How Much Are Airdrie Homes Compared to Calgary?
Many buyers ask: is Airdrie really that much cheaper than Calgary? The short answer: absolutely yes – and the numbers prove it.
Current Market Data (August 2025)
Detached Homes: Substantial Savings
The price difference is even more significant than many realize:
- Calgary Detached Homes: $761,800 benchmark price (July 2025)
- Airdrie Detached Homes: Average price of $544,787 (2024 data)
- Your Savings: Approximately $217,000 less in Airdrie – that's nearly 30% cheaper
This means in Airdrie, you're getting more space for significantly less money. Year-to-date detached prices in Airdrie have risen by nearly six percent, showing healthy market appreciation while still maintaining affordability.
Townhomes & Row Houses: Perfect for First-Time Buyers
- Calgary Townhomes: Median sale price of $447,500 (Q2 2025)
- Airdrie Townhomes: Starting in the mid-$300Ks for entry-level options
- Your Advantage: Save $100,000+ on comparable properties
Calgary's row homes dropped 4% to $446,200, while Airdrie continues offering more affordable entry points for homeownership.
Condominiums & Apartments: Maximum Affordability
- Calgary Condos: Median apartment price of $320,000 (Q2 2025)
- Airdrie Condos: Apartment sector showing 17 percent year-to-date price gains, but starting from a much lower base
Market Trends You Need to Know
Airdrie's Growth Story
Airdrie has seen a 9.4 per cent increase when it comes to benchmark house prices comparing March 2023 to March 2024, showing strong market fundamentals. The total number of units sold increased from 954 in 2023 to 1,062 in 2024, indicating a robust demand in the Airdrie real estate market.
Calgary's Current Reality
While Calgary remains more expensive, the average Calgary home prices were $616,686 and median of $569,500 in July 2025, up 1.7% and 1.2% year over year. However, some segments are cooling: detached homes posted a benchmark price down 1% year-over-year, while apartments saw the steepest decline at 5%.
Lifestyle Trade-Offs: What You Actually Get
More Value in Airdrie:
- Bigger Properties: Larger lots, spacious garages, and newer construction
- Community Feel: Family-oriented neighborhoods with excellent amenities
- Cost Savings: The price difference allows for better finishes, bigger down payments, or lower monthly payments
The Commute Reality:
- Distance: Just 15-20 minutes to north Calgary
- Transportation: Direct highway access via Highway 2
- Cost: Factor in commuting costs, but savings often outweigh this expense
Real Numbers: What This Means for Your Budget
Example Scenario - Young Family:
- Calgary Detached Home: $761,800
- Airdrie Equivalent: $545,000
- Monthly Savings: Approximately $1,200-1,500/month on mortgage payments
- Annual Savings: $14,000-18,000 that can go toward family priorities
First-Time Buyer Scenario:
- Calgary Townhome: $