CalgaryvsMalaga
Overall
💰-16.7%
Calgary is 16.7%cheaper
Rent
🏠-30.0%
Housing is 30.0% lower
Dining
🍽️-20.0%
Restaurants 20.0% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-31.3%
Food shopping 31.3% less
Comparing the cost of living between Calgary, Canada and Malaga, Spain reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Calgary is more affordable than Malaga by approximately 16.7%. 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 Malaga by 43%. A one-bedroom apartment in Calgary's city center costs around CA$1,600, while the same in Malaga is approximately €900.
Dining out in Calgary is notably more expensive compared to Malaga. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$20 in Calgary versus €12 in Malaga.
Public transportation in Calgary is more expensive, with monthly passes at CA$112 compared to €40 in Malaga.
Purchasing power in Calgary is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Malaga.
Grocery shopping in Calgary is more expensive by approximately 45%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
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 Malaga, the same lifestyle would cost around €381. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CA$2,555 monthly in Calgary versus €1,333 in Malaga. 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 Malaga 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 Malaga 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
Malaga
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Calgary more expensive than Malaga?
No, Calgary is approximately 16.7% cheaper than Malaga. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Calgary compared to Malaga?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 86% of your Malaga salary when living in Calgary. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Malaga, you'd need about $42,857 in Calgary for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Calgary and Malaga?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 45%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. 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 Calgary if you prioritize earning potential, or Malaga for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Calgary vs Malaga?
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 Malaga, these figures are €1,081 for singles and €2,433 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Calgary and Malaga in 2025 shows notable 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 Malaga to maintain your lifestyle from Calgary
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