Your Complete Checklist for Relocating to Calgary (Without the Stress)
September 14, 2025
Thinking about relocating to Calgary?
Moving to Calgary isn’t just about unpacking boxes in a new postal code. It’s about navigating one of the busiest migration trends in Canada right now.
Last year alone, more than 20,000 people made the move, trading higher costs and tighter job markets in other provinces for Calgary’s balance of opportunity and affordability.
For Heidi Johnson, the decision came with extra stakes.
She was moving her elderly mother from BC and needed the process to be seamless and stress free.
From the first call with MTS Moving, she knew exactly what to expect.
She says, “There were no hidden fees. The other bonus? They delivered everything to us in Calgary within a couple days in perfect condition.”
However, Heidi knows that without the right long-distance mover, her experience could have gone horribly wrong.
We’ll walk you through why so many people are moving to Calgary. Plus, with our step-by-step Calgary relocation guide, you’ll be able to move to your new province with confidence.
- Step 1: Understand Calgary cost of living
- Step 2: Decide when and why you’re moving
- Step 3: Set your budget and understand moving costs
- Step 4: Book your long-distance mover, cleaners, and storage facilities in advance
- Step 5: Protect your belongings with proper coverage
- Step 6: Declutter and get packing supplies
- Step 7: Pack and prepare for transit
- Step 8: Track your move
- Step 9: Coordinate your arrival and personal tasks
- Step 10: Get to know your new city
- Step 11: Avoid post-move surprises
- Bonus Step: Use a Calgary relocation checklist
Why So Many People Are Moving to Calgary
People move to Calgary for all kinds of reasons. The mountain view. The job market. Or, a cost of living that still undercuts most major Canadian cities. Let’s explore in more detail.
Room to Breathe
With the Rockies just an hour away and over 8,000 hectares of parkland inside city limits, Calgary gives you space, both literally and figuratively. Outdoor enthusiasts can ski in the morning and bike by the river in the afternoon, all without leaving the city.
A Job Market That Pulls You In
The city’s energy sector remains strong, but growth in tech, healthcare, and professional services means newcomers aren’t limited to one industry. Calgary has consistently posted one of the lowest unemployment rates among major Canadian metros over the past two years.
More House for Your Money
While prices have risen, Calgary remains far more affordable than Toronto or Vancouver. As of 2025, the average home costs $646,743, with detached homes around $839,250, putting ownership well below the $1.4M+ mark in Toronto or the $2.1M price tag in Vancouver.
In Toronto, owning a detached home can cost over $8,000 a month. In Vancouver, it’s closer to $10,000. Calgary? Around $4,865–$5,400.
Net Migration Leader
Between July 2023 and July 2024, Calgary gained a net 20,859 people from other provinces, the highest in the country. And unlike some “boom” cities, it’s not just about affordability; many cite quality of life and professional opportunities as equally big draws.
Step 1: Understand the Calgary Cost of Living Comparison
Relocating isn’t just about finding the right neighborhood. It’s about understanding how far your budget will stretch once you’re there.
Housing, utilities, transportation, groceries, and entertainment all vary widely between cities, and those differences can make or break your long-term comfort.
Here’s the 2025 cost-of-living breakdown for Calgary compared to Edmonton, Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.
1. Housing: Renting vs. Owning
City | Av. 1BR Rent (Downtown) | Avg. 3BR Rent | Avg. Home Price (All Types) | Avg. Detached Price | Est. Monthly Mortgage (Detached) |
Edmonton | $1,370–$1,628 | $1,370 | $439,700–$464,955 | $574,097 | ~$2,850–$3,000 |
Calgary | $1,696–$2,093 | $2,387–$2,527 | $616,686 | $594,395 | ~$3,200–$3,400 |
Toronto | $2,200–$2,700 | $3,500–$4,200 | $1.01M–$1.12M | $1.43–$1.65M | $6,100–$7,200 |
Vancouver | $3,200–$3,500 | $4,200–$4,600 | $1,211,073 | $2,120,000 | $10,000+ |
Montreal | $1,303-$1,800 | $2,800–$3,500 | $620K–$650K | $650K–$680K | $3,600–$4,100 |
Takeaway: Edmonton is the most affordable city in this group for both renting and owning, while Calgary still offers significant savings over Toronto and Vancouver.
