In the heartland of Canada, nestled between the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and the vast prairie lands, lies the vibrant city of Calgary. A destination for many, Calgary is famous for its high quality of life, stunning landscapes, and many opportunities.
However, moving to this bustling city has its challenges. Several newcomers to Calgary make certain mistakes that may affect their settling-in process negatively.
This article highlights some of these common pitfalls, providing you with invaluable insight to help make your transition as smooth as possible.
1. Underestimating the Weather
One of the biggest things people need to improve when moving to Calgary is underestimating the weather. Sure, Calgary enjoys more days of sunshine than any other Canadian city, but it also has a unique weather phenomenon known as the Chinook winds.
These warm winds can dramatically change the weather from unbearably cold to surprisingly warm within hours.
The quick shifts can be tough on the body, especially for those not accustomed to such changes. It’s essential to have layered clothing options available year-round and always to keep an eye on the weather forecast.
2. Not Researching Neighbourhoods
Calgary is a city of neighbourhoods, each with its unique charm and persona. From the trendy and vibrant Kensington to the quiet, family-friendly suburbs of Tuscany and Edgemont, the city offers a variety of living environments.
However, too often, people must research these neighbourhoods before moving. This could result in living in an area that doesn’t align with one’s lifestyle and needs. It’s crucial to take the time to research Calgary’s neighbourhoods to understand which one is the best fit for you.
3. Ignoring the Cost of Living
While Calgary isn’t the most expensive Canadian city to live in, it isn’t the cheapest. The cost of living in Calgary can be higher than in other parts of the country, particularly when it comes to housing and certain services.
Many newcomers are caught off guard by these prices. Before moving, it’s advisable to create a budget considering the cost of housing, utilities, groceries, and other essentials in Calgary to avoid financial surprises.
4. Neglecting to Plan for Transportation
Calgary is a sprawling city, and you may need a car, depending on where you work and live. While the city does have public transportation, including buses and the C-Train, they may be less convenient or time-efficient for everyone.
If you’re considering public transit, understand the routes and schedules. On the other hand, if you plan on driving, remember to factor the cost of a vehicle, insurance, gas, and maintenance into your budget.
5. Overlooking Career Opportunities
Calgary is known for its robust energy sector, but the city also has a growing tech industry and numerous opportunities in healthcare, education, and retail. Limiting your job search to one sector is a common mistake without exploring what else the city offers.
Calgary has a highly competitive job market, so having a flexible and open mindset toward employment opportunities can be beneficial.
6. Not Embracing the Calgary Lifestyle
Last but not least, newcomers to Calgary often need to embrace the local lifestyle. Calgary has a unique western charm mixed with urban sophistication.
The city hosts the world-famous Calgary Stampede, offers easy access to some of the best outdoor recreational activities in the world, and has a vibrant arts and culture scene. To truly enjoy living in Calgary, it’s important to immerse oneself in these experiences.
Conclusion
Moving to a new city is always filled with excitement and challenges. By being aware of these common mistakes, we hope your move to Calgary will be more informed and seamless.
Remember, it’s not just about avoiding the pitfalls but also about embracing the opportunities to make your Calgary experience as enriching as possible. So, pack your bags, bring your adventurous spirit, and get ready to make Calgary your new home.
Relocating to Calgary is quite a task, so don’t do it alone. We can help you! Chris Strong is your Central Alberta relocation realtor for Calgary, Edmonton, and Red Deer properties. Call 403-463-1454 and start your new life.