Living in Calgary: A city guide for international students

Calgary is one of Canada's fastest-growing cities and a popular choice for international students who want strong job prospects without the high costs of Toronto or Vancouver. It's home to well-regarded institutions such as the University of Calgary, Mount Royal University, SAIT and Bow Valley College, offering programs in business, engineering, health sciences, energy and technology. 

A few reasons students choose Calgary: 

• Lower cost of living than Toronto or Vancouver, especially for rent 

• No provincial sales tax in Alberta, which means everyday purchases cost less 

• A strong local job market, particularly in energy, technology, healthcare and finance 

• Easy access to the Rocky Mountains, with Banff just over an hour away 

• A safe, well-organised city with good public transport and healthcare services 

Calgary may appeal to you more if you like long, cold winters. Also, the city is more spread out and car-oriented than some other Canadian cities, which is worth considering when choosing where you would like to live and study. But for students who want value for money and career opportunities in a growing economy, it's a strong contender and can offer a rewarding study experience. 

Calgary is in the province of Alberta, in western Canada, close to the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. It's Alberta's largest city, with a metropolitan population of around 1.6 million people, making it Canada's third or fourth largest urban area depending on how it's measured. Calgary is known for: 

• The Calgary Stampede: a famous ten-day rodeo and festival held every July. 

• Its energy sector: historically the centre of Canada's oil and gas industry, and increasingly a hub for clean energy and technology. 

• Proximity to the Rockies: Banff, Lake Louise, and Kananaskis Country are all within a two-hour drive. 

• A young, multicultural population: driven by steady immigration and interprovincial migration. 

• A sunny, dry climate: Calgary gets more sunshine hours than most Canadian cities, even though winters are cold. 

The city has a compact, walkable downtown core surrounded by dozens of residential communities connected by the CTrain light rail and bus network. 

Calgary is generally more affordable than Toronto or Vancouver, but international students should still budget carefully. When calculating the cost of living, housing is usually the largest expense, followed by food, transport, and utilities. 

Quick facts: Average cost of living in Calgary 

 *Figures are estimates and can vary by neighbourhood, lifestyle and season. Winter heating costs tend to push utility bills higher between November and March. 

Tips to manage living expenses in Calgary 

• Cook at home and shop at discount grocery chains rather than eating out often. 

• Buy a monthly transit pass instead of paying per trip. 

• Look slightly outside the most popular central neighbourhoods for better rent value. 

• Share accommodation with roommates during your first year while you settle in. 

• Budget extra for warm winter clothing in your first few months. 

• You can also look for a student discount wherever applicable using ISIC.  

Calgary has a wide mix of accommodation options, from busy inner-city areas close to university campuses to quieter, more affordable suburbs that are a short train ride away. 

Popular options for international students 

On-campus or university residence  
Most Calgary institutions offer residence halls or on-campus apartments. This is often the easiest option in your first semester, as it's close to classes, includes utilities, and makes it easier to meet other students. 

Homestay  
A homestay places you with a local family, usually including meals and a furnished room. It's a good option for younger students or those who want extra support adjusting to a new country, though it offers less independence than renting your own accommodation. 

Shared rental 
Renting a room in a shared house or apartment is one of the most affordable ways to live off campus. It's common among students and young professionals, particularly in neighbourhoods close to the CTrain line. 

Private apartment  
Renting your own studio or one-bedroom apartment offers the most independence, but it's also the most expensive option and usually needs proof of income or a guarantor. 

Best areas to live in Calgary for students 

When choosing where to live, consider: 

• Distance and commute time to your campus 

• Access to a CTrain station or major bus routes 

• Whether rent includes utilities and internet 

• Safety and proximity to grocery stores, pharmacies and healthcare 

Many international students work part-time in Calgary to help cover living expenses and gain valuable Canadian work experience. 