2. Utilities, Transportation & Insurance
City | Utilities (85m² apt) | Internet | Public Transit Pass | Car Insurance (Annual) | Gasoline/Litre | Monthly Parking (Downtown) |
Edmonton | $200–$250 | $80–$100 | $100–$110 | $1,350–$1,650 | $1.38–$1.45 | $175–$250 |
Calgary | $225–$250 | $80–$100 | $115 | $1,800–$2,200 | $1.40–$1.50 | $250–$350 |
Toronto | $125–$200 | $70-$90 | $156 | $1,500 | $1.50 | $200–$350 |
Vancouver | $150–$180 | $75–$95 | $140–$150 | $1,600–$2,000 | $1.75–$2.00 | $300–$400 |
Montreal | $100–$160 | $60–$85 | $94 | $850–$1,200 | $1.55 | $180–$250 |
Takeaway: Edmonton edges out Calgary on affordability for utilities and insurance, but both remain cheaper than Toronto or Vancouver for overall car and fuel costs.
3. Groceries & Entertainment
City | Groceries (Single) | Groceries (Family of 4) | Casual Restaurant | Movie Ticket | Gym Membership |
Edmonton | $350-$400 | $800 | $15-$25 | $14-$16 | $55-$85 |
Calgary | $400-$600 | $1,000-$1300 | $20-$30 | $14-$17 | $50-$80 |
Toronto | $600-$900 | $1,200-$1,700 | $25-$35 | $15-$18 | $60-$100 |
Vancouver | $650-$800 | $1,400-$1,700 | $25-$40 | $16-$20 | $60-$110 |
Montreal | $350-$550 | $1,000-$1,200 | $18-$28 | $14-$16 | $45-$80 |
Takeaway: Edmonton offers the lowest grocery and dining costs overall, with Calgary close behind. Both undercut Toronto and Vancouver by a wide margin.
Bottom Line
Calgary delivers one of the best cost-of-living balances in Canada’s major cities:
- Housing 30–60% less expensive than Toronto or Vancouver.
- Utilities, transportation, and insurance that stay manageable year-round.
- Groceries and entertainment that won’t break your budget.
For newcomers, that means your moving budget stretches further, leaving more room for enjoying your new city.
Step 2: Decide When and Why You’re Moving
The “right” time to move to Calgary isn’t just a matter of flipping through the calendar. It’s a mix of personal, financial, and logistical factors.
Knowing your why and your when will save you stress, time, and money.
Key Factors That Shape Your Timeline
- Job Offers & Start Dates: If your move is tied to a new role, your employer’s timeline might take priority. Some require proof of address before your first day, so align your moving date with HR requirements and housing availability.
- Housing Market Cycles: Late spring through summer (May–August) brings more listings but also more competition and higher prices. In late fall and winter, demand cools, and so can housing costs.
- School Schedules: Families often plan for summer moves to avoid disrupting the academic year. Calgary schools start in late August or early September, so aim to arrive, register, and settle before then.
- Seasonal Climate: From snowy January mornings to long, dry summer days, Calgary’s weather shapes moving conditions, and sometimes your budget.
Best Months to Move: Balancing Budget and Convenience
Season | Cost Trend | Weather Snapshot | Pros | Cons | Best For |
Winter (Dec-Feb) | 20-30% cheaper | Cold, snow, short days | Deep discounts, flexible booking | Slippery roads, weather delays | Budget-conscious, flexible timelines |
Spring (Mar-May) | Moderate, rising by May | Mild, some rain/mud | Comfortable temps, moderate rates | Unpredictable weather | Balanced budget & comfort |
Summer (June-Aug) | Peak rates | Warm, dry, long days | Predictable weather, school break | Movers book up early, highest costs | Families, fixed deadlines |
Fall (Sept-Nov) | 20-30% cheaper than summer | Cool, stable | Mild temps, lower demand | Possible early snow | Best cost/comfort balance |
Savings Insight: A Toronto-to-Calgary long-distance move might run $6,000–$8,500 in peak summer, but $4,000–$6,000 in winter. Late October to March offers the most negotiating power with movers.
