855-879-6683
info@ilovemoving.com
If you’re considering moving to Calgary, one of North America’s most livable cities, there is some homework you should do before hiring an international moving company. You are coming to a cosmopolitan place with a high quality of life, but do you know what budget you need or what are the best neighborhoods? You’ll get to learn all of that and more in our guide.
Calgary, or Cowtown, as it is known, is an urban center in Alberta province. Relocating here and becoming a Calgarian is different than living overseas anywhere else. It’s a rapidly growing place that promises amazing life for everyone who opts for international moving and living in Calgary. However, if you want to be well prepared and fit in right away, there is some information that can help you with that. Let’s see what moving abroad to this amazing city brings you.
Is Moving to Calgary, Canada a Good Idea? Know What to Expect Before Hiring an International Moving Company
Since you’re considering moving to Canada, you’re probably interested in residing in a prosperous, clean, and well-developed area, and Cowtown is exactly what you’re looking for. But, like every other place, it has its not-so-good sides. So, is coming to live in Alberta’s largest community a good idea? This guide will show you what you can expect from one of the best places to live in Canada.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Moving to Calgary?
Here are some of the most important pros of moving to Calgary:
- High wages – you can work the same job you did before and get a better salary.
- Plenty of job opportunities in various industries such as energy, agriculture, hi-tech, engineering, and construction. Finding jobs in Canada isn’t hard, but Calgary makes it even easier.
- The health care insurance in this province is free.
- You’ll be residing in the only province in Canada that doesn’t have a sales tax.
- Calgary’s schools are considered as one of the best in the province.
- Your future neighbors will be friendly, young, and highly-educated people. Approximately 1.3 million people reside here.
- There’s an abundance of natural beauty mixed with urban architecture.
- There are many things to do in Calgary, including exploring the outdoors, going to the Calgary Tower, or visiting the Stampede Park. This is the perfect destination for those who love adventures and outdoor activities.
- It is one of the cleanest cities in the world, and there are high fines for littering.
- The food scene is amazing due to the many cultures that are residing here.
What might bother you after moving to Calgary?
- As in every big city – traffic. Since the city is developing, there are construction works that cause the congestions.
- The weather is unpredictable, and that can affect badly those who suffer from weather changes and have migraines.
- The cost of living is rather high.
- Little options for nightlife. If you’re in search of great nightclubs that work till late hours, coming here shouldn’t be your best shot.
Take a look at some more pros and cons as seen from the eyes of a local resident in the following video:
Is It Expensive to Live in Calgary? Americans Moving to Calgary, Canada Should Know the Costs
The cost of living in Canada is generally high, but it varies from place to place. However high the cost of living in Calgary might sound, you’ll still pay less than if you choose living in Toronto. It’s also a lot cheaper than living in Vancouver – you will need $5,000 in Vancity for the same standard of life you’ll have here with $4,200. On the other hand, living in Ottawa is only $200 more expensive than Calgary, while the cost of living in Montreal is the only one that’s a bit cheaper than here – the difference is around $100.
Here’s Some Information on How Much Money Do You Need to Live Comfortably in Calgary
According to Numbeo, a four-person family will spend $3,200 for a month, while a single person’s costs will be around $900 – that’s without the rent. When you add the rent cost, these numbers rise from $700 to $1,600, depending on where you want to reside and how big of a place you need.
If you’re moving to Canada with pets, don’t forget to mention that to your future landlord. We’re always recommending renting first, and if after a period of time you decide that you’ve found the perfect spot for you, then you can start looking for an ideal apartment or a house for buying. For that, you’ll need around $400 per square foot in Downtown and $270 further from it.
According to these numbers, if you’re moving abroad alone, you’ll need around $1,600 per month. If you’re moving to another country for love and you plan to share the rent with your partner, you will need approximately $2,500 monthly. These numbers are depending on what your everyday expenses are and how big your apartment will be.
What Will You Need for Moving to Calgary From the US?
Now that you know how much money you’ll need, let’s see what are the documents needed to travel abroad and how can an American citizen become a Canadian. Even though this Canadian community is very close to the US, you still need to apply for citizenship. You can choose between permanent residency and temporary citizenship that lasts six months (but can be extended). If you’re interested in international moving by air for a limited period of time, you can get temporary work permits that will allow you to reside and work here. In case you’re coming to stay, you need to be a permanent resident for five years.
People From the US and All Over the World Move to the City of Calgary: What’s the Easiest Way?
