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Digital Nomad Guide to Calgary, Canada | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Digital Nomad Life in Calgary, Canada

By Betsy Burlingame

Summary: Digital nomads like living in Calgary, Canada because of its vibrant culture, diverse economy, and affordable cost of living. The city is known for its friendly people, outdoor activities, and great food. The best neighborhood to live in Calgary is the Beltline, which is located in the heart of the city and is known for its trendy restaurants, bars, and shops. The approximate population of Calgary, Canada is 1,392,609. The weather in Calgary, Canada (Farenheit) is generally mild with temperatures ranging from an average low of -7°F in the winter to an average high of 79°F in the summer. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Calgary is approximately $1,500 USD. This includes rent, food, transportation, and entertainment. The cost (in US dollars) to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Calgary is approximately $1,200 USD per month.

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How do I meet people in Calgary?

When we asked people living in Calgary about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Calgary Outdoor Club, Any Health Club, A Church, Walk in the off leash dog parks with your dog- you will meet a number of people," said one expat who made the move to Calgary.

"Expats in Calgary can join a variety of clubs and activities to meet people and make friends. Popular activities include joining a sports team, attending a language exchange, or joining a local meetup group. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as festivals, art shows, and concerts. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests. Finally, volunteering in the community is a great way to meet people and make connections," explained one foreigner living in Calgary, Canada.

What is life like in Calgary?

When we asked people living in Calgary what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Quality of life is high. A 37.5 hour woork week allows people to focus on family, outdoor activities and other personal interests," said one person in Calgary.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Calgary is generally quite pleasant. The city is known for its friendly locals, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other major cities in Canada, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live and work abroad. The city also offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from outdoor activities such as skiing and hiking to cultural attractions like the Calgary Tower and the Glenbow Museum. Additionally, Calgary is home to a vibrant tech and startup scene, making it an ideal place for digital nomads to work and network," said one expat who made the move to Calgary.

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William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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Where should I live in Calgary?

We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Calgary is to use online resources such as rental websites, classifieds, and real estate agents. You can also search for rental properties in the local newspaper or by asking friends and family for recommendations. Additionally, you can attend open houses or visit local real estate offices to get a better idea of what is available in the area. Once you have narrowed down your search, you can contact the landlord or property manager to arrange a viewing and discuss the details of the rental agreement," explained one expat living in Calgary, Canada.

What do I need to know before moving to Calgary?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Calgary, they said:

"Before retiring in Calgary, expats should research the cost of living and housing in the city. They should also familiarize themselves with the local climate and the availability of healthcare services. Additionally, expats should look into the job market and the availability of recreational activities in the area. It is also important to research the local culture and customs to ensure a smooth transition into the new environment. Finally, expats should consider the tax implications of retiring in Canada," said one expat who made the move to Calgary.

"Prepare for the weather, educate yourself about Canadian current events, be knowledgeable about why you see this as a great opportunity and come experience it for yourself," explained one foreigner living in Calgary, Canada.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Calgary?

"Expatriates in Calgary appreciate the city's friendly and welcoming atmosphere. They also enjoy the city's vibrant cultural scene, with its many festivals, events, and attractions. The city's diverse population and its proximity to the Rocky Mountains also make it an attractive destination for expats. Additionally, the city's low cost of living and its strong economy make it an ideal place to live and work," explained one person living in Calgary, Canada.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

What do people find most challenging about the culture in Calgary?

"Expats in Calgary often find it challenging to adjust to the local culture due to the city's relatively small size and the fact that it is not as diverse as other major cities. Additionally, the cold weather and long winters can be difficult to adjust to for those coming from warmer climates. Furthermore, the cost of living in Calgary is relatively high, making it difficult for expats to find affordable housing and other necessities. Finally, the local culture can be quite conservative, which can be difficult for those coming from more liberal backgrounds," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Calgary.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Calgary for a while?

"If you plan to stay in Calgary for a while, you will need to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). Depending on your nationality, you may also need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Additionally, you may need to apply for a work permit if you plan to work while in Canada," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Calgary.

What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Calgary?

We asked people in Calgary if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"It is important to be mindful of the cultural norms in Calgary. It is important to be respectful of the Indigenous peoples of the area, and to avoid making any comments that could be seen as offensive or insensitive. It is also important to be aware of the local customs and to dress appropriately for the occasion. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid using slang or colloquialisms that may be unfamiliar to the locals. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations, and to respect them," explained one expat living in Calgary, Canada.

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

What are healthcare services like in Calgary?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Calgary, they replied:

"Calgary offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The city is home to a number of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of services, including primary care, emergency care, mental health services, and specialized care. Calgary also has a number of walk-in clinics and urgent care centers that provide quick access to medical care. In addition, the city has a number of community health centers that provide health promotion and disease prevention services. Calgary also has a number of specialized services, such as home care, palliative care, and rehabilitation services. Finally, Calgary has a number of pharmacies and other health-related services, such as optometry and physiotherapy," said one foreigner in Calgary.

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

What are the pros and cons of living in Calgary?

"Expats and digital nomads living in Calgary appreciate the city's vibrant culture, diverse population, and abundance of outdoor activities. They also enjoy the city's low cost of living, which makes it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the cold winter months and lack of public transportation to be drawbacks," explained one expat living in Calgary, Canada.

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Contribute to Canada Network Contribute
Help others in Canada by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Canada.

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