Calgary’s Climate and Its Impact on Moving
Winter: Highs around –1°C, lows around –13°C. Lower moving costs but slippery roads and shorter daylight hours mean extra prep time.
Spring: Milder temperatures but expect late snow or rain. Mud and slush can slow loading/unloading.
Summer: Highs around 23°C, dry, sunny, and reliable. Best conditions but highest demand.
Fall: Comfortable temps and stable weather, but keep an eye out for early snow in November.
Practical Timing Tips
- Avoid Weekends & Month-End: Mid-week, mid-month moves cost less year-round.
- Book Early in Summer: Top movers fill up months in advance.
- For Families: Arrive before late August to align with school start dates.
- For Savings: Target October–March if your schedule is flexible.
- For All Seasons: Have weather-appropriate packing, clear paths, and contingency time built in.
Bottom line: If cost is your top priority, plan for a late fall or winter move. If you have kids in school, summer might be worth the higher rates. Either way, knowing your timeline, and how Calgary’s climate affects it, will make the entire process smoother and more predictable.
Step 3: Set Your Budget and Understand Moving Costs
Relocating across provinces is a series of costs that can add up quickly if you don’t plan ahead.
Whether you’re moving from Ontario to Calgary or from another province, knowing your price range and the key cost drivers will keep you from overspending, and protect you from unpleasant surprises.
Typical Ontario → Calgary Moving Cost Ranges (2025)
Move Size | Fall/Winter | Peak Summer | Notes |
1 Bedroom | $2,150-$3,300 | $2,800-$4,000 | Lower rates if flexible with timing |
2-3 Bedrooms | $4,150-$6,900 | $6,000-$8,500 | Most common move size |
4+ Bedrooms | $5,700-$7,00 | $7,500-$9,400 | Higher weight & packing needs |
Savings Insight: Booking between October and March can cut 20–30% off peak-season rates.
Full-Service vs. Partial-Service vs. DIY
Service Type | Typical Range | What’s Included |
Full-Service | $4,500-$9,400 | Professional packing, loading/unloading, materials, transport, insurance |
Partial-Service | $2,800-$6,900 | Transport + loading/unloading; you pack your own boxes |
DIY/Container | $1,500-$4,000+ | You handle packing/loading; costs for truck/container, fuel, insurance |
Full-service packing adds $500–$1,200 for everything, or $200–$600 for select items. Packing materials typically run $100–$300.
Building a Total Relocation Budget
Mover’s Fee
- Full service: $4,500–$9,400 (2–4 bedrooms)
- Partial: $2,800–$6,900
- Insurance: Often included; if not, $150–$600
Travel & Accommodation
- Driving (gas, meals, hotels): $400–$900
- Flights: $200–$600 per person
- Temporary housing: $80–$200/night
- Vehicle shipping: $800–$1,600
Packing & Set-Up
- Packing services/materials: $250–$1,200
- Specialty items (piano, safe, gym): $100–$800 each
- Storage: $100–$300/month
Deposits & Start-Up Costs
- Rental deposit: 1–2 months’ rent
- Utility hookups: $100–$300
- Insurance (tenant/home): $30–$100/month Cleaning: $100–$300
Other
- Mail forwarding: $78–$119
- Pet relocation/admin fees: varies
- Contingency: 10–15% extra for unplanned expenses
Real-World Budget Example
Cost Category | Typical Range |
Movers/transport | $2,800-$8,500 |
Personal travel/accommodation | $400-$1,200 |
Packing/material | $250-$1,200 |
Deposits (rental/utilities) | $500-$2,000 |
Misc. (cleaning, mail, pets) | $300-$700 |
Total Estimated Budget | $4,500-$12,500+ |
Why Your Quote Matters
Many moving companies will give you a “ballpark” number, and then triple it when the truck is loaded. MTS Moving doesn’t play that game.
Your quote is your price, with no hidden upcharges for weight, timing, or “extra” services you didn’t agree to. This transparency is the difference between budgeting with confidence and scrambling to cover surprise costs on moving day.
