Not everyone wants to live downtown — but more and more Calgarians are craving a walkable, convenient lifestyle where groceries, gyms, cafes, and services are just a few blocks away.

Whether you’re a young professional, downsizer, or a busy family looking to reduce reliance on your car, these 10 Calgary neighborhoods offer the perfect balance of suburban space with urban-like convenience.

Let’s explore Calgary’s most car-optional communities beyond the city core.

1. Seton (SE)

Why it’s great:
Nicknamed the "Downtown of the South," Seton was built from the ground up as a walkable urban village.

• South Health Campus

• Superstore, Save-On-Foods, and more

• YMCA (huge rec centre), Cineplex VIP, restaurants

• Wide sidewalks, bike paths, and future LRT stop

Best for: Professionals, healthcare workers, young families

2. University District (NW)

Why it’s great:
A master-planned community that blends student life, modern urban design, and day-to-day walkability.

• Whole Foods, Cineplex, Staples, pet stores

• Gyms, cafes, medical offices, and green space

• Easy access to the U of C, Market Mall, and Foothills Hospital

• Bike-friendly infrastructure + great transit

Best for: Students, hospital staff, professionals

3. Bridgeland-Riverside (NE fringe of downtown)

Why it’s great:
Though technically close to downtown, Bridgeland offers a distinct, cozy neighborhood feel with everything you need nearby.

• Blush Lane, Bridgeland Market, restaurants

• Yoga studios, F45, pathways, cafes

• CTrain access + excellent cycling

Best for: Urbanites who want charm and calm

4. Marda Loop / Garrison Woods (SW)

Why it’s great:
A trendy inner-southwest community with boutiques, dining, and groceries all within walking distance.

• Safeway, Blush Lane, Shoppers Drug Mart

• Boutique fitness (Barre Belle, F45, yoga)

• Strong community vibe and great schools

Best for: Upscale buyers, young families, professionals

5. Mahogany (SE)

Why it’s great:
Combines lakeside living with serious shopping and dining power — walkable for many residents depending on their location within the community.

• Westman Village retail district: Analog Coffee, Diner Deluxe, fitness studios

• Sobeys, banking, salons, clinics nearby

• Beach club, paths, and year-round activity

Best for: Families, downsizers, lake lovers

6. Aspen Woods / West Springs (SW)

Why it’s great:
These upscale communities offer suburban luxury without isolation — thanks to growing commercial hubs like Aspen Landing and West 85th.

• Safeway, Blush Lane, banking, dental, gyms

• Great public and private schools

• Short drive or transit ride to downtown

Best for: Professionals, families, and commuters

7. Chinook Park / Kingsland / Haysboro (SW)

Why it’s great:
Mature communities near Macleod Trail with solid transit access and surprising walkability.

• Proximity to Chinook Centre, Heritage CTrain Station

• Local restaurants, fitness centres, clinics

• Quiet streets but close to everything

Best for: Commuters, seniors, savvy buyers

8. Capitol Hill / Mount Pleasant (NW)

Why it’s great:
Bordering SAIT, North Hill Mall, and Confederation Park, these communities blend residential charm with easy access to shops and services.

• Safeway, Starbucks, banking, clinics nearby

• Fitness studios, CTrain, and walkable to SAIT/U of C

• Fantastic bike lanes

Best for: Students, urban families, professionals

9. Lake Bonavista / Willow Park (SE)

Why it’s great:
Mature communities with an established lifestyle — now benefiting from proximity to Southcentre Mall and Lake Bonavista Promenade.

• Walk to groceries, medical, fitness, and dining

• Access to LRT, recreation centres, and green spaces

• Bonus: Lake access (Bonavista) and golf 

Best for: Families and active retirees

10. Auburn Bay (SE)

Why it’s great:
Another lake community that’s just steps away from South Health Campus, Seton YMCA, and major retailers.