Current off-campus work rules 

International students with a valid study permit can generally work off campus without needing a separate work permit, provided they: 

• Are enrolled full-time at a designated learning institution (DLI) 

• Are in an eligible academic, vocational or professional training program of at least six months 

• Have already started their studies 

• Maintain satisfactory academic standing 

Under current rules, eligible students can work up to 24 hours per week off campus during academic sessions, and full-time during scheduled breaks (such as winter and summer holidays). These rules are set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and can change, so it's important to confirm the latest limit on the official IRCC website. 

Common student jobs in Calgary 

International students commonly find part-time work in: 

• Retail and customer service 

• Cafés, restaurants, and hospitality 

• Campus roles, such as library assistants, tutors, or research assistants 

• Administrative and reception work 

• Tutoring or language exchange work 

Alberta's minimum wage applies to most part-time jobs, so it's worth checking the current provincial rate before accepting an offer. 

Career opportunities after graduation 

Calgary's economy is diversifying beyond energy into technology, financial services, healthcare, and clean energy, creating more opportunities for skilled graduates. Many international students later apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to gain full-time Canadian work experience after finishing their studies. Eligibility rules for the PGWP change from time to time, so always check the latest IRCC guidance based on your program and institution. 

Calgary has a well-connected public transport system. But as the city is more spread out than places like Toronto or Montreal, many residents rely on a mix of transit, walking, and cycling. 

Calgary Transit 

Calgary's public transport network is run by Calgary Transit and includes: 

• CTrain: a light rail system with two main lines (Red and Blue) connecting downtown to the northwest, northeast, south, and southeast of the city. 

• Bus network: extensive routes covering most residential neighbourhoods and connecting to CTrain stations. 

Fares can be paid per trip or through a monthly pass, which is often more economical for regular commuters. Many post-secondary institutions in Calgary, including the University of Calgary, SAIT, and Mount Royal University, include mandatory U-Pass in tuition fees, giving students discounted, semester-long transit access. Check with your institution to confirm whether a U-Pass is included in your fees. 

Other ways to get around 

• Walking and cycling: the inner city has good pedestrian infrastructure and a growing network of cycle tracks 

• Car sharing and ride-hailing: useful for areas not well served by transit, and for winter travel 

• Owning a car: common among longer-term residents, though not essential for most students living close to campus or a CTrain line. 

Beyond costs and practical considerations, day-to-day life in Calgary has a distinct character shaped by its climate, community and outdoor lifestyle. 

Climate and seasons 

Calgary has a dry, sunny climate with four distinct seasons: 

• Winter (November–March): Cold, with temperatures often well below freezing. Chinook winds can cause sudden, temporary warm spells. 

• Spring and autumn: Mild but changeable, with temperature swings possible within the same day. 

• Summer (June–August): Warm, sunny and popular for outdoor events, including the Calgary Stampede. 

New students, especially those from warmer climates, should prepare for a longer and colder winter than they may be used to by budgeting for suitable clothing and winter essentials. 

Student life and community 

Calgary's universities and colleges run active student associations, clubs, and international student support offices that help newcomers settle in, meet people, and access services like counselling, health advice, and academic support. Students can also register for IDP’s Student Community to connect with students abroad. Outside of campus, Calgary offers: 

• Museums, galleries, and the Calgary Zoo. 

• A strong café and restaurant culture, particularly in Kensington, Inglewood, and Mission. 

• Easy access to hiking, skiing, and outdoor recreation in the nearby Rockies. 

• Community leagues and recreation centres in almost every neighbourhood. 

Safety and healthcare 

Calgary is generally considered a safe city by international standards, with low rates of violent crime compared with many major global cities. International students are usually required to have health insurance, either through a provincial plan (where eligible) or a private international student insurance plan arranged through their institution.

Dreaming of studying in Calgary? Let IDP help turn your plans into reality. From choosing the right course and university to navigating applications, student visas, and pre-departure preparations, our experienced counsellors are here to support you at every stage of your study abroad journey. 

With access to leading Canadian universities and colleges, personalized guidance, and dedicated support throughout the application process, IDP makes studying in Calgary simpler and less stressful.