ParisvsCalgary
Overall
💰-15.3%
Paris is 15.3%cheaper
Rent
🏠-28.6%
Housing is 28.6% lower
Dining
🍽️-11.8%
Restaurants 11.8% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-11.1%
Food shopping 11.1% less
Comparing the cost of living between Paris, France and Calgary, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Paris is more affordable than Calgary by approximately 15.3%. 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 Paris are higher than in Calgary by 40%. A one-bedroom apartment in Paris's city center costs around €1,800, while the same in Calgary is approximately CA$1,600.
Dining out in Paris is notably more expensive compared to Calgary. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs €15 in Paris versus CA$20 in Calgary.
Public transportation in Paris is more affordable, with monthly passes at €86 compared to CA$112 in Calgary.
Purchasing power in Calgary is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Paris.
Grocery shopping in Paris is more expensive by approximately 13%. 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 Paris can expect to spend approximately €558 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 €1,952 monthly in Paris 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
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Calgary to Paris, 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 Paris 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
Paris
Calgary
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Paris more expensive than Calgary?
No, Paris is approximately 15.3% cheaper than Calgary. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Paris compared to Calgary?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 87% of your Calgary salary when living in Paris. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Calgary, you'd need about $43,367 in Paris for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Paris and Calgary?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 40%, 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, Paris provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Paris if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Calgary for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Paris vs Calgary?
In Paris, a single person needs approximately €1,758 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about €4,452. 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 Paris and Calgary 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 Calgary to maintain your lifestyle from Paris
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