The Top 5 Things to Know Before Moving to Calgary
Every week I speak with families moving from Ontario to Calgary. Some are coming for affordability. Some for lifestyle. Some for opportunity.If you're planning a move from Ontario to Alberta, here are the top 5 things you need to know about relocating to Calgary, including mailing address changes and health care.
1. Cost of Living Feels Different (In a Good Way)
Most Ontario clients are shocked at what their money buys in Calgary.
- No provincial sales tax (just 5% GST)
- Lower home prices compared to GTA
- Lower property taxes in many cases
- Utilities structured differently (you choose providers)
That said — utilities, insurance, and car registration work differently here, so budgeting properly matters.If you’re relocating, I always recommend reviewing:
- Property taxes
- Condo fees (if applicable)
- Energy provider options
- Home insurance quotes before possession
2. Alberta Has No Land Transfer Tax
This is one of the biggest financial differences.In Ontario, buyers pay a land transfer tax (and sometimes a double tax in Toronto).In Alberta?
You pay a small land title registration fee and mortgage registration fee — but it’s nowhere near Ontario levels.For many of my Ontario buyers, this means thousands saved on closing.
3. Changing Your Mailing Address (Important!)
When moving provinces, don’t forget to update:- Canada Post mail forwarding
- Banks & credit cards
- CRA (Canada Revenue Agency)
- Insurance providers
- Driver’s license & vehicle registration
- Subscription services
- Child benefits (if applicable)
I suggest setting up mail forwarding for at least 3–6 months to catch anything you forget.
4. Health Care: How Alberta Works
This is one of the most common questions I get.When moving from Ontario to Alberta:- You must apply for Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)
- Coverage typically begins the date you establish residency
- You must cancel OHIP once permanently relocated
- Bring proof of Alberta address (lease agreement or purchase contract)
- Apply as soon as possible after arrival
You’ll also need to:- Transfer prescriptions
- Find a new family doctor (there can be waitlists)
- Update health cards for children
I always recommend booking medical appointments before you leave Ontario, just in case there’s a transition gap.
5. Lifestyle & Climate Adjustment
Calgary is different — in good ways.- 300+ days of sunshine
- Chinooks in winter (warm spells!)
- Close to Banff & the mountains
- Strong sense of community
- Less traffic than the GTA
But winters are colder and drier. You’ll want:- A humidifier
- Winter tires (strongly recommended)
- A proper winter jacket (Ontario damp cold feels different than Alberta dry cold)
Bonus: What $700,000 Buys in Calgary vs Ontario
This is usually the “wow” moment.Many of my Ontario clients:- Sell a townhome
- Move into a detached home
- Reduce their mortgage
- Improve lifestyle
Calgary offers space, opportunity, and breathing room — financially and physically.
Thinking About Moving from Ontario to Calgary?
Relocating provinces is a big decision — but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.I specialize in helping Ontario families make a smooth transition to Calgary and surrounding areas like Airdrie, Cochrane, and Okotoks.If you’re considering a move, let’s talk through:- Timing
- Budget
- Market conditions
- And whether it makes sense for you
📩 Reach out anytime — I’m happy to help you build a relocation plan.