Calgary is not a dead city; it has employment, and several citizens still consider it a good place to live.
However, in 2025, a lot of Calgarians will reconsider their decision as the pressure is increasing.
Uncertainty in the economy, high housing prices and congestion are causing a number of people
to contemplate going to other cities or provinces where life might appear cheaper and easier.
Housing Costs Rising Fast
Calgary, which used to be characterised by low-cost housing, has experienced a rapid increase in
prices. In the year 2022, there were just too many and the houses were too few. The city expanded
by tens of thousands, whereas new constructions were not able to keep up. At the end of the first
quarter of 2025, the average house price in Calgary was approximately CAD 540,000- far less
than in Toronto; however, it was a strain on many families. In many cases, the rate of increase
of rents has been higher than the rise in wages. The city is getting full, as one user of Reddit
cautioned that Calgary is no longer affordable.
A Slowing Economy and Job Anxiety
The economy of Calgary majorly depends on oil and gas, and that industry has experienced its
fair share of good and bad times. Business leaders are being more selective in 2025. In one survey,
optimism declined – only half of the people believe that Calgary has a resilient economy, a
decline of 77. Job applicants fear that their lives would be hit by the boom-and-bust cycles.
City Feeling More Crowded
Calgary was extolled over decades because of its big city choice without being crammed in. The
increased number of residents now claims that the city is crowded and busy. Traffic, traffic jams
and slowed-down services are altering Calgary’s perception. It is not as relaxing and easy a city
as it used to feel, some longtime residents say.
Rising Taxes and Cost of Services
The city of Calgary has experienced an increase in property taxes incrementally as well. These
are increasing prices coupled with inflation, which is straining family finances. There is a drop in
service satisfaction, which was 80, down to 63. They believe that they are paying more and not
receiving in the same proportion.
Environmental Concerns and Regional Tensions
The economy of Alberta relies on oil and is a source of wealth, but there is also the issue of
its effect on the environment. As climate change provides additional floods and wildfires, residents
are concerned about the overall security and the future of this area. An increasing feeling
of being disconnected between Alberta and federal leaders is also present, and some residents
report it causing them to rethink where they anchor their lives.
Real Voices from Residents
Some experience on Reddit. One of them said the need to make 2.5 times the rent to buy a home
was leaving Calgary beyond reach. Ontario or B.C. natives who once might have taken Calgary in
their stride have confessed that the high costs and lack of job security are making them consider
leaving once again.
Final Thought
Calgary is still an opportunity and energy city. However, in 2025, the increasing housing prices,
uncertainty in employment, overpopulation, taxes and environmental issues are having their way.
A lot of residents have started to seek other communities that are healthier and cheaper. In case
Calgary is getting too stressful for you or your family, you are not alone, and you are not alone in the
fact that a better balance is an option.
FAQs
What is getting so expensive in Calgary? Is housing?
Calgary has experienced growth in population more than in the new homes. This has driven
prices and rents higher, although they are still lower than in Toronto and Vancouver.
Is Calgary’s economy sound?
The economy has been robust in other areas such as oil and technology, but the situation in
the energy markets has raised doubts, discouraging the optimism of business leaders.
Do you think that Calgary is now congested?
Yes. The city has been accused by many residents of having lost its small-city charm and
has become busy and congested.
How important are taxes in the cost of living in Calgary?
There has been an increase in property taxes and other municipal expenses over the years,
and most residents believe they are paying more without feeling that services are getting better.