Everything You Must Know Before Moving From Calgary to Victoria in 2023
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to move from Calgary to Victoria in 2023? Calgary, the largest city in Alberta, is a vibrant and energetic place boasting a population of 1.3 million people. The city is known for its stunning views and outdoor activities, making it an ideal location for those looking for an active lifestyle. On the other hand, Victoria is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island and has become a popular tourist destination due to its mild climate and picturesque harbourfront. With a population of just over 362 thousand people, this small city offers the perfect balance between big-city amenities and small-town charm.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, both cities offer something special that will appeal to all kinds of lifestyles. In Calgary you can explore numerous parks as well as indulge in exciting nightlife activities; while in Victoria there are countless opportunities to take part in cultural events or simply enjoy stunning beaches with breathtaking views. Moving from one place to another can be daunting but having both cities at your fingertips promises unique experiences that will make your journey worth every step!
Moving to Victoria from Victoria
Moving is never an easy decision. In the case of moving from Calgary to Victoria, there are many factors to consider. However, we have identified five of the most important ones: cost of living, benefits of moving, where to live, pros and cons, and best moving solutions. With these considerations in mind and a proper plan of action in place, you can make your move as smooth as possible!
Cost of Living
Victoria is one of the most desirable cities in Canada to live in due to its unique combination of metropolitan city life and outdoor lifestyle. Moving to Victoria may seem appealing, but it is important to compare the cost of living between Calgary and Victoria before making the jump; this comparison can be found in the table below.
| Category | Victoria | Calgary |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (Production Home) | $270/sq ft. | $220 / sq ft. |
| Real Estate (Custom-Built Single- Family) | $335/sq ft. | $300 / sq ft. |
| Housing (1 Bedroom) | $1,525 / Month | $1,100 / Month |
| Housing Utilities and Insurance | $200-300 / Month | $177 / Month |
| Transportation | $85 / Month for an adult monthly transit pass. | $106.00/month for a adult monthly transit pass called "Calgary Transit Pass". |
| Car Insurance | $1,500 / Year | $1,132 / Year. |
| Entertainment | $150 / Month | $300 / month. |
| Grocery Cost for 1 Person | $300 / Month | $300 / Month. |
| Communication (Phone and Internet) | $85 / Month | $120/month. |
| Health and Fitness | $50-100 / Month | $60 - $110 / Month |
| Sales Taxes | 12% | 5% / Year |
Moving to Victoria from Calgary will typically be less expensive in terms of real estate, housing and car insurance. For example, production homes cost $270/sq ft in Victoria while they cost $220/sq ft in Calgary. Furthermore, a 1 bedroom apartment would cost $1,525/month in Victoria compared to $1,100/month in Calgary. Car insurance is also cheaper in Victoria with an average of $1,500/year compared to Calgary’s rate of $1,132/year. On the other hand, transportation costs are higher in Victoria with an adult monthly transit pass costing $85 compared to the same pass costing only $106 in Calgary. Entertainment is also more expensive with an average of $150/month compared to $300/month in Calgary while sales taxes are lower at 12% compared to 5% per year.
Benefits of Moving to Victoria
Victoria offers several benefits for those who move from Calgary. The beautiful scenery combined with a moderate climate provides the perfect conditions for outdoor activities such as camping and hiking. Moreover, the city provides great cultural events that are perfect for socializing and networking. Meanwhile, Victoria has a strong education system where students have access to quality resources and classes that is not available in Calgary. Finally, Victoria has high quality healthcare facilities providing better health services than Calgary can offer.
Therefore, moving to Victoria comes with many advantages; a more active lifestyle due to its breathtaking landscapes, great cultural events that add to the city's vibrancy, education opportunities at all levels of schooling and lastly, trustworthy healthcare facilities should anything go wrong.
Best areas to live in Victoria
Choosing the right neighbourhood in Victoria can be a tricky task, especially when moving from another city. It is important to look into the area's safety, vibe and feel before making a decision. To make it easier on you, below is a list of neighbourhoods that offer the best of Victoria's vibrant city life.
Uplands
Uplands is known for its historical charm, as it has many old-style buildings and colourful streetscapes. It is surrounded by a natural parkland to the north, providing plenty of green space for outdoor activities. Within walking distance are several convenient amenities including grocery stores, restaurants, and parks. Living in Uplands offers a unique balance between city life and nature that can't be found anywhere else in Victoria. There's something here for everyone; whether you're looking to explore the vibrant streetlife or just take some time away from the hustle and bustle of downtown living.
