Renting vs Buying in Calgary: What Moms Need to Know in 2025

Buying a Home in Calgary: Stability with Considerations

If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s time to buy a home or stick with renting in Calgary, you’re not alone. As moms, we’re constantly weighing what’s best for our families — emotionally, financially, and logistically. And let’s be real, the market isn’t exactly straightforward these days.

In this post, I’m breaking down the pros and cons of renting vs. buying — through the lens of motherhood, because every decision we make has a ripple effect on our kids, our peace of mind, and our long-term goals.

“Should I keep renting or look into buying?”

This is a question I get from so many — and it’s valid. Calgary’s real estate scene in 2025 is active, a bit unpredictable, and full of opportunities if you know what to look for. But before diving into numbers, let’s talk about the real stuff — like stability, flexibility, and how much mental bandwidth you have at the end of the day.

The Case for Buying: Roots, Routine, and Long-Term Payoff

Buying might make sense if you…

✨ Want to put down roots and stop hopping around rental contracts
✨ Crave stability in school zones, daycare commutes, and neighbourhood friendships
✨ Are tired of paying someone else's mortgage (because yes, rent = their equity)

Here’s what’s great about buying:

• Predictability: Your mortgage stays the same (if it’s fixed-rate) — unlike rent, which can spike.

• Equity-building: You’re putting money back into your future, not a landlord’s.

• Freedom: Want to paint the kids’ rooms bubblegum pink? Go for it. Build a play structure in the backyard? Absolutely.

But heads up...

• It comes with upfront costs (down payment, closing fees, etc.).

• Home maintenance becomes your job — leaky faucet and all.

• You’ll need to stay put a while for the investment to really pay off.

The Case for Renting: Flexibility + Breathing Room

Renting might make sense if you…

✨ Aren’t quite sure where you want to be long-term
✨ Value flexibility and lower upfront costs
✨ Want to keep your options open while you save or build credit

Why moms love renting:

• No maintenance stress: The dishwasher dies? That’s the landlord’s problem.

• More mobility: If life shifts (hello, job changes or co-parenting logistics), you’re not locked into a long-term investment.

• Lower barrier to entry: No down payment, no closing costs. Just rent + deposit and you're in.

But here’s the thing…

• You're not building any equity.

• Rent can (and likely will) go up.

• You’re limited in how much you can personalize your space.

Calgary Market Snapshot (2025 Edition)

Here’s a quick look at what we’re working with this year:

• 🏡 Average home price in Calgary: ~$646,743

• 🏘️ Detached homes average: $839,250

• 💸 Average rent for a 1-bedroom: ~$1,678/month (down 2.9% from last year)

The takeaway? Prices are still climbing but more slowly — which could mean a sweet spot for smart buyers, especially in family-friendly areas.

What Moms Should Really Consider

Because beyond price points and mortgage rates, here’s what really matters:

• Where will your kids thrive? Think schools, playgrounds, daycare proximity.

• How’s your financial flexibility? Could you handle a surprise home repair next month?

• What season of life are you in? (Growth mode? Stability? Still figuring it out?)

Remember: the “right time” to buy isn’t always about the market. It’s about your goals, your gut, and your game plan.

Real Talk, From Me To You

I get it — it’s not just about square footage and interest rates. It’s about nap schedules, second incomes, rising grocery bills, and whether you feel at home in your space. I’ve been there, too.

Buying may make sense for some. Renting may be the smarter choice for others. And either path can be part of building the life you want for your family.

Final Thought

If you're unsure which direction to take, you’re not failing — you’re thinking smart. And if you ever want to chat one-on-one about your family’s housing goals I’m always here.

You’re doing great, mama — no matter where you live. 💛

Want personalized advice?

Feel free to send me a message or DM me on Instagram (@JoyceInYYC). Let’s figure this out together.