• Walkable to Superstore, Sobeys, and services

• Pathways, lake, dog parks, and schools

• Quick access to Deerfoot & transit options

Best for: Young families, healthcare professionals

🏡 Final Thoughts: Suburban Doesn’t Mean Car-Dependent

These communities prove that you can have space and convenience — no long commutes or daily car reliance required. From groceries and gyms to schools and services, Calgary’s newer urban villages and mature hubs offer walkability without sacrificing lifestyle.

Thinking About a Car-Light Life?

Let’s find a home in one of these convenient communities! Whether you’re buying your first place, relocating, or downsizing, I’d love to help you discover the best fit for your lifestyle.

📩 Contact Chris Marshall
📞 403-585-5362

When summer finally rolls into Calgary, there’s nothing better than escaping the heat by dipping your toes—or your whole body—into a refreshing lake. While Calgary doesn’t have natural lakes within city limits, there are several beautiful, swimmable lakes just a short drive away. Whether you're looking for family-friendly beaches, scenic picnic spots, or tranquil waters surrounded by nature, there’s a perfect lake for you.

Here are some of the best swimmable lakes near Calgary to explore this summer:

1. Johnson Lake (Banff National Park)

📍 Approx. 1.5 hours from Calgary

Tucked in Banff National Park, Johnson Lake is a hidden gem with crystal-clear water, soft beaches, and spectacular mountain views. It’s one of the few lakes in the national park warm enough for swimming, thanks to its shallower depth. It’s also great for paddle boarding, kayaking, and lakeside picnics.

💡 Tip: Bring water shoes—the beach is a bit rocky in places.

2. Ghost Lake Reservoir

📍 About 45 minutes west of Calgary

Ghost Lake offers a blend of adventure and relaxation. It’s a large reservoir with areas for swimming, boating, windsurfing, and sailing. The water tends to be on the cooler side, but it’s perfect on a hot summer day.

💡 Note: This lake is popular with boaters—stick close to the designated swimming areas for safety.

3. Sikome Lake (Fish Creek Provincial Park)

📍 Within Calgary city limits

If you want to stay in town, Sikome Lake is your go-to urban beach. This man-made lake is open seasonally and features lifeguards, change rooms, picnic areas, and sandy shores. It’s ideal for families and anyone who wants a convenient swim spot without leaving the city.

💡 Pass required: There is a small entry fee for access.

4. Chestermere Lake

📍 30 minutes east of Calgary

This large lake is right next to the city and perfect for a day trip. The designated public swimming area is located near Anniversary Park, where you’ll also find a sandy beach, playgrounds, and picnic spots. There are two other lakeside parks as well: Cove Park and Sunset Park. The water is relatively warm in summer and suitable for swimming, paddling, and boating. 

💡 Parking can fill up fast—arrive early!

5. Sylvan Lake

📍 1.5 hours north of Calgary

One of Alberta’s most popular summer destinations, Sylvan Lake boasts a long sandy shoreline, shallow waters, and a bustling beach-town vibe. You’ll find everything from swimming and jet-skiing to beach volleyball and food trucks along the boardwalk. The Sylvan Lake Aqua Splash park is a fantastic attraction - a blast (and a workout!)!

💡 Make a weekend out of it—there are lots of cabins and rentals nearby.

6. Barrier Lake (Kananaskis Country)

📍 1 hour west of Calgary

While known for its icy-blue color (and equally chilly temperature), Barrier Lake is breathtakingly beautiful. Brave the cold for a refreshing dip, or simply relax by the shore and enjoy the views. It's also a great spot for hiking and picnicking.

💡 Kananaskis Conservation Pass required.

7. Sibbald Lake

📍 1 hour west of Calgary

Sibbald Lake is a smaller, quiet lake in the Kananaskis region. The beach area is rustic but peaceful—perfect for families or those looking to unwind. It’s also surrounded by great hiking and camping options.

💡 Ideal for a day trip or overnight camping.

