Airdrie has seen tremendous growth in recent years. That’s largely because It’s close to Calgary but maintains the charm and pace of a smaller community. This makes it appealing to people and families looking for a quieter place to live while still enjoying the benefits of urban life.

It’s also a more affordable place to live than the big city. But don’t just take our word for it. Instead, take a closer look.

Housing

Although housing costs in Airdrie have increased lately, they’re generally still lower than Calgary prices.

According to recent figures, the average price for a single-family home in Airdrie was around $470,000 vs. about $518,000 in Calgary. In addition to being more affordable, Airdrie homes are often more spacious and include larger lot sizes for less than you would pay in Calgary.

Brookfield Residential Chinook Gate Community show homes

Utilities and Transportation

When it comes to utilities and transportation, Airdrie and nearby Calgary have similar costs. Both cities offer well-established utility services, and the prices for essential services like electricity, water, and internet are comparable.

Average monthly prices you can expect to pay for utilities in Airdrie for a 915-square-foot apartment:

  • Basic (electricity, gas, water, garbage): $278.94

Transportation costs, including fuel prices and public transit, are also similar in both cities. Airdrie benefits from its close proximity to Calgary, as residents can easily commute to the larger city for work or leisure.

Restaurants

Airdrie has a growing number of restaurants and cafes catering to diverse tastes and budgets. The cost of dining out in Airdrie tends to be more affordable than in Calgary.

Here are some average prices in Airdrie:

  • Meal, (inexpensive restaurant): $18.50
  • 3-course meal for 2 people, (mid-range restaurant): $45
  • Domestic beer (500 mL draught): $7.50
  • Import beer (330 mL): $7.50

Groceries and Everyday Expenses

Grocery prices and everyday expenses are relatively consistent across Airdrie, Calgary and other nearby cities in Alberta.

Quality of Life

Beyond just the cost of living, it's essential to consider the overall quality of life when evaluating affordability. Airdrie boasts a strong sense of community, excellent schools and numerous recreational opportunities that contribute to a high quality of life.

While Calgary offers more extensive employment opportunities and cultural amenities, Airdrie provides a quieter, family-friendly environment. The choice between the two cities often comes down to personal preferences.

So is Airdrie affordable? The answer is a resounding yes for many individuals and families. The city has more affordable housing than Calgary, and provides a similar cost of living in terms of utilities, transportation and everyday expenses.

Airdrie's affordability, combined with its many amenities and proximity to Calgary, makes it a compelling choice for those looking to enjoy the best of both worlds in the beautiful province of Alberta.