If you’re thinking about moving from BC or Ontario to Calgary…
first of all — welcome.
Second — prepare to be shocked by how far your money actually goes here.
Because what $700,000 buys you in Calgary vs Vancouver or Toronto?
Two completely different realities.
Like… borderline comedic levels of different. 😂
Let’s break it down.
🏡 Calgary: $700,000 Buys You an Actual Home
At this price point, Calgary buyers get options. Real, tangible, square-footage-you-can-walk-around-in options.
Here’s what $700K typically gets you in Calgary:
✔ A detached home
✔ 3–4 bedrooms
✔ A double garage (your truck will thank you)
✔ A yard where your dog can do zoomies
✔ Family-friendly neighbourhoods
✔ Finished basements, bonus rooms, larger kitchens
✔ Space — glorious, glorious space
In Calgary, $700K is a comfortable move-up price or a strong family-home budget.
You’re not compromising; you’re choosing.
🏙️ BC or Ontario: $700,000 Buys You… a Condo
Listen, no shade.
Vancouver and Toronto are incredible cities with incredible food, culture, and scenery.
But $700K?
Well…
Here’s what you’re likely getting:
✔ 1–2 bedroom condo
✔ 500–700 sq ft
✔ High condo fees
✔ No garage
✔ No yard
✔ Neighbours who are very close
✔ A storage locker if you’re lucky
It’s not bad — it’s just tight.
And if you're moving with kids, pets, gear, or dreams of a home office…
that square footage fills up fast.
📏 The Square Footage Reality
Let’s put this into perspective:
Calgary — approx. 1,600–2,200 sq ft
Big kitchen, multiple bedrooms, storage, yard, basement.
Vancouver / Toronto — approx. 550–700 sq ft
Open-concept living room/kitchen/office/gym/dining room (all the same room).
Same budget.
Different lives.
💸 It’s Not About “Better” — It’s About Fit
This isn’t about saying one province is better than another.
BC has the ocean.
Ontario has major industries and events.
Calgary has mountains, sunshine, space, affordability, and a booming economy.
What matters is:
Which lifestyle fits your goals, family, work, and budget?
And for many people — especially remote workers, families, and first-time buyers —
Calgary is where life becomes possible again.
🧭 Lifestyle Differences That Matter
People relocating often tell me:
“I didn’t realize how stressed I was until I moved here.”
Here’s why:
✨ Shorter commutes
✨ Slower pace
✨ More space
✨ Lower costs
✨ Safe, friendly communities
✨ Access to nature
✨ More financial breathing room
Calgary gives people their quality of life back.
🧮 Cost of Living: A Quick Comparison
While everyone’s situation is different, the overall trend is clear:
Calgary
• Lower home prices
• Lower property taxes
• Lower insurance
• Lower everyday cost of living
• Less pressure, more balance
BC / Ontario
• Higher housing costs
• Higher taxes & fees
• Higher living expenses
• Less space for the same budget
This is why so many people are choosing Alberta — smart financial planning meets real lifestyle benefits.
🧳 Who Moves to Calgary for $700K?
I work with relocators every month, and this is who I see the most:
Young families upgrading from a condo
First-time homebuyers tired of renting
Remote workers seeking affordability
Couples wanting space for pets, hobbies, or future kids
Professionals priced out of BC & Ontario markets
People looking for better balance, community & lifestyle
If you want space, stability, and value, Calgary delivers.
📩 Want My Full $700K Comparison Guide?
I built a detailed guide showing:
✔ Real Calgary listings at $700K
✔ Examples from BC and Ontario
✔ Price-per-square-foot breakdown
✔ Photos + floorplan comparisons
✔ Neighbourhood suggestions
✔ Lifestyle considerations
✔ Relocation tips for families & professionals
DM “700K GUIDE” and I’ll send it to you directly.
❓ FAQ
Q: Is $700K enough for a detached home in Calgary?
A: Absolutely — and a good one. Many great neighbourhoods fall in this range.
Q: What about new builds?
A: Yes — many new build communities offer detached options near or under $700K.
Q: What if I want a townhouse instead?
A: You’ll get a gorgeous one for far less than BC/Ontario prices.
Q: Are people really moving from BC & Ontario?
A: Yes — in record numbers. It’s one of the strongest migration trends in Canada.
📚 Related Reading
💸 Is Now a Good Time to Buy in Calgary? Here’s the 2025 Reality Check
💡 Why Everyone’s Moving to Calgary in 2025 — And Not Just for the Oil Jobs
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.
