French 
Moving to Calgary: Your Insider’s Guide from the Atlas Agent Network
Planning a move to Calgary? This tip guide is for you. Whether you’re relocating across provinces or moving from another part of Alberta, Calgary delivers a distinctive mix of economic opportunity, family-friendly communities, and direct access to world-class outdoor destinations. As one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities, Calgary combines urban convenience with prairie warmth and mountain adventure.
A long-distance move—especially one that spans provinces or time zones—requires more than just packing boxes. It takes knowledgeable planning, the right equipment, and local support you can trust. That’s where Atlas Van Lines Canada comes in.
With over 60 years of national moving experience and three trusted Atlas Agents based in Calgary, we combine the strength of a coast-to-coast network with boots-on-the-ground expertise to help you move with confidence.
Meet Your Trusted Atlas Agents in Calgary
Calgary is served by three experienced Atlas Agents, each known for their professionalism, reliability, and deep community knowledge:
Whether you’re moving into a new home in the suburbs, settling into a downtown condo, or relocating for school or work, our agents deliver the care, coordination, and capability that define the Atlas Trusted Agent Network.
Welcome to Calgary: A City of Balance and Adventure
Calgary is Alberta’s largest city and a thriving hub for energy, education, business, and innovation. Its skyline sits just an hour from the Rocky Mountains, making it one of the few major cities in North America where urban life and outdoor recreation are seamlessly connected.
Fast Facts
- Population: ~1.6 million (metro area)
- Official Language: English (multilingual population)
- Climate: Cold, dry winters and warm, sunny summers with frequent Chinook winds
- Layout: The city is divided into four quadrants—NW, NE, SW, SE—each offering diverse communities and access to services
Neighbourhoods and Communities
Each Calgary quadrant has its own unique character, amenities, and lifestyle benefits. Whether you’re looking for top-ranked schools, lake access, mountain views, or a short commute to downtown, Calgary has a neighbourhood to match.
Top Communities to Explore
- Mahogany (SE): Lakeside living, schools, and new amenities
- Tuscany (NW): Family-friendly, close to schools and parks
- Beltline & Kensington (Inner City): Vibrant, walkable, great nightlife and restaurants
- Signal Hill & Aspen Woods (SW): Established, upscale, near shopping and transit
- Skyview Ranch & Redstone (NE): Diverse, fast-growing, close to the airport
Many families and professionals also choose to live just outside the city in neighbouring communities such as Cochrane, Bragg Creek, Airdrie, and Okotoks, where they enjoy more space, small-town charm, and easy access to Calgary for work and amenities.
This what-to-know Calgary relocation guide is designed to help you navigate everything from neighbourhood choices to essential services, whether you’re moving locally or planning a cross-country move to Calgary.
Education, Employment & Quality of Life
Calgary is home to several post-secondary institutions and employment sectors that draw newcomers from across Canada and beyond.
Education
- University of Calgary – Research and innovation leader
- Mount Royal University – Undergraduate-focused programs
- SAIT – Technical and trades training
Key Industries
- Energy and renewables
- Technology and clean tech
- Agriculture and food processing
- Transportation and logistics
Lifestyle Highlights
- One of North America’s most extensive urban pathway and bikeway networks
- Home to Canada Olympic Park and training centres for winter sports
- Over 20 public and private golf courses within city limits and surrounding areas
- Access to Banff, Canmore, and Kananaskis Country for hiking, skiing, and more
- Michelin-recognized restaurants and a dynamic local food scene
- Cultural destinations like the National Music Centre, Calgary Tower, Stephen Avenue, and year-round festivals
Setting Up in Calgary: What You’ll Need to Do
Your Atlas Agent will handle moving logistics, but here are the key steps you’ll need to take after arriving:
1. Health Care Registration
Apply for the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). There are no monthly premiums, but proof of residency and ID are required.
Website: alberta.ca/ahcip
2. Driver’s Licence and Vehicle Registration
Out-of-province licences must be exchanged, and vehicles registered within 90 days.
Website: alberta.ca/moving-to-alberta.aspx
3. Update Your Address
Notify:
- CRA and Service Canada
- Banks, insurance, and utilities
- Employers and schools
4. Utilities and Internet Setup
Calgary has a deregulated utilities market—compare providers before signing up:
- Electricity/Gas: Enmax, Direct Energy, ATCO, EPCOR
- Internet/TV: Telus, Shaw, Rogers, TekSavvy
- Compare rates: ucahelps.alberta.ca
5. School and Childcare Registration
- Public: Calgary Board of Education (CBE)
- Catholic: Calgary Catholic School District (CCSD)
- Daycare: Alberta Child Care Lookup and La Place 0-5
6. Municipal Services
- Garbage, recycling, and composting: calgary.ca/waste
- Download the Calgary 311 app for service requests and updates
Living Like a Local
Calgary residents are known for being friendly, resilient, and community-oriented. Once you settle in, consider:
- Walking or biking the Bow River Pathway
- Spending a day at the Calgary Zoo or TELUS Spark Science Centre
- Taking in a Calgary Flames game at the Saddledome
- Visiting the Farmers’ Market, checking out live music, or exploring the Calgary Stampede
“There’s an energy here that’s hard to describe. The Stampede captures it best, but you’ll feel it year-round.”
— Premiere Calgary
Why Choose Atlas for Your Calgary Move?
- Over 60 years of long-distance and cross-border moving experience
- Three locally based Atlas Agents with strong reputations
- Containerized transport, real-time tracking, and full-service coordination
- All-inclusive pricing with no hidden fees
- Personalized planning from quote to delivery
Whether you’re comparing the best moving companies in Calgary or seeking a team to manage your cross-country move, the Atlas Trusted Agent Network has the resources and reliability to get you there.
“At Atlas, we believe it’s not just the destination—it’s who you travel with.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Calgary
What is the best time of year to move to Calgary?
Spring and early fall are typically the best times to move. You’ll avoid winter road conditions and peak summer pricing while still enjoying milder weather.
How far in advance should I book my long-distance move to Calgary?
We recommend booking 6 to 8 weeks in advance to ensure availability and to allow time for planning and coordination with your Atlas Agent.
Does Atlas Van Lines offer full-service packing and storage in Calgary?
Yes. Our Calgary-based agents offer full packing, unpacking, and both short- and long-term storage solutions tailored to your needs.
Are there specific permits required for moving into downtown Calgary?
In some areas—especially multi-unit buildings or downtown condos—building access or parking permits may be required. Your Atlas Agent will help coordinate these details.
What should I look for when comparing Calgary long distance movers?
Look for companies with transparent pricing, long-standing reputations, local expertise, and national certifications. Atlas Van Lines combines all of these, with over 60 years of proven experience.
Start Your Move to Calgary Today
Whether you’re moving to Calgary for work, family, or a fresh start, we’re here to make your transition easy. Our local Atlas Agents are ready to help with every step of your move.
Start your estimate now at atlasvanlines.ca/estimate
Check out the Atlas Moving to Montreal: Your Insider’s Guide