🌍 Overview
Calgary, a thriving city in western Canada, has emerged as a digital nomad destination, offering a unique blend of urban amenities and outdoor activities. As a remote work hub, Calgary provides a relatively low cost of living, with a 1-bedroom apartment averaging around $722 per month, making it an attractive option for digital nomads. The city’s nomad scene is growing, with a variety of coworking spaces, cafes, and social events catering to remote workers. Calgary’s infrastructure, including its international airport and public transportation system, makes it an ideal location for digital nomads who need to stay connected with clients and colleagues worldwide.
One of the main draws for digital nomads in Calgary is its proximity to nature, with the Rocky Mountains just a short drive away. The city itself has a vibrant atmosphere, with a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic buildings, and a thriving arts and cultural scene. However, it’s essential to have realistic expectations, as Calgary’s digital nomad infrastructure scores 55/100, indicating some limitations in terms of coworking spaces and community events. Nevertheless, the city’s social and nightlife scene, although not as vibrant as other major cities, offers a unique blend of cowboy culture and urban sophistication.
As a digital nomad in Calgary, you can expect a relatively quiet and safe environment, with a strong sense of community among locals and expats. The city’s cost of living is relatively low, with an average restaurant meal costing around $10.4 and a coffee at $2.4. With its unique blend of urban and outdoor activities, Calgary is an excellent choice for remote workers who value a balanced lifestyle and are looking for a more laid-back atmosphere.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods
Kensington Village
Kensington Village is a charming neighborhood located just north of downtown Calgary, offering a unique blend of bohemian vibe and urban amenities. The typical monthly rent range for a 1-bedroom apartment is between $600-$900. This neighborhood is ideal for remote workers who value a quiet and safe environment, with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops within walking distance. Notable streets include 10th Street NW and Kensington Road, which offer a variety of boutique stores and eateries. However, internet quality can be a concern, with average speeds ranging from 10-20 Mbps.
Inglewood
Inglewood is a historic neighborhood located just southeast of downtown Calgary, known for its eclectic mix of old and new buildings. The typical monthly rent range for a 1-bedroom apartment is between $700-$1,100. This neighborhood is perfect for digital nomads who value a vibrant and artistic atmosphere, with plenty of galleries, studios, and live music venues. Notable streets include 9th Avenue SE and 13th Avenue SE, which offer a variety of unique shops and restaurants. However, noise levels can be a concern, especially on weekends, and internet quality can be variable.
Beltline
The Beltline is a trendy neighborhood located just south of downtown Calgary, offering a mix of modern condos and historic buildings. The typical monthly rent range for a 1-bedroom apartment is between $800-$1,200. This neighborhood is ideal for remote workers who value a central location and easy access to public transportation. Notable streets include 17th Avenue SW and 11th Street SW, which offer a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. Internet quality is generally good, with average speeds ranging from 20-50 Mbps, and fiber availability is common in newer buildings.
Mission
Mission is a charming neighborhood located just south of the Elbow River, offering a mix of old and new buildings. The typical monthly rent range for a 1-bedroom apartment is between $600-$1,000. This neighborhood is perfect for digital nomads who value a quiet and safe environment, with plenty of parks and green spaces. Notable streets include 4th Street SW and 17th Avenue SW, which offer a variety of boutique stores and eateries. However, nomad density is relatively low, and community events may be limited.
Digital Nomad Guide
For digital nomads in Calgary, there are several coworking spaces to choose from, including Work Nerd, a shared office space with monthly rates starting at $200, and The Collective, a coworking community with monthly rates starting at $300. Internet quality is generally good, with average speeds ranging from 20-50 Mbps, and fiber availability is common in newer buildings. The nomad community scene is growing, with several Facebook groups and meetups, including the Calgary Digital Nomads group, which hosts regular events and gatherings.
Some of the best cafes to work from in Calgary include the Calgary Central Library, which offers free Wi-Fi and plenty of power outlets, and the cafe at the Glenbow Museum, which offers a unique atmosphere and reliable internet. For a more laid-back atmosphere, the cafe at the Calgary Farmers’ Market is a great option, with plenty of natural light and a variety of food options.
Visa options for remote workers in Canada include the International Experience Canada program, which allows young adults from participating countries to work in Canada for up to two years, and the Global Talent Stream, which allows employers to hire highly skilled foreign workers. Banking and practical setup tips include opening a Canadian bank account, which can be done with a valid passport and proof of address, and setting up a local phone number, which can be done with a prepaid SIM card or a contract with a local provider.
🎨 Culture & Vibe
Calgary has a unique culture and vibe, with a strong sense of community and a blend of urban and rural influences. Local customs and etiquette include being friendly and polite, with a strong emphasis on community and volunteerism. For example, the Calgary Stampede, a world-famous rodeo event, is a must-attend event for locals and visitors alike, and offers a unique glimpse into the city’s cowboy culture.
The food scene in Calgary is diverse and vibrant, with a mix of traditional Canadian cuisine and international flavors. Must-try dishes include bison burgers, Alberta beef, and poutine, a classic Canadian dish made with French fries, cheese curds, and gravy. Some of the best neighborhoods for food include Kensington Village, which offers a variety of boutique restaurants and cafes, and Inglewood, which is home to several artisanal food shops and eateries.
The nightlife and social scene in Calgary is relatively low-key, with a focus on craft beer and live music. Some of the best bars and clubs include the Ship & Anchor, a popular pub with a wide selection of beers, and the Commonwealth Bar & Stage, a live music venue that hosts local and touring acts. English is the primary language spoken in Calgary, with a high level of proficiency among locals, making it easy for digital nomads to communicate and navigate the city.
⭐ Highlights
- Visit the Calgary Tower, a 190-meter-tall observation tower with stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
- Explore the Glenbow Museum, a world-class museum that tells the story of western Canada’s history and culture.
- Take a stroll along the Bow River Pathway, a scenic walking and biking path that runs along the river and offers stunning views of the city.
- Attend a Calgary Flames hockey game at the Scotiabank Saddledome, a state-of-the-art arena that hosts a variety of sports and entertainment events.
- Visit the Calgary Farmers’ Market, a bustling marketplace that offers a wide variety of local produce, meats, and crafts.
- Take a day trip to Banff National Park, a stunning mountain park that offers hiking, skiing, and scenic drives.
- Explore the historic neighborhood of Inglewood, which offers a unique blend of old and new buildings, boutique shops, and restaurants.
💡 Practical Tips
Visa requirements for common nationalities include the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for US citizens, which is required for travel to Canada, and the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) for EU and UK citizens, which is required for stays longer than six months. The cost of a TRV is around $100, and the processing time can take several weeks.
Getting around Calgary is relatively easy, with a comprehensive public transportation system that includes buses and trains. The cost of a single fare is around $3, and a monthly pass is around $100. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are also available, with prices starting at around $10.
Safety considerations include being aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoiding certain areas of the city, such as the downtown east side. Common scams include phishing and credit card skimming, so it’s essential to be vigilant when using ATMs and credit cards.
The best time to visit Calgary is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the city hosts a variety of outdoor festivals and events. However, the winters can be cold and snowy, so it’s essential to pack warm clothing and be prepared for potential power outages.
Local tips and warnings include being respectful of the city’s cowboy culture and traditions, and being mindful of the city’s environmental initiatives, such as recycling and composting. Money matters include using ATMs and credit cards, which are widely accepted, and tipping around 15-20% in restaurants and bars.
Healthcare and insurance considerations include having valid health insurance, which is required for all visitors to Canada, and being aware of the city’s healthcare system, which includes a mix of public and private hospitals and clinics.
