In this article, we will take a look at the Cost of Living in Calgary!
Calgary is a beautiful city in the province of Alberta, Canada, and a popular destination for Indian students seeking high-quality education and ample job opportunities. Alberta’s most populated city falls into the middle-ground when it comes to the cost of living calculations compared to its major Canadian counterparts. Toronto and Vancouver are more expensive places to live, especially when it comes to housing, but the cost of living in Calgary isn’t all that far behind when it comes to these rankings.
So, before deciding to move to Calgary, it's essential to understand the cost of living in the city. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the cost of living in Calgary.
Read this article to know more about the Cost of Living in Calgary!
Overview of Cost of Living in Calgary
It is essential to understand the various expenses that come with living in the city. So, here is an overview of Cost of Living in Calgary
Accommodation
The cost of accommodation in Calgary varies depending on the type of housing and the location. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around CAD 1,400 (INR 76,675) per month, while a similar apartment outside the city center can cost around CAD 1,100 (INR 60,550) per month. Shared accommodation can be a more affordable option, with a room in a shared apartment costing around CAD 700 (INR 38,340) per month. It's essential to note that utilities such as electricity, water, and internet are usually not included in the rent and can cost an additional CAD 150-200 (INR 8,225-10,975) per month.
Food
The cost of food in Calgary is similar to other cities in Canada. Eating out can be expensive, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing around CAD 20 (INR 1,100) per person. Cooking at home can be a more affordable option, with a week's worth of groceries for one person costing around CAD 60-80 (INR 3,300-4,400). Many supermarkets offer discounts and promotions, which can help reduce the cost of groceries.
Transportation:
Calgary has a reliable public transportation system, with buses and trains connecting the city. A monthly pass for public transportation costs around CAD 106 (INR 5,810). However, many students choose to bike or walk to their destinations, which can be a more affordable and healthy option.
Education
The cost of education in Calgary can vary depending on the institution and the program. International students are required to pay higher tuition fees than Canadian residents. On average, the tuition fees for undergraduate programs in Calgary range from CAD 15,000-30,000 (INR 823,000-1,646,000) per year, while the tuition fees for graduate programs range from CAD 10,000-25,000 (INR 548,700-1,371,750) per year.
Miscellaneous Expenses:
There are various other expenses that students should keep in mind when budgeting for their stay in Calgary. These expenses include clothing, personal care items, entertainment, and travel. It is recommended that students budget around CAD 500-700 (INR 27,400-38,340) per month for these expenses.
Tips to help students to save money in Calgary
Living in a new city like Calgary can be exciting, but it can also be expensive, especially for students who are on a tight budget. However, there are ways to save money and make the most of your student budget. Here are some tips to help students to save money in Calgary:
Look for Affordable Accommodation:
Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses for students in Calgary. To save money, consider sharing an apartment with other students. You can also look for off-campus housing options that are more affordable than living in the city center.
Cook at Home:
Eating out can be expensive, so cooking at home is a more affordable option. You can buy groceries from supermarkets like Safeway, Superstore, and Walmart, which offer a range of affordable options. You can also take advantage of weekly specials and discounts to save money on your grocery bill.
Use Public Transportation:
Calgary has a reliable public transportation system, including buses and trains. A monthly pass for public transportation costs around CAD 106 (INR 5,810), which is more affordable than owning a car. You can also consider walking or biking to your destination, which is not only more affordable but also good for your health.
Take Advantage of Student Discounts:
Many retailers and restaurants offer discounts for students. You can take advantage of these discounts to save money on your purchases. Make sure to carry your student ID card with you to avail of these discounts.
Look for Free Activities:
There are plenty of free activities and events in Calgary that you can enjoy. You can visit parks, museums, and art galleries for free. You can also attend free concerts and festivals that are organized throughout the year.
Be mindful of your spending
It's important to be mindful of your spending and stick to a budget. Track your expenses and identify areas where you can cut back. Limit your spending on non-essential items such as clothing and entertainment.
Conclusion
So, the cost of living in Calgary can vary depending on a student's lifestyle and spending habits. However, overall, it can be considered a reasonably affordable city for international students compared to other major cities in Canada. While expenses like accommodation and transportation can be significant, students can take advantage of affordable options and discounts to save money. It's important for students to be mindful of their spending and create a budget to make the most of their student experience in Calgary. With careful planning and budgeting, students can enjoy all that the city has to offer while keeping their expenses in check.
So, this article was all about Cost of Living in Calgary. We hope by reading this article you must have got some insights on the Cost of Living in Calgary.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work while studying in Calgary to offset my expenses?
Yes, international students with a study permit are allowed to work part-time on-campus or off-campus while studying in Calgary. However, it's important to check the terms and conditions of your study permit to ensure that you are eligible to work.
How much does it cost to eat out in Calgary?
Eating out in Calgary can vary depending on the type of restaurant and the meal. On average, a meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around $15 to $25 CAD per person, which is approximately 800 to 1,300 INR.
Are there any student discounts available in Calgary?
Yes, many retailers, restaurants, and entertainment venues in Calgary offer discounts for students. Students can show their student ID to receive these discounts.
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