Cost Comparison 2025

DallasvsCalgary

United States
Canada

Overall

💰

0.0%

Dallas is 0.0%same cost

Rent

🏠

0.0%

Housing is 0.0% same

Dining

🍽️

+4.2%

Restaurants 4.2% pricier

Groceries

🛒

+2.6%

Food shopping 2.6% more

Comparing the cost of living between Dallas, United States and Calgary, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Dallas is similarly priced than Calgary. 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 Dallas are similar than in Calgary. A one-bedroom apartment in Dallas's city center costs around $1,600, while the same in Calgary is approximately CA$1,600.

Dining out in Dallas costs about the same compared to Calgary. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $15 in Dallas versus CA$20 in Calgary.

Public transportation in Dallas is more affordable, with monthly passes at $96 compared to CA$112 in Calgary.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Dallas can expect to spend approximately $563 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 $1,971 monthly in Dallas 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

Item
Dallas, United States
Calgary, Canada

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
$1,600
CA$1,600
1BR Outside Center
$1,200
CA$1,300
3BR City Center
$2,800
CA$2,800

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
$15
CA$20
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
$75
CA$90
Cappuccino
$5
CA$5
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
$5
CA$7

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
$1
CA$3
Bread (500g)
$3
CA$3
Eggs (12)
$3
CA$5
Cheese (1kg)
$11
CA$15

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
$3
CA$4
Monthly Pass
$96
CA$112
Taxi Start
$3
CA$4
Gasoline (1L)
$1
CA$1

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
$135
CA$180
Internet (60 Mbps)
$60
CA$80
Mobile Minute
$0
CA$0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Calgary to Dallas, 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 Dallas 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

Dallas

Cost of Living Index72
Rent Index50
Purchasing Power Index100

Calgary

Cost of Living Index72
Rent Index50
Purchasing Power Index100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dallas more expensive than Calgary?

The cost of living in Dallas and Calgary 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 Dallas compared to Calgary?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 100% of your Calgary salary when living in Dallas. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Calgary, you'd need about $50,000 in Dallas for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Dallas and Calgary?

The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 4%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. 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 Dallas if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Calgary for affordability.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Dallas vs Calgary?

In Dallas, a single person needs approximately $1,763 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $4,071. 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 Dallas and Calgary 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 Calgary to maintain your lifestyle from Dallas

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-28 • Data sourced from multiple providers