Calgary vs Edmonton is like comparing Coke vs Pepsi. They are almost the same. These two cities are the largest in Alberta. Both are popular destinations for visitors because of their strong economies, diverse cultures, and excellent quality of life.
I’ve been living in Edmonton since 2011, but I visit Calgary at least once a year, so I know both cities pretty well. Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate how unique each city is.
Calgary is often called the “Gateway to the Rockies,” and is famous for its energy industry and proximity to outdoor adventures like the Banff National Park. Edmonton on the other hand, is known as the “Festival City,” and it is recognized for its cultural diversity, vibrant arts scene, and year-round events.
Both cities offer plenty of job opportunities, particularly in sectors like healthcare, education, technology, and energy. Calgary is a hub for the oil and gas industry, while Edmonton has a more diversified economy, with strong public sector and tech jobs. This variety makes both cities attractive for immigrants looking to build a stable future.
For anyone thinking about moving to Alberta, knowing the key differences between Edmonton and Calgary can help you choose the city that best suits your preferences. This post will help you make an informed decision by guiding you to the city that best fits your lifestyle and career goals.
The Basics of Calgary vs. Edmonton
Calgary and Edmonton are both great Alberta cities, but they differ in size and population. Calgary consistently ranks as the largest city, with a population of about 1.39 million people. This makes Calgary the largest city in Alberta and the third-largest city in Canada. Edmonton, in comparison, has a population of approximately 1.06 million. Despite being smaller, Edmonton is the political capital city of Alberta, giving it significant political importance.
In terms of area, Calgary covers more ground with its larger urban sprawl, spread across 825 square kilometres. This gives the city a more expansive layout, and residents often travel long distances throughout the city. Edmonton, on the other hand, is more compact, covering around 684 square kilometres. Compared to Edmonton, Calgary’s sprawling layout leads to a higher dependence on cars for commuting, especially for people living in the outer suburbs
1. Cost of living in Calgary vs Edmonton
Comparing the cost of living, Calgary is more expensive than Edmonton, especially when it comes to the housing market. The average home price in Calgary is about $551,300, while in Edmonton, homes are more affordable, averaging around $409,986. Rent follows the same pattern, with prices being 15-25% lower in Edmonton, making it a more budget-friendly option for those looking to rent.
Beyond housing, general living costs also differ between the two cities. Edmonton tends to have lower expenses for things like groceries and utilities, making everyday living slightly more affordable. In Calgary, dining out, entertainment, and recreational activities generally cost more, likely due to the city’s larger population and more diverse food and entertainment options.
While Calgary’s higher costs may be offset by higher wages in certain industries like oil and gas, Edmonton offers a more affordable lifestyle, especially for families or individuals on a tighter budget. Choosing between the two depends on your financial priorities and how much value you place on housing and daily expenses.
2. Geographic locations
Edmonton and Calgary both have unique landscapes that shape the lifestyles of their residents.
Calgary is located near the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, offering stunning views and easy access to some of Canada’s best outdoor activities. If you love skiing, hiking, or mountain biking, Calgary is the perfect spot. The Rockies are only about an hour’s drive away, making weekend trips to Banff or Lake Louise a breeze. The city’s location means you get the best of both urban living and outdoor adventure, all in one place.
Edmonton, on the other hand, is situated in the northern plains, which gives it a completely different feel. It doesn’t have mountains, but what it does have is the North Saskatchewan River Valley, the largest stretch of urban parkland in North America. Edmonton’s river valley is perfect for hiking, biking, and even cross-country skiing. With over 100 kilometres of trails, there’s plenty to explore, right in the heart of the city. This makes Edmonton an ideal choice for nature lovers who enjoy exploring scenic river valleys and green spaces.
3. Job opportunities & Economy
Calgary and Edmonton are two of Alberta’s biggest cities, each with distinct economies that attract people for different reasons. Calgary is known as the oil capital of Canada, where industries like oil and gas, finance, and technology dominate the job market. The city has recovered from economic challenges in recent years, but the job market in Calgary can still be affected by fluctuations in the global energy market. However, Calgary also offers growing opportunities in the finance and tech sectors, which help diversify its economy.
Edmonton has a more diversified economy. While Edmonton is the capital city of Alberta and home to many public sector jobs in government, healthcare, and education, it also has emerging sectors like technology and manufacturing. Edmonton also provides greater economic stability due to its focus on these industries, compared to Calgary’s energy-reliant market.
When comparing job opportunities, Calgary has more jobs in business and finance, while Edmonton offers more public sector roles. Unemployment rates have improved in both cities, though historically, unemployment has been higher in Calgary. Ultimately, the city you choose depends on which sector aligns with your career goals.
4. Weather in Calgary vs. Edmonton
The weather in Calgary and Edmonton is quite different, even though they are both in Alberta, and just 3 hours away from each other. Calgary benefits from Chinook winds, which can make the winters much milder. During winter, Calgary’s temperatures can range from around -3°C to -15°C, but on days with Chinook winds, temperatures can rise by up to 15°C, making it feel much warmer. Calgary also experiences about 65 days of snow per year
Edmonton, in contrast, has longer and colder winters. Winter temperatures in Edmonton usually range between -10°C and -25°C. With 88 days of snow per year, Edmonton gets more snow than Calgary and stays colder for longer. However, Edmonton enjoys warmer summers, with temperatures often reaching between 20°C and 25°C, and the city benefits from longer daylight hours during the summer months. This makes the summer a great time for outdoor festivals and activities.
