Located in Alberta, Canada, Calgary is the largest city in the province and the third-largest municipality in the country. The city is situated in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. It is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including the Bow River and the Elbow River, which flow through the city and offer a range of outdoor activities. Students can enjoy hiking, skiing, boating, biking, fishing and other outdoor activities in Calgary. The city is also home to numerous parks and green spaces, making it a great place to relax and unwind.
The city offers a vibrant and diverse community, a strong economy, a low crime rate and a high quality of life. Scoring 100% in nearly all the variables; education, healthcare, culture and environment, infrastructure and economic stability according to Global Liveability Index 2022. Little wonder Calgary is consistently ranked as one of the world’s top 10 places to live, especially since recovery from the pandemic, according to Forbes and Mentalfloss, where the city is ranked 3rd place. Here are reasons Calgary is a great place to live and study:
CALGARY IS A VERY CLEAN CITY
Calgary has consistently topped the list of cleanest cities in the world. Despite being home to oil and gas industries, the city’s carbon emissions are minimal. Calgary operates a wind-powered public transport system called the C-Train as a testament to its intolerance for air pollution. Different waste recycling programs, like the Black Cart and Blue Cart systems, were implemented to ensure a physically clean environment. And the “Too Good To Waste Initiative” recycles reusable waste to reduce the amount of waste that goes into the landfill. The annual spring street cleaning and the heavy penalty ranging from $100-$500 for littering make Calgary sparkly clean. You can enjoy a clean environment if you live in the city.
A DIVERSE AND WELCOMING COMMUNITY
Calgary is a diverse and inclusive city where people from all walks of life are welcomed and valued. Community centres offering free sports and recreational and educational activities are familiar sights in the city. These are a testament to its habitats’ highly supportive, friendly, and inclusive way of life. Integrating into life in Calgary is notably more accessible when you participate in any voluntary activities in the city. The people make you feel at home almost immediately. Students can expect to meet people from different backgrounds and cultures, which can help them develop a global perspective and gain valuable skills in communication and collaboration.
WORLD-CLASS EDUCATION
Calgary is home to several excellent schools and post-secondary institutions which offer a range of programs in a variety of fields. These schools offer various programs and degrees, from arts and humanities to science and technology. With small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities, students in Calgary can expect a world-class education that will set them up for success in their future careers.
AFFORDABLE LIVING COST
Its affordable cost of living makes the city a top destination for students. The city has a lower cost of living than other major Canadian cities, such as Toronto and Vancouver, making it an attractive option for students who want to study abroad without breaking the bank. This is especially true for students, who can take advantage of discounted rates on housing, transportation, and other essential services. Additionally, the city offers a range of housing options, from apartments and dorms to houses and townhouses, so students can find a place to live that fits their budget and lifestyle.
A STRONG JOB MARKET
Calgary is also a thriving economic hub with a low unemployment rate. The city is home to many major industries, such as oil and gas, healthcare, finance, and technology. It is the headquarters of several international companies, including Shaw communications, Enbridge, and Accenture, amongst many others. The strong economy has created a range of job opportunities in a variety of fields. Due to the strong job market, the lowest yearly salary average for a person working in Calgary is 31,900 CAD, which is about 1,840 euros a month. Numerous job opportunities upon graduation and the prospect of a juicy salary make Calgary an attractive destination for students looking to study and build their careers.
RELIABLE AND AFFORDABLE PUBLIC TRANSIT SYSTEM
Another benefit of studying and living in Calgary is reliable and affordable transportation. Calgary has a well-developed public transit system, with buses, trains, and light rail all available to help people get around the city. Affordable Fares and Passes make moving around quite economical for students. The city is also served by the Calgary International Airport, which offers direct flights to several major cities worldwide, making it easy for students to travel to and from Calgary.
In addition to its natural beauty, strong economy, and high quality of life, Calgary is also a city with a rich history and culture. The city has a thriving arts and culture scene, with several galleries, theatres, and museums, including the Glenbow Museum, which showcases Alberta’s art, culture, and history. The city is also home to several festivals and events, such as the Calgary Stampede, one of the world’s largest rodeos. The annual Calgary International Film Festival for film lovers. Whether you love indoor or outdoor activities, you will never run out of fun activities in the city.
Overall, the city offers a combination of natural beauty, a diverse community, a strong economy, a high quality of life, affordable living, and world-class education as benefits of studying and living in Calgary. Whether you want to pursue a career in the oil and gas industry, finance, technology, or any other field, Calgary is a great place to start your journey.