Is Calgary a Good Place to Live? Everything you need to know
Is Calgary a great place to live? This question often surfaces when people consider relocating to one of Canada's vibrant cities. Calgary living is an appealing option for many, thanks to its diverse community, affordable housing market, and quality of life. The city’s dynamic combination of urban amenities and access to nature makes it a top choice for those considering a move.
In this article, we will discuss why living in Calgary is a worthwhile option and weigh the advantages against disadvantages of making the city your home. From the cost of living in Calgary to outdoor activities and a thriving job market, we will show you it all.
Calgary's Diverse Culture and Arts Scene
One of Calgary's biggest draws is its community and culture, which offers a rich blend of cultural events and entertainment. Whether you're considering moving to Calgary for its vibrant social life or art scene, you'll find plenty to explore. From art galleries and theatres to music festivals, Calgary has a wealth of cultural activities to enjoy, adding to the city's appeal.Outdoor Enthusiast's Paradise
Calgary is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Thanks to its proximity to the Rocky Mountains and numerous urban parks, the city offers abundant outdoor activities for residents, including hiking, cycling, and skiing. If you enjoy an active lifestyle, Calgary’s nature and mountains make it easy to immerse yourself in the great outdoors year-round.Calgary has North America's most extensive outdoor pathway and bikeway networks. These multi-use pathways connect communities, parks, and natural areas. Calgarians can use them for walking, running, rollerblading, or cycling.
Thriving Economy and Job Opportunities
Calgary's economy is strong and diverse if you're considering a move for career reasons. The city offers many economic opportunities, especially in oil and gas, technology, healthcare, and financial services. Calgary’s job market is consistently growing, which provides ample opportunities for professionals looking to relocate. Additionally, the cost of living in Calgary remains relatively low compared to other Canadian cities like Toronto and Vancouver, making it easier for residents to enjoy a higher quality of life.
You can look at a report from the city of Calgary: 2024 Economic outlook.
Safe Neighborhoods and Welcoming Housing Market
Calgary's neighbourhoods offer something for everyone, from bustling urban areas to quiet suburban retreats. Whether you plan to rent or buy, the Calgary real estate market is known for being affordable, especially when compared to other major Canadian cities. In addition to housing, safety is another significant advantage, as Calgary boasts low crime rates in most areas.Quality of Life in Calgary
Calgary offers a high quality of life with a perfect balance of urban amenities and natural access. Its extensive pathway, bikeway network, and large urban parks cater to an active and vibrant lifestyle. Residents can easily partake in activities like cycling, jogging, and picnicking, promoting overall well-being.Calgary is regularly recognized among the top cities in Canada for its quality of life. The city boasts low crime rates, high-quality drinking water, superior healthcare services, and a clean environment.
Additionally, a robust community spirit further enhances Calgary's appeal as an excellent living destination. Collectively, these elements make Calgary an attractive place to call home.
Which Part of Calgary Is Best to Live?
Choosing the best place to live in Calgary depends on your lifestyle, budget, and preferences. Here are some of the top neighbourhoods to consider:- Beltline: Perfect for young professionals, Beltline offers an urban lifestyle with trendy cafes, restaurants, and nightlife. It's located near downtown, making it ideal for those who want to be in the city's heart.
- Arbour Lake: A great option for families, Arbour Lake features excellent schools, parks, and access to the only lake community in northwest Calgary. It offers a balanced suburban lifestyle with plenty of recreational activities.
- Aspen Woods: If you're looking for an upscale area with luxury homes, Aspen Woods is an excellent choice. It’s known for its beautiful houses, proximity to top private schools, and easy natural access.
- Bridgeland: Known for its charm and proximity to downtown, Bridgeland is a rapidly growing community with a mix of modern condos and historic homes. It offers a vibrant atmosphere and is popular among young families and professionals.
- Mahogany: One of Calgary's newer lake communities, Mahogany is perfect for those who love outdoor activities. It offers great amenities, including lakes, beaches, and extensive parks.
The Pros of Moving to Calgary
When evaluating whether relocating to Calgary is a good idea, there are several standout advantages:Strong Job Market
As mentioned earlier, Calgary's job market is robust, especially in sectors like healthcare, oil and gas, and technology. Alberta is leading the way in employment opportunities, and Calgary benefits from this economic boom. The city's demand for skilled workers makes it an ideal place for professionals looking to settle and advance their careers.A recent report from CBRE Canada indicates that Alberta is leading Canada with renewed economic optimism and highlights the development in Calgary's office and industrial markets. It provides evidence of a positive economic trend in Calgary, including a decrease in downtown office vacancy and a significant amount of office leasing activity.
Low Sales Tax
Calgary boasts a low sales tax environment, with no provincial sales tax and one of Canada's lowest combined sales tax rates. This results in cost savings for consumers, making the city more affordable for residents. With lower sales tax, residents have greater purchasing power, leading to a higher standard of living and more disposable income.Family-Friendly City
Calgary is well-suited for families, offering a range of family-friendly activities, attractions, and excellent educational institutions. From the Calgary Zoo and RiverWalk to the SPARK Science Centre, families have access to numerous enriching experiences. The city's education system is known for its quality, and active community centers offer various programs and activities for all ages.The Alberta School System offers quality education for K-12 students, and government funding ensures that Calgary schools are well-equipped and well-staffed. Public school is free to attend, including expats and permanent residents!