Step 4: Book Your Long-Distance Mover, Cleaners, and Storage Facilities in Advance
The earlier you lock in your mover and support services, the smoother your relocation will be. Top long-distance moving companies, especially those with a reputation for reliability, can be fully booked months in advance, particularly for peak summer moves. The same applies to reputable cleaners and storage facilities.
Lock in Your Services Early
- Movers: For cross-province moves, aim to book 8–12 weeks in advance (longer for peak summer).
- Cleaners: Professional move-out or move-in cleaning can save time and protect your damage deposit.
- Storage Facilities: If your move-out and move-in dates don’t align, secure storage early. Climate-controlled units can fill quickly.
Keep Your Key Contacts Organized
Create a master list of:
- Moving company contact info (primary contact, crew lead)
- Utility providers (electricity, gas, water, internet)
- Cleaners (arrival date/time, special instructions)
- Storage facility (unit number, access hours, payment confirmation)
Include confirmation numbers and payment receipts so you’re not scrambling to find details mid-move.
How to Compare Moving Quotes and Contracts
When reviewing quotes:
- Ensure all costs are itemized: transport, packing, insurance, specialty items, surcharges.
- Check weight estimates and whether the mover will verify on a certified scale.
- Confirm coverage ($/lb value, deductible, what’s excluded).
- Ask if the quoted price is binding or “subject to change.”
Tip: A written, binding quote is worth far more than a verbal promise.
Red Flags to Avoid
🚩 Too-good-to-be-true pricing: Lowball quotes often mean surprise charges later.
🚩 Vague terms: Unclear delivery dates, coverage, or payment terms are a warning sign.
🚩 Subcontracting without disclosure: The company you hire should be the one doing the work.
🚩 “We’ll weigh it later” promises: No certified scale ticket means no cost certainty.
Why MTS’s Approach Works for Long-Distance Moves
MTS Moving removes the guesswork and the “gotcha” fees:
- Video-verified weight tickets on certified government scales, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
- Guaranteed pricing: The price we quote is the price you pay.
- In-house crews only: No subcontractors, no hand-offs, no risk of lost or damaged items in transit.
Bottom line: Booking early isn’t just about securing a date. It’s about giving yourself the best choice of proven movers, reliable cleaners, and safe storage, and making sure every detail is in writing before moving day.
Step 5: Protect Your Belongings with Proper Coverage
Long-distance moves involve more than just getting your items from point A to point B. They’re a high-stakes logistical chain, and the only thing between you and a costly loss is the coverage you choose.
The Difference Between $0.60/lb and $1.50/lb Coverage
Most moving companies offer a basic liability of just $0.60 per pound. On paper, that might sound adequate. Until you do the math.
Example:
- 55” TV weighs ~40 lbs.
- $0.60/lb = $24 payout if damaged. That’s not even close to replacement cost.
By contrast, $1.50/lb coverage would pay $60 for the same TV. Still not full replacement value, but a much stronger baseline. And higher tiers or full replacement policies can close that gap entirely.
Why Proof-of-Weight Tickets Are Critical
Your coverage payout is tied directly to your shipment’s weight. Without an accurate, certified scale ticket, you’re relying on the mover’s word.
The MTS difference:
- Video-verified weighing at certified government scales.
- You see the actual weight before your truck even leaves.
- Eliminates inflated “estimated weights” that some movers use to pad costs or underpay claims.
What’s Included in MTS’s Coverage (and Upgrades)
Every MTS long-distance move comes with:
- $1.50/lb liability coverage. More than double the industry minimum.
- No deductible: You’re not paying out of pocket to file a claim.
- Video-verified weight tickets for cost and claim transparency.
Optional upgrades include:
- Full Replacement Value Protection: It covers the actual replacement cost of damaged or lost items, not just weight-based value.
- Additional declared value coverage for high-value items like fine art, antiques, or specialty equipment.
Bottom line: Coverage isn’t the place to cut corners. The right protection backed by certified weight tickets ensures that if something does go wrong, you’re not left paying for it twice. With MTS, you start with better-than-standard coverage and can upgrade for complete peace of mind.
