ADVICE | CALGARYISM
CALGARY IS ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO LIVE IN THE WORLD
CODY BATTERSHILL
Calgary is the world’s third-mostlivable city, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s (EIU) Livability Index 2022. Released in late June, the annual index found us tied with Zurich, Switzerland, for the third best city in the world. Calgary is no stranger to the EIU’s list of most livable cities. Over the past several years, we have made the top five many times but never reached the top three. Vienna, Austria, ranked first on the 2022 index with Copenhagen, Denmark, following in second. Vancouver ranked fifth, while Toronto ranked as the eighth best in the world. In contrast to sprawling metropolises, mid-sized cities in wealthy countries fared well in the global survey of 173 cities. Each city was rated out of 100 for more than 30 qualitative and quantitative factors across five categories, including: • Stability (95) • Healthcare (100) • Culture & Environment (90) • Education (100) • Infrastructure (100) Calgary scored 96.3 overall in all five categories, a significant jump versus the EIU’s 2021 Livability Index where we dropped to 18th overall. WHY CALGARY IS A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE
Known for its increasingly cosmopolitan vibe, Calgary is an emerging city on the global landscape that make it a highly desirable place to live. 12 New Home + Condo Guide | July 22–Aug. 19, 2022
Calgary is incredibly diverse; we are the third most diverse major city in Canada, home to over 240 different ethnic origins. In addition, immigrants from more than 150 countries have chosen to call Calgary home, resulting in more than 120 different languages being spoken across the city. Calgary’s rich diversity contributes significantly to world-class annual events like the Stampede, Latin Festival and GlobalFest. At such events, you’ll get to try authentic cuisines from all over the world and engage in fun familyfriendly activities.
Calgary is also located just an hour or so from the Rocky Mountains. Enjoy hiking, biking, snowshoeing, swimming, camping, and other outdoor activities year-round amid some of Alberta’s most beautiful parks. Kananaskis Country, Banff National Park and Bragg Creek are just three of many natural areas near Calgary with a lot to offer outdoor enthusiasts. Calgary’s river pathways are another hotspot for local activities and recreation. Whether visiting the zoo with the family, checking out an annual music festival, or going for a
much-needed run, Calgary is home to one of North America’s most extensive paved pathway systems. Meanwhile, East Village, St. Patrick’s Island and the soon-tocome Eau Claire Plaza are eclectic cultural destinations, adding immensely to the overall vibrancy of Calgary’s streetscapes. CALGARY REAL ESTATE AFFORDABILITY
Calgary properties are also relatively affordable compared to their counterparts in most other Canadian metropolises, another great reason to live in the city. If you’re considering making a move in the local market, it’s critical to get the best advice from an experienced Realtor® that has your best interests at heart. While Calgary properties may be more affordable than other cities, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do your due diligence while searching for a home. Hire a trusted professional who can help you successfully navigate your transaction! Wishing you all the best in your house hunt and a great rest of the summer! Cody Battershill is the founder of Calgaryism and a top producing Realtor® at RE/MAX House of Real Estate. Born and raised in Calgary, Cody has a passion for helping his clients accomplish their real estate goals and loves to show off the best that Calgary has to offer! He can be reached at 403.370.4008, on Twitter @ Calgaryism and Calgaryism.ca
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