🌞 Summer Lake Day Essentials

Before heading out, don’t forget to pack:

• Sunscreen & hats

• Towels and swimsuits

• Snacks & lots of water

• Water shoes (some beaches are rocky)

• A portable speaker or book

• Life jackets

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re craving a beach day close to the city or a scenic mountain escape, Calgary’s surrounding lakes have something for everyone. Just remember to check for seasonal updates or restrictions (especially in provincial and national parks) before heading out. 🌿

Happy swimming! 🏊‍♀️💦

📉 Calgary Real Estate Market Update – May 2025
Residential sales eased 17% year-over-year, mainly due to a slowdown in the apartment condo sector. But here’s the silver lining: sales are still 11% above long-term May trends and inventory gains are helping the market shift into more balanced territory.

🏡 Detached and semi-detached home prices remain stable and higher than last year, while increased supply in apartments and row homes is putting slight pressure on prices.

📊 Benchmark price: $589,900
📦 Months of supply: 2.6 (balanced market)

“Easing sales and rising inventory are creating healthier market dynamics and taking pressure off prices,” says Ann-Marie Lurie, CREB® Chief Economist.

➡️ Want to know how this impacts your buying or selling plans? Give me a call

📱403-585-5362

✏️Data sourced from Calgary Real Estate Board.

May 2025 CREB Calgary Real Estate Full Report      

May 2025 CREB Calgary REGION Real Estate Full Report

#CalgaryRealEstate #MarketUpdate #calgaryrealestatemarket #CalgaryHousing #RealEstateTrends

Calgary is one of Canada’s greenest cities, with hundreds of parks and natural spaces woven into its vibrant urban fabric. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat, an active adventure, or a family picnic spot, the city’s parks offer something for everyone.

Here are some of the best parks in Calgary that locals love and visitors rave about:

🌳 1. Fish Creek Provincial Park

Location: South Calgary
Why It's Great:
One of North America’s largest urban parks, Fish Creek offers over 100 km of paved and unpaved trails, picnic areas, and even a man-made beach at Sikome Lake. It’s perfect for cycling, hiking, birdwatching, or enjoying nature without leaving the city.

✅ Highlights:

• Sikome Lake (summer swimming)

• Historic Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant

• Year-round walking & wildlife spotting

🏞️ 2. Nose Hill Park

Location: Northwest Calgary
Why It's Great:
Spanning over 11 square kilometers, Nose Hill Park is a massive natural grassland that offers panoramic views of the city and mountains. It’s a local favorite for dog walkers, trail runners, and anyone craving wide open space.

✅ Highlights:

• Off-leash areas

• Rustic trails and native prairie vegetation

• Incredible sunset and skyline views

🧺 3. Prince’s Island Park

Location: Downtown / Eau Claire
Why It's Great:
This beautiful island park on the Bow River is a downtown oasis. It’s known for scenic pathways, riverside views, and hosting Calgary Folk Music Festival and Shakespeare by the Bow each summer.

✅ Highlights:

• Walking & biking paths

• Playground & picnic areas

• River Café & seasonal festivals

🌸 4. St. Patrick’s Island Park

Location: East Village
Why It's Great:
A modern, revitalized green space near the Calgary Zoo, St. Patrick’s Island combines urban design with natural beauty. It features art installations, hammocks, and unique gathering spaces.

✅ Highlights:

• "Rise" hill for city views & sledding

• Public fire pits

• Beautiful river pathways

🐦 5. Carburn Park

Location: Southeast Calgary
Why It's Great:
A peaceful riverside park with walking trails, picnic sites, and tranquil ponds. Carburn is a haven for birdwatchers and canoeists and a quiet place to reconnect with nature.

✅ Highlights:

• Wildlife spotting

• Flat trails for easy walks or bike rides

• Beautiful in every season

🌿 6. Confederation Park

Location: Northwest Calgary
Why It's Great:
This picturesque park is perfect for family outings, with picnic areas, a golf course, and seasonal events like Christmas light displays. In spring and summer, it’s lush and vibrant.