Step 6: Declutter and Get Packing Supplies
Every box you pack (and every pound you ship) costs you money. Decluttering before you move isn’t just about tidiness. It’s about saving hundreds in moving costs and setting yourself up for a fresh start in Calgary.
Declutter Before You Pack
Don’t pay to move items you no longer use or need. Work room by room and sort everything into four clear categories:
- Keep: Items you love, use, and have space for in your new home.
- Donate: Clothing, furniture, and household goods in good condition.
- Sell: Turn unused items into cash via garage sales, Facebook Marketplace, or local buy-and-sell groups.
- Discard: Broken, outdated, or worn-out items that can’t be repurposed.
Pro Tip: Selling even a few big items like that treadmill you swore you’d use can offset the cost of packing supplies or even part of your mover’s fee.
Downsizing = Lower Moving Costs
Fewer boxes and lighter shipments mean:
- Less time spent packing and unpacking.
- Lower overall moving weight (your #1 cost factor in a long-distance move).
- More space in your Calgary home from day one.
Stock Up on Packing Supplies Early
Start building your supply stash at least 4–6 weeks before moving day. A last-minute run to the store will cost more and add stress.
Here’s your basic packing supply checklist:
- Boxes: Small, medium, large, plus specialty wardrobe and dish boxes.
- Packing Tape: Heavy-duty, not dollar-store quality.
- Bubble Wrap & Packing Paper: Protects fragile items.
- Markers & Labels: For room and priority-level marking.
- Stretch Wrap: Keeps furniture drawers shut and protects surfaces.
- Box Cutter/Scissors: Essential for unpacking.
Bottom line: Decluttering before you pack can save you hundreds in moving costs and hours in packing time. Combine it with a solid supply plan, and you’ll avoid last-minute chaos and keep your move efficient from start to finish.
Step 7: Pack and Prepare for Transit
Packing for a cross-province move is different than packing for a quick hop across town. And the right approach will save you time, prevent damage, and keep the first few days in Calgary stress-free.
Decide Who’s Packing What
With MTS Moving, you can opt for full or partial packing services:
- Full packing service: Our trained crews handle everything from wrapping fragile items to boxing up your kitchen. Ideal if you’re short on time or need expert handling.
- Partial packing service: You pack most items yourself but leave tricky, fragile, or bulky pieces (artwork, glass tables, heirlooms) to the pros. Not every mover offers this flexibility and not every mover will pack for you. Choosing one that does ensures better protection and less stress.
Pack for Calgary’s Climate
Calgary’s weather can swing from mild to snowy in a single week. If you’re moving in winter or shoulder seasons, protect belongings with:
- Waterproof covers for furniture and mattresses.
- Extra padding for electronics (to protect against cold damage).
- Weather-resistant totes for important documents.
Start Early with Non-Essentials
Begin with items you won’t need until after the move:
- Off-season clothing
- Decorative pieces and books
- Extra linens and kitchen gadgets
Label boxes with room + contents + priority so you can unpack in logical order.
Special Care for Fragile, Bulky, and High-Value Items
- Use smaller boxes for heavy items like books.
- Cushion breakables with bubble wrap, packing paper, or towels.
- Reinforce box bottoms with extra tape.
- Clearly mark FRAGILE and THIS SIDE UP where needed.
- Keep jewelry, legal documents, and irreplaceable items with you; not in the moving truck.
Your Essentials Arrival Kit (First 48 Hours in Calgary)
Pack this separately and bring it with you, whether by car or plane:
- Toiletries and medications
- Chargers and electronics
- Passports, IDs, and important documents
- A few kitchen basics (coffee maker, mugs, utensils)
- Towels and a change of clothes for each person
- Bedding or sleeping bags if furniture won’t arrive same day
What Goes in the Truck vs. What Travels with You
- In the Truck: Furniture, packed boxes, non-urgent household goods.
- With You: Essentials kit, personal electronics, valuables, sensitive documents, and anything you’d be devastated to lose or damage.
Bottom line: A smart packing plan combines professional help where it matters most with personal preparation for your first days in Calgary. The goal? Arrive, settle in, and start enjoying your new home without digging through 20 boxes to find your toothbrush.
