Are you one of those Americans planning on moving internationally to the Great White North? Then know you’re not alone because that idea occupies the minds of thousands of Americans, and many of them consider moving to Calgary. Today we’ll try to cover some basics about it, from how to get there to how cold it is, so stay tuned.
Moving overseas doesn’t have to be so complicated, especially when you’re not really moving across the world to China or Dubai, but you’re moving to Canada. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in Americans interested in how to immigrate to Canada. But it is not just Americans who are moving abroad to the Great White North. CA has been recognized as one of the friendliest countries in the world towards expats, which is why people from all over the globe want to move here, and not even a somewhat high cost of living in Canada can stop them. The majority want to live in Toronto or Vancouver, but those interested in living in Calgary didn’t make a mistake because this is one of the best places to live in Canada. Calgary’s slogan is “Be Part of the Energy,” so if you’re ready to take that step, here is some essential information you should know about it.
Things You Should Know About Calgary Before Becoming a Canadian
Stampede City and Cowtown are the most famous nicknames of this city in the western province of Alberta with a rich history in farming and a traditional stampede event that occurs every July. Today, this is the largest city in Alberta, one of 10 Canadian provinces. It owes its expansion to the fact that it’s been recognized as the Canadian center of the oil industry. Its metro area has around 1.3 million residents, which makes it the most populous city in Alberta and western CA. Cowtown lies on the confluence of two rivers, Bow and Elbow, but that’s only one of the pros. Let’s take a look at the others.
Pros of Moving to Calgary:
In case you need a bit more convincing, we curated a list of reasons why relocating here would be the right decision, so take a look and add some of them to your list of pros:
- It is very clean. In 2007 Forbes named CGY as the cleanest city in the world. And although it’s been a while since that happened, CGY is still working very hard to maintain its good reputation in this category.
- Skywalk system for pedestrians. We know how harsh winters can be in CA, which is why CGY went a step further by providing its residents with an optimal solution, a skywalk system. The skywalk is a network of enclosed footbridges, around 15 feet above the ground, allowing pedestrians to go around with ease because they are protected from the cold and bad weather.
- Low sales tax. One of the advantages of living in this province is that there is no provincial sales tax. For example, those moving to Ontario pay 15% for combined state and provincial taxes, while in CGY, you only pay 5% for federal goods and services.
- Family doctors are available. During the expansion of Cowtow’s population, there were not always enough family doctors, but that has changed. The national average is 114 physicians per 100,000 people, and CGY currently has 141 of them. Much higher number.
- Plenty of things to do. The list of things to do in Calgary is long, so whether you’re moving with kids or pets, or are a fan of outdoor activities yourself, we’re sure you’ll love it here. From mountain biking and ziplining to testing some winter sports in the Olympic Park. Also, stunning Banff is only an hour away, so consider shipping a car overseas and exploring everything this region has to offer.
Cons of International Moving to Calgary:
Cons don’t necessarily have to be a reason to give up on moving abroad. Maybe some of them won’t even be a problem for you. These are only the information that helps you keep it real when it comes to relocation because every place has its pros and cons:
- Overcrowded schools. If you’re moving abroad for love or to study, you probably won’t be bothered by this information. And although this is one of the best places to live abroad with family, the truth is that the suburbs are getting crowded and it might be hard to get into the school you want.
- Traffic jams. Although CGY is not as large as some other cities, it still suffers from the same problem known as traffic congestion. So if you don’t want to end up stuck in traffic, you can rely on the local public transportation, which works pretty well.
- High unemployment rates. We know this is not something those looking for jobs want to hear, but unemployment is an ongoing problem in CGY. This is the place with the highest unemployment rate in CA, and it is currently around 14.4%, but keep in mind that the Coronavirus outbreak increased those numbers significantly.
Moving to Calgary From the US – Everything You Should Know Before Moving Internationally to Canada
If you’re wondering how to move to another country, and that country is CA, you’re lucky because Canada offers numerous immigration programs. US citizens can stay up to 6 monthly in CA without a visa, which gives us plenty of time for job hunting. The key is to determine your goal, whether it is education or work, and find a suitable immigration program to apply to. Besides the most popular express entry program, those of you looking to move to this province also have the option to apply for the provincial nominee program.
