BC
vs
AB
Cost of Living: Vancouver 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 37% cheaper than living in Vancouver overall.
To maintain your exact standard of living, a $100,000 salary in Vancouver is mathematically equivalent to earning $63,431 in Calgary.
Expense Breakdown
Average Rent
1-Bed City Center
Vancouver
$2,800
39% cheaper
Calgary
$1,700
Groceries
Monthly Basket (1 Person)
Vancouver
$460
9% cheaper
Calgary
$420
Transportation
Monthly Transit Pass
Vancouver
$180
38% 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.