Why I Left Vancouver
I loved Vancouver. I grew up in Burnaby, went to UBC, and built my career in tech downtown. But by 2023, at 32 years old, I was paying $2,400 for a 500 sq ft apartment and had zero path to homeownership. The benchmark detached home price was $2+ million. My salary was good, but not that good.
The Alberta Calling Campaign Got My Attention
I won't lie—the ads on Vancouver's Skytrain were effective marketing. "Alberta is Calling" hit at exactly the right moment. I had a fully remote job, no kids, and was increasingly frustrated with my financial future in BC.
I did the research. Calgary's job market in tech was growing. No provincial sales tax. Lower income tax rates. And housing was literally half the price or less.
The Numbers Don't Lie
In Vancouver, I was looking at $750K+ for a 1-bedroom condo with $600/month strata fees. In Calgary, I bought a 1,200 sq ft detached bungalow with a garage and backyard for $485,000. My mortgage payment is less than my Vancouver rent was. I literally have extra money at the end of the month now. It's a weird feeling.
The Honest Downsides
I miss the mountains being right there. The ocean. The mild winters. My friends and family. Calgary winters are real—I bought a proper winter coat for the first time in my life, and my skin cracked within a week of arriving.
But I can visit Vancouver. I have family there. I fly back every few months. The money I'm saving could buy multiple trips per year.
My Advice
If you have a remote job or transferable skills, seriously consider the move. Calgary (and Edmonton, and other Alberta cities) offer a financial fresh start. It's not about giving up—it's about making a strategic decision for your future.
Just buy a really good humidifier.