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Calgary is a diverse, inclusive, multicultural city where you can quickly become part of the community.

Who are Calgarians?

Calgarians are known for being welcoming, inclusive and kind people. 

The city offers all the energy of a large metropolitan centre with the warm and welcoming spirit of a connected community. We welcome people from all over the world with open arms and unmatched friendliness. 

You’ll feel a sense of belonging instantly with Calgarians’ encouraging nature. Our character is rooted in striving to be better every day and lifting each other up. You’ll get used to conversations being sparked by Calgarians while out for errands or at community events. It’s in our DNA to be kind and lend a helping hand when needed. 

There is also an adventurous spirit that lives in Calgarians. With access to the Rocky Mountains, a short one-hour drive away, and hundreds of nature-filled parks, there is always a new path or picnic spot to explore.

More on Calgary’s demographics
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    An inclusive community

    Calgary is the third most diverse major city in Canada, home to over 240 different ethnic origins, and there are more than 170 languages spoken here.

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    A young city

    Calgary is one of the youngest and fastest-growing cities in Canada. The city’s population grew by 5.5 per cent between 2016 and 2021.

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    A growing city

    Calgary is the third largest city in Canada and the largest city in Alberta.

A can-do spirit lives here

We can’t talk about Calgary without nodding to the innovators and dreamers that live here. Home to curious, collaborative people, Calgary is the place where bright minds with big ideas help solve global challenges. 

Our business and entrepreneurial culture is unique. We welcome new perspectives and believe great ideas come from anywhere. Calgarians don’t shy away from rolling up their sleeves to support one another and get things done. 

Don’t just take our word for it. Hear from some of Calgary’s brightest visionaries.

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Get connected in your community

Calgarians gather to celebrate and create a sense of belonging. Whether you're new to Calgary or a local looking to expand your circle, it's easy to feel connected and meet new people here. Join a like-minded community group or get active with a fitness group. Here are some places to start:

Calgary Social Groups

Meet a new friend or two through the Calgary Meetups group. Some of the notable groups are the Slow and Steady Hikers group to explore the outdoors with a group of like-minded hikers, accessible to all levels. Or, try flexing your photographer skills by capturing picturesque scenery around the city with the Calgary Amateur Photographers group.

Calgary Sports Clubs

If being part of an active group is your style, this list of local running clubs is a good place to start. Known for being inclusive, the Calgary Sport and Social Club offers opportunities for individuals or groups to join a team across a wide variety of sports – from soccer and hockey to squash, spikeball or ultimate frisbee. The Calgary Ski Club hosts activities beyond just skiing, including hiking, golf and a number of socializing events.

Newcomers Groups

Meet and socialize with other new Canadians at the New Canadian Friendship Center with their selection of programs such as ESL, sewing classes, knitting classes, conversation programs and other activities that encourage socializing. 

The Calgary Newcomers Club is also a great resource for women of all ages who are new to Calgary and has a range of activities, including games and exploring the city.

Business Community

You don’t have to build your career alone. From industry events to co-working spaces and tech communities like Platform Calgary and Chic Geek, there are a ton of opportunities to get connected in Calgary’s business community. 

Calgary and Alberta have dozens of professional associations, each specializing in career development and mentorship for members. Look up the association that makes sense for you.

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Get involved in your community

Calgarians are community-minded. We love to give back and are enthusiastic supporters of local causes.

Did you know? Calgary region's volunteer rate and charitable donations were among the highest of major Canadian cities. Home to over 150 community associations, there are hundreds of volunteering opportunities across support programs, community safety, development initiatives, nonprofits and more.

Volunteer in Calgary

Does this sound like you?

If you are looking to make the move, we are ready to welcome you to Calgary.

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Experience living in Calgary

Discover an affordable, vibrant and family-friendly lifestyle in the world's third most livable city.

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