Calgary has become one of the most talked-about cities in Canada—and for good reason. With a booming job market, more affordable housing than major metros like Vancouver and Toronto, and unbeatable access to nature, moving to Calgary is on the radar for families, professionals, and remote workers alike.

But before you pack up your life and head west (or east!), let’s break down what you really need to know about relocating to this dynamic Alberta city.

Why Are So Many People Moving to Calgary?

Calgary’s population has grown steadily over the last decade, and recent market shifts have made it even more attractive. Here's why:

• ✅ Affordability: Home prices are significantly lower than in cities like Toronto and Vancouver

• ✅ Lifestyle: Access to nature, big skies, and a laid-back pace without sacrificing opportunity

• ✅ Jobs: A diverse job market with growth in energy, tech, construction, health care, and remote work

• ✅ Family-friendly: Excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community

The Cost of Living in Calgary (What to Expect)

While Calgary is more affordable than most major Canadian cities, it’s not cheap—and you should come prepared:

• 🏡 Housing: The average price for a detached home is still accessible compared to most major markets, especially in suburbs like Airdrie, Cochrane, or Chestermere

• 💡 Utilities: You’ll see both natural gas and electricity on your monthly bill—expect higher costs in winter

• 💸 Property taxes: Alberta has no provincial sales tax (PST), but property taxes can be higher than expected

• 🚗 Transportation: Most residents rely on a vehicle. Calgary Transit serves the city, but it's not as comprehensive as transit systems in larger metros

What’s the Weather Really Like?

If you’ve never lived in Alberta, you’re in for a weather rollercoaster. Calgary is known for:

• ❄️ Cold winters (hello, -30°C), but

• 🌬️ Chinooks—warm winds that can raise temperatures by 15–20 degrees in a single day

• 🌞 Sunshine—Calgary sees more sunny days per year than any other major Canadian city

• 🌱 Dry climate—great for those who don’t love humidity

Bottom line? Dress in layers and prepare for mood swings from Mother Nature.

The Calgary Lifestyle: What You’ll Love (and What Might Surprise You)

Calgary has a unique personality. It blends a cosmopolitan downtown core with small-town friendliness and rural charm. Here’s what stands out:

• 🤝 People are friendly. Like, actually friendly. Don’t be surprised if strangers hold doors or say hello

• 🎡 The Calgary Stampede—whether you love rodeos or not, it’s a cultural event you’ll experience at least once

• 🐎 Outdoor access—you’re an hour from the Rockies, 10 minutes from foothill trails, and surrounded by nature

• ☕ Local businesses thrive—especially in neighborhoods like Kensington, Inglewood, and Marda Loop

Where Should You Live in Calgary?

Your perfect community depends on your lifestyle. Here are a few top picks:

• 🏙️ Inner City (Beltline, Hillhurst, Inglewood): Great for young professionals who want to be close to downtown

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly (Evanston, Auburn Bay, Mahogany): Known for schools, parks, and newer homes

• 🌾 Acreages & Lifestyle Properties (Springbank, Bearspaw, Foothills County): Ideal for buyers seeking space and privacy outside the city

Looking to sell and buy at the same time? I specialize in helping clients transition smoothly between properties—especially those moving into Calgary or out into acreages.

Before You Move: Know These Relocation Tips

• ✅ Get pre-approved—Alberta’s lending rules are different than other provinces

• ✅ Research job licensing—especially in healthcare, education, or trades

• ✅ Plan for timing—the market moves fast, and closing dates vary

• ✅ Work with a local expert—Calgary is unique, and every neighborhood offers something different

Ready to Explore a Move to Calgary?

Whether you’re relocating from across the country or just looking for a fresh start, I help buyers move to Calgary with clarity, confidence, and strategy.

📩 DM me “RELOCATE” or click below to download my free Moving to Calgary Guide—built for real buyers like you.

👉 [Insert your lead magnet link or contact form]

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Calgary a good place to live in 2024?
Yes! Calgary offers a high quality of life, strong job growth, and more affordable housing than most major Canadian cities.

Q: What should I know before moving to Calgary?
Expect cold winters, a dry climate, and car-dependent living. But you’ll also enjoy friendly people, amazing scenery, and a thriving job market.

Q: Where do most people move from?
Many newcomers are relocating from British Columbia and Ontario due to high housing prices and changing job dynamics.

Kristen Edmunds is a Calgary-area REALTOR® and Associate Broker with KIC Realty, specializing in acreages, luxury homes, and smart buy/sell strategies. With expertise in rural properties (water wells, septic, equestrian facilities) and a client-obsessed approach, Kristen helps buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals with confidence and ease.

Calgary Real Estate Market Update – May 2025
Balanced Inventory, Steady Prices, and Strategic Opportunity for Both Buyers and Sellers

As we head into the summer months, Calgary’s real estate market continues to show signs of stabilization. According to the latest CREB® Market Report for May 2025, the city’s housing market is experiencing a return to more balanced conditions—welcoming news for both buyers and sellers navigating a shifting landscape.