How to immigrate to Canada? There are several methods to do so, but US residents need to fulfill the requirements, just like the other foreign nations from all over the world. Since a quarter of residents here are foreign-born, we can say that it’s not hard to become a Calgarian. Here’s what a US citizen can do to get citizenship and call this place a home:
- Get a permanent job – If you’re ready for employee relocation and you’re preparing your relocation questions to ask the employer, you have nothing to worry about. Citizenship is yours.
- Family sponsorship – If you have family or a partner waiting for you here, they can sponsor your move.
- Startup Visa – For those who have an innovative idea and want to start their business here.
- Provincial Nominee Programs – The province of Alberta participates in this program; you just need to apply for a nomination from your province by contacting them directly.
- Express Entry – This government system allows you to have your profile, and it calculates points you gather based on your skills and qualifications to become a resident.
What Are the Best Areas Here?
What neighborhood will fit you best is another thing that depends on your preferences and desires. We’ll present you with the best options there are in this Canada city but keep in mind that there are many more buildings yet to be built. The prices and the popularity of the following neighborhoods mostly depend on how close you are to the Downtown.
Calgary’s area is divided into quadrants – Southwest, Northwest, Southeast, and Northeast.
The best areas in Southwest are minutes from Downtown – Mount Royal, Bankview, and Killarney. This quadrant is known for its higher prices because of its prime location. Further away are some more excellent areas – Sundance, Chinook Park, Haysboro, and Acadia. All of these areas are great for singles, young professionals, and it’s surely one of the best places to live abroad with family.
In Northwest, you should aim for Kensington, Arbour Lake, Crescent Heights, and Edgemont. It’s suitable for young people and those who want their home to be closer to the Rocky Mountains and Nose Hill Park. The adventure will be at your fingertips.
The Southeast is an industrial quadrant, and it’s more affordable, so check out McKenzie Lake, Inglewood, and Midnapore if you’re looking for the cheapest place to live in Canada.
If you want to reside close to the airport because you plan on moving across the world frequently, you should settle in the Northeast quadrant. This area is also cheaper, so be sure to check out Bridgeland. Take a look at the video and see all of these beautiful neighborhoods.
You Won’t Find Typical Canadian Weather Here
Moving overseas to Cowtown won’t bring you the climate you’ve heard of from people who chose moving to Ontario or other Canadian cities. It’s one of the sunniest cities in the whole country with an average of 2,300 hours per year. Temperatures are milder, but the winters are still long and cold. The weather is very unpredictable – you can see summer and winter temperatures change within two days. Deciding whether the weather here is a pro or a con is up to you, but keep in mind that the climate is very dry. It might cause your skin to crack, so make sure you moisturize it frequently.
What Is Public Transportation Here Like? Know What to Expect if You’re Moving Overseas
Well, for starters, it’s affordable, environmentally friendly, and reliable. A one-way ticket costs $2.6 while the monthly pass costs $82. You can use the buses and trains that connect the quadrants. The trains, also called CTrains, are powered by electricity from wind farms, and they’re the first of their kind in North America. In Downtown, the CTrain is free. If you wish to commute by driving your car, one gallon of gasoline will cost you $2.8.
Can You Live in Calgary Without a Car or Should You Employ an Overseas Shipping Company?
If you didn’t plan on shipping a car overseas when moving internationally, we do suggest it. Relying only on public transportation can limit your commuting, especially if you wish to visit any of the surrounding natural beauties. Getting overseas vehicle shipping services will allow you to plan your weekend getaways any time you want. Just make sure you prepare your vehicle for international car shipping once you learn how to move overseas.
Is Moving to Calgary a Good Idea? Let an Overseas Moving Company Assist You
If before reading this article you had second thoughts about creating a moving abroad checklist and hiring an overseas moving company, we hope that they’re gone by now. Moving to Calgary will improve your quality of life, bring you new friends, and re-connect you with nature while you’re adjusting to a new country. The only thing left is purchasing services from a reputable overseas shipping company, scheduling a free home survey for all the furniture and boxes you have, and deciding whether you want to do the packing yourself or you need help from movers.
In case you haven’t found the ideal place to move into, you can always put your belongings into storage, and you won’t have to worry about any expensive or delicate things you’re relocating if you ordered custom crating for them. Shipping overseas should be a positive experience and a beautiful beginning of your new life in Calgary. A good company will make sure that happens, and there will be no dilemma about how to move to another country.
FAQ
The cost of living in Calgary, Canada can vary depending on a number of factors such as housing, transportation, and lifestyle choices. Generally speaking, Calgary is considered to be one of the more expensive cities in Canada, with a higher cost of living than some other major cities in the country. The cost of housing in particular can be a significant expense, with both rental and home ownership prices typically higher than the national average. However, the city does offer a relatively high standard of living, with good infrastructure, public services, and access to recreational opportunities. Ultimately, the cost of living in Calgary will depend on your individual circumstances and priorities.
