VancouvervsCalgary
Overall
💰-10.0%
Vancouver is 10.0%cheaper
Rent
🏠-37.5%
Housing is 37.5% lower
Dining
🍽️0.0%
Restaurants 0.0% same
Groceries
🛒0.0%
Food shopping 0.0% same
Comparing the cost of living between Vancouver, Canada and Calgary, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Vancouver is more affordable than Calgary by approximately 10.0%. 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 Vancouver are higher than in Calgary by 60%. A one-bedroom apartment in Vancouver's city center costs around CA$2,600, while the same in Calgary is approximately CA$1,600.
Dining out in Vancouver costs about the same compared to Calgary. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$20 in Vancouver versus CA$20 in Calgary.
Public transportation in Vancouver is more expensive, with monthly passes at CA$131 compared to CA$112 in Calgary.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Vancouver can expect to spend approximately CA$698 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 CA$2,443 monthly in Vancouver 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 Vancouver, 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 Vancouver 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
Vancouver
Calgary
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vancouver more expensive than Calgary?
No, Vancouver is approximately 10.0% cheaper than Calgary. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Vancouver compared to Calgary?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 91% of your Calgary salary when living in Vancouver. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Calgary, you'd need about $45,455 in Vancouver for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Vancouver and Calgary?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 60%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. 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, Vancouver provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Vancouver if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Calgary for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Vancouver vs Calgary?
In Vancouver, a single person needs approximately CA$2,798 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about CA$5,943. 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 Vancouver 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 Vancouver
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