What Is AINP
AINP stands for Alberta Immigration Nominee Program for skilled workers. Nominees have to have skills to fill job shortages in this province or to start a business. Within these programs, you can choose between streams for workers and entrepreneurs, so carefully prepare all the documents needed for moving internationally and start applying. If you’re scouting for jobs, you should also consider all the essential relocation questions to ask your employer.
Is It Expensive to Live in Calgary?
Since it is the largest and most populous city in AB, Calgary’s cost of living index is the highest in the province. But still, it is not as high as the cost of living in Vancouver, for example. Everything depends on your personal lifestyle and money management skills.
How Much Money Do You Need to Live Comfortably in Calgary After Moving Abroad?
To help you get an idea of how much you’ll need to cover all the expenses on a monthly level, we curated this chart that brings you some basic and average costs, converted in USD.
| Utilities | Apartment (1 bedroom) | Price per Square Feet to Buy Apartment | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calgary | $160 | $820 | $220 |
How Much Does It Cost to Hire an International Moving Company and Move to CGY From Other Parts of the World
Whether you’re coming from the US or Europe, shipping overseas is pricey, and the overall costs depend on the distance and amount of stuff you’re shipping. We know that planning a budget for international moving services can increase the level of your moving stress, which is why you should count in these expenses at the very beginning:
- Packing services
- Boxes and supplies
- Custom crating
- Oversized freight
- Renting storage
- Overseas vehicle shipping
Can You Live in Calgary Without a Car?
Having a car can be both a blessing and a curse. The truth is, it all depends on where you settle down, how close you’re to work, schools, and so on. If you settle down close to everything you need on a daily basis, you can function without a car, especially if you’re located downtown. Suburban locations usually require a car, although they are well-connected with public transportation. When the weather is nice, you’ll notice that many rely on bikes as their main means of transportation.
All Information About Public Transportation Americans Moving to Calgary, Canada, Need to Know
The local transit system has a network of buses and a light rail system (the CTrain) that connect all parts of CGY pretty well. A single ticket costs around $2.65 for adults, it is valid for 90 minutes, and there are discounts for children. A day pass is also available at around $8, and you can purchase a set of 10 tickets for around $26. One convenient thing is that the CTrain is free in downtown CGY, along 7th Avenue.
How Cold Is It in CGY? After Shipping Overseas, Beware of the Chinook Wind
CGY has a humid continental climate, with some pretty cold but sunny winters. The cold season lasts around 3.7 months, from mid-November to the first days of March, but you can expect the first snowfall of the season already in September or October. The climate here is also very windy due to the prairie location. And the wind you’ll experience here is called Chinook, a hot and dry wind, coming down from the Rocky Mountains. During the winter months, this wind can raise the temperature up to stunning 30 degrees within a few hours, which is more than welcomed on those cold days.
Where to Settle Down in CGY? Tips for Choosing the Best Neighborhoods
Relocating to an unfamiliar place can be stressful, especially if you don’t know how to pick the best community and neighborhood. You need the help of an insider. Should you go north or south, close to downtown or suburbs? Take a look at this video to get some handful of tips on picking the right community.
Fun Facts and Related Stats You Should Know About CGY
To cheer you up and help you get to know your future home a bit better, we gather some interesting facts you should know before relocating. It is important to know what to pack for moving overseas and prepare all the papers, but it is also essential to gather as much information as possible from various sources.
Fun Facts and Things You Maybe Didn’t Know About CGY
Want to know CGY a bit better? Take a look at this list:
- The local Stampede hosts the largest rodeo in the world
- CGY is a very young city, with a median age of 36
- This is the sunniest place in CA, with 333 average sunshine days per year
- CGY has more volunteers per capita than any other place in CA
- June is the rainiest month
- You can walk 11 miles through downtown without having to be outside thanks to the Skywalk system
Is Moving to Calgary a Good Idea?
