AB
vs
BC
Calgary vs Nanaimo Cost of Living (2026)
Nanaimo is about 5% more expensive than Calgary, mostly because of rent. A 1-bedroom rents for $1,800 a month in Nanaimo vs $1,700 in Calgary.
The Verdict
Living in Nanaimo is 5% more expensive than living in Calgary overall.
Calgary / month
$2,232
Nanaimo / month
$2,310
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 Nanaimo
$104,567
Take-home $78,577 · $6,548/mo
To keep the same lifestyle in Nanaimo you'd need $4,567 more a year (+5%).
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
6% more expensive
Nanaimo
$1,800
Groceries
Monthly Basket (1 Person)
Calgary
$420
0% more expensive
Nanaimo
$420
Transportation
Monthly Transit Pass
Calgary
$112
20% cheaper
Nanaimo
$90
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