CalgaryvsToronto
Overall
💰+4.2%
Calgary is 4.2%more expensive
Rent
🏠+40.0%
Housing is 40.0% higher
Dining
🍽️0.0%
Restaurants 0.0% same
Groceries
🛒-6.3%
Food shopping 6.3% less
Comparing the cost of living between Calgary, Canada and Toronto, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Calgary is more expensive than Toronto by approximately 4.2%. 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 Toronto by 29%. A one-bedroom apartment in Calgary's city center costs around CA$1,600, while the same in Toronto is approximately CA$2,400.
Dining out in Calgary costs about the same compared to Toronto. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$20 in Calgary versus CA$20 in Toronto.
Public transportation in Calgary is more affordable, with monthly passes at CA$112 compared to CA$156 in Toronto.
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 Toronto, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$739. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CA$2,555 monthly in Calgary versus CA$2,588 in Toronto. 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 Toronto, 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 Toronto 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
Toronto
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Calgary more expensive than Toronto?
The cost of living in Calgary and Toronto is relatively similar, with only minor differences in specific categories. Your actual expenses will depend on your lifestyle choices.
How much salary do I need in Calgary compared to Toronto?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.0x of your Toronto salary when living in Calgary. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Toronto, you'd need about $52,083 in Calgary for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Calgary and Toronto?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 29%, 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?
Calgary offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Toronto provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Calgary if you prioritize earning potential, or Toronto for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Calgary vs Toronto?
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 Toronto, these figures are CA$2,639 for singles and CA$5,588 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Calgary and Toronto 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 Toronto to maintain your lifestyle from Calgary
Calculate Salary Equivalence