Known as the gateway to the Rockies, Calgary, Alberta, offers natural wonders and big city opportunities. However, the cost of living in Calgary can quickly consume a paycheck between higher housing prices and the amenities and attractions that make it a world-class destination. Use these budget-friendly tips and tricks to keep more cash in your pocket while fully enjoying everything Calgary offers those living in and visiting this Western Canadian hub.
Hunt for Prime Neighborhood Housing Deals
Housing constitutes the largest proportion when calculating the cost of living in Calgary. Rent and real estate prices fluctuate along with Calgary’s oil-dependent economy. During downturns, take advantage of falling rents to lock in savings on apartments or houses, especially in some of the best neighborhoods in Calgary. Consider upcoming area renovations and development when searching for affordable options that may soon increase in value as investments. Shared living situations with roommates can also drastically cut costs. Moving a few blocks over or farther from the core can unlock savings.
Leverage Public Transit to Access Amenities
Driving is often a necessity in this expansive city. However, using Calgary’s light rail and bus networks whenever feasible can lead to major savings, especially if you snag a monthly transit pass. Strategically hopping on the C-Train is often the most budget-friendly way to traverse downtown and explore vibrant neighbourhood hubs and amenities. Use transit maps and apps to plot affordable routes and build time into your schedule to avoid unnecessary cab and ride-share fares.
Cook Creatively at Home
Restaurant, pub, and fast food costs quickly consume cash with tempting happy hours and hip new openings. Getting creative in your kitchen with staple ingredients stretches dollars further. Take advantage of grocers’ sales, coupons, loyalty programs, and bulk options. Become a meal prep master to limit spontaneous spending on grab-and-go convenience foods. Flip through flyers and circulars to plan recipes around what’s on sale each week.
Bundle Up and Enjoy Calgary’s Natural Playground
Living in Calgary Alberta, is convenient as it offers limitless natural areas with free and low-cost leisure. Using the city’s skating rinks, cross-country ski paths, and sledging hills, you can beat the cold and save money on gear and lift tickets. Outdoor enthusiasts may carpool and split equipment expenditures. Enjoy city parks and walkways for hiking, bicycling, or cheap Bow River picnics as the weather warms.
Smartly Indulge in Arts, Culture & Nightlife
Indulge in Calgary’s flourishing arts, culture, nightlife, and food scenes whenever you get the opportunity to do so, provided that your budget for living permits it. Look for happy hour discounts at bars throughout the weekdays and try to get tickets to matinee performances of major performing arts events on the weekends. Early birds get the worm; secure seats for films and exhibits during cheap daytime hours.
Embrace Adventurous, Affordable Calgary
Unlike Vancouver and Toronto, where living costs are higher, Calgary has all the fun of a big city with the beauty of a small town. If you plan ahead, you can maximise your money and enjoy this gateway to the Rockies to the fullest.
Get Creative with Side Hustles
Consider taking on a side gig or part-time work during your off hours to help supplement income spent on enjoying Calgary’s amenities. Tutor students, walk dogs, rent out spare rooms, drive for a ridesharing service, or monetise a hobby. Multiple streams of income, even modest ones, can offset living costs.
Follow these money-saving tips and tricks to keep the cost of living in Calgary from blowing your budget.