Calgary living wage rises to $26.50 an hour as costs climb, report finds

November 13, 2025

RED FM News Desk

It’s becoming increasingly expensive to live in Calgary, according to a new report from Vibrant Communities Calgary (VCC).

The organization says workers now need to earn at least $26.50 per hour to cover basic expenses and maintain a modest standard of living — a $2 increase from last year.

VCC executive director Dani DeBoice said the updated figure highlights both the city’s economic progress and the growing financial pressure on residents.

“A living wage is one of the clearest indicators of affordability,” DeBoice said in a news release. “It reminds us that when governments, businesses, and communities work together, we can build a city where everyone has enough to live well.”

The living wage reflects what an average household needs to meet essential expenses, save modestly, and participate in community life. It accounts for costs such as housing, transportation, food, childcare, and education.

According to VCC, the main factors driving the increase this year are rising transportation and food costs. The organization estimates the average Calgary household will spend $9,345 on transportation in 2025 — about $2,456 more than last year’s projection.

The report underscores the growing challenge for many Calgarians to keep up with the city’s cost of living despite ongoing economic recovery.