Calgary’s living wage has officially increased to $26.50 per hour, according to the latest Living Wage Alberta report for 2024/2025. The new rate reflects the rising cost of daily essentials across the city, including transportation, child-care, groceries, and housing.
The updated estimate is now more than $10 higher than Alberta’s minimum wage, underscoring growing affordability pressures for workers and families across the province.
Why Calgary’s Living Wage Increased
The report highlights several key cost drivers:
1. Transportation Costs Are Climbing
Vehicle ownership, fuel prices, insurance, and transit costs have all risen, putting additional strain on household budgets.
2. Child-Care Costs Remain High
Even with provincial and federal support programs, out-of-pocket child-care expenses continue to push up the living-wage calculation.
3. Grocery Prices Keep Increasing
Food inflation remains one of the strongest contributors to rising living costs across Alberta. Families are facing significantly higher prices for essentials compared to previous years.
4. Housing Demand and Utilities
While Calgary remains more affordable than cities like Toronto and Vancouver, housing prices and utilities still place upward pressure on household budgets.
Highest Living-Wage Regions in Alberta
According to the report, Jasper, Airdrie, and Calgary now hold the highest living-wage estimates in the entire province, reflecting rapid local growth and cost increases.
Across Alberta, living wages range from $22.50 in smaller communities to $26.50 in Calgary, with all regions seeing similar inflationary pressures.
Living Wage vs. Minimum Wage in Alberta
- Living Wage (Calgary): $26.50/hour
- Alberta Minimum Wage: $15.00/hour
This means a worker in Calgary would need to make over $11 more per hour than the minimum wage to cover basic needs without falling behind.
The living wage is calculated for:
- Food
- Rent and utilities
- Transportation
- Child care
- Basic health, clothing, and household needs
- Modest leisure
- Emergency savings
It does not include debt repayment, major savings, or homeownership.
What This Means for Calgary Residents
The new calculation reflects a growing affordability gap that affects:
- Young workers
- Single-income households
- Families with children
- Essential service workers
The report notes that while Calgary’s economy is strong, rising inflation means that wages aren’t keeping pace for many households.
Source + Reference
Vibrant Communities Calgary & Living Wage Alberta
2024/2025 Living Wage Report
🔗 https://www.vibrantcalgary.com/livingwage/
Canada Housing Market 
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