Canada is home to one of the largest US expat communities. In CGY, you can find not only Americans but people from all corners of the world, especially from European countries. CGY is the third most ethnically diverse place in CA, it is a multicultural hub that has the status of one of the most livable places in the world, so it is hard to say that relocating there could be a mistake. Find your reliable international Calgary movers, such as Sunset International Shipping. Contact us as soon as possible and schedule a free estimate today.
FAQ
CGY is a vibrant city in Canada that offers a high standard of living to its residents. The cost of living in Calgary is generally moderate compared to other major Canadian cities like Toronto and Vancouver. According to recent data, the average monthly cost of living for a single person in Calgary is around 3,400 CAD (2,450 USD), while a family of four can expect to spend around 6,300 CAD (4,550 USD) per month. These costs include housing, transportation, groceries, utilities, and other daily expenses. The biggest expense for most people in CGY is housing, with an average monthly rent of 2,100 CAD (1,500 USD) for a 900 sqft apartment.
Finding a place to live in CGY can be an exciting yet challenging task. Here are some tips to help you find a suitable place to live:
- Determine your budget – before starting your search, determine how much you can afford to spend on housing,
- Decide on the type of housing – such as apartments, townhouses, condos, and houses,
- Start your search online -websites such as RentFaster.ca, Kijiji, and Craigslist are great resources to find rental listings,
- Hire a real estate agent – if you are looking to buy a home or a condo,
- Attend open houses – get a feel for different neighborhoods and types of housing. It’s a great way to see properties in person and ask questions,
- Consider your commute – calculate the commute time from your potential new home,
- Be prepared to act fast – housing in CGY can be competitive, so be prepared to act fast if you find a property that you like.
Calgary is home to several neighborhoods that are popular among young professionals. One of the most popular neighborhoods is Beltline, which is known for its lively atmosphere, trendy bars, restaurants, and cafes. It is located close to downtown and has easy access to public transportation. Another popular neighborhood is Kensington, which is located in northwest Calgary and features unique shops, cafes, and restaurants. Mission, located south of downtown, is also a popular neighborhood known for its boutique shops, cafes, and nightlife. Finally, Inglewood, located just east of downtown, is a trendy and artsy neighborhood with a vibrant music and arts scene. These neighborhoods offer a range of amenities, convenience, and entertainment that make them attractive to young professionals.
The job market in Calgary is diverse, with opportunities in various industries such as oil and gas, technology, finance, and healthcare. While the city has been impacted by economic downturns in the past, it has shown resilience and has been able to bounce back. However, the job market can be competitive, and it is important for job seekers to have relevant skills and qualifications.
CGY experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by cold winters and mild summers. The city is known for its frequent chinook winds, which can cause sudden temperature spikes during the winter months, melting snow and providing a brief respite from the cold. Overall, the weather in CGY is highly variable, and residents need to be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and weather conditions.
Getting around Calgary without a car after moving overseas is relatively easy, thanks to the city’s efficient public transportation system. Calgary Transit offers a network of buses and trains that serve various parts of the city, with frequent service during peak hours. The CTrain, which is Calgary’s light rail transit system, is particularly popular among commuters and tourists. CGY also has an extensive network of bike paths and lanes, making cycling a viable option for getting around.
CGY has an efficient public transportation system that includes buses and trains operated by Calgary Transit. The CTrain is a popular mode of transportation that runs on two lines – the Red Line and the Blue Line – and connects the city’s downtown core with various neighborhoods and suburbs. The buses serve routes throughout the city, with express buses providing faster service on select routes. Calgary Transit also offers a mobile app that allows users to plan their trips, track bus and train schedules, and purchase fares digitally.
One of the top restaurants in the city is Pigeonhole, which serves contemporary Canadian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. Another popular spot is Model Milk, known for its farm-to-table menu and craft cocktails. For a taste of Asian fusion cuisine, Shokunin is a must-visit, while the Nash is the perfect spot for classic French fare. In terms of bars, Proof is a popular choice for its extensive selection of whiskey and classic cocktails, while Milk Tiger Lounge is known for its intimate atmosphere and creative drink menu. For beer enthusiasts, the National Beer Hall is a great spot with an extensive selection of local and international beers on tap.
