If you’re living in Alberta or considering a move to the province, understanding the cost of living in Alberta is essential for managing your finances and planning ahead. Alberta is known for its scenic landscapes, energy-driven economy, and relatively affordable housing compared to Ontario or BC. But in 2025, inflation, interest rates, and regional price fluctuations are squeezing household budgets across the province – from Calgary to rural Northern Alberta.
At Spergel, we’ve worked with over a hundred thousand Canadians facing rising living costs and mounting debt. We know financial decisions are shaped by where you live, how much you earn, and what life throws your way. This guide offers a realistic snapshot of living costs in Alberta, with verified sources, up-to-date stats, and budgeting advice tailored for 2025.
What is the average cost of living in Alberta in 2025?
According to recent data from Numbeo, Statistics Canada, and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation:
| Household type | Estimated monthly cost (2025) |
|---|---|
| Single person | $3,000 – $3,500 [source: Numbeo / StatCan] |
| Couple | $4,800 – $5,600 [source: aggregated estimate] |
| Family of four | $5,800 – $6,500 [source: CMHC, Numbeo, StatCan] |
These figures include average monthly expenses for housing, transportation, food, utilities, and basic healthcare. Your actual costs may vary based on city, household size, and lifestyle.
Alberta cost of living breakdown
Housing costs
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Calgary (city centre): $1,850 [source: Rentals.ca May 2025 data]
- Average rent in Edmonton (city centre): $1,450 [source: Rentals.ca]
- Average home price (Alberta overall): ~$525,135 [source: WOWA, April 2025]
Despite inflation, Alberta continues to offer more affordable housing than BC or Ontario. Mortgage interest rates, however, remain a major affordability challenge across all income levels.
Transportation
- Average gas price in Alberta (May 2025): ~$1.28/litre [source: StatCan]
- Car insurance average annual premium: ~$1,669 [source: Automobile Insurance Rate Board]
- Calgary Transit monthly adult pass: $118 [source: Calgary Transit]
In rural areas, public transit is limited, increasing vehicle dependency and fuel costs.
Groceries and food
- Average monthly grocery bill (single person): $400–$500 [source: Canada Food Price Report 2025]
- Alberta grocery prices have risen by 5–7% year over year [source: Dalhousie University Agri-Food Analytics Lab].
Rural and remote communities may pay more due to transportation and supply chain costs.
Utilities
- Monthly average for electricity, gas, water, internet (apartment): $280–$400 [source: MovingWaldo]
- Winter heating spikes can increase bills significantly in colder regions.
Healthcare and insurance
- Prescription drugs, dental, and vision care are not fully covered by public healthcare.
- Alberta Health offers optional supplemental coverage (e.g., Blue Cross).
Calgary vs Edmonton vs rural Alberta
| Region | Housing | Transportation | Public Services | Overall Affordability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calgary | Higher | Good transit | Strong access | Moderate |
| Edmonton | Moderate | Moderate | Strong education/health | High |
| Lethbridge/Red Deer | Lower | Limited | Moderate | High |
| Rural Alberta | Low home cost | High driving cost | Limited access | Mixed |
Alberta vs other provinces
Compared to Ontario or BC:
- Rent in Alberta is ~30–40% lower in major cities like Calgary or Edmonton vs Toronto or Vancouver [source: Rentals.ca comparative data].
- Utilities and food are relatively affordable, but transportation can cost more due to driving distances.
- Alberta also has no provincial sales tax (PST) – a financial advantage over most other provinces.
Budgeting tips for Albertans in 2025
Here’s how to take control of your budget:
- Use a spending tracker or Spergel’s FREE budget template.
- Shop with flyers or apps like Flipp to find grocery deals and learn how to coupon.
- Use transit where available to save on car costs.
- Compare insurance and utility providers annually.
- Check eligibility for provincial supports like the Alberta Child and Family Benefit (ACFB).
What if you’re struggling?
If rising costs have you leaning on credit cards or falling behind on bills, you’re not alone. At Spergel, we help Albertans facing financial pressure explore debt relief solutions – including:
- Debt consolidation – if you have multiple loans that you’re confident you can repay, this is a new loan that is taken out to condense and simplify your loans, often with the benefit of a slightly lower interest rate.
- Consumer proposals – a consumer proposal is a legal form of debt relief whereby a Licensed Insolvency Trustee negotiates with your creditors for you to pay less than the amount of debt owed. Often this can reduce your debt by up to 80%, while enabling you to keep your assets.
- Bankruptcy as a last resort – if you simply need to clear your unsecured debts, a Licensed Insolvency Trustee can assist you in filing bankruptcy so that you can begin a fresh financial start.
A Licensed Insolvency Trustee (LIT) can help you understand your options in a free, confidential consultation.
FAQs: Alberta living costs
Here are some of the most common questions we receive about the cost of living in Alberta:
Which Alberta cities are most affordable?
Red Deer, Lethbridge, and Medicine Hat typically offer the lowest housing and utility costs.
What’s the biggest cost driver in Alberta?
Housing remains the biggest monthly expense, followed by transportation, especially in non-urban areas.
How expensive is it to live in Alberta?
Living in Alberta is generally more affordable than in provinces like Ontario or British Columbia, especially when it comes to housing. However, rising costs in groceries, insurance, and utilities mean that in 2025, a single person can expect to spend around $3,000 – $3,500 per month, while a family of four may need $5,800 – $6,500 to cover essential expenses.
What is the cost of living wage in Alberta?
In 2024, the living wage in Alberta was $24.45/hour in Calgary and $20.85/hour in Edmonton — the hourly rate needed to cover basic living costs.
What salary do you need to live in Alberta?
In 2025, a single person needs about $36,000 – $42,000 per year to live in Alberta, while a family of four needs around $70,000 – $80,000.
Get help today
Spergel has helped over 100,000 Canadians tackle their debt. We have local Licensed Insolvency Trustees throughout Alberta who understand the cost-of-living challenges you’re facing. There’s no judgment – just personalized advice and a clear path forward. Book your free consultation today.