Everything You Must Know Before Moving From Victoria to Calgary in 2023
Have you ever thought of moving from Victoria to Calgary in 2023? Both cities have unique characteristics and offer different experiences.
Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is a picturesque city located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. With a population of just over 87,000 people and an area that covers 11 square kilometers, it boasts stunning landscapes and unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean. Its mild climate creates an atmosphere that encourages outdoor activities and relaxation among its many gardens and parks.
Calgary is Alberta's most populous city with a population exceeding 1.3 million people in 2021. It's also one of Canada's most dynamic cities with its bustling economy, thriving arts scene and diverse cultural attractions. Situated at the base of the Rocky Mountains lies a vibrant cityscape surrounded by breathtaking nature where residents can enjoy endless outdoor activities year-round such as skiing or hiking in nearby provincial parks.
Relocating from Victoria to Calgary
Relocating from Victoria to Calgary can present a number of challenges and considerations, so it's important to be well-informed before making a move. To help simplify the process, we've identified the five most essential factors you should take into account when planning your relocation: cost of living, benefits of moving, where to live, pros and cons and best moving solutions. Now that you're aware of what needs to be taken into consideration before making your move from Victoria to Calgary, let's explore them in more detail.
Cost of Living
Moving from Victoria to Calgary in 2023 can be a daunting experience, given Calgary is much larger than Victoria. Knowing the cost of living and different expenses in a new city is essential for anyone who plans to make this move, as expenses vary depending on lifestyle. This table shows an outline of these expenses between the two cities and how they compare.
| Category | Calgary | Victoria |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (Production Home) | $240 / sq ft. | $285 / sq ft. |
| Real Estate (Custom-Built Single- Family) | $450 / sq ft. | $348 / sq ft. |
| Housing (1 Bedroom) | $1,200/Month. | $1,318 / Month |
| Housing Utilities and Insurance | $200-$250 / Month for Housing Utilities and $20-$30 / Month for Renter's Insurance. | $200-250 / Month |
| Transportation | $109 / Month (for a monthly adult transit pass). | $85 / Month for a monthly transit pass. |
| Car Insurance | $1,132 / Year | $1,316 / Year |
| Entertainment | $150 / month | $150 / Month |
| Grocery Cost for 1 Person | $300 / Month. | $300 / Month. |
| Communication (Phone and Internet) | $85 / Month | $90 / Month |
| Health and Fitness | $60 - $100 / Month | $70 - $100 / Month |
| Sales Taxes | 5% / 10% (depending on the type of purchase) | 7% |
Moving to Calgary from Victoria can save people money in the long run. Real Estate is significantly lower in Calgary at $240 per square foot compared to Victoria's $285 per square foot. Similarly, custom-built single-family homes are also cheaper in Calgary, with a cost of $450 per square foot versus Victoria's $348 per square foot. Monthly housing costs including utilities and insurance are slightly lower in Calgary than in Victoria, and monthly transit passes are cheaper as well. Car insurance is also cheaper in Calgary than Victoria, with a yearly cost of $1,132 compared to $1,316. Grocery costs and communication costs are the same for both cities, but entertainment and health & fitness costs can vary slightly. Additionally, sales taxes vary between the two cities with 5-10% for Calgary and 7% for Victoria.
Benefits of Moving to Calgary
Calgary has plenty of things for people to explore. From diverse culture and food to the lively nightlife, Calgary is cementing its reputation as one of Canada's most vibrant cities. Moreover, the cost of living in Calgary is relatively lower than that in Victoria, making it a perfect city for those who value their salaries. Meanwhile, employment opportunities in Calgary are highly diverse when compared to Victoria, while still maintaining good wages and benefits. Finally, outdoor enthusiasts will love being able to take advantage of all that Calgary has to offer - from its beautiful parks and trails to skiing during winter months.
Whereas Victoria offers stunning views and access to beaches, it can be quite expensive when compared with other Canadian cities such as Edmonton or Strathcona County; whereas Calgary offers much cheaper rents and general cost of living than other popular destination cities like Vancouver or Toronto. Furthermore, with various cultural activities such as theatre performances available every night around the city centre; there is always something exciting happening in this vibrant place!
Best areas to live in Calgary
Choosing the perfect neighbourhood to live in Calgary is not an easy task. The sheer number of options that each come with their drawbacks and advantages, can make this decision particularly challenging. However, after considering all the criteria for picking a neighbourhood, we have assembled a list of the best areas to live in Calgary.
