ON
vs
AB
Cost of Living: Ottawa 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 17% cheaper than living in Ottawa overall.
To maintain your exact standard of living, a $100,000 salary in Ottawa is mathematically equivalent to earning $82,924 in Calgary.
Expense Breakdown
Average Rent
1-Bed City Center
Ottawa
$2,100
19% cheaper
Calgary
$1,700
Groceries
Monthly Basket (1 Person)
Ottawa
$430
2% cheaper
Calgary
$420
Transportation
Monthly Transit Pass
Ottawa
$125
10% cheaper
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.