Question 1

Is Calgary more expensive than Edmonton?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Calgary is generally more expensive than Edmonton. Calgary's average 1-bedroom rent is approximately $1,920/month versus $1,440/month in Edmonton — about 33% higher. Home prices are also roughly $180,000 higher in Calgary (benchmark ~$610,000 vs ~$430,000). Edmonton's overall monthly cost of living baseline is approximately $2,310 compared to $2,855 in Calgary.

Question 2

What is the average rent in Calgary in 2025?

Accepted Answer

The average asking rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Calgary is approximately $1,920 per month in 2025, according to CMHC data. A 2-bedroom averages around $2,350/month. Prices vary by neighbourhood — inner-city areas like Beltline and Kensington are higher, while the suburbs are cheaper.

Question 3

What is the average rent in Edmonton in 2025?

Accepted Answer

The average asking rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Edmonton is approximately $1,440 per month in 2025, based on CMHC data. A 2-bedroom averages around $1,790/month. Edmonton remains one of the more affordable major Canadian cities for renters.

Question 4

How much does it cost to live in Calgary per month?

Accepted Answer

A single adult living in Calgary should budget approximately $2,855/month for core expenses: rent ($1,920), transit ($115), utilities ($160), groceries ($520), gym ($55), and internet ($85). Actual costs vary by lifestyle, neighbourhood, and whether you own a car.

Question 5

How much does it cost to live in Edmonton per month?

Accepted Answer

A single adult living in Edmonton should budget approximately $2,310/month for core expenses: rent ($1,440), transit ($100), utilities ($145), groceries ($500), gym ($45), and internet ($80). Edmonton is notably more affordable than Calgary for most residents.

Question 6

Which city has better job opportunities — Calgary or Edmonton?

Accepted Answer

Both cities have strong labour markets but in different sectors. Calgary is Canada's oil and gas capital and has a growing finance and tech sector — average private-sector salaries tend to be higher. Edmonton is Alberta's capital city with strong government, healthcare, education, and public sector employment. The higher Calgary salaries often offset (but don't always cover) the higher cost of living.

Question 7

Is Edmonton cheaper than Calgary for everything?

Accepted Answer

Not for everything. Edmonton has a higher property tax mill rate, making annual property taxes slightly higher on equivalent homes. Some utility costs are similar. However, for rent, home prices, parking, and dining out, Edmonton is consistently cheaper — making it substantially more affordable overall.

Question 8

What is the average home price in Calgary vs Edmonton in 2025?

Accepted Answer

As of early 2025, the CREA MLS benchmark composite home price is approximately $610,000 in Calgary and $430,000 in Edmonton — a difference of roughly $180,000. Calgary has seen stronger price growth driven by migration from Ontario and BC.

Question 9

Should I move to Calgary or Edmonton?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your priorities. Choose Calgary if you work in oil and gas, finance, or tech; value a larger city feel; or want proximity to the mountains. Choose Edmonton if you prefer lower rent and housing costs, work in government or healthcare, or prioritize affordability. Both cities have no provincial income tax advantage — Alberta has no provincial sales tax (PST).

Calgary vs Edmonton: Cost of Living

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The Bottom Line

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Calgary vs Edmonton: Cost of Living

See What You'd Have Left Over

The Bottom Line

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