Step 8: Track Your Move
Long-distance moving can feel like a waiting game, but with the right mover, you’re never left wondering where your belongings are or when they’ll arrive.
With MTS Moving, you get:
- Online shipment status tracking from the moment your items are picked up until delivery.
- Direct communication with your driver for updates in real time.
- Proactive check-ins. If something changes, we’ll call you before you have to call us.
How Long Will It Take?
For most cross-province moves (Ontario → Calgary or BC → Calgary, etc.), your delivery will arrive within 7–14 days. The exact timing depends on your load size, route, and season, but you’ll know the schedule before your move even starts.
Why Tracking Matters
- Peace of mind: You’re not wondering if your belongings are sitting in a warehouse or halfway across the Prairies.
- Better planning: You can time utility setups, furniture assembly, and even grocery shopping around your confirmed delivery date.
- Fewer surprises: Any changes in ETA are communicated immediately so you can adjust.
Bottom line: Transparency is key in long-distance moving. MTS’s real-time tracking and open communication mean you can follow your move’s progress from start to finish, and focus on settling into Calgary instead of chasing down updates.
Step 9: Coordinate Your Arrival and Personal Tasks
The move isn’t over when the truck pulls up. The first week in your new city is about getting life running smoothly.
On Unloading Day
- Be Present for Delivery: Walk through the home with your movers and check items off your inventory list as they’re unloaded.
- Direct Traffic: Tell movers where large items and boxes should go to avoid heavy lifting later.
- Inspect for Damage: Note any concerns immediately on the paperwork before signing.
Set Up Your Essentials
- Utilities & Internet: If you booked installation ahead of time, confirm the appointment date. For same-day setups, Calgary’s main utility providers can often get you running within 24–48 hours.
- Waste & Recycling: Review your collection schedule; Calgary runs on alternating pickup days for garbage, recycling, and compost.
- Grocery & Basics: Stock up on essentials so you’re not scrambling mid-unpack.
Complete Your Administrative Tasks
- Driver’s License & Vehicle Registration: Alberta law requires you to update both within 90 days of moving. Visit a local registry office with ID, proof of address, and existing license/registration.
- Healthcare: Apply for the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) as soon as possible; coverage starts on the first day of the third month after becoming a resident.
- School & Daycare Registration: If you haven’t pre-registered, contact your school board or daycare immediately; spots can be limited in popular neighborhoods.
Don’t Forget the Personal Details
- Mail Forwarding: Canada Post offers 4-, 8-, or 12-month forwarding to ensure nothing gets lost in the transition.
- Address Updates: Notify banks, insurance, subscription services, and any memberships.
- Medical Records & Prescriptions: Transfer files to new providers and refill prescriptions so you’re covered until you find a local pharmacy.
Pro Tip: Make a “first-week checklist” and keep it in a visible spot. Between boxes, errands, and unpacking, it’s easy to forget time-sensitive tasks.
Step 10: Get to Know Your New City
Settling into Calgary isn’t just about getting the boxes unpacked. It’s about learning how the city moves, where you’ll spend your time, and how to navigate its unique climate. The sooner you get familiar with your surroundings, the faster Calgary will start to feel like home.
Neighborhoods & Commuting Patterns
- Neighborhoods:
- Downtown & Beltline: High-rise living, walkable to offices, restaurants, and nightlife.
- Northwest (Tuscany, Brentwood): Family-friendly, close to the University of Calgary and Canada Olympic Park.
- Southwest (Altadore, Signal Hill): Mature communities with easy access to Glenmore Reservoir and Mount Royal University.
- Southeast (Mahogany, Auburn Bay): Newer developments with lake access and quick routes to the ring road.
- Northeast (Saddle Ridge, Martindale): Diverse communities, good access to Calgary International Airport.
- Commuting: Calgary has a hub-and-spoke road system, meaning rush-hour traffic is heaviest inbound to downtown in the morning and outbound in the evening. The Stoney Trail ring road makes cross-city trips easier, while Deerfoot Trail is the main north–south artery (and the most congested).