If you are looking for a place to live in Calgary, there are several ways to start your search. One option is to search online using popular real estate websites or local classifieds websites. These platforms can give you an idea of the types of housing available, as well as the cost and location of various properties. You can also work with a local real estate agent or property management company, who can help you find properties that meet your specific needs and preferences. Another option is to search for rental listings on community bulletin boards, local newspapers, or in-person notice boards. Finally, you can ask for recommendations from friends, family members, or colleagues who are familiar with the city and its housing market.
Calgary is a vibrant and diverse city with many great neighborhoods to live in, each with its own unique charm and character. Some of the most popular neighborhoods for living in Calgary include Beltline, Bridgeland, Hillhurst, Inglewood, and Kensington.
Beltline is a bustling downtown neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial spaces, great restaurants, bars, and nightlife. Bridgeland is a charming and walkable neighborhood with a mix of historic homes and new developments and is close to the Bow River pathway. Hillhurst is a family-friendly neighborhood with a mix of housing options and easy access to parks, schools, and shopping. Inglewood is a trendy and historic neighborhood with a mix of eclectic shops, galleries, and restaurants, and a strong arts community. Kensington is a vibrant and walkable neighborhood with great shopping, restaurants, and nightlife, and is close to the Bow River pathway and Prince’s Island Park.
Overall, Calgary has many great neighborhoods to choose from, and the right one for you will depend on your lifestyle, preferences, and budget.
Calgary has historically been known for its strong job market, particularly in the energy sector. However, in recent years, the city has experienced some economic challenges due to fluctuations in the oil and gas industry. Despite this, Calgary still has a relatively low unemployment rate and a diverse economy with opportunities in a variety of sectors such as finance, healthcare, technology, and tourism. The city is home to many major corporations, and there are also opportunities for entrepreneurship and small business. As with any job market, success in finding employment in Calgary will depend on factors such as education, experience, and the specific industry or job sought after.
The healthcare system in Calgary is comprehensive and publicly funded, with the majority of services provided by Alberta Health Services. The city has several hospitals and healthcare facilities, including the Foothills Medical Centre and the Peter Lougheed Centre. There are also numerous primary care clinics and specialized medical centers throughout the city. The healthcare system in Calgary is known for its high quality of care and advanced medical technologies. Alberta Health Services provides a range of services, including emergency and urgent care, primary care, specialist care, and mental health services. The system is funded through taxes and is accessible to all residents of Alberta with valid health cards. Private healthcare is also available for those who choose to purchase it.
The process of obtaining a visa to move to Calgary will depend on several factors, such as your country of citizenship, the purpose of your move, and the length of your stay. In general, the first step is to determine the type of visa you need and then check the eligibility requirements and application procedures for that visa.
The Government of Canada website provides information on the different types of visas, including work permits, study permits, and permanent residence visas. It is important to carefully follow the instructions and gather all necessary documentation, such as a passport, proof of funds, and medical exams. In some cases, you may also need to provide a letter of invitation or have a job offer in Canada. It is recommended to start the application process well in advance of your intended move, as processing times can vary.
The education system in Calgary is diverse and offers a range of options for students of all ages. The Calgary Board of Education and the Calgary Catholic School District are the two largest public school systems in the city, offering education from kindergarten through grade 12. There are also several private schools and alternative education options available, including charter schools and homeschooling.
In addition to K-12 education, Calgary is home to several post-secondary institutions, including the University of Calgary, Mount Royal University, and the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT). These institutions offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields. Overall, the education system in Calgary is known for its high quality of instruction and opportunities for academic and personal growth.
Calgary has a well-developed transportation system that includes options for public transit, cycling, and driving. Calgary Transit operates an extensive bus and light rail transit (LRT) network throughout the city, providing affordable and convenient transportation options for commuters and residents. The CTrain LRT system has two lines and over 40 stations, with trains running frequently during peak hours.
For those who prefer cycling, Calgary has over 1,000 km of bike paths and lanes throughout the city, making it easy to get around by bike. Driving is also a common mode of transportation in Calgary, with several major highways and well-maintained roads connecting the city to other parts of Alberta and beyond. Calgary International Airport offers daily flights to destinations across Canada and around the world. Overall, the transportation system in Calgary is comprehensive and provides a range of options for getting around the city and beyond.
