Everything you need to know about living, working or studying in Calgary

The pros of life in Calgary

• Its geographical location is a real asset for enjoying nature, from the Prairies and the Kananaskis to the enchanting scenery of the Rockies, all year round!
• Living in a sunny climate
• If you want to live in a mid-sized city, rather than a big city like Toronto, and experience a slightly cheaper cost of living, Calgary is for you
• Calgarians spend a lot of their time in the mountains or taking part in sporting activities and, of course, the cowboys! If you prefer an active and outdoorsy life to city life, you will fit in
• Residents primarily speak English, which is a pro if you want to practise your English or already speak it as a first language
• If you like to eat and drink, you’ll find a large choice of restaurants, micro-breweries and cafes here. Calgary is renowned for its inventive and gourmet cuisine with local products, notably Alberta beef
• In Alberta, there is no provincial tax; you only pay the GST of 5% (except on food, which is generally not subject to GST).

The cons of life in Calgary

• To be able to go on excursions or even move around the city, it is recommended to buy a car. Prepare to add a significant expense to your monthly budget, including paying for insurance, gasoline and parking fees
• Public transport is inconvenient; sometimes it takes almost an hour on public transport to make the same trip as a 10-minute car journey. Some lines stop early (e.g. by 6.30pm), further limiting your ability to get around wherever you want, whenever you want
• It is a quiet city, especially in winter. There is more entertainment in summer with festivals and the Stampede, but in winter the streets can be deserted.