Everything You Must Know Before Moving From Calgary to Halifax in 2023
Halifax lies on the Atlantic coast in Nova Scotia province and has an estimated population of 403,390 people. It is famous for its impressive harbour views, fresh seafood cuisine and lively nightlife scene. This historical port town offers plenty of activities that will surprise even the most experienced travellers.
Moving to Halifax from Halifax
Moving from one city to another is never an easy decision, as there are countless factors to take into account. We've narrowed down the essentials and selected five of the most important considerations for your move from Calgary to Halifax in 2023, including cost of living, benefits of moving, where to live, pros and cons and best moving solutions. Read on for more detailed information on these topics.
Cost of Living
Halifax is one of the largest cities in Canada, and moving there can involve a few extra steps for making sure you have all the necessary items for a smooth transition. The cost of living in Halifax will vary depending on your lifestyle and preferences. To help compare costs, check out the table below to compare costs between Calgary and Halifax.
| Category | Halifax | Calgary |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (Production Home) | $165 per sq ft. | $267/sq ft. |
| Real Estate (Custom-Built Single- Family) | $275 / sq ft. | $400 / sq ft. |
| Housing (1 Bedroom) | $1100 / Month | $1,200 / Month |
| Housing Utilities and Insurance | $200-$300 / Month | $250 / Month |
| Transportation | $78.50/Month for a regular adult pass (called "Monthly Pass") on the public transportation system. | $109 / Month for a monthly transit pass. |
| Car Insurance | $880 / Year | $1,132 / Year. |
| Entertainment | $150 / Month | $300 / Month |
| Grocery Cost for 1 Person | $300 / Month. | $300 / Month |
| Communication (Phone and Internet) | $100 / Month | $80-100 / Month |
| Health and Fitness | $45-75/Month for gym memberships. | $60 / Month |
| Sales Taxes | 15% / Year | 5% / 7% (Federal/Provincial) |
When it comes to living costs, Halifax is more affordable than Calgary. Real estate prices are lower in Halifax, with production homes costing $165 per sq ft compared to $267/sq ft in Calgary and custom-built single family homes costing $275 / sq ft against $400 / sq ft. Monthly housing cost is also more economical in Halifax ($1100 vs $1200). Transportation fares are cheaper too - a regular adult pass cost only $78.50 per month while in Calgary a monthly transit pass will cost you $109. Car insurance rates are lower in Halifax as well - only $880/ year compared to the hefty $1,132/year for Calgary. Entertainment expenses also favor Halifax ($150/month vs $300/ month). Groceries and communication expenses are roughly the same in both cities with grocery costing about $300 per month and phone and internet expenses ranging from 80-100$/month. Finally, health and fitness memberships tend to be cheaper in Halifax at just 45-75$/month against 60$/month for Calgary; sales tax rates are higher though 15% per year for Halifax compared to 5-7% (Federal-Provincial) for Calgary.
Benefits of Moving to Halifax
Moving to Halifax offers numerous benefits that are not found in Calgary. For starters, the locals are incredibly friendly and welcoming, making it easy to immediately feel at home. Moreover, living in Halifax comes at an affordable cost compared to the bustling city of Calgary. Meanwhile, Halifax's picturesque water front and vibrant arts scene provide plenty of thrills and outdoor activities to be enjoyed - something many cities cannot match up to. Furthermore, the rich history and culture makes it a great place for tourists and locals alike - providing them with important insight into Nova Scotia's fascinating past. Finally, Halifax proves that even smaller cities can offer stimulating opportunities for growth and exploration!
Best areas to live in Halifax
Choosing the best neighbourhood to live in Halifax may seem like an intimidating task, especially if you're new to the city. It can be quite challenging to decide which area will best suit your needs and lifestyle, as each neighbourhood offers unique experiences. From hip downtown areas with plenty of entertainment and attractions, to quaint residential villages with easy access to parks and green spaces – there's a lot of options! Below is a list of some of the top neighbourhoods in Halifax for those looking for their perfect home.
South End
South End, Halifax is a vibrant and diverse neighbourhood with a population of over 11,000 people. It is located in the closest proximity to all major attractions like the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia and Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. From South End, it's just 20 minutes away to reach Point Pleasant Park and under 10 minutes to reach Pier 21. Living in South End gives you not only access to all these amazing places but also experience what it's like living in the bustling city centre.
Downtown
Moving to Downtown in Halifax is great for people who like living in dense, urban areas. Close by you have ocean views and plenty of outdoor spaces like Point Pleasant Park. You are within walking distance of Citadel Hill and the cross-harbour ferry terminal, but have access to buses and taxis too. Downtown Halifax has plenty to offer professionals, students, and families alike with its mix of restaurants, cafes, parks and shops. Whether it's the hustle and bustle of the business district or a leisurely stroll along the waterfront on an autumn evening - there's something for everyone in this vibrant neighborhood!
Armdale
The picturesque Armdale neighbourhood of Halifax is home to a diverse mix of people and cultures, providing a vibrant atmosphere and endless opportunities for cultural discovery. Located close to the downtown waterfront district, Armdale is only minutes away from popular attractions like the beautiful Halifax Public Gardens as well as other local entertainment spots. Its central location means that residents are within easy reach of stunning ocean views, stunning parks and rolling hills. With its close proximity to amenities, Armdale is perfect for those looking for a relaxed lifestyle but with all the modern conveniences just a short drive away. Residents can enjoy shopping, dining out, or simply taking in the views while enjoying some time outdoors. The unique character of Armdale makes it an attractive setting for both young professionals and families alike who want to experience life in one of Canada's oldest provinces with all its charm.
Fairmount
Living in Fairmount is an incredible experience. This Halifax neighbourhood offers an eclectic mix of nature, art, and culture, as well as lots of outdoor activities. The historic houses and coastal views also make it a great place to call home. From Fairmount, you can easily reach all the nearby tourist attractions and enjoy a variety of outdoor offerings such as kayaking, hiking trails through lush forests, picturesque beaches and more. You can also explore many unique restaurants with diverse menus for all tastes. Home to some amazing music venues too - residents here will never find themselves at a loss for something fun to do! Whether you're looking for a quiet refuge or an exciting new adventure, Fairmount is the ideal destination for anyone seeking the perfect balance between city living and nature's beauty.
Rockingham
Rockingham is a vibrant and picturesque neighbourhood in Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia. Located near the waterfront, it's a great spot to enjoy stunning views of both inland and coastal waters. The nearby attractions include Point Pleasant Park, Alexander Keith’s Brewery, and Dartmouth Crossing Shopping Centre which are within a short drive or bus ride away. Living in Rockingham promises plenty of excitement as an urban centre while still offering easy access to nature and convenience to great amenities in just minutes.
Pros
- The scenery of Halifax features breathtaking coastlines and sweeping ocean views, a dramatic contrast to the urban skyline of Calgary.
- The deep and rich history of Halifax, compared to Calgary, gives the city a sense of identity and culture which makes it a great place to call home.
- With a much lower cost of living compared to Calgary, Halifax is an attractive destination for those looking for a more affordable lifestyle.
Cons
- Moving to Halifax can be a challenge due to its harsh winters, which can be significantly more extreme than Calgary's.
- Moving from Calgary to Halifax can be a challenging transition due to the lower job prospects in the latter.
- With longer travel times to other cities, Halifax is less accessible than Calgary.
What Are the Best Moving Solutions in Moving From Calgary to Halifax?
Moving from one city to another can be a difficult task but it is also an exciting experience. With the advancement of technology, movers are now able to provide a wide range of services to meet their client's needs and make the relocation process much easier. For instance, Hercules Moving Company specializes in providing safe, reliable and efficient long distance moving solutions for customers moving from Calgary to Halifax in 2023. Moreover, there are many professional moving companies available for those looking for support with packing, loading/unloading and transportation services throughout their move.
Meanwhile it is important for customers considering relocating from Calgary to Halifax in 2023 to research their chosen mover thoroughly before making any commitments or signing any contracts. A quick Google search should reveal any reports or reviews associated with the company as well as whether they are registered members of the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM). Doing so can help ensure that all shippers receive safe, secure and cost-effective service tailored specifically for them.
Conclusion
Moving to Halifax from Calgary in 2023 is a great option for those looking for an affordable and culturally vibrant city. With its friendly locals, picturesque harbour views and lower cost of living compared to Calgary, Halifax offers plenty of advantages. Not only that, but there are also vast opportunities for exploration and growth - making it an attractive destination for tourists and locals alike! Moreover, there are many reliable moving services to assist you with your relocation process. To ensure safe transition it is important to research available companies thoroughly before making any commitments or signing contracts.
