Cost of living in Alberta in 2025: Accommodation, Transportation Costs, and More
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In 2025, the cost of living in Alberata is expected to be a bit higher than the previous year, with average house prices forecast to reach $534,861. However, the overall expenses may vary depending on lifestyle and location.
In this article, we have jotted down the cost of living in Alberta, understanding the housing options, and everyday expenses.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Living in Alberta
Multiple factors affect the cost of living in Alberta in 2025. Some of them are mentioned below:
Alberta is a Metropolitan City: Since Alberta is a metropolitan city. Metropolitan areas generally have higher rents and overall living standards in comparison to smaller towns and rural areas.
Lifestyle: Personal luxuries, such as eating out, entertainment, and leisure activities, will significantly impact overall expenses.
Family Size: The size of the family also affects the cost of living. The cost of living for a single person will be lower than that of a family.
Accommodation Costs in Alberta
The core part of your monthly expenses goes to accommodation. The rent in Alberata may differ from the city or area, also depending on the type of accommodation.
But, according to sources, the cost of renting a house or an apartment is relatively lower than in other parts of Canada. However, the cost of rent in big cities like Calgary and Edmonton is usually much higher than in smaller towns or the countryside.
City |
Average Monthly Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment |
Calgary |
CAD 1200 - CAD 1500 |
Edmonton |
CAD 1100 - CAD 1400 |
Lethbridge |
CAD 800 - CAD 1000 |
Red Deer |
CAD 900 - CAD 1200 |
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Food Expenses in Alberta
Food prices in Alberta are Moderate in comparison to other provinces in Canada. But of course, the cost of food at any grocery store and restaurant depends on your dietary needs and frequency of eating out.
Grocery Costs |
||
Single person (monthly) |
$250 – $400 |
Buy in bulk, meal prep, and use sales/coupons |
Family of four (monthly) |
$600 – $800 |
Bulk purchases, seasonal produce, store brands |
Eating Out |
||
Mid-range restaurant meal |
$15 – $25 per person |
Lunch specials, ethnic eateries, local diners |
Fast food meal |
$8 – $12 per person |
Value menus, combo deals, promotions |
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Transportation Costs in Alberta
Transportation costs are another factor that takes a huge chunk of your monthly expenses. Alberta provides a myriad of transport services for use by individuals requiring transport services.
Category |
Details |
Cost |
Public Transportation |
Monthly adult pass (Calgary, 2025) |
$118/month |
Monthly adult pass (Edmonton, 2025, Arc Card fare cap) |
$102/month |
|
Monthly youth pass (Calgary, 2025, age 13–17, from Sept) |
$86/month |
|
Low-income monthly pass (Calgary, sliding scale) |
$5.90–$59/month |
|
Low-income monthly pass (Edmonton, fare cap) |
$36/month |
|
Senior's annual pass (Calgary, 2025) |
$159/year |
|
Single adult fare (Calgary, 2025) |
$3.80 |
|
Single adult fare (Edmonton, 2025) |
$3.75 |
|
Car Ownership |
Gasoline (per litre, Alberta average) |
$1.30–$1.50 |
Car insurance (annual, varies by driver and vehicle) |
$1,000–$2,000/year |
|
Additional costs: maintenance, registration, parking |
Varies |
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Utility Costs in Alberta
Some of the important necessities in determining the cost of living include electricity, gas, water, internet, phone, etc. The cost of utilities will depend on the size of the accommodation and the consumer’s behaviour.
Utility Service |
Average Monthly Expense |
Other Notes |
Electricity, Gas, and Water |
$150 – $250 |
Alberta’s average utility bill covers electricity, natural gas, and water; costs rise in winter due to heating needs |
Electricity |
Included above |
2025 fixed rates: ~12¢/kWh for regulated providers (EPCOR, ENMAX, DERS). |
Natural Gas |
Included above |
Average: ~$62/month for natural gas in 2025; variable and fixed charges apply. |
Water |
Included above |
Typical rates: ~$1–2.3 per m³, plus fixed monthly fees. |
Internet Plan |
$50 – $80 |
Varies by provider and plan. |
Mobile Phone Plan |
$50 – $80 |
Varies by provider and data/voice package. |
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Education Costs in Alberta
The cost of education in Alberta is not the same at every level and in every institution:
Expense Category |
Domestic Students (CAD) |
International Students (CAD) |
Notes |
Undergraduate Tuition (annual) |
$6,000 – $12,000 |
$20,000 – $30,000 |
U of Alberta 2025/26: 2% increase for domestic, 5% increase for international students. |
Graduate Tuition (annual) |
$8,000 – $15,000 |
$25,000 – $35,000 |
U of Alberta 2025/26: 2% increase for domestic, 5% increase for international students. |
Textbooks & Supplies (annual) |
$500 – $1,000 |
$500 – $1,000 |
Cost varies by program and course load. |
Accommodation |
See accommodation section |
See the accommodation section |
Costs depend on location and housing type. |
Food |
See the food expenses section |
See the food expenses section |
Groceries and eating out are detailed separately. |
Transportation |
See the transportation section |
See the transportation section |
Monthly public transit pass: $80–$120 (Calgary/Edmonton)7. |
Entertainment & Leisure |
Varies by lifestyle |
Varies by lifestyle |
Discretionary spending; not included in official estimates. |
Navigating the Cost of Living in Alberta with GetGIS
In conclusion, understanding the cost of living in Alberta, Canada, is crucial for residents, students, and newcomers alike. With its diverse cities offering varying expenses, from the bustling urban lifestyle of Calgary to the moderate living costs of Red Deer, finding the right balance between affordability and quality of life is attainable.
GetGIS is a leading immigration consultants that provide invaluable support for immigration processes, ensuring a smooth transition for relocating to Alberta. Whether you're a prospective resident, student, or newcomer, navigating the cost of living in Alberta is an achievable feat with the right resources and knowledge.
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