✅ Highlights:

• Seasonal floral gardens

• Walking paths & bridges

• Winter tobogganing

🌳 7. Bowness Park

Location: Northwest (Bowness area)
Why It's Great:
A beloved family destination with a lagoon for paddle boating, picnic sites, and a miniature train. In winter, the frozen lagoon becomes a skating paradise. Rent canoes, kayaks, pedal boats or ride the train around the park.

✅ Highlights:

• Paddle boats in summer

• Ice skating & fire pits in winter

• Picnic shelters & playgrounds

🌼 8. Central Memorial Park

Location: Beltline / Downtown
Why It's Great:
A historic and beautifully manicured urban park with Victorian-style gardens, statues, and fountains. It's perfect for a quiet lunch break or reading session near downtown.

✅ Highlights:

• Calgary’s oldest park (est. 1912)

• Great for photos, reading, and relaxation

• Surrounded by coffee shops and culture

🌼 9. North Glenmore Park

Location: 7305 Crowchild Trail SW. It is on the North side of the Glenmore Reservoir, the Canoe Club is located here as well. 

Why It's Great: North Glenmore Park offers such features as an ice trail, skating rink, play parks cross country skiing, canoeing, tennis courts, picnic sites, BBQ stands and fire pits. With wonderful views of Glenmore Reservoir fantastic double path system (one for bikes and one for pedestrians) along the Reservoir.

Swimming & paddle boarding in/on the Reservoir is NOT allowed.

🌼 10. South Glenmore Park

Location: 24th Street SW. It is on the South side of the Glenmore Reservoir. 

Why It's Great: Large play park area / splash park with washrooms. A pathway that goes all the way around the reservoir, through North Glenmore Park. 

Swimming & paddle boarding in/on the Reservoir is NOT allowed. There is a spot to rent kayaks/canoes at the Glenmore Boat Patrol office - personal flotation devices and paddle(s) are provided.

🏞️ 11. Griffin Woods 

Location:

Why It's Great:
Trees. Very wooded area with the Elbow River running throughout. ⁦Griffin woods covers 93 hectares and is primarily a natural environment⁩⁦. There are many trails throughout this ⁩⁦park.

🌳 12. Sandy Beach Park

Location: This park is on the Elbow River Pathway between Stanley Park and the Glenmore Reservoir.

Why It's Great:
Trees. The Elbow River provides a place to launch rafts, wade in the water. Don’t let the name fool you, it is not a sandy beach. Picnic tables, and play parks.

🌼 13. Edworthy Park

Final Thoughts

From sprawling natural landscapes to well-designed urban retreats, Calgary’s parks add incredible value to everyday life in the city. Whether you're a nature lover, fitness enthusiast, or weekend wanderer, there's a park waiting for you.

🧭 Thinking of moving close to one of these green gems? Let’s explore Calgary neighborhoods that put nature right outside your door…

🌿 Let’s Explore Calgary Neighborhoods That Put Nature Right Outside Your Door

If access to green space is a priority for your lifestyle, Calgary has several neighborhoods that offer easy proximity to the city’s best parks. Here are a few top communities where nature is never far away:

🏡 Lake Bonavista, Parkland, Canyon Meadows, Evergreen, Shawnee Slopes, Sundance, Midnapore, Woodlands, Woodbine, Deer Run, McKenzie Lake, Douglas Dale

Near: Fish Creek Provincial Park
A family-friendly neighborhood with a private lake, mature trees, and direct access to Fish Creek. Perfect for active families and nature lovers.

✅ Pros: Lake access (McKenzie Lake, Bonavista, Sundance, Midnapore), excellent schools, peaceful streets, mature trees

🏡 Hillhurst / Sunnyside

Near: Prince’s Island Park & Bow River Pathway
Just steps from downtown, this trendy area offers river views, walkable access to green spaces, and a vibrant local vibe.

