Calgary vs Vancouver Housing Market 2025: Prices, Trends & Opportunities

When it comes to Canadian real estate, Calgary and Vancouver are two very different worlds. From housing prices to lifestyle, investment potential, and market trends, both cities offer unique opportunities but cater to very different buyers. Whether you’re looking to relocate, invest, or simply understand the markets better, here’s a side-by-side look at Calgary and Vancouver’s real estate in 2025.

1. Housing Prices & Affordability

• Calgary: Calgary’s average home price has hovered around the mid-$600,000 range in early 2025, making it one of the more affordable major cities in Canada. Detached homes can still be found under $700K in certain neighbourhoods, and condos/townhomes offer strong value for first-time buyers.

  
  

• Vancouver: Vancouver remains one of Canada’s most expensive housing market, with detached homes often starting above $1.7 million and condos averaging over $800K. High demand, limited land, and global interest continue to push prices beyond reach for many local buyers.

  
  

2. Market Activity & Demand

• Calgary: The market has been driven by interprovincial migration, as buyers from Ontario and BC move east for more space and lower costs. Calgary’s balanced to slightly seller-leaning market means homes sell relatively quickly, but without the same level of bidding wars seen in the pandemic peak.

  
  

• Vancouver: Vancouver’s market has remained competitive in core neighbourhoods, though higher interest rates have cooled frenzied bidding. Luxury properties and prime locations still attract international buyers, while suburban areas have seen steadier growth. 

  
  

3. Rental Market & Investment Potential

• Calgary: Strong population growth, limited rental supply, and rising rents have created a strong environment for investors. Calgary’s landlord-friendly regulations and no provincial rent control also appeal to investors. Calgary offers better cash flow potential when compared to Vancouver.

  
  

• Vancouver: The rental market remains extremely tight, with low vacancy rates and high rents. However, stricter regulations, rent control, and higher purchase prices mean investors face higher barriers to entry and thinner margins. Vancouver leans on long-term appreciation when compared to Calgary.

  
  

4. Lifestyle & Economy

• Calgary: Known for its proximity to the Rockies, outdoor lifestyle, and growing tech and energy sectors, Calgary offers big-city amenities with a lower cost of living. Winters are colder, but sunshine is plentiful.

  
  

• Vancouver: A coastal, mild-climate city with access to both mountains and ocean, Vancouver ranks high for quality of life. However, the high cost of living, from housing to groceries, can be challenging.

  
  
  
  

5. Long-Term Outlook

Both cities are expected to remain strong, but for different reasons:

• Calgary will continue to attract migrants from pricier provinces, fueling steady growth.

  
  

• Vancouver will maintain global demand and long-term appreciation, but affordability will remain a challenge.

If you are thinking about making a move or are curious about either of these two markets, feel free to reach out at (778-792-4226) or (587-888-0024).