CalgaryvsMelbourne
Overall
💰+18.1%
Calgary is 18.1%more expensive
Rent
🏠+30.0%
Housing is 30.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+13.3%
Restaurants 13.3% pricier
Groceries
🛒0.0%
Food shopping 0.0% same
Comparing the cost of living between Calgary, Canada and Melbourne, Australia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Calgary is more expensive than Melbourne by approximately 18.1%. 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 lower than in Melbourne by 23%. A one-bedroom apartment in Calgary's city center costs around CA$1,600, while the same in Melbourne is approximately A$2,200.
Dining out in Calgary offers significant savings compared to Melbourne. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$20 in Calgary versus A$20 in Melbourne.
Public transportation in Calgary is more affordable, with monthly passes at CA$112 compared to A$170 in Melbourne.
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 Melbourne, the same lifestyle would cost around A$786. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CA$2,555 monthly in Calgary versus A$2,750 in Melbourne. 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 Calgary to Melbourne, 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 Melbourne to Calgary 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
Melbourne
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Calgary more expensive than Melbourne?
Yes, Calgary is approximately 18.1% more expensive than Melbourne overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Calgary compared to Melbourne?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Melbourne salary when living in Calgary. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Melbourne, you'd need about $59,028 in Calgary for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Calgary and Melbourne?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 23%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Melbourne offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Melbourne provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Calgary if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Melbourne for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Calgary vs Melbourne?
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 Melbourne, these figures are A$2,486 for singles and A$5,550 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Calgary and Melbourne 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 Melbourne to maintain your lifestyle from Calgary
Calculate Salary Equivalence