Calgary Transit & Major Roadways
- Transit: The CTrain (light rail) runs on two lines; the Red Line (north–south) and Blue Line (west–northeast) with most major suburbs having at least one park-and-ride station. Monthly adult pass: $115.
- Driving: Winter driving means all-season tires won’t cut it; switch to winter tires before November for safety and traction. Parking downtown is limited and can be costly ($250–$400/month).
Parks, Festivals & Community Events
- Outdoor Spaces: Fish Creek Provincial Park, Nose Hill Park, and Prince’s Island Park are local favourites for year-round recreation.
- Events: Calgary Stampede (July), GlobalFest fireworks (August), Calgary Folk Music Festival (July), and seasonal farmers’ markets run spring to fall.
- Winter Fun: Skiing and snowboarding are less than 90 minutes away in Banff, while the city’s outdoor rinks pop up from December through February.
Winter Survival Tips for Newcomers
- Snow Removal: The city expects homeowners to clear sidewalks within 24 hours of snowfall — fines apply for non-compliance.
- Vehicle Prep: Keep an emergency kit in your car (blanket, shovel, booster cables) and top up with winter washer fluid. Block heaters are standard; plug your car in overnight when temps drop below –15°C.
- Clothing: Layering is key. Invest in a warm parka, insulated boots, and windproof gloves; Calgary’s winter winds can make –10°C feel much colder.
Pro Tip: Spend your first few weekends exploring one quadrant of the city at a time. You’ll find your go-to grocery stores, coffee shops, and green spaces much faster and start building a mental map of your new home.
Step 11: Avoid Post-Move Surprises
Even after the last box is unpacked, there are important realities to settling in Calgary that can affect your budget, compliance, and peace of mind. Knowing what’s ahead helps you stay on top of costs, avoid fines, and make the most of your new home.
Property Taxes & Homeowner Responsibilities
- Property Taxes: Calgary’s property tax rate is around 0.7%–0.8% of assessed value (varies annually). The City issues annual tax bills in May, with full payment due by the end of June unless you join the Tax Instalment Payment Plan (TIPP).
- Homeowner Duties:
- Maintain your property’s exterior (lawns, sidewalks, snow clearing).
- Keep eavestroughs and drainage clear to prevent flooding during spring melt.
- Comply with the city’s waste and recycling schedule; certain items (like large appliances) require special pickup.
Seasonal Expenses Unique to Calgary
- Winter Heating: Natural gas bills can spike from $150–$250/month during the coldest months.
- Snow Removal & Ice Control: Budget for a quality snow shovel, snow blower, or a seasonal contract (~$300–$600 per winter).
- Chinook Winds: These warm spells can cause freeze–thaw cycles; be prepared for potential ice buildup and fluctuating utility usage.
- Summer Lawn Care: Lawn maintenance or landscaping services range from $30–$60 per visit if you outsource.
Understanding Bylaws & Community Rules
- Snow & Ice Clearing: Sidewalks must be cleared within 24 hours after snowfall ends; fines can start at $250 for non-compliance.
- Noise Restrictions: Quiet hours are generally 10 p.m.–7 a.m. (check your neighborhood’s exact rules).
- Community Associations & HOAs: Some Calgary communities have Homeowners’ Association fees for amenities and maintenance. Ensure you understand payment schedules and rules for property changes.
- Parking Rules: Many neighborhoods have permit-only parking for street spots; check local signage and regulations.
Keep Your Moving Paperwork Organized for Tax Purposes
- Why it Matters: If your move was for work and meets CRA’s distance and employment criteria, certain moving expenses may be tax-deductible.
- What to Keep:
- Moving company invoices
- Travel and accommodation receipts
- Storage and insurance receipts
- Lease cancellation or home sale documentation
- How to Store: Keep both paper and digital copies in a clearly labelled folder; scan receipts immediately to avoid fading or loss.
Pro Tip: Add a “Home & Move” section to your personal files; this becomes your single go-to spot for warranties, service contracts, property tax notices, and insurance documents. You’ll thank yourself next year at tax time.
