Average Rent in Calgary 2026 by Housing Type (Home vs Apartment)
Renting in Calgary in early 2026 looks very different than it did just two years ago. After a surge of new purpose-built rentals and a stabilizing vacancy rate hovering around 5.7–6%, renters now face clearer—but still very location-dependent—pricing. Whether you’re comparing an apartment in Beltline Calgary or a detached home in Tuscany Northwest, understanding how rent differs by housing type is essential before signing a lease.
This guide breaks down the average rent in Calgary 2026 by apartments vs homes, with detailed pricing by unit size, neighborhood, and city quadrant. All figures reflect early-2026 trends based on late-2025 CMHC, liv.rent, Rentals.ca, and City of Calgary housing data.
Calgary Rental Market Snapshot (Early 2026)
- City-wide vacancy rate: ~5.7–6.0%
- Rent trend: Stabilizing after rapid growth in 2023–2024
- Supply shift: More mid-rise apartments in Beltline, East Village, University District
- Demand drivers: Interprovincial migration, students, remote workers, new families
Apartments dominate the rental supply in Calgary’s inner city and near C-Train lines, while rental homes remain highly concentrated in suburban quadrants like the Northwest and Southeast.
Average Apartment Rent in Calgary 2026
Apartments remain the most common rental choice in Calgary, especially for singles, couples, students, and newcomers. Pricing varies significantly depending on size and proximity to downtown, transit, and amenities.
Average Apartment Rent by Unit Size (Calgary 2026)
| Apartment Type | Average Monthly Rent | Common Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,300 – $1,450 | Beltline, Downtown West, East Village |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,500 – $1,700 | Mission, Bridgeland, Brentwood |
| 2 Bedroom | $1,900 – $2,200 | Marda Loop, University District |
| 3 Bedroom | $2,300 – $2,700 | Newer inner-city builds |
Apartments near the Red and Blue C-Train lines—such as Brentwood, Sunnyside, and Victoria Park—continue to command higher rents due to transit convenience and reduced commute times.
For a deeper breakdown of apartment options, see our guide on renting an apartment in Calgary.
Average Home Rent in Calgary 2026
Renting a home in Calgary offers more space, privacy, and outdoor access—but at a significantly higher monthly cost. Detached and semi-detached rentals are especially popular with families and long-term tenants.
Average Home Rent by Type (Calgary 2026)
| Home Type | Average Monthly Rent | Typical Locations |
|---|---|---|
| Basement Suite | $1,400 – $1,700 | Northeast, Southeast |
| Townhouse | $2,000 – $2,400 | Northwest, Southwest |
| Detached 3-Bed Home | $2,400 – $3,000 | Tuscany, Auburn Bay |
| Detached 4-Bed Home | $2,900 – $3,600+ | Signal Hill, Aspen Woods |
Utility costs, snow removal, and yard maintenance are often not included in home rentals—an important budgeting factor during Calgary’s long winter season.
If you’re comparing suburban options, our full breakdown on renting a home in Calgary covers lease terms and family-friendly neighborhoods in detail.
Apartment vs Home Rent by Calgary Quadrant (2026)
The Northwest and Southwest remain the most expensive for rental homes, while apartments in the Southeast and Northeast offer the most affordability—often at the cost of longer commute times.
Which Is Better in Calgary: Renting an Apartment or a Home?
There is no universally “better” option—only what fits your lifestyle and budget.
- Apartments: Lower upfront costs, closer to downtown Calgary, better for transit users
- Homes: More space, ideal for families, pets, and long-term stability
Students near the University of Calgary often prefer apartments in Brentwood or Banff Trail, while families prioritize homes near schools, parks, and community centers in neighborhoods like Tuscany or Auburn Bay.
Calgary Rental Laws Renters Should Know in 2026
Under the Alberta Residential Tenancies Act:
- Security deposits are capped at one month’s rent
- Rent increases require proper written notice
- Fixed-term leases cannot be ended early without agreement
Understanding these rules is especially important when renting homes, where informal agreements are more common.
Frequently Asked Questions About Average Rent in Calgary 2026
What is the average rent in Calgary in 2026?
Across all property types, average rent in Calgary in early 2026 ranges from $1,500 to $2,200, depending on unit size and location.
Are apartments cheaper than houses in Calgary?
Yes. Apartments are typically 25–40% cheaper than renting a full home in the same quadrant of Calgary.
Which Calgary neighborhoods have the lowest rent?
Parts of the Northeast and Southeast—such as Forest Lawn, Dover, and Erin Woods—remain among the most affordable.
Is rent still increasing in Calgary in 2026?
Rent growth has slowed significantly. Most increases are modest and tied to newer buildings or premium locations.
Do homes in Calgary include utilities?
Most rental homes do not include utilities, unlike many apartment buildings.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Rental in Calgary for 2026
The average rent in Calgary 2026 reflects a city moving toward balance. Apartments offer affordability and convenience, while homes provide space at a premium. The smartest renters compare housing type, neighborhood, transit access, and total monthly costs—not just base rent.
If you’re actively searching, explore listings by neighborhood and housing type on Getahouse.ca and use this guide as your pricing benchmark before committing.