Why Consider Moving from Toronto to Calgary?
You’re standing at a crossroads, wondering if moving from Toronto to Calgary could be the fresh start you need. Maybe you’re looking for a quieter lifestyle, a chance to own a home without breaking the bank, or simply more time to spend outdoors. Relocating from Toronto to Calgary isn’t just about changing your address; it’s about shifting to a lifestyle that values balance, affordability, and access to nature—all while maintaining exciting career opportunities.
Let’s dive into the key details to help you decide if a move to Calgary is right for you.
Toronto vs. Calgary: A Tale of Two Cities
Toronto is Canada’s bustling economic powerhouse, a global city teeming with energy, diversity, and endless entertainment options. On the other hand, Calgary offers a refreshing contrast—a city known for its tight-knit communities, cleaner streets, and easy access to the majestic Rockies.
For those considering moving to Calgary from Toronto, it’s not just about what you leave behind but what you gain: shorter commutes, friendly neighbors, and a pace of life that leaves room to breathe.
Cost of Living: Calgary Wins the Affordability Game
Housing Market
Owning a home in Toronto can feel like chasing an ever-moving target. With average home prices exceeding $1 million, many find themselves priced out of the market, forced to settle for cramped spaces or endure lengthy commutes. In Calgary, however, homeownership is much more attainable. The average home price in Calgary sits at around $570,000, offering a significant reduction in financial pressure. For those who prefer renting, Calgary provides similarly attractive options. A modern one-bedroom apartment downtown averages around $1,400 per month, while in Toronto, the same type of rental could cost upwards of $2,500.
But the differences go beyond numbers. Calgary’s housing market offers more space and flexibility for your money. Whether you're a young professional seeking a sleek condo with mountain views or a growing family in search of a detached home with a backyard, Calgary's housing market caters to various lifestyles. Imagine upgrading to a home office, a playroom for the kids, or a garage to store outdoor gear—possibilities that are often out of reach in Toronto’s real estate climate.
Additionally, Calgary's real estate market is less volatile compared to Toronto’s high-stakes bidding wars. The process of buying a home is typically less stressful, with more inventory available and fewer instances of properties selling above asking price. This stability provides peace of mind for both renters and buyers making the move to Calgary.
Everyday Costs
The savings are amplified by Alberta’s lack of a provincial sales tax (PST). This means you save 5% on every taxable purchase compared to Ontario, where the combined tax rate is 13%. Whether you’re upgrading appliances for your new home or enjoying a weekend shopping spree, the absence of PST adds up quickly. Calgary offers a level of affordability that frees up your finances for other goals, like traveling, investing, or simply enjoying more of what life has to offer.
Lower Taxes
Calgary’s affordability extends beyond everyday purchases. Alberta’s flat income tax rate is among the lowest in Canada, allowing residents to keep more of their hard-earned money. For instance, someone earning $80,000 annually might pay significantly less in income taxes compared to the same salary in Ontario. This financial relief is especially impactful for families and professionals planning their move to Calgary.
These tax advantages, combined with the overall lower cost of living, often allow newcomers to stretch their budgets further. Families report being able to save for children’s education, take more vacations, or accelerate debt repayment—all thanks to the financial breathing room Calgary provides.
Job Market: Calgary’s Evolving Landscape
Industries and Opportunities
If you work in energy, tech, or agriculture, Calgary’s job market has a lot to offer. While Toronto excels in finance, media, and tech startups, Calgary’s economy is diversifying rapidly, with growth in renewable energy and AI sectors. Tech hubs like the Platform Innovation Centre are creating opportunities for forward-thinking professionals.
Career Growth
Calgary offers professionals the chance to advance their careers more quickly than in Toronto’s competitive job market. With fewer people chasing the same roles, opportunities for growth and leadership are easier to find, especially in industries like energy, tech, and agriculture. Salaries remain competitive, and Calgary’s lower cost of living means you can enjoy greater financial flexibility.
Unemployment Trends
While Calgary’s job market has faced challenges in the past, it’s rebounding as the economy diversifies. For newcomers, the smaller, more focused industries make it easier to find targeted opportunities without the overwhelming options of Toronto. Calgary’s growing tech sector and emphasis on community hiring further boost prospects for career-minded individuals.
Lifestyle and Quality of Life
Cultural Differences
Toronto is fast-paced, always on the go, and often feels like a city that never sleeps. Calgary is more relaxed, with a strong sense of community. Many who make the move find that neighbors say hello and genuinely care—small gestures that can make a big difference.
Outdoor Adventures
Calgary is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts. Weekends can be spent hiking in Banff, skiing in Canmore, or simply cycling along the Bow River pathways. In contrast, getting out of Toronto often means hours of driving to Muskoka or Algonquin.
Work-Life Balance
It’s not just a buzzword here—Calgary’s shorter commutes and slower pace give you back valuable time to spend with loved ones or pursue hobbies. You’ll have time to catch the sunset from Nose Hill Park or explore a local brewery after work.
Family and Education Considerations
Schools and Universities
Calgary offers excellent public and private schools, often with smaller class sizes than Toronto. For post-secondary education, the University of Calgary and Mount Royal University are standout institutions, providing high-quality education at a fraction of the cost of Toronto’s options.
Affordable Childcare
Childcare in Calgary is more affordable and accessible, with lower costs and better availability than in Toronto. Families often find it easier to secure daycare spots, making the transition smoother for those who is planning to move to Calgary with young children.
Weather: Can You Handle Calgary’s Climate?
Winters and Summers
Calgary’s winters can be colder than Toronto’s, but they’re dry, which makes the cold more bearable. Chinooks—warm winds that can raise the temperature by 20°C in a day—are a welcome surprise. Summers in Calgary are sunnier and less humid, making outdoor activities more enjoyable.
Community and Culture
Festivals and Entertainment
Calgary’s cultural scene thrives with events like the Calgary Stampede, Folk Music Festival, and year-round food markets. While Toronto boasts a larger scale, Calgary’s festivals feel more personal and accessible. Plus, the affordability of tickets and activities allows you to enjoy more of what the city has to offer without stretching your budget.
A Warm Welcome
Calgarians are famously friendly. Whether you’re grabbing coffee or attending a local event, the city’s welcoming vibe makes it easy to feel at home. Unlike Toronto’s fast-paced and sometimes impersonal atmosphere, Calgary’s community-oriented culture fosters genuine connections.
Is Moving to Calgary Right for You?
Moving to Calgary from Toronto can feel like trading in a race car for a mountain bike—slower but infinitely more fulfilling. With its affordable housing, career opportunities, and natural beauty, Calgary offers a chance to live a life that feels truly balanced. The question is, are you ready to embrace a city where quality of life takes center stage?
