expect to spend approximately CA$730 per month (excluding rent), while in Edmonton, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$695. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CA$2,555 monthly in Calgary versus CA$2,431 in Edmonton. 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 Edmonton 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 Edmonton 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
Calgary
Edmonton
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Calgary more expensive than Edmonton?
No, Calgary is approximately 5.6% cheaper than Edmonton. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Calgary compared to Edmonton?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 95% of your Edmonton salary when living in Calgary. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Edmonton, you'd need about $47,368 in Calgary for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Calgary and Edmonton?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 11%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show smaller 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 Calgary if you prioritize earning potential, or Edmonton for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Calgary vs Edmonton?
In Calgary, a single person needs approximately CA$2,030 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about CA$4,755. In Edmonton, these figures are CA$1,795 for singles and CA$4,331 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Calgary and Edmonton in 2025 shows moderate 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 Edmonton to maintain your lifestyle from Calgary
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