In recent years, there has been a noticeable trend of people leaving the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and heading westward to Calgary, Alberta. This migration is driven by a combination of factors, including Calgary’s comparatively lower cost of living, abundance of affordable homes, infectious energy and more. 

In this blog, we’ll explore why so many people are making the move to Calgary and how the city is becoming an attractive destination for those seeking a different pace of life.

The Cost of Living

The GTA has some of the highest living costs in all of Canada, from housing and utilities to groceries, transportation, and more. These elevated costs have made it more and more difficult to establish a stable financial foundation – especially for younger people.

Calgary, on the other hand, boasts a relatively lower cost of living, especially when it comes to housing and other major expenses. This gives new Calgarians a greater opportunity to enjoy a comfortable life while saving for the future. Not to mention, Alberta has no provincial sales tax, making every day costs a little more affordable too. 

Available Housing 

As part of Calgary’s lower cost of living, the average price of a home in Calgary is considerably lower than in the GTA, making it more attainable for buyers looking to get into the market. 

With a variety of housing options, from condos and townhouses to single-family homes, the local real estate market provides opportunities for a wide range of budgets. Many relocators who were priced out of the GTA’s housing market find that they can purchase their dream home in Calgary – often getting more space from their home than they could have ever imagined. 

On top of that, average rental rates in Calgary are also more reasonable, which makes it much easier for new Calgarians to save and invest in their future without sacrificing their quality of life.


Thinking about making a move to Calgary? Explore these blog posts for a sense of the local lifestyle. 


The Exciting Energy

As Calgary welcomes a new wave of relocators, the city has taken on an exciting energy.  Put simply, it’s a fun, welcoming, and vibrant place to live. With welcoming neighbourhoods, lively nightlife, recreational sports leagues and more, there’s no shortage of opportunities for building connections and having a great social life. 

It’s also a great city for sports fans, with locals rallying around the Flames and Stampeders. Of course, the world-famous Calgary Stampede is an annual favourite.  

Jobs & Economy 

Moreover, Calgary is renowned for its thriving job market, particularly in industries such as energy, technology, and finance. The city’s economic stability and ample opportunities for career growth make it an attractive destination for relocators looking to advance their career without sacrificing their lifestyle. 

Heading out west? Click here to read our Ultimate Guide on Relocating to Calgary

The Great Outdoors

As a sprawling urban metropolis, most people don’t usually think of natural getaways when they think of the GTA.  With that in mind, many people are drawn to Calgary because it sits right next to one of the best outdoor playgrounds in the world. 

Calgary’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains is a significant attractor for those seeking adventure, fun outdoor activities, and stunning natural landscapes. In just a short drive from the city, there are countless world-class hiking trails, ski resorts, and breathtaking mountain views to take advantage of.

With Banff, Kananaskis Country, and even Jasper, right on their doorstep, Calgarians have easy access to some of the most spectacular outdoor destinations in North America. 


Searching for more information about buying real estate in Calgary? Check out these blog posts. 


Moving to Calgary?

If you’re thinking about moving to Calgary, you’ll want to work with an experienced real estate team that specializes in supporting newcomers – like Dolce Real Estate. Whether you’re relocating from the GTA or beyond, our time-tested system for supporting new Calgarians can help you make a smooth transition to your new home. 

If you’re looking for an expert to guide you through the process of relocating to Calgary, look no further than our dedicated team of Realtors. Call 587.229.7108 to get in touch – or click to send us an email

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