Cost of Living in Calgary 2026: Complete Budget Breakdown

The Bottom Line

Living in Calgary, Alberta, in 2026 involves various monthly costs depending on your household size. For a single person, the monthly cost is approximately $2,500. A couple can expect to spend around $4,000 per month, while a family of four will need about $6,500 monthly. These estimates cover housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, and other essentials, providing a comfortable lifestyle without excessive luxury.

Housing: Rent vs Buy Breakdown

Calgary's housing market offers diverse options for renters and buyers. Renting a one-bedroom apartment averages $1,500 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment costs around $2,000. For those looking to buy, a condo with a 5% down payment and a mortgage rate of 4.5% results in a monthly payment of approximately $2,800. A detached home mortgage payment, under the same conditions, is about $3,500 monthly.

Housing Type	Monthly Cost
1BR Apartment Rent	$1,500
2BR Apartment Rent	$2,000
Condo Mortgage Payment	$2,800
Detached Home Mortgage	$3,500

Monthly Expenses

Monthly expenses in Calgary include utilities, internet, phone, groceries, and transit. Utilities average $200, internet costs $80, and a phone plan is around $60. Groceries for a single person are about $400, while a transit pass is $112.

Expense	Monthly Cost
Utilities	$200
Internet	$80
Phone	$60
Groceries	$400
Transit Pass	$112
Total	$852

How Calgary Compares

Compared to Toronto and Vancouver, Calgary is more affordable. Calgary is approximately 20% cheaper than Toronto and 25% less expensive than Vancouver. When compared to the national average, Calgary's cost of living is about 5% higher, primarily due to housing costs. However, it remains an attractive option for those seeking a balance between urban amenities and affordability.

Sample Monthly Budgets

Below is a sample monthly budget for a single person, a couple, and a family of four in Calgary. The table outlines typical expenses, providing a clear picture of the financial requirements for each household type.

Expense	Single Person	Couple	Family of 4
Housing	$1,500	$2,000	$3,500
Food	$400	$800	$1,200
Transport	$112	$224	$448
Utilities	$200	$250	$300
Misc	$288	$726	$1,052
Total	$2,500	$4,000	$6,500

Salary Needed

To live comfortably in Calgary, a single person should earn at least $50,000 annually. A couple requires a combined income of around $80,000, while a family of four should aim for a household income of approximately $130,000. These figures ensure coverage of all essential expenses and allow for some discretionary spending, contributing to a balanced lifestyle.