Overall, Calgary tends to have milder winters due to the Chinooks, while Edmonton typically experiences colder winters but enjoys warmer, sunnier summers.
5. Traffic and Transportation
When it comes to public transit, Calgary has an efficient system, with the CTrain being a major highlight. The CTrain is a light rail system that covers key areas of the city and is free to use in the downtown core, making it convenient for commuters and tourists. Additionally, Calgary’s bus network is extensive and reliable, helping people get around the city with ease.
Edmonton, on the other hand, has a growing LRT system that is still expanding. While not as developed as Calgary’s CTrain, Edmonton’s LRT is gradually covering more areas, with future plans to enhance its reach. Like Calgary, Edmonton also offers a dependable bus system that helps residents travel across the city. Both cities are investing in improving their public transportation systems.
In terms of car dependence, both Edmonton and Calgary are car-friendly cities. However, Calgary’s larger urban sprawl often means that drivers may use more fuel, especially when travelling long distances across the city. Edmonton’s layout, with more suburban areas, also makes driving common, but the distances are generally shorter compared to Calgary’s sprawling roads.
6. Education & Healthcare
Calgary and Edmonton are great for educational opportunities. Calgary is home to five Universities, including the University of Calgary, a leading institution in Alberta that provides top-notch programs in fields like engineering, business, and health sciences. Edmonton, on the other hand, boasts the University of Alberta, one of Canada’s top research universities.
The University of Alberta is known for its research in healthcare, science, and technology, making it a popular choice for students looking for high-level academic programs. Both cities also have strong public and Catholic school systems, offering a range of programs for K-12 students.
In terms of healthcare, both Calgary and Edmonton have high-quality systems that provide excellent services to residents. However, Edmonton is the capital of Alberta and is often considered slightly better equipped due to the presence of provincial healthcare services.
Edmonton has a larger network of public healthcare facilities, including specialized hospitals like the Royal Alexandra Hospital. Calgary also offers great healthcare, with major hospitals like the Foothills Medical Centre and a growing network of clinics.
7. Calgary versus Edmonton in Shopping
Shopping in Calgary and Edmonton offers unique experiences, with each city providing different options for shoppers. Living in Calgary and Edmonton, you’ll notice how both cities cater to a variety of shopping styles.
In Calgary, popular destinations like Stephen Avenue Walk feature trendy boutiques, outdoor cafes, and upscale restaurants. For more mainstream shopping, CF Chinook Centre and The CORE Shopping Centre offer a wide selection of stores ranging from high-end brands to everyday retailers. Just outside the city, CrossIron Mills provides a large outlet mall experience, ideal for shoppers looking for deals on fashion, home goods, and more.
Edmonton boasts the iconic West Edmonton Mall, the largest shopping mall in North America, which combines shopping with entertainment options like an indoor water park and an amusement park.
Additionally, the Premium Outlet Collection, located near the Edmonton International Airport, is perfect for those seeking discounted prices on major brands. Other shopping spots include Kingsway Mall and Edmonton City Centre, offering a mix of stores for all budgets.
8. Cultural & Social Life
Calgary has a more cosmopolitan feel, attracting people who enjoy upscale dining, vibrant nightlife, and a fast-paced environment. The city hosts world-renowned events like the Calgary Stampede, a 10-day celebration of Western heritage that brings in over a million visitors each year.
For those who enjoy corporate settings, Calgary’s business-oriented downtown is packed with trendy restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. The Calgary Stampede is a huge draw, but the city also boasts a growing arts scene with galleries, theatres, and music festivals.
In contrast, Edmonton is known as Festival City, offering year-round cultural events and a more laid-back atmosphere. Edmonton hosts popular events like the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival and Folk Music Festival, which highlight the city’s focus on arts and diversity.
The city’s food scene is equally diverse, with culinary options that reflect its multicultural population. Edmonton also has a more relaxed vibe compared to Calgary, making it ideal for people looking to enjoy culture at a slower pace.
Which one is safer, Edmonton or Calgary?
There are some important differences in crime rates between Calgary and Edmonton. Edmonton has a higher Crime Severity Index (CSI) than Calgary. In 2023, Edmonton’s CSI was 100.4, which is above the national average of 78.1, while Calgary’s CSI was lower at 75.2. This means that Edmonton generally experiences more severe crime, especially violent crime.
In terms of crime types, Calgary has fewer violent crimes compared to Edmonton. Crimes like assault and armed robbery happen more often in Edmonton, and people there are more likely to worry about being mugged or having their property stolen.
Calgary or Edmonton: Which City to Call Home?
Calgary and Edmonton are great Alberta cities, each offering something unique for their residents. Choosing between Calgary and Edmonton depends on what you value most in a city. Calgary is the commercial center of Alberta, known for its strong business environment, particularly in oil and gas.
It has a fast-paced, corporate feel, which attracts professionals and those looking for job opportunities in finance, technology, and energy. However, this comes with a higher cost of living; housing and general expenses are more expensive than in Edmonton.
Edmonton is more laid-back and known for its cultural diversity, festivals, and public sector jobs. It offers a more affordable lifestyle with a lower overall cost of living. Residents of either city will find that both offer excellent education, healthcare, and recreational opportunities.
In the end, comparing Calgary and Edmonton comes down to personal preferences. Edmonton might be better suited for those seeking affordability and a relaxed atmosphere, while Calgary consistently appeals to those looking for a dynamic, fast-paced city life. Both cities are excellent places to call home.
