Travel
New Immigrants to Calgary
Welcome to Calgary, a vibrant city nestled near the Rocky Mountains and known for its friendly people, booming economy, and breathtaking landscapes. Moving to a new city can be exciting yet overwhelming, especially if you’re settling into a new country. This guide is designed to help newcomers to Calgary navigate essential aspects of living in this dynamic Canadian city, from housing and transportation to employment and community life.
On This Page You Will Find:
- Overview of Calgary for Newcomers: Insights into why Calgary is a great choice for settling in Canada.
- Housing and Transportation: Tips on finding a home and navigating Calgary’s transit system.
- Healthcare and Employment: Guidance on accessing healthcare and finding job opportunities.
- Education and Community Life: Information on schools, universities, and cultural activities.
- Tips for Adjusting to Life in Calgary: Practical advice for newcomers to settle comfortably.
1. Finding Housing in Calgary
Renting
Renting is a popular option for newcomers. Calgary offers a range of rental accommodations, including apartments, townhouses, and single-family homes.
- Average Rent:
- One-bedroom apartment: $1,300/month
- Two-bedroom apartment: $1,600/month
- Tips:
- Use websites like RentFaster.ca or Kijiji to explore options.
- Ensure the lease agreement includes details about utilities, maintenance, and lease duration.
Buying a Home
For those planning to stay long-term, Calgary offers affordable housing compared to other major Canadian cities. The city’s neighborhoods cater to various lifestyles:
- Downtown Core: Ideal for young professionals.
- Altadore and Marda Loop: Great for families with schools and parks.
- Evanston and Nolan Hill: Affordable suburban areas with new developments.
2. Navigating Calgary’s Transportation
Calgary’s public transportation system is reliable, affordable, and easy to use.
Calgary Transit
- C-Train: A light rail system covering major areas.
- Free rides in the downtown core.
- Buses: Extensive routes connect neighborhoods not covered by the C-Train.
Driving
Calgary’s road network is straightforward, with ample parking.
- Tips for Drivers:
- Obtain an Alberta driver’s license within 90 days of arrival.
- Winter driving requires preparation, including installing snow tires.
Cycling and Walking
Calgary boasts over 1,000 kilometers of pathways for cycling and walking. Popular routes include the Bow River Pathway and Nose Hill Park trails.
3. Accessing Healthcare
Canada’s healthcare system provides free access to medically necessary services.
Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)
Newcomers must register for AHCIP to access healthcare services.
- How to Apply:
- Submit proof of residency and identity.
- Application forms are available online or at registry offices.
Family Doctors and Clinics
Find a family doctor through resources like Alberta Health Services’ “Find a Doctor” tool. Walk-in clinics and urgent care centers are also available for non-emergency situations.
Emergency Services
For medical emergencies, dial 911 or visit the nearest hospital emergency room, such as Foothills Medical Centre.
4. Finding Employment
Calgary’s strong economy offers diverse job opportunities across industries like energy, technology, and healthcare.
Popular Industries
- Energy: Calgary is Canada’s energy hub, hosting major oil and gas companies.
- Technology: The city’s tech sector is rapidly growing, with startups and established firms.
- Healthcare and Education: High demand for professionals in these sectors.
Job Search Tips
- Update your resume to Canadian standards.
- Use job boards like Indeed.ca, Workopolis, and LinkedIn.
- Attend networking events and job fairs.
- Consider volunteering to gain Canadian work experience.
5. Exploring Education Options
For Children
Calgary offers excellent public, Catholic, and private schools.
- Public Schools: Managed by the Calgary Board of Education (CBE).
- Catholic Schools: Operated by the Calgary Catholic School District (CCSD).
- Registration: Contact your local school board and provide proof of residency.
For Adults
- Post-Secondary Education: Institutions like the University of Calgary and SAIT Polytechnic offer a range of programs.
- Language Classes: Organizations like Calgary Immigrant Educational Society provide English language training for newcomers.
6. Community and Culture
Calgary’s welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to integrate into the community.
Festivals and Events
- Calgary Stampede: A world-famous event celebrating Western heritage.
- GlobalFest: A multicultural festival featuring fireworks, performances, and food.
- Sled Island: An indie music and arts festival.
Recreation
- Parks: Visit Prince’s Island Park or Fish Creek Provincial Park.
- Winter Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating are popular in and around Calgary.
7. Managing Finances
Banking
Set up a Canadian bank account as soon as possible. Major banks like TD Canada Trust, RBC, and Scotiabank have programs for newcomers.
Cost of Living
Calgary is more affordable than other major Canadian cities like Toronto or Vancouver.
- Groceries: $300–$500/month for a family.
- Utilities: $200–$300/month.
8. Important Services for Newcomers
Settlement Agencies
Organizations like the Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association and Immigrant Services Calgary provide support for finding housing, employment, and education.
Libraries
The Calgary Public Library offers free memberships and programs, including language learning and job search resources.
9. Tips for Adjusting to Life in Calgary
- Embrace the Weather: Winters can be cold, but layering and proper gear make it manageable. Summers are warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities.
- Learn About Canadian Culture: Take part in community events to better understand local customs and traditions.
- Build a Support Network: Join newcomer groups and local meetups to connect with others.
Calgary is a city of opportunities, offering newcomers a high quality of life, strong community support, and vibrant cultural experiences. Whether you’re drawn to its economic prospects, educational opportunities, or natural beauty, Calgary provides a welcoming environment for all. By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to settling into your new home.
FAQ: Calgary City Guide For Newcomers
How can newcomers find housing in Calgary?
Newcomers can explore housing options through websites like RentFaster.ca or Kijiji for rentals. Calgary offers diverse neighborhoods for every lifestyle, from family-friendly suburbs like Evanston to urban hubs like the downtown core. For those planning to stay long-term, Calgary has relatively affordable housing for purchase compared to other major Canadian cities. Make sure to review lease agreements carefully and ensure they include utilities and maintenance terms.
What is the best way to get around Calgary?
Calgary Transit offers reliable public transportation with buses and the C-Train. The C-Train is free in the downtown core, making commuting affordable. For drivers, obtaining an Alberta driver’s license is required within 90 days of arrival. Calgary also has over 1,000 kilometers of pathways for cycling and walking, offering sustainable transportation options for residents.
How do I access healthcare in Calgary?
Newcomers must register for the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) to access free healthcare services. You’ll need to submit proof of residency and identity to apply. Family doctors can be found through Alberta Health Services, and walk-in clinics are available for non-emergency needs. For emergencies, dial 911 or visit a hospital such as Foothills Medical Centre.
What industries offer the most job opportunities in Calgary?
Calgary is a hub for the energy sector, with opportunities in oil, gas, and renewable energy. The tech industry is also growing, offering roles in software development and IT. Healthcare and education sectors frequently seek skilled professionals. Job boards like LinkedIn, Indeed.ca, and Workopolis are great starting points for job searches. Networking events and volunteering can also help build connections and gain Canadian experience.
What resources are available for newcomers to settle in Calgary?
Settlement agencies like Immigrant Services Calgary and the Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association provide assistance with housing, employment, and education. The Calgary Public Library offers free resources, including language classes and job search programs. Community centers and newcomer groups are excellent for building a support network and learning about Canadian culture. These resources make it easier to adjust to life in Calgary.