The True Cost of Commuting in Calgary

When house-hunting in Calgary, most buyers focus on mortgage payments, down payments, and property taxes. But there’s another cost that can quietly drain your wallet and your time: the cost of commuting. 🚗

Living farther from work may mean a lower home price, but the daily drive has hidden expenses that can add up to hundreds—or even thousands—per year. Let’s break it down.

Gas and Parking 💸

Fuel costs in Calgary are on the rise, and longer commutes mean more trips to the pump. Add in the cost of downtown parking—often $300–$500 per month—and suddenly that “affordable” home outside the city doesn’t feel so cheap.

👉 Pro tip: Run the numbers on gas and parking before committing to a location.

Vehicle Wear and Tear 🚙

The more time you spend on Deerfoot Trail or Stoney Trail, the faster your vehicle depreciates. Longer commutes mean:

• More frequent oil changes

• Higher maintenance bills

• Faster tire replacement

• Increased insurance risk

Over a few years, those costs can outweigh what you saved on your mortgage.

The Value of Your Time ⏳

Time is money, but it’s also family dinners, kids’ activities, hobbies, and rest. Spending an extra 60–90 minutes per day in traffic adds up to hundreds of hours each year—time you’ll never get back.

👉 Lifestyle tip: A slightly higher mortgage for a closer neighbourhood might actually save you time and stress.

Health and Well-Being 🧘

Long commutes aren’t just expensive—they can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Research links long drives with:

• Higher stress levels

• Less exercise and sleep

• Reduced work-life balance

Balancing Costs and Lifestyle ⚖️

This doesn’t mean suburban or acreage living is “bad.” For some families, the space and lifestyle are worth the extra driving. The key is knowing the trade-offs and budgeting realistically.

Ask yourself:

• How much am I really saving on my mortgage?

• How much am I spending on commuting?

• How important is my time and lifestyle?

FAQs: Commuting in Calgary

Q: How much does the average Calgary commute cost?
It varies, but between gas, parking, and wear-and-tear, many commuters spend $400–$600 per month.

Q: Are certain areas better for reducing commute time?
Yes. Inner-city and LRT-accessible neighbourhoods can cut costs and save time.

Q: Is acreage living always more expensive to commute from?
Not always—if you work remotely or have flexible hours, it can balance out.

Q: Should commuting costs factor into my home budget?
Absolutely. It’s one of the most overlooked expenses in homeownership.

Related Reading

• The Best Time to Sell Your Home in Calgary

• The 5-Acre Myth: How Much Land You REALLY Need

• Relocating to Calgary—Everything You Need to Know

The true cost of commuting in Calgary is more than just gas money. It’s parking, maintenance, lost time, and even your health. While living farther out can lower your mortgage, it can also create hidden costs that cancel out the savings.

✨ The smartest move? Factor commuting into your home search from the start. Sometimes the right neighbourhood isn’t just about price—it’s about balance.

Thinking about buying in Calgary?
💬 DM me “COMMUTE” and I’ll send you my free Calgary Buyer’s Guide to help you plan smarter.

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.