Continue Reading: Best Neighbourhoods in Calgary for Families.
Proximity to Other Destinations
Calgary's central location allows easy access to exciting destinations. Edmonton, the US border, Vancouver, and Banff National Park are all within a reasonable drive, offering diverse experiences from shopping and culture to outdoor adventures and natural beauty.Great Weather
While Calgary winters can be cold, the city enjoys a remarkable amount of sunshine throughout the year. Calgary weather allows for outdoor activities in all seasons, from hiking in the summer to skiing in the winter. Plus, the sunny skies make even the coldest days more bearable.Nightlife
Calgary delivers numerous hotspots for those seeking a vibrant nightlife scene, including nightclubs, live music venues, and trendy bars. Popular areas like 17th Avenue, Downtown, Kensington, and 4th Street cater to nightlife enthusiasts, offering various entertainment options.Growing Restaurant Scene
Calgary's restaurant scene has grown significantly, offering a diverse culinary experience. The city's food culture is thriving, from high-end restaurants on Stephen Avenue to locally sourced food at farmers' markets. Calgary provides various cuisines and dining experiences, making it an exciting and vibrant city for food enthusiasts.More Affordable Real Estate
Compared to other cities, the real estate in Calgary is much more accessible. Whether you're looking to buy or rent, Calgary's housing remains affordable due to the absence of a provincial sales tax and land transfer tax. As a result, many families and young professionals find Calgary a budget-friendly place to call home.Here are the average prices of homes in Calgary based on the report from the Wowa
Lots of Outdoor Activities
Calgary is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with its proximity to the Rocky Mountains and an extensive network of urban pathways and bikeways. Opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, cycling, and more abound, allowing residents to stay active and enjoy the great outdoors year-round.Strong Education System
Calgary's education system is comprehensive and diverse, offering quality K-12 schools and post-secondary institutions. The city's multicultural population enriches the education experience, contributing to cultural and recreational activities that enhance students' learning.In summary, Calgary has opportunities and advantages for individuals and families alike. From a thriving job market and low sales tax to a family-friendly environment and outdoor adventure, Calgary offers a high quality of life for those looking to make it their home. The city's unique blend of urban amenities and access to nature makes it a desirable place to live in Canada.
Cons of Living in Calgary
Despite the many benefits, there are a few challenges to consider before deciding to move to Calgary:
Harsh Winters
Living in Calgary can be a bit of an adjustment for those unaccustomed to Canadian winters. Cold temperatures and snow are common, but embracing outdoor activities like skiing can help make the winter season more enjoyable.Economic Volatility
Calgary’s economy is still tied closely to the oil and gas sector, which can create economic volatility during downturns. However, efforts are being made to diversify the economy and ensure more stable job prospects for the future.
Traffic Congestion
Traffic congestion can be challenging during peak hours in Calgary, particularly in the city center. Commuters may experience delays and longer travel times.Rising Crime Rates
While Calgary generally maintains a low crime rate compared to other Canadian cities, crime rates have risen recently. Residents should take precautions to ensure their safety. Calgary is ideal for establishing roots and beginning anew.But how safe is Calgary? While minor upticks in crime have been reported recently, the city is safe. It maintains a level of security that is notably higher than many other major cities in Canada, with its crime rates remaining comparatively lower.
Healthcare Accessibility
Calgary faces challenges in healthcare accessibility, including limited physician availability and long wait times for medical services. Efforts are needed to address these concerns and improve residents' access to healthcare.Is It Worth It to Move to Calgary?
Moving to Calgary can be a great decision, depending on your personal and professional priorities. The city offers several distinct advantages:
- Strong Job Market: Calgary has a robust economy, particularly in oil and gas, technology, healthcare, and financial services. The city's low unemployment rate and growing demand for skilled workers make it attractive for professionals.
- Affordable Real Estate: Compared to other major Canadian cities, Calgary’s real estate market is more affordable. Lower housing costs allow residents to find homes within their budget, whether renting or buying.
- Outdoor Lifestyle: Calgary’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains and extensive urban parks make it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The city offers year-round opportunities for activities like hiking, cycling, and skiing.
- Low Taxes: Alberta has no provincial sales tax, which reduces the cost of living for Calgary residents. This, combined with relatively low-income tax rates, gives residents more purchasing power.
However, there are also challenges:
- Harsh Winters: Calgary’s winters can be cold and long, which may be difficult for those unaccustomed to extreme weather.
- Economic Volatility: The city's economy is heavily tied to the oil and gas industry, which can create instability during downturns.
Moving to Calgary is worth it for those seeking career opportunities, affordable living, and an active outdoor lifestyle. However, being aware of the city’s climate and economic fluctuations is important.
Ready to Make Calgary Your Home?
Discover the perfect blend of urban living and natural beauty in Calgary! Whether you're seeking a family-friendly neighbourhood or a vibrant city life, our experienced Calgary realtor is here to guide you. With in-depth knowledge of the local market and a passion for finding the right home for every client, we make your transition to Calgary smooth and enjoyable. Don't let the opportunity to live in one of Canada's most dynamic cities slip away. Contact us today to start your journey to a home in Calgary where comfort meets convenience!*This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. No professional relationship is formed. Consult a qualified professional before acting on any information.