Relocating to Calgary isn’t just about changing your address — it’s about adapting to a dynamic city with a unique lifestyle, economy, and climate. At Calgary Movers ABPro , we’ve helped thousands of newcomers settle into life here in Alberta. With over two decades of hands-on experience, we know exactly what you should prepare for - and what often gets overlooked.

Here are the top 3 essential things you need to know before moving to Calgary, based on both lived experience and industry insight.

1. Calgary’s Mountains Aren’t Just a Backdrop - They Shape Your Lifestyle

Calgary is just over an hour from Banff National Park and the heart of the Rocky Mountains. If you're moving here, you're gaining direct access to world-class hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and weekend road trips.

But there's more to it : the proximity to the mountains also means sudden weather shifts , particularly in spring and fall. Clear blue skies in the morning can quickly turn into flurries by afternoon - and vice versa.

Pro Tip: Keep a “mountain bag” in your car year-round - include layers, sunglasses, snacks, and a blanket. Seasoned Calgarians know how quickly conditions can change when heading west.

2. Compared to Other Major Cities, Calgary’s Housing Is a Breath of Fresh Air

Calgary consistently ranks among the most affordable major cities in Canada for real estate. Whether you're renting or buying, you’ll find more square footage, green space, and value compared to cities like Vancouver or Toronto.

In 2025, the average cost per square foot in Calgary remains lower than in most metropolitan areas, yet the city continues to attract tech talent, energy professionals, and remote workers looking for balance between lifestyle and cost.

Expert Note: Newcomers should still move quickly when they find a good rental or property — Calgary’s population growth is accelerating, and demand is rising in hot areas like Beltline, Bridgeland, and Mahogany.

3. Chinooks, Sunshine, and Unpredictable Weather Are a Calgary Signature

Calgary enjoys over 330 days of sunshine per year , making it one of the sunniest cities in Canada. But with the sun comes something unique to Southern Alberta - Chinook winds .

These warm, dry winds can cause the temperature to rise by 15–20°C in just a few hours during winter. For newcomers, it can feel surreal: snow melting mid-January and a spring-like afternoon in what should be the dead of winter.

Weather Readiness Tip: Invest in layers instead of heavy coats - a warm day in January isn’t rare here. You’ll need to be flexible with what you wear and how you plan your week.

“People often think moving is just about boxes and trucks — but in Calgary, it's also about helping families and professionals adapt to a very specific way of life. Our job is to make that transition smooth, whether someone’s coming from across town or across the country.”
Adam O’Keefe, Founder & CEO, Calgary Movers ABPro

Adam and the team have spent over 20 years navigating Calgary’s neighbourhoods, climate, and logistics. Their experience with both residential and corporate moves gives them an edge in preparing newcomers not just for the move, but for life here.

Additional Local Moving Insights

When you're moving to Calgary, it’s smart to:

• Understand the difference between local and long-distance moves - even a nearby move might qualify as long-distance depending on logistics.
• Check building access in advance - especially for apartments and condos downtown where parking and elevator booking may be required.
• Ask your movers about Chinook-season readiness - are your belongings protected against rapid temperature shifts?

Final Thoughts

Calgary is a city of opportunity - sunshine, space, affordability, and a gateway to the Rockies. But it also comes with a climate and culture that’s unlike anywhere else in Canada.

Choosing the right moving company means more than lifting and loading. You want a team that:

• Knows the terrain
• Understands the climate
• Respects your timeline
• And helps you land confidently in your new Calgary home