CGY is a bustling city with plenty of tourist attractions to explore. One of the most popular tourist destinations is the Calgary Stampede, which takes place annually in July and attracts visitors from around the world. The Calgary Tower is another popular attraction, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. The Glenbow Museum is a must-visit for history and art lovers, with a large collection of artifacts and artworks from around the world. For nature enthusiasts, the Calgary Zoo is a great spot to explore. Heritage Park Historical Village is another attraction that offers a glimpse into Calgary’s past, with historic buildings, exhibits, and interactive activities.
CGY with plenty of options for those looking to enjoy the city after dark. The city has numerous bars and nightclubs that cater to different tastes and interests, ranging from sports bars and lounges to dance clubs and live music venues. The popular 17th Avenue SW area is home to many of these options, with plenty of bars and restaurants open late into the night. The Beltline neighborhood is also a great spot for nightlife, with a mix of trendy bars and music venues. For those looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, Kensington is a great option, with several cozy bars and pubs.
CGY is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the most popular outdoor activities in the city is hiking, with several trails located in and around the city. The Bow River pathway is another great spot for walking, jogging, or biking along the riverbank. For winter sports enthusiasts, there are several ski resorts located within a short drive of the city, including Banff, Canmore, and Kananaskis. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also popular activities during the winter months. In the summer, visitors can enjoy canoeing or kayaking on the Bow River or nearby lakes, while golfing is a popular option throughout the year. Additionally, there are several parks in and around the city, including Prince’s Island Park and Fish Creek Provincial Park, that offer opportunities for picnics, wildlife viewing, and outdoor relaxation.
Winter in CGY can be harsh, with temperatures dropping below freezing and snowfall that can last for months. It is important to be prepared for the winter weather to stay safe and comfortable. First, invest in warm clothing such as a heavy winter coat, insulated boots, and gloves. Layering your clothing can also help keep you warm while allowing you to adjust your clothing as needed. Make sure to have a shovel and ice scraper handy in case of heavy snowfall. Additionally, if you plan to hire an overseas moving company to ship your car, it is important to ensure that your vehicle is equipped for winter driving with snow tires and that you have a roadside emergency kit in case of a breakdown.
CGY has a reputation for having a high-quality education system with several top-rated schools. The University of Calgary is one of the most well-known and respected universities in Canada, offering undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields. In terms of primary and secondary education, some of the top-ranked schools in Calgary include Westmount Charter School, William Aberhart High School, and Sir Winston Churchill High School. Private schools such as Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School and Webber Academy are also highly regarded for their academic programs and extracurricular activities.
Calgary has a vibrant cultural scene, with a range of activities and events that celebrate the city’s arts and heritage. The Glenbow Museum is one of the most popular cultural attractions in the city, offering exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Western Canada. The National Music Centre is another must-visit destination for music lovers, with interactive exhibits and a collection of over 2,000 instruments. Theatre Calgary is the city’s largest theatre company, offering a range of productions throughout the year. The Calgary Folk Music Festival, Calgary International Film Festival, and Calgary Stampede are just a few examples of the many cultural events that take place in the city. Additionally, the city’s diverse population has led to a range of cultural events and festivals celebrating various cultures, including the Chinese New Year, Diwali, and the Calgary Pride Festival.
Hiring an overseas shipping company and relocating to a new city like CGY can be challenging, especially when it comes to making new friends and meeting new people. However, there are several ways to expand your social circle and meet like-minded individuals. Joining local clubs and organizations based on your interests can be a great way to meet new people with similar hobbies and passions. Volunteering for community events and causes is another way to meet people and contribute to the community at the same time. Taking classes or joining a sports league can also be a great way to make friends and stay active. Finally, attending social events and gatherings, such as meetups or networking events, can provide an opportunity to connect with people from different backgrounds and industries.