✅ Pros: Inner-city living + nature, boutique shopping, walkability

🏡 Bowness, Montgomery

Near: Bowness Park & Shouldice Park
A charming riverside community with a small-town feel, Bowness offers access to some of Calgary’s best outdoor recreation areas.

✅ Pros: Affordability, family-oriented, outdoor access

🏡 Tuscany, Haskayne

Near: Twelve Mile Coulee
Located in the northwest, Tuscany features a strong sense of community and easy access to natural trails and pathways.

✅ Pros: Great schools, family-centric, mountain views

🏡 Inglewood

Near: Pearce Estate Park & Inglewood Bird Sanctuary
A character-rich neighborhood blending history, culture, and river valley access—ideal for artists, nature lovers, and urban explorers.

✅ Pros: Heritage homes, unique shops, riverside trails

🏡 Aspen Woods / Springbank Hill

Near: Griffith Woods Park
These upscale west Calgary communities offer luxurious homes with quick access to forested trails and mountain getaways.

✅ Pros: Scenic views, quiet living, luxury homes

🏡 Cambrian Heights, Rosemont, Triwood

Near: Confederation Park
These communities offer a mix of bungalows with large yards, infills with quick access to bike trails, walking paths, tennis courts.

✅ Pros: Quiet living, mature trees, large yards

🏡 Edgemont, MacEwan, Hungtington Hills, North Haven, Brentwood, Charleswood

Near: Nose Hill Park
Established northwest neighborhoods that offer mature trees, excellent access to Nose Hill Park, strong schools, and a blend of nature and city convenience—perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

✅ Pros: Scenic views 

Ready to Find Your Nature-Loving Neighborhood?

Whether you dream of morning walks by the river, weekend family outings in the park, or scenic bike rides from your doorstep, Calgary offers neighborhoods to match your lifestyle. 🌲

📩 Let’s connect and find your perfect home close to nature. You don’t have to choose between city living and green space — in Calgary, you can have both.

As Calgary continues to grow and evolve, condo living has emerged as a popular lifestyle choice for a wide range of residents — from first-time buyers and young professionals to retirees and real estate investors. Offering urban convenience, lower maintenance, and attractive amenities, condominiums present a compelling alternative to traditional homeownership.

If you're considering a condo in Calgary, here’s everything you need to know about the benefits, lifestyle, and important considerations.

🧭 Why Condo Living Appeals to Calgarians

📍 Prime Locations & Accessibility

Condos are often located in highly walkable, amenity-rich neighborhoods like the Beltline, East Village, Mission, and Kensington. Whether you work downtown, love being near restaurants and shops, or want easy access to transit, condo living places you at the center of the action.

🧹 Low-Maintenance Lifestyle

Forget snow shoveling or roof repairs — condo living means less hassle. Your monthly condo fees typically cover:

• Snow removal and landscaping

• Exterior repairs and upkeep

• Building insurance and amenities

This is ideal for people with busy schedules or those looking to downsize.

🏋️ Amenities That Elevate Daily Living

Many Calgary condo developments include lifestyle-boosting amenities such as:

• Fitness centers

• Rooftop patios and BBQ areas

• Party or game rooms

• Swimming pools and saunas

• Concierge or security services

These features can enhance your quality of life without ever leaving the building.

🔐 Enhanced Security

Condos often come with built-in safety features, including:

• Controlled access entry

• Surveillance cameras

• On-site security or concierge staff

This can be reassuring for solo residents, seniors, or frequent travelers.

💰 Affordability and Accessibility to Homeownership

In many Calgary neighborhoods, condos are more affordable than single-family homes, making them a great option for:

• First-time homebuyers

• People on a budget

• Young professionals entering the real estate market

They allow buyers to own property in desirable locations without breaking the bank.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 The Social Side of Condo Living

🤝 Community Atmosphere

With shared amenities and common spaces, condo buildings naturally foster a sense of community. Many residents enjoy getting to know their neighbors and participating in organized events or condo board activities.

