Settle in Calgary.
Lower rents, no provincial sales tax and a young population, with a growing tech scene alongside energy.
What Calgary costs each month.
Typical ranges for a newcomer renting. Your costs depend on neighbourhood and household.
| Item | Monthly estimate |
|---|---|
| 1-bedroom rent | $1,400–$1,700 |
| 2-bedroom rent | $1,750–$2,100 |
| Transit pass (Calgary Transit fare products) | about $126 |
| Groceries per adult | $400–$500 |
| Phone plan | $35–65 |
Adult monthly pass, 2026. Rent ranges sit around average asking rents from the Rentals.ca/Urbanation National Rent Report (July–August 2026); individual listings vary widely by neighbourhood and building. Transit: Calgary Transit fares (2026 adult fares). Groceries, phone, utilities and internet are SettleCanada estimates. Checked September 2026.
Where newcomers live in Calgary.
A starting point, not a ranking. Visit before you sign a lease.
Northeast Calgary
Home to large South Asian, Filipino and African communities, close to the airport and CTrain.
Forest Lawn
East of downtown, diverse and more affordable, with international food along 17 Avenue SE.
Beltline
Inner-city rentals within walking distance of downtown jobs.
Southwest suburbs
Family housing with good schools and CTrain access along the southwest line.
What Calgary runs on.
The biggest employers and sectors. Regulated professions need a provincial licence.
Renting in Calgary.
Expect competition for good units. Start with a short-term stay, view places in person, and never pay a deposit before verifying the landlord. Health coverage in Alberta is through AHCIP.
Settlement services
Free, government-funded agencies help with housing, jobs, language classes and forms.
Communities in Calgary.
Guides for newcomers from these countries include local community groups and tips.
Indian community
Filipino community
Nigerian communityYour first 30 days in Calgary.
The same steps as everywhere in Canada, with the local details filled in.
Calgary · first 30 days
- Apply for your SIN at Service Canada
- Open a bank account
- Get a Calgary Transit fare products card
- Apply for AHCIP
- Visit a local settlement agency
- Sign a lease after viewing the unit
Settling in Calgary?
One practical email a week, with local tips.
