Calgary continues to demonstrate a resilient, high-growth market with long-term upside, driven by multiple structural strengths. I am very bullish on the long-term future of Calgary. I own 4 properties there and I’m holding everything I have because I expect great things for the city over the next 10 years. Let’s take a closer look:

1. Strong and Diversifying Economy → From Oil to Innovation

Calgary has long been known as the energy capital of Canada, with a deep-rooted reliance on oil and gas. However, over the past decade, the city has made deliberate strides to diversify its economic base. Today, Calgary is home to growing sectors such as technology, financial services, logistics, renewable energy, life sciences, and advanced manufacturing. The emergence of Calgary as a tech hub — supported by institutions like Platform Calgary and a growing venture capital presence — is attracting start-ups and global firms alike. This diversification strengthens the city’s economic resilience, making it less vulnerable to energy market fluctuations and more attractive for long-term investment.

Energy still strong, but economy now includes: Tech, finance, logistics, aerospace, healthcare
Calgary is emerging as a tech and startup hub
Lower corporate tax rates & business incentives

Economic diversity = long-term resilience.

2. Growing Population & Immigration → One of Canada’s Fastest-Growing Cities

Calgary continues to be one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada, driven by both international immigration and strong interprovincial migration — particularly from Ontario and B.C. In Q1 2025 alone, Alberta welcomed over 20,000 newcomers. People are drawn by the city’s affordability, job opportunities, and high quality of life. As population grows, so does housing demand, sustaining pressure across the rental and resale markets. For investors, this means consistent occupancy rates, rising rents, and long-term capital appreciation potential.

+20,562 new residents in Q1 2025 alone
Top destination for interprovincial migration (especially from Ontario & BC)
Young, educated, and economically active population

Population growth drives sustained housing demand – from rentals to ownership.

3. Affordability Compared to Other Major Cities → Lower Entry Price, Higher Cash Flow

Calgary offers an exceptional value proposition relative to Toronto and Vancouver. Homes are significantly more affordable, with average and benchmark prices often 30–50% lower than those in Canada's two largest cities. This creates a more accessible entry point for investors and often translates to stronger rental yields and positive cash flow — especially when interest rates are high. Lower land costs also support sustainable long-term development.

Home prices 30–50% lower than Toronto or Vancouver
Higher rental yields
Easier to achieve positive cash flow — even in higher interest rate environments

Better returns with less capital – smart investing starts here.

4. Business-Friendly Environment → Invest Where Your Money Works Harder

Alberta’s economic policies are among the most pro-business in the country. There’s no provincial sales tax (PST), no land transfer tax on resale homes, and some of the lowest corporate taxes in Canada. These advantages not only reduce operating costs for businesses, but also attract head offices, new startups, and skilled talent. This growth in the business sector drives employment, wages, and ultimately, demand for housing across both ownership and rental markets.

No provincial sales tax (Alberta = 0% PST)
No land transfer tax on resale properties
Among the lowest corporate tax rates in Canada
Landlord-friendly rental regulations (no rent control)

Less tax. More cash flow. Fewer restrictions.

5. Infrastructure & Transportation Investment → Massive Investments in Urban Growth

Calgary continues to invest heavily in infrastructure that supports its growth and livability. Major projects include the expansion of Calgary International Airport (YYC), the construction of the Green Line LRT (Light Rail Transit), and improvements to the road network and public transit systems. These developments enhance accessibility and urban mobility, while supporting increased property values in well-connected neighborhoods. Infrastructure expansion also fuels construction jobs and supports demand for new housing supply.

Green Line LRT expansion underway
Calgary International Airport upgrades
Major road and transit improvements
High-speed broadband infrastructure expanding across city

Well-connected cities grow faster and hold their value longer.

6. Strong Rental Market → Steady demand and increasing cash flows

Calgary’s rental market is underpinned by a diverse tenant base — including young professionals, students, new immigrants, and workers relocating for jobs. Demand for rentals remains strong, especially in urban and transit-accessible areas. While vacancy rates can fluctuate, properly priced and well-located rental units continue to lease quickly. Investors can also benefit from Alberta’s landlord-friendly regulations, which make it easier to manage properties and enforce lease terms compared to other provinces.

Large renter pool: students, young professionals, new immigrants
Rental vacancies remain low in well-located areas
Landlord flexibility allows market-based rent increases

Reliable income with long-term tenant demand.

7. Stable Political & Regulatory Environment → Peace is a rare thing in today’s world.

Calgary benefits from a politically stable and transparent regulatory framework, offering long-term predictability for property owners. Unlike other major provinces that have introduced or expanded rent controls, Alberta has remained rent control-free. This allows landlords to adjust rents in line with market conditions and inflation — a major advantage when interest rates and maintenance costs are rising. Clear rules around tenancies, permitting, and development also streamline the investment and property mange process.

Business-friendly policies encourage investment
Growing entrepreneurial ecosystem
Robust labor market

Stability gives businesses and individuals the confidence to invest.

8. Education & Innovation Hubs → Culture fosters growth

The presence of top-tier post-secondary institutions like the University of Calgary, SAIT, and Mount Royal University supports a young, skilled workforce and attracts talent from across the country and abroad. These institutions also feed into Calgary’s innovation ecosystem, contributing to R&D, entrepreneurship, and partnerships with industry. For real estate investors, this creates sustained demand for student rentals, urban housing, and properties near campus or innovation corridors.

University of Calgary, SAIT, Mount Royal
Innovation centers and incubators (Platform Calgary, Life Sciences Innovation Hub)
Talent pipeline for tech, engineering, and healthcare sectors

Where talent lives, demand for housing follows.