What are the most affordable areas of Calgary to rent?

Calgary is a large, dynamic city with diverse neighborhoods where rental prices vary significantly. For many residents, especially newcomers, students, and young professionals, it is important to find affordable housing that fits their budget but still provides comfort and amenities. In this article, we'll take a closer look at which Calgary neighborhoods are considered the most affordable to rent, as well as what factors affect housing costs.

Factors affecting the cost of renting in Calgary

Before moving on to specific neighborhoods, it is worth understanding the main factors that shape the price of rent:

  • Location: Downtown and adjacent prestigious areas such as the Beltline and Kensington have the highest prices due to their proximity to work, entertainment and transportation hubs. By contrast, neighborhoods on the periphery offer more affordable options.
  • Type of housing:** Studios, dorm rooms, or basement apartments are usually cheaper than large apartments or houses.
  • Condition and amenities:** New or renovated apartments with additional amenities (parking, gym, laundry) are more expensive.
  • Transport accessibility:** Areas with good infrastructure and transport links are usually more expensive.
  • Real estate market:** In 2025, Calgary is expected to see a 5-8% increase in housing prices, which will affect the rental market.

The most affordable neighborhoods in Calgary for rent

1. Northeast Calgary.

This neighborhood is considered one of the most affordable rental housing in the city. Here you can find apartments and houses at lower prices than in the center. Northeast Calgary is popular with families, young people and those looking for budget options.

  • Prices:** Dormitories (rooms) cost from $600 to $900 CAD per month, and apartments on the ground floor cost from $1,100 to $1,500 CAD.
  • Infrastructure:** The neighborhood has schools, shops, parks and transportation routes.
  • Advantages:** Accessibility, space, quiet residential neighborhoods.
  • Disadvantages:** Remoteness from the center, longer travel time.

2. Southeast Calgary

This neighborhood also offers affordable housing with a variety of options ranging from rooms in shared housing to small apartments.

  • Rents:** Rents are lower than in the central areas.
  • Advantages:** Developed infrastructure, proximity to industrial areas and workplaces.
  • Disadvantages:** Possible noise from industrial facilities.

3. Northwest Calgary

Although there are prestigious neighborhoods in this area, more affordable housing options can be found on the outskirts.

  • Prices:** Studios and one-bedroom apartments start at around $1,200 CAD.
  • Advantages:** Good accessibility to transportation, parks, schools.
  • Disadvantages:** Higher competition in the rental market.

4. Southwest Calgary

This neighborhood offers a wide range of housing, from budget apartments to expensive homes. On the outskirts you can find affordable options for young professionals and students.

  • Advantages:** Convenient access to the center, well-developed infrastructure.
  • Disadvantages:** Higher prices in the central parts of the district.

Downtown and prestigious neighborhoods

The Downtown, Beltline, Kensington districts are known for their well-developed infrastructure, restaurants, shopping and entertainment. Offices, cultural institutions and transportation hubs are concentrated here, making them very popular, but also the most expensive.

  • Prices:** A one-bedroom apartment in the center can cost from $1,800 to $2,500 CAD and more.
  • Advantages:** Convenience, proximity to work and entertainment.
  • Disadvantages:** High cost, less space.

Additional tips for finding affordable housing in Calgary

  • Consider sharing:** Rooms in shared apartments or houses are often much cheaper.
  • Plan ahead:** Especially during the high season (August-September).
  • Read the terms of the contract carefully:** Make sure the rent includes or excludes utilities.
  • Use different platforms:** Kijiji, Craigslist, RentFaster, Facebook groups.

Conclusion

The most affordable neighborhoods in Calgary for rent are Northeast, Southeast, Northwest and partly Southwest Calgary. They offer a wide range of apartments and rooms at reasonable prices, making them attractive to students, young professionals and families on a budget. The city center and prestigious neighborhoods remain expensive, but provide maximum comfort and convenience. A careful analysis of your needs, budgetary possibilities and the use of various resources will help you find the best accommodation in Calgary.