AB
vs
NB
Calgary vs Saint John Cost of Living (2026)
Calgary is about 47% more expensive than Saint John, mostly because of rent. A 1-bedroom rents for $1,700 a month in Calgary vs $1,100 in Saint John.
The Verdict
Living in Saint John is 32% cheaper than living in Calgary overall.
Calgary / month
$2,232
Saint John / month
$1,555
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 Saint John
$68,009
Take-home $50,837 · $4,236/mo
To keep the same lifestyle in Saint John you'd need $31,991 less a year (−32%).
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
35% cheaper
Saint John
$1,100
Groceries
Monthly Basket (1 Person)
Calgary
$420
10% cheaper
Saint John
$380
Transportation
Monthly Transit Pass
Calgary
$112
33% cheaper
Saint John
$75
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