Inventory on the Rise, But Below Long-Term Averages

May saw a 38% year-over-year increase in inventory levels, with 4,404 properties available across all sectors. While this marks a significant gain from last year’s ultra-tight conditions, supply still remains 29% below long-term May averages. Buyers now have more choice, but sellers continue to benefit from a competitive marketplace, especially in the lower to mid-price ranges.

Sales Slowing, But Still Above Normal

Sales activity cooled slightly compared to earlier in the year, with 3,092 homes sold in May. That’s down 5% from last month but still 34% higher than long-term trends for May. Detached homes remain the most active sector, accounting for nearly half of all transactions, particularly in the $600K–$700K price range.

Prices Hold Steady, Growth Slowing

Calgary’s benchmark residential price in May reached $595,800, up 0.6% from April and 8.3% from May 2024. While annual price growth is still positive, the pace has clearly moderated. Detached homes hit a benchmark of $746,300, up 10.6% year-over-year, while semi-detached and row properties posted moderate annual gains of 8.2% and 15.6% respectively.

The apartment sector saw the smallest annual price growth at 13.3%, suggesting this segment may be plateauing after months of rapid gains.

New Listings Trend Upward

With 4,333 new listings in May—an 18% increase from April—many homeowners appear to be timing the market to take advantage of still-strong prices. The sales-to-new-listings ratio sat at 71%, indicating solid demand but also slightly reduced urgency compared to earlier months.

Months of Supply Increasing, Signaling Balance

The months of supply edged up to 1.43, the highest level since 2023. While still a seller-favoured market by definition, this shift points to better conditions for buyers, especially those who have been waiting on the sidelines for more selection.

What This Means for You

• Sellers: Strategic pricing is more important than ever. With more inventory coming to market, buyers have options—making presentation, marketing, and negotiation critical to securing top dollar.

• Buyers: Increased supply means less pressure and more time to make informed decisions. However, desirable homes in prime neighbourhoods are still moving quickly—don’t wait too long.

• Investors: Rental demand remains high, particularly in the apartment and row home sectors. Slight cooling in price growth offers room for acquisition in emerging areas.

Final Thoughts

Calgary’s housing market in May 2025 reflects a transition—not a downturn. With a growing population, relatively low inventory, and steady demand, the fundamentals remain strong. Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or invest, staying informed and working with a trusted professional can help you navigate these evolving market conditions confidently.

Want a detailed breakdown of how this affects your specific property or neighbourhood?
📩 Contact Me Today for a personalized market update.

Source CREB.com

Kristen Edmunds is a Calgary-area REALTOR® and Associate Broker with KIC Realty, specializing in acreages, luxury homes, and smart buy/sell strategies. With expertise in rural properties (water wells, septic, equestrian facilities) and a client-obsessed approach, Kristen helps buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals with confidence and ease.

If you’ve listed your home in Calgary and it’s just sitting there, you’re not alone—and you’re not out of options.

The Calgary real estate market has been red-hot in recent years, but even in strong seller markets, some homes don’t sell right away. That can be frustrating, especially when you see “SOLD” signs going up all over your neighborhood.

Let’s break down the top reasons your home might not be selling and what you can do to fix it.

1. Your Pricing Strategy Is Off

In today’s fast-moving market, pricing your home just right is more important than ever. If your home is priced too high—even by $10,000—it can turn off serious buyers who are comparing multiple properties online.

💡 Pro Tip: Work with a local REALTOR® who knows the Calgary market inside and out. I regularly pull current comparables and market trends to help my clients price their homes to sell without leaving money on the table.

2. Your Listing Photos Aren’t Doing You Justice

Buyers shop with their eyes first. If your listing photos are dark, outdated, or just don’t showcase your home’s best features, you could be losing potential showings before they even step inside.

📸 What You Can Do: Invest in professional real estate photography. I offer this as part of every listing, along with staging tips to ensure your home looks its best online and in person.

3. You’re Not Getting the Right Exposure

In Calgary’s competitive real estate landscape, simply listing your home on the MLS® isn’t enough. You need a tailored marketing plan that targets the right buyers—especially if your property has unique features like an acreage, a triple garage, or a walkout basement.

📣 Solution: From social media ads to email marketing and targeted video walkthroughs, I craft custom strategies that attract qualified, motivated buyers.

Bonus Reason: Your Home Feels Like “Work”

Buyers want a home that feels move-in ready. If your home has visible repairs, outdated finishes, or cluttered spaces, it could feel like a project—and buyers will mentally deduct that from your asking price (or skip the showing entirely).

🛠️ My Approach: I help sellers make simple, strategic updates that increase appeal without overspending. Sometimes a fresh coat of paint, lighting tweaks, or minor landscaping changes are all it takes.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Panic—Just Pivot

Selling a home is both an emotional and strategic process. If your Calgary home isn’t selling, it doesn’t mean there’s something “wrong” with it. It means it’s time to re-evaluate, refresh, and relaunch—with the right support.

If you’re feeling stuck, I’d love to offer a complimentary home review and marketing audit. No pressure, just real insight.

