Calgary quality of life declines amid rising costs

A new Calgary Foundation report finds that fewer Calgarians are rating their quality of life positively in 2026, with rising costs and financial pressures affecting daily life.

The 2026 Quality of Life Report, based on a survey of 1,000 Calgarians, shows 58 per cent rate their quality of life as good or excellent, down from 66 per cent in 2025 and 75 per cent in 2020. Meanwhile, 14 per cent rate their quality of life as below average or poor, the highest level in seven years.

Housing remains a concern, although housing-related stress has declined. Nearly one-third of renters, or 31 per cent, say they cannot afford their current rent.

The report also finds that 59 per cent of Calgarians have changed their eating habits because of rising costs, while 45 per cent worry about running out of food.

Financial pressure is also affecting how Calgarians manage their everyday expenses. The report says 80 per cent can meet their basic financial needs, but that drops to 67 per cent among Calgarians living with a disability. Financial issues remain the most significant source of stress, with many residents cutting spending, delaying major purchases and working more to manage costs.

Despite the pressures, 86 per cent still consider Calgary a good place to live, and only 17 per cent say they plan to leave the city within the next five years, the lowest level recorded in the report.