BC
vs
AB
Cost of Living: Nanaimo vs Calgary
Making a move? Compare the exact 2026 data for housing, food, and transit to see exactly how your lifestyle budget will change between these two cities.
The Verdict
Living in Calgary is 4% cheaper than living in Nanaimo overall.
To maintain your exact standard of living, a $100,000 salary in Nanaimo is mathematically equivalent to earning $95,632 in Calgary.
Expense Breakdown
Average Rent
1-Bed City Center
Nanaimo
$1,800
6% cheaper
Calgary
$1,700
Groceries
Monthly Basket (1 Person)
Nanaimo
$420
0% more expensive
Calgary
$420
Transportation
Monthly Transit Pass
Nanaimo
$90
24% more expensive
Calgary
$112
Calculate Your Exact Salary
Ready to see how much you'll keep after taxes in AB? Use our Canadian Income Tax Calculator to get a precise breakdown.