If you are moving to Calgary and need to transfer your belongings, there are several options available. One of the most popular options is to hire an international moving company that specializes in shipping overseas. These companies will typically pack and transport your belongings for you, providing peace of mind and a stress-free moving experience.
Alternatively, you can also use an overseas shipping company to transport your belongings by air or sea, depending on the distance and location. It is important to research and compare different options, get quotes and read reviews, and ensure that you have all necessary documentation, such as customs forms, for a smooth and hassle-free transfer of your belongings.
As with any move to a new city or country, there are cultural differences to be aware of when moving to Calgary. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Multiculturalism: Calgary is a multicultural city with a diverse population, so be prepared to encounter people from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures.
- Respect for nature: Calgary is located near the Rocky Mountains and is known for its natural beauty. Many Calgarians have a deep respect for the environment and a love of outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and camping.
- Friendliness: Calgarians are generally known for their friendly and welcoming nature. Don’t be surprised if strangers strike up a conversation with you or offer to help you out.
- Politeness: Canadians are known for their politeness, and this extends to Calgary as well. You can expect people to say “please” and “thank you” often, and to generally be considerate of others.
- Winter weather: Calgary experiences cold and snowy winters, so be prepared to bundle up and invest in warm clothing. However, this also means that there are many winter sports and activities to enjoy.
- Sports culture: Calgary has a strong sports culture, with a particular emphasis on hockey. If you’re a sports fan, you’ll likely find plenty of like-minded people in the city.
The weather in Calgary varies depending on the season. The city experiences long, cold winters with temperatures ranging from -10°C to -20°C, and sometimes dropping to as low as -30°C. The winter season usually lasts from November to March, with occasional snowfall and occasional chinook winds that bring warmer temperatures. Spring in Calgary is relatively short, with mild temperatures and occasional rainfall. Summer temperatures average around 20-25°C and can occasionally reach up to 30°C.
Summer in Calgary is typically dry, with long days and plenty of sunshine. Fall is usually cool and crisp, with temperatures ranging from 5-15°C and occasional snowfall in the later months. Overall, Calgary experiences four distinct seasons, with temperatures that can vary widely from day to day, so it is important to be prepared for a range of weather conditions throughout the year.
If you’re new to Calgary and looking to meet new people and make friends, there are several ways to get started. One of the easiest ways is to join local clubs or groups that align with your interests or hobbies, such as sports teams, book clubs, or volunteer organizations. There are also several social networking groups in Calgary, such as Meetup or Eventbrite, which organize events and gatherings for people with similar interests.
Attending community events or festivals is another great way to meet new people and get to know the local culture. Finally, consider taking classes or courses in areas that interest you, such as cooking, dance, or art, as this can be a great way to meet new people and learn new skills. The key is to be open to new experiences and be proactive in seeking out opportunities to connect with others.
If you’re looking to find a job in Calgary before you move there, there are several steps you can take to increase your chances of success. The first step is to research the job market in Calgary and identify industries or companies that match your skills and experience. You can use online job search engines, such as Indeed or LinkedIn, to browse job postings and apply directly to positions that interest you.
It can also be helpful to network with professionals in your field through LinkedIn or industry-specific forums or groups. Additionally, consider reaching out to recruitment agencies that specialize in your area of expertise, as they can provide valuable insights and help connect you with potential employers. Finally, be sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific job and company you are applying to, highlighting the skills and experience that make you a strong candidate.
Yes, you can bring your pets with you when you move to Calgary, but there are certain requirements that must be met. If you are moving from within Canada, you will need to have up-to-date vaccination records and a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian. If you are moving from outside of Canada, you will need to follow additional requirements, such as obtaining an import permit and having your pet undergo a blood test for rabies.
It is important to research these requirements well in advance of your move to ensure that you have all the necessary documentation and that your pet is up-to-date on all required vaccinations. Additionally, it is a good idea to research pet-friendly housing options and any local bylaws or regulations that may impact pet ownership in Calgary.
Calgary has a variety of activities to offer to its residents and visitors. In the summer, hiking, biking, and camping in the nearby Rocky Mountains are popular activities. Calgary also hosts a variety of outdoor events such as the Calgary Stampede and various music and food festivals. Sports enthusiasts can take in a Calgary Flames NHL hockey game or a Calgary Stampeders CFL football game.
The city also has many museums and art galleries to explore, including the Glenbow Museum, the National Music Centre, and the Art Gallery of Calgary. Finally, Calgary has a variety of shopping and dining options, particularly in the trendy neighborhoods of Kensington, Inglewood, and Mission. Overall, Calgary has something to offer for everyone, from outdoor adventurers to cultural enthusiasts to foodies.