🧳 Great for Downsizing

Empty nesters or retirees often choose condos for:

• Smaller, manageable living spaces

• Proximity to urban amenities

• Lock-and-leave convenience for travel

📈 Condo Ownership as an Investment

Calgary’s condo market offers solid investment potential, especially in high-demand areas. Benefits include:

• Rental income from long-term or short-term tenants

• Appreciation over time in a rising market

• Lower upfront costs compared to detached homes

Just be sure to review condo bylaws about rentals before investing.

🌱 Modern Living with Environmental Benefits

Many of Calgary’s newer condo buildings are designed with energy-efficient systems, green materials, and sustainable living practices. Living in a high-density area also promotes:

• Walkability

• Public transit use

• Reduced commute times

This makes condos an environmentally friendly choice.

🎨 Personalization Inside Your Unit

While exterior modifications aren’t possible in condos, most allow you to customize your interior with renovations, paint, fixtures, and décor to match your taste and style.

⚖️ Pros and Cons of Condo Living in Calgary

📝 Things to Consider Before Buying a Condo

Before purchasing, make sure to:

• Review condo documents, including bylaws, meeting minutes, and reserve fund studies.

• Understand what your monthly fees cover and what they don’t.

• Visit the neighborhood at various times of day.

• Work with a real estate agent experienced in condos.

🏡 Is Condo Living Right for You?

Condo living in Calgary offers a vibrant, low-maintenance, and budget-friendly lifestyle. With access to top amenities, walkable neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community, condos are a smart choice for many — from young professionals and retirees to investors and downsizers. Check out these condos for sale.

Still, every lifestyle is unique. Take time to consider your goals, needs, and preferences — and explore different buildings and neighborhoods — to find the perfect fit. Call me to chat about what suits you best.

With Alberta’s deregulated energy market, Calgary residents have the freedom to choose their electricity and natural gas providers. While this flexibility can lead to savings and customization, it can also feel overwhelming if you're not sure where to start. This guide will walk you through how to choose the best energy plan for your needs.

🏡 Regulated vs. Competitive Retailers: What’s the Difference?

In Calgary, you have two main types of energy providers:

✅ Regulated Rate Providers (RRO)

• Prices fluctuate monthly based on the market.

• Provided by companies like ENMAX for electricity and Direct Energy Regulated Services for gas.

• Good for short-term or low-commitment users.

• No contract required.

✅ Competitive Retailers

• Offer fixed, floating, or bundled rates.

• Often include incentives, green energy options, or better customer service.

• Require contracts (usually 1–5 years).

⚡ Electricity Plan Types

🔹 Fixed Rate

• Pay the same price per kWh for the term of your contract.

• Ideal if you want predictability and budget stability.

• Good during times of market volatility.

🔹 Floating/Variable Rate

• Tied to the Alberta Power Pool rate, which changes monthly.

• Can be cheaper when market rates are low — but riskier when rates spike.

🔥 Natural Gas Plan Types

Similar to electricity, gas plans come in:

• Fixed Rates: Consistent cost per GJ (Gigajoule), great for budgeting.

• Floating Rates: Based on market rates, which can be lower — but volatile.

👉 Natural gas prices in Alberta can spike during cold winters, so fixed-rate plans are popular during the heating season.

💡 Things to Consider Before Choosing

1. Your Energy Usage

• Large households or electric-heated homes may benefit more from fixed plans.

• Seasonal usage fluctuations (e.g., AC in summer, furnace in winter) matter.

2. Contract Terms

• Look for cancellation fees, term lengths, and automatic renewals.

• Choose flexibility if you're planning to move.

3. Green Energy Options

• Some retailers offer renewable electricity plans (solar or wind offset).

• Great for eco-conscious households.

4. Customer Reviews & Service

• Check online reviews for billing transparency, customer service, and support.