Aspen Woods
As the picturesque and tranquil neighbourhood of Aspen Woods in Calgary, Alberta, located near several attractions, this area is perfect for anyone looking for a peaceful life with some entertainment. The natural Westhills Shopping Centre and Canada Olympic Park are within reach of Aspen Woods, both only 25 minutes away. Beside that, the beautiful mountain view makes it even more attractive. Living in Aspen Woods gives you access to plenty of shopping centres and parks while still providing a sense of peace and quietness - something perfect for families and professionals who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Elbow Park
Moving to Elbow Park in Calgary is an appealing prospect for those looking to experience Canada's western charm and explore a vibrant neighbourhood. It's known for its large population, Victorian-style homes, leafy streets, vibrant parks and easy access to the city centre. The Elbow River flows through the neighbourhood, creating beautiful green space just moments from residents' doorsteps. Those who move here have plenty of attractions within reach, including nearby shopping centres, schools and a range of trendy restaurants and unique cafes. Living in Elbow Park means having close proximity to all that Calgary has to offer; it's an exciting place for newcomers looking for an adventure!
Mount Royal
Mount Royal is a vibrant residential and commercial neighbourhood in Calgary, boasting a population of over 5,000 residents. Its proximity to the iconic downtown skyline provides stunning views, while its lively streets are filled with shops and restaurants. The nearby attractions include the Calgary Tower, Heritage Park Historical Village, Peace Bridge and Eau Claire Market. Residents of Mount Royal will enjoy easy access to Calgary’s entertainment district for nightlife or daytime activities, as well as short commutes to major hubs like Chinook Centre Mall. Moving from Victoria to Mount Royal promises an exciting new lifestyle full of city amenities just waiting to be explored!
Roxboro
Roxboro is one of Calgary's most stylish and heavily populated suburbs. It is surrounded by plenty of green parks and close to some main attractions such as the Calgary Zoo and Heritage Park. The neighbourhood isn't too far from downtown Calgary, with a driving time of approximately 15 minutes. Living in Roxboro will offer an enjoyable experience full of convenience and entertainment; you'll get to enjoy the beauty different parks while still having access to a bustling downtown!
Britannia
Moving to Britannia in Calgary will give you an unforgettable Canadian living experience. Located close to many rivers, parks, and walking trails alongside breathtaking Rocky Mountains views, this neighborhood is a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts. The heritage-rich area is conveniently located near the city center with public transit options and several shops nearby. Whether you're looking for a place to have fun or a quiet spot that offers the serenity of nature with the comfort of city life, Britannia is waiting to welcome you!
Pros
- In Calgary, taxes are lower compared to Victoria, making it an attractive benefit when planning to move there.
- The warm summer temperatures in Calgary make it more pleasant to live in than Victoria for many people.
- Living closer to the Rockies is a major advantage when relocating from Victoria to Calgary.
Cons
- Moving from Victoria to Calgary involves facing colder winters than those experienced in Victoria.
- With its increased prices, living in Calgary can be much more expensive than in Victoria.
- Moving to Calgary means being farther away from the ocean than when living in Victoria.
What Are the Best Moving Solutions in Moving From Victoria to Calgary?
Moving from Victoria to Calgary can be a challenging and burdensome journey. To make sure the transition is as smooth as possible, there are a range of moving services that professional movers provide. The most common types of moves include local, long distance, and international relocations. Hercules Moving Company, for example, specializes in all three types of moves for both residential and commercial needs. Meanwhile, there are many other companies to choose from depending on individual desires and budgetary restrictions. It's crucial to remember that it's important to check the reputation of any moving company online before making a decision; this includes ensuring they are registered with the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM). Doing research can save you time and money in the long run when it comes to choosing quality movers who will get your possessions safe and soundly to their destination.
Conclusion
Relocating from Victoria to Calgary in 2023 is a viable option for those looking for a more vibrant and cost-effective lifestyle. With plenty of attractions, entertainment, outdoor activities, cheaper costs of living and employment opportunities available in Calgary, it’s certainly worth considering. Researching the best areas to live in or finding the right moving company are just some of the many factors one must consider when making this move. For an easier transition, it's important to take into account all of these factors before finally taking off!