✅ Let’s Connect

📩 Book a free consultation with me
📱 Follow me on Instagram and YouTube for real estate tips and local market updates
💬 DM me @kristenedmunds.realestate on Instagram if you have questions

Kristen Edmunds is a Calgary-area REALTOR® and Associate Broker with KIC Realty, specializing in acreages, luxury homes, and smart buy/sell strategies. With expertise in rural properties (water wells, septic, equestrian facilities) and a client-obsessed approach, Kristen helps buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals with confidence and ease.

Is acreage living in Alberta your dream—or a reality check in disguise?

Thinking of leaving the city for space, serenity, and sunsets? You're not alone. More and more homebuyers are exploring the idea of living on an acreage near Calgary—and for good reason. The appeal of wide-open space, privacy, and a slower pace is real.

But before you pack up for the foothills or rural Alberta, it’s important to understand what acreage living really involves. As a Calgary-based REALTOR® with 15 years of experience—and a rural upbringing—I help buyers make this transition with confidence and clarity.

Let’s break down the real pros and cons of acreage life so you can decide if it’s truly the lifestyle for you.

✅ Why People Love Living on an Acreage Near Calgary

There’s a reason acreage living is on the rise, especially as remote work becomes more common and families seek more room to grow.

Here’s what makes it so attractive:

• Space to breathe: Say goodbye to shared fences and city noise. Enjoy larger lots and true privacy.

• Stunning natural views: From foothills to open skies, you’ll enjoy scenic backdrops year-round.

• Freedom to create: Outbuildings, gardens, horses, chickens, shops—you name it. With fewer restrictions, the land is yours to shape.

• Peace and quiet: No constant traffic or noise pollution. Just you, your space, and the great outdoors.

• Connection to nature: Daily walks, stargazing, and wildlife sightings become part of everyday life.

⚠️ What to Expect When Buying an Acreage in Alberta

Acreage living also comes with a learning curve and unique responsibilities that city dwellers don’t usually face. Here's what you need to know:

💧 Water & Septic Systems

Unlike city homes, acreages typically rely on private wells and septic systems. These require maintenance, occasional inspections, and a basic understanding of how they work. If something goes wrong—it’s your responsibility to fix it.

❄️ Snow Removal

That long gravel driveway may look charming in summer—but come winter, you become the snowplow. Expect to invest in equipment, hire a contractor, or plan time for clearing snow yourself.

🚗 Commuting & Services

Living outside Calgary means longer drives for groceries, school, and work. Emergency services, deliveries, and even garbage pickup may be delayed or handled differently. Make sure your daily routine is compatible with a more rural setup.

📶 Internet & Utilities

Some rural areas still experience slow or spotty internet and cell service. That said, satellite and rural broadband options are improving—just confirm serviceability before buying.

🧰 More Self-Reliance

There’s no condo board or landlord to handle things. From fixing fences to troubleshooting your well pump, acreage life rewards independence and a can-do attitude.

🧡 The Hidden Perk: A Stronger Sense of Community

Despite all the space, acreage communities often have a surprising upside: tight-knit, supportive neighbors. People wave. They help each other. It’s less anonymous than the city, and more personal.

🤔 Is Living on an Acreage Near Calgary Right for You?

If you’re dreaming of more freedom, more space, and a quieter way of life—acreage living in Alberta might be exactly what you need.

But it’s not for everyone. It takes planning, awareness, and the right support to make it work—especially if you're also selling a home in the city or managing a complex transition.

That’s where I come in.

As a local expert with deep rural knowledge and a track record of guiding clients through buy/sell transitions, I can help you make a confident move—without surprises.

📋 Free Download: Acreage Buyer Checklist

Ready to explore acreage properties near Calgary?
📩 Download my free Acreage Buyer Checklist for everything you need to know before you start shopping.

Whether you’re looking in Foothills County, Rocky View, Cochrane, Okotoks, or Chestermere, I’ll help you find a property that fits your lifestyle—without the guesswork.

👉 DM me “ACREAGE” on Instagram and I’ll send it your way!

🔍 Frequently Asked Questions

What are the downsides of living on an acreage near Calgary?

You’re responsible for your own water, septic systems, snow removal, and property maintenance. Commute times are longer, and internet may not be as reliable. It's a more independent lifestyle.

Is acreage living worth it in Alberta?

If you value privacy, outdoor space, and the freedom to create your own lifestyle, acreage living can be incredibly rewarding. Just be prepared for a different pace and more hands-on responsibility.

📞 Want to Talk About Acreage Life?

Let’s connect. I’d love to hear about your dream lifestyle and help you figure out if an acreage is truly the right move.
📲 Book a consultation, follow me on Instagram @KristenEdmunds.RealEstate, or shoot me a DM with “ACREAGE” to get started.

Kristen Edmunds is a Calgary-area REALTOR® and Associate Broker with KIC Realty, specializing in acreages, luxury homes, and smart buy/sell strategies. With expertise in rural properties (water wells, septic, equestrian facilities) and a client-obsessed approach, Kristen helps buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals with confidence and ease.