5. Bundled Offers

• Some providers offer discounted electricity + gas bundles or include perks like smart thermostats or loyalty programs.

🏷 Common Providers in Calgary

📊 Average Energy Costs in Calgary (2025)

• Electricity: ~18–21¢/kWh (including transmission and admin fees)

• Natural Gas: ~$5.50–$7.00/GJ (plus fixed monthly fees)

Your total monthly bill varies based on usage, plan type, and provider fees.

📍 How to Compare Plans

Use Alberta’s official energy comparison tool:

🔗 UCA Helps

This free government tool lets you:

• Compare electricity and gas plans

• View provider terms and rates

• Understand additional charges and contract details

✅ Final Tips

• Read the fine print on cancellation and admin fees.

• Choose fixed rates if you prefer stable bills.

• Consider floating rates only if you're OK with market fluctuation risks.

• Review your plan every 12–24 months to ensure you're still getting a good deal.

Choosing the right natural gas and electricity plan in Calgary isn’t one-size-fits-all. By understanding your household’s energy usage, comfort with risk, and values (like supporting renewable energy), you can find a plan that works for your lifestyle and budget.

Container gardening is an excellent way to enjoy homegrown plants, herbs, and veggies in Calgary — even if you’re short on space or dealing with the city’s unpredictable climate. Whether you're living in a condo downtown or have a sunny corner in your backyard, container gardening allows you to grow beauty and nourishment with flexibility and ease.

🌤 Why Container Gardening Works in Calgary

Calgary’s unique climate, marked by a short growing season, cool nights, and unpredictable weather (hello, June snow!), makes container gardening a smart and adaptable option. With containers, you can:

• Move plants to catch optimal sunlight

• Bring them indoors during a cold snap

• Control soil quality and drainage

• Grow on balconies, decks, or patios

🪴 Best Containers to Use

When choosing containers, consider:

• Size: Larger containers retain moisture better and allow roots to grow freely.

• Drainage: Make sure pots have drainage holes to prevent root rot.

• Material:

  • Plastic – lightweight and retains moisture well.

  • Terracotta – great for dry-loving plants but dries out faster.

  • Fabric grow bags – breathable and lightweight, great for root development.

🌱 What to Grow in Calgary Containers

✅ Herbs (Easy & Productive)

• Basil

• Mint (keep in its own container to prevent spreading)

• Chives

• Parsley

• Thyme

• Oregano

• Cilantro

• Rosemary

✅ Vegetables

• Leafy greens (lettuce, kale, spinach)

• Radishes

• Beans

• Green onions

• Carrots (choose smaller or “baby” varieties)

• Peas

• Tomatoes (cherry or patio varieties are best)

• Peppers (hot and sweet)

• Zucchini (requires a large container)

✅ Flowers

• Marigolds

• Petunias

• Geraniums

• Snapdragons

• Nasturtiums (edible and great for pest control)

🛠 Calgary Gardening Tips

1. Know Your Zone

Calgary is in Zone 3b to 4a, so choose hardy plants or be prepared to bring containers inside during cold spells.

2. Start with Quality Soil

Use potting mix, not garden soil — it’s lighter and drains better. Add compost or organic fertilizer for nutrients.

3. Watch the Weather

Calgary’s late spring and early fall frosts can be tough. Use:

• Row covers or plant domes

• Bring containers indoors or into a garage during frost warnings

• Use black containers to absorb heat on chilly days

4. Sunlight Matters

Most veggies and herbs need at least 6–8 hours of sunlight per day. Use wheeled plant stands to chase the sun if needed.

5. Water Regularly

Containers dry out faster than in-ground gardens. Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry. Early mornings are best.

🌼 Design Ideas for Small Spaces

• Vertical gardening: Use stacked planters or wall-mounted pockets for herbs and flowers.

• Rail planters: Maximize balcony space.

• Tiered stands: Perfect for patios.

• Hanging baskets: Grow trailing flowers or strawberries.

