Your First Week
Congratulations, you moved to a new city/country! The hardest part is over. As you get ready to settle in your new place, make sure that you have the essentials covered.
Last updated July 2025
Important dates
About Living in Calgary
Calgary is a diverse city with 1.39 million people living in the metropolitan area that has the energy and busyness of a big city, while maintaining the warmth and friendliness of a small town.
There are lots of things to do—many restaurants and shopping areas, unique neighbourhoods to explore, several sports teams, and festivals throughout the year.
Calgary is located in the province of Alberta, just a 90 minute drive (or bus ride) to the Rocky Mountains, where you can walk, hike, camp, downhill ski, snowboard, snowshoe, cross-country ski, bike, and more.
Calgary is also located on the traditional territories of many Indigenous people, including the people of the Treaty 7 region in Southern Alberta which includes the Blackfoot Confederacy (comprising the Siksika, Piikani, and Kainai First Nations), as well as the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda (including the Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Goodstoney First Nations). The City of Calgary is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta (Districts 5 and 6).
The University of Calgary is situated on land adjacent to where the Bow River meets the Elbow River, and that the traditional Blackfoot name of this place is “Moh’kins’tsis”, which we now call the City of Calgary. As you get used to life in Calgary, we encourage you to learn more about the diverse Indigenous cultures in Alberta by connecting with the Writing Symbols Lodge, community events, and local heritage sites.
Calgary is the third-largest municipality in Canada
In 2018, Calgary was named the top North American city for liveability based on 30 factors across five different categories: stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure.
Medical Insurance
As a University of Calgary student it is important that you have coverage that meets your needs and that you understand your options.
Temporary Accommodation
It is important to have temporary accommodation options(s) in mind for the first few days or weeks in Calgary. The start of semester can be a busy time around campus and the city so try to make these arrangements well in advance.
Banking
Banks in Canada charge different fees for the same type of service. Look up monthly service charges, telephone and computer banking options, transaction charges, and interest to find the bank whose services best meet your needs.
Food and Shopping
Congratulations, you moved to a new city/country! The hardest part is over. As you get ready to settle in your new place, make sure that you have the essentials covered. From bed linens to appliances, you might need various items to get settled in your new home.
Moving to Calgary with your family? Learn more information on spouse/partner and children.
Transit & Groceries
This video is about familiarizing yourself with Calgary Transit and how to purchase groceries in Calgary.
Calgary Winters
Wondering how to prepare for Calgary's winters? This video from the UCalgary Welcome Centre might give you an idea!