Every year, I talk to people who are thinking about moving to Calgary “sometime next year.”

And almost without fail, the same questions come up every single time.

They’re good questions — important ones — but what surprises people is how much the answers affect their experience once they actually make the move.

If Calgary is on your radar for 2026, here’s what almost everyone asks… and why these questions matter more than you think.

“Which Neighbourhood Should We Choose?”

This is usually the first question — and often the most overwhelming.

Calgary has a wide range of neighbourhoods, and the “best” one depends far more on how you live than on price alone.

Things people often underestimate:

• Commute patterns (direction matters more than distance)

• Daily errands and access to amenities

• Walkability vs driving convenience

• Community feel vs house features

Many people move here loving their home — and later realize the neighbourhood doesn’t match their lifestyle.

This question is worth spending real time on early.

“Should We Rent First or Buy Right Away?”

There’s no universal right answer — but there is a right answer for your situation.

Renting first can make sense if:

• You’re unfamiliar with Calgary neighbourhoods

• You want flexibility

• You’re timing a job or life transition

Buying right away can make sense if:

• You’ve done your research

• You know where you want to live

• You’re planning to stay for a while

The key is not defaulting to one option out of fear or pressure — but understanding the trade-offs.

“Is the Market Still Competitive?”

This question usually comes with a lot of assumptions.

Calgary’s market isn’t one single experience — it varies by:

• Price range

• Neighbourhood

• Property type

• Time of year

Some segments are competitive.
Others are balanced.
Some offer strong negotiation opportunities.

Understanding where and how competition shows up is more helpful than broad headlines.

“What’s the Real Cost of Living in Calgary?”

This is where expectations often shift.

Housing is just one part of the picture.

People are often surprised by:

• Transportation patterns

• Utility costs

• Property taxes

• Lifestyle spending (or savings) based on location

Calgary can offer excellent value — but how much depends on the choices you make.

“What Does Day-to-Day Life Actually Feel Like?”

This question doesn’t always get asked — but it should.

People want to know:

• Does life feel rushed or relaxed?

• How much time is spent driving?

• How accessible outdoor space really is

• How seasons affect routines

This is where lifestyle fit becomes more important than square footage.

Why These Questions Matter More Than People Expect

Most relocation stress doesn’t come from the move itself.

It comes from:

• Decisions made too late

• Assumptions made too early

• Not understanding how Calgary actually functions day to day

The people who feel the most confident about their move are the ones who start asking these questions before timelines feel tight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 2026 too early to start planning a move to Calgary?

No — early planning usually leads to better outcomes.

Do most people underestimate neighbourhood importance?

Yes — almost universally.

Can these questions be answered without living here first?

Yes, with the right local insight.

Related Reading

• Before You Move to Calgary, Watch This — Your Future Self Will Thank You

• The Calgary Culture Shocks Nobody Warns You About

• The 3 Calgary Truths Newcomers Only Learn After 6 Months Here

Conclusion

If you’re moving to Calgary in 2026, the questions you ask now will shape how smooth — or stressful — the experience feels later.

There’s no single “right” path, but there is a smarter way to plan.

If you want help thinking through these questions with real, local context, I’ve put together a Calgary Relocation Guide that walks through them step by step.

📩 DM me “2026” and I’ll send it to you.

About Kristen Edmunds

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’re starting your acreage search around Calgary, you’ve probably heard this: “We’ll need at least 5 acres.” It’s one of the most common things buyers say. But here’s the truth—the “5-acre rule” is more myth than must-have.

Every family, hobbyist, or horse owner has different needs. For some, 2–3 acres feels like paradise. For others, even 5 acres is too small. The key is asking not “How many acres?” but “What do I want to do with my land?”

Why the “5-Acre Rule” Exists

The idea that “5 acres” is the sweet spot comes from a mix of practicality and tradition. Years ago, it was considered enough land for a home, a barn, and maybe a horse or two without being overwhelming.

But today, lifestyle, property design, and municipal bylaws all change what “enough” really means.

When 2–3 Acres is Enough

For many Calgary-area acreage buyers, smaller parcels deliver exactly what they need:

• Privacy without endless mowing or snow clearing

• Room for kids and pets to play

• Space for a shop or detached garage

• A horse or two with the right setup

On a well-designed 2–3 acre property, you can enjoy acreage life without spending every weekend on land maintenance.

When 5 Acres Still Feels Small

On the flip side, some buyers find that even 5 acres doesn’t cut it. This is especially true if you plan to:

• Build a full riding arena or large barn

• Keep multiple horses or livestock

• Add large outbuildings like workshops or secondary residences

• Grow crops or manage a small-scale farm

Once you factor in septic systems, setbacks, and landscaping, the usable portion of 5 acres may feel smaller than expected.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Before fixating on a number, ask:

1. What’s my lifestyle? (Pets, horses, gardening, or just quiet space?)

2. How much maintenance do I want? (More acres = more mowing, fencing, and snow clearing.)

3. What’s my budget? (Bigger parcels often cost more and require more upkeep.)

4. What’s my long-term vision? (Am I planning to expand or stay low-maintenance?)

Your honest answers will tell you whether 2 acres, 5 acres, or 10+ acres makes the most sense.

Calgary & Area Considerations

• Bylaws: Each county (Foothills, Rocky View, Mountain View, etc.) has specific rules about animals per acre.

• Septic & Well: Placement of these systems takes up space you can’t always build on.

• Resale Value: Parcels between 2–5 acres often attract the most buyers, making them easier to resell later.

FAQs: The 5-Acre Myth

Q: Can I keep horses on less than 5 acres?
Yes—depending on county bylaws. Many allow 1–2 horses on 2–3 acres.

Q: Is bigger always better?
Not necessarily. More land means more upkeep and higher costs.

Q: What’s the best size for resale?
2–5 acres are generally most desirable in Calgary’s acreage market.

Q: Should I buy extra acres “just in case”?
Only if you have a clear plan. Otherwise, you may end up maintaining land you never use.

Related Reading

• Well Water 101: How to Test Before You Buy

• Hidden Costs of Acreage Living Near Calgary

• Foothills County Animal Units Explained

The 5-acre myth has been around for decades, but the reality is simple: there’s no magic number. The right acreage size depends on your lifestyle, goals, and willingness to maintain the land.

For some, 2 acres is perfect. For others, 10 isn’t enough. The key is matching your property to your dream—not a number.

Thinking about acreage living near Calgary?
💬 DM me “ACREAGE” and I’ll send you my free Acreage Buyer’s Checklist to help you plan with confidence.