Bonus Step: Use a Calgary relocation checklist
Bonus Step: Use a Calgary Relocation Checklist
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to overlook important tasks during a long-distance move. A structured checklist keeps you on track, from early planning to post-move settling. Print it, save it on your phone, or keep it pinned to your fridge so nothing slips through the cracks.
Quick-Look Calgary Relocation Checklist
Pre-Move (8–12 Weeks Before)
- Choose your moving date
- Research & compare long-distance movers (get written quotes)
- Decide on full-service vs. partial-service move
- Book movers, cleaners, and storage if needed
- Begin decluttering (keep, donate, sell, discard)
Packing & Preparation (4–6 Weeks Before)
- Purchase packing supplies (boxes, tape, bubble wrap)
- Start packing non-essentials
- Label boxes clearly (room + contents)
- Arrange insurance coverage for belongings
- Notify utility providers of move-out date
Final Weeks (1–2 Weeks Before)
- Pack essentials box for first 48 hours
- Confirm mover’s arrival time & payment details
- Arrange mail forwarding with Canada Post
- Back up important documents & keep them with you
- Finalize travel plans (flights, driving route, hotel stays)
Moving Day
- Do a final home walkthrough
- Supervise loading and get proof-of-weight ticket
- Keep valuables and essentials with you
- Lock up and leave keys for new owners/landlord
Arrival in Calgary
- Supervise unloading and check for damage
- Set up utilities, internet, and essential services
- Update driver’s license & vehicle registration
- Register for healthcare and schools
- Explore your neighbourhood & transit options
Pro Tip: MTS Moving provides a free, downloadable Calgary Relocation Checklist PDF so you can tick off each step on the go; no loose papers, no missed deadlines.
A Smooth Move Is About Preparation and the Right Partner
Relocating to Calgary isn’t just a change of address, it’s a major life transition that deserves careful planning, smart budgeting, and the support of a mover you can trust.
From understanding the cost of living and climate to knowing the best time to relocate, every decision you make before moving day can shape your first weeks (and months) in your new city.
A smooth move comes down to two things:
- Preparation: Following a clear, step-by-step plan so nothing gets missed.
- The Right Partner: A mover who delivers exactly what they promise, without hidden fees or unpleasant surprises.
With guaranteed pricing, in-house crews, and video-verified weights, MTS Moving ensures your cross-province move is handled with the same care and precision you’d expect from a trusted friend, only with professional muscle behind it.
✅ Ready for a seamless Calgary move?
FAQs: Moving to Calgary
Q: What’s the cost of living in Calgary vs. Toronto?
A: Calgary offers significantly lower living costs than Toronto, especially for housing. In 2025, the average detached home in Calgary is about $839,250, compared to $1.43–$1.65M in Toronto. That’s a monthly ownership cost of roughly $4,865–$5,400 in Calgary versus $8,000+ in Toronto. Groceries, dining, and transportation are also generally more affordable in Calgary, though winter heating can push utility bills higher.
Q: What do I need to change when moving to Alberta?
A: Within your first three months, you’ll need to:
- Transfer your driver’s license and vehicle registration (within 90 days).
- Apply for Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) coverage.
- Update your address with Canada Post, financial institutions, insurance providers, and any government agencies.
- Transfer school or medical records if applicable.
Q: How far in advance should I book a mover?
A: Book 8–12 weeks in advance for a cross-province move, even earlier if you’re moving in summer (June–August). This gives you the best chance to secure your preferred dates and compare quotes. Off-peak months (October–March) often mean lower prices and more flexibility.
Q: What should I pack first for a cross-country move?
A: Begin with non-essential items like off-season clothing, books, décor, and rarely used kitchenware. Pack heavier items in small boxes, lighter items in larger ones, and clearly label each box with its room and priority. Keep essentials: toiletries, chargers, documents, and a few days’ worth of clothing in an “arrival kit” you travel with personally.
Q: How do I transfer healthcare and licenses in Alberta?
A: Apply for AHCIP within three months of moving. Bring proof of residency, valid ID, and (if required) citizenship or immigration documents. To transfer your driver’s license, visit an Alberta registry office with your current license, proof of address, and ID. Vehicle registration must also be updated within 90 days.