Renting in Calgary: What the 2025 Data Tells Us About the Market

🏙️ Renting in Calgary: What the 2025 Data Tells Us About the Market

As Calgary continues to attract newcomers and young professionals, the city's rental market is seeing notable shifts. The 2025 RLP Canadian Renters Report sheds light on the habits, challenges, and aspirations of Calgary renters — and the story it tells is both revealing and hopeful for those looking to transition into homeownership.

📊 Key Highlights for Calgary Renters

1. Renters Are On the Move:
A significant 59% of renters in Calgary signed a new lease in 2025 — among the highest in Canada. This suggests a highly mobile population, with many searching for affordability, better amenities, or a more convenient location.

2. High Cost Burden:
A striking 41% of renters spend more than 40% of their net income on rent. This level of financial strain is prompting many to reassess their housing situation — especially as costs continue to climb.

3. Incentives Are Out There:
About 15% of Calgary renters were offered rental incentives such as move-in bonuses or discounts. While not universal, these deals can make a meaningful difference — especially for those negotiating new leases.

4. Eyes on Ownership:
More than 63% of Calgary renters plan to buy a home in the future, with 22% hoping to do so within 2 years. This is the highest homeownership aspiration rate of all major cities surveyed, highlighting Calgary’s appeal as a place to settle and grow.

💡 What’s Holding Renters Back?

Among Calgary renters who considered buying, the top reasons for delaying homeownership were:

• Waiting for property prices to drop (38%)

• Saving for a down payment (17%)

• Concerns over employment stability (28%)

• Not qualifying for a mortgage (24%)

Interestingly, many renters are close to being ready — but uncertainty around interest rates and affordability is keeping them cautious.

🔄 Sacrifices Are Common

To manage rent, many Calgary residents are making tough trade-offs:

• 52% have reduced spending on groceries

• 34% have taken on side jobs

• 29% are carrying credit card debt

• 36% are delaying saving for retirement

These statistics signal that while Calgary remains one of Canada’s most affordable large cities, renters are still feeling squeezed.

🏠 The Path Forward

Calgary renters are pragmatic — but they’re also optimistic. The desire to own is strong, and with the right support (education, incentives, and market conditions), many are poised to make that leap.

If you're a renter in Calgary thinking about buying, now is the time to start planning. Speak to a local real estate expert, explore pre-approval options, and begin identifying neighborhoods that fit your goals and budget.

Ready to explore Calgary homes?
Let’s talk about your next steps — whether that’s saving smarter, improving mortgage eligibility, or booking a showing.
👉 Visit ryanparry.com