🌻 Pros and Cons of Container Gardening

🌿 Final Thoughts

Container gardening in Calgary is a fun, low-commitment way to enjoy gardening despite the challenges of Chinooks, late frosts, and urban living. With the right plants, some sunlight, and regular care, you can grow an abundance of greenery and produce from your balcony, deck, or backyard.

Whether you’re growing herbs for the kitchen, flowers for beauty, or veggies for your plate — container gardening offers flexibility, productivity, and joy in every pot. Happy planting!

Calgary, Alberta, stands out as one of Canada's most affordable major cities, offering a high quality of life without the hefty price tag found in cities like Toronto or Vancouver. Here's a comprehensive look at the cost of living in Calgary as of 2025.

🏠 Housing Costs

Housing is a significant factor in Calgary's affordability.

• Rent:

  • One-bedroom apartment in the city center: approximately $1,500 per month.

  • One-bedroom apartment outside the city center: around $1,200 per month.

  • Three-bedroom apartment in the city center: about $2,500 per month.

  • Three-bedroom apartment outside the city center: roughly $2,100 per month.

    Check out rentfaster.ca to find rents in the area of the city that you are interested in.

• Home Purchase:

  • Average home price: approximately $585,000, which is significantly lower than in Toronto or Vancouver. 

  • Prices vary with the community within Calgary. Numbers sourced from CREB:

    • Average price of Detached home (April 2025): $839,000

    • Average price of Semi-Detached home (April 2025): $695,000

    • Average price of Row/Townhome (April 2025): $487,000

    • Average price of Condo Apartment (April 2025): $367,000

💡 Utilities

Monthly utility costs can vary based on usage and property size:

• Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage: Between $250 and $400.

• Internet/TV: Approximately $80 to $200, depending on the provider and speed.

🛒 Groceries

Grocery expenses in Calgary are moderate:

• Monthly grocery bill for one person: Around $400 to $600.

• Common item prices:

  • Milk (1 liter): $2.31

  • Bread (500g): $ 2.95

  • Eggs (12): $5.18

  • Chicken (1 kg): $14.28

🚗 Transportation

Calgary's transportation costs are reasonable:

• Public Transit:

  • Monthly pass: $112

  • One-way ticket: $3.60

• Gasoline: Approximately 1.60 per liter.

• Car Insurance: Ranges from $100 to $400 per month, depending on various factors such as:

  • Age of driver

  • Value of vehicle

  • Driver’s record

  • Multiple vehicle discounts

🍽️ Dining and Entertainment

Calgary offers a diverse culinary scene and entertainment options:

• Dining Out:

  • Casual meal: $20 to $30

  • Three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant: $100 for two people

• Entertainment:

  • Movie ticket: $15 to $18

  • Monthly gym membership: $60 to $80

🏥 Healthcare

Alberta's healthcare system covers many services:

• Basic healthcare: Covered under the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan.

• Additional health expenses (e.g., dental, prescription drugs): May require private insurance, costing between $70 and $100 per month.

👶 Childcare and Education

For families, childcare and education are essential considerations:

• Childcare:

  • Daycare fees: $1,000 to $1,300 per month per child.

• Education:

  • Public schools: Free for residents.

  • Private schools: Tuition ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 annually.

  • Post-secondary tuition: Approximately $7,000 to $9,000 per year for domestic

💼 Income and Salaries

Understanding income levels helps contextualize living costs:

• Average monthly income for a single individual: Approximately $4,500.

• Combined household income for families: Ranges from $7,500 to $10,000.

• Comfortable annual salary: Generally considered to be between $80,000 and $100,000.

📊 Summary Table

Calgary offers a balanced lifestyle with its combination of affordability, economic opportunities, and high living standards. While certain expenses like childcare and utilities can be significant, the overall cost of living remains manageable, especially when compared to other major Canadian cities. Whether you're a single professional or a growing family, Calgary presents a compelling option for those seeking both quality of life and economic viability.