AB
vs
BC
Calgary vs Kelowna Cost of Living (2026)
Kelowna is about 20% more expensive than Calgary, mostly because of rent. A 1-bedroom rents for $2,100 a month in Kelowna vs $1,700 in Calgary.
The Verdict
Living in Kelowna is 20% more expensive than living in Calgary overall.
Calgary / month
$2,232
Kelowna / month
$2,635
Rent, groceries and transit for one person.
Salary match: what you'd need to earn
Salary in Calgary
$100,000
Take-home $74,459 · $6,205/mo
Needed in Kelowna
$120,292
Take-home $89,247 · $7,437/mo
To keep the same lifestyle in Kelowna you'd need $20,292 more a year (+20%).
Take-home is after 2026 federal and provincial income tax, CPP/QPP and EI for an employee. Cost of living weighs rent, groceries and transit.
Expense Breakdown
Average Rent
1-Bed City Center
Calgary
$1,700
24% more expensive
Kelowna
$2,100
Groceries
Monthly Basket (1 Person)
Calgary
$420
5% more expensive
Kelowna
$440
Transportation
Monthly Transit Pass
Calgary
$112
15% cheaper
Kelowna
$95
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