Rockland
Rockland is one of Victoria's most popular neighbourhoods, known for its diverse population and vibrant atmosphere. With a variety of shops, restaurants and nightlife spots all within walking distance, there's no shortage of things to do in Rockland. For outdoor activities and views, the beach is a short 10-minute drive away. Living in Rockland means living the perfect balance between an urban lifestyle and natural beauty - you can enjoy city life without compromising on fresh air or beautiful scenery.
Oak Bay
Oak Bay is one of the most popular neighbourhoods in Victoria. Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, it has a population of over 17,000 people and is home to several landmarks such as Willows Beach, Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site and Royal Victoria Yacht Club. Oak Bay is also conveniently located near other major attractions, with downtown Victoria only 9 miles away and Butchart Gardens just 13 miles from its shores. Life in Oak Bay revolves around its local community; neighbours come together for weekly farmers markets and recreational activities such as kayaking or sailing on Cadboro Bay. With its vibrant culture, mild climate, prime location and friendly atmosphere - living in Oak Bay can be an incredible experience!
Fairfield
Fairfield is a beautiful and popular neighbourhood located in Victoria, British Columbia. It is known for its vibrant culture, stunning views and ample outdoor activities. While some of the most popular attractions are a short drive away, many of them are within walking distance. From discovering the charming Fairfield Plaza to exploring the spectacular nearby beaches or cycling along one of the many picturesque trails - there's something for everyone in this lively area. Living in Fairfield means having access to all these amenities while also enjoying an incredibly peaceful lifestyle, with lush green spaces that provide an escape from everyday life.
Gordon Head
Gordon Head is a charming neighbourhood located in the south of Victoria, British Columbia. It offers a unique mixture of urban and rural living with beautiful beaches, numerous parks and outdoor recreation areas nearby. The shopping district on Shelbourne Street is conveniently located just minutes away while the picturesque Millstream Creek flows through Gordon Head. With its close proximity to downtown Victoria, you can enjoy all the attractions without having to travel far. Living in Gordon Head allows you to experience an idyllic lifestyle full of natural beauty and modern comforts at once. Whether you are exploring downtown or hiking through Elk Lake Park, there's something for everyone here in Gordon Head!
Pros
- The mild climate in Victoria is a great improvement when compared to the colder climate of Calgary.
- The breathtaking landscapes of Victoria are a refreshing contrast to the flat prairies of Calgary.
- The alluring prospect of living oceanfront beckons those considering moving from Calgary to Victoria, offering a coastal lifestyle unparalleled by any other Canadian city.
Cons
- The cost of living in Victoria is significantly higher than in Calgary, making it an expensive place to move.
- Moving from Calgary to Victoria could mean a lack of access to the cultural scenes, business opportunities and other activities enjoyed by those living in bigger cities.
- The limited job market in Victoria makes it a less attractive option to move from Calgary.
What Are the Best Moving Solutions in Moving From Calgary to Victoria?
Moving from Calgary to Victoria can be an exciting journey and there are numerous moving solutions for this transition. For instance, Hercules Moving Company offers a variety of services such as packing, unpacking, loading, unloading and furniture assembly. There are also several other professionals who specialize in all aspects of inter-city relocation including short and long distance moves backed by their experience in the industry. Meanwhile, many of these firms have regional offices in both cities providing customers with reliable customer service that’s available 24/7. Moreover, it’s important to remember to always check moving companies' reputations online and ensure they are registered with the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM). That way customers can be assured that their belongings will arrive as safely and efficiently as possible.
Conclusion
Moving to Victoria from Calgary in 2023 offers a unique combination of metropolitan city life and outdoor lifestyle, making it an attractive option for many. For those looking to make a cost-efficient move, Victoria has lower overall prices than Calgary in real estate, housing costs, car insurance, sales taxes and other categories. Additionally, with its unique blend of stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, moving to Victoria also provides access to numerous benefits such as better education opportunities and healthcare facilities. Residents will also find that there is no shortage of exciting neighbourhoods full of charm where they can live stress-free with plenty of amenities nearby. With the right plan in place and reliable moving solutions like Hercules Moving Company available to make the journey smooth - you’re one step closer to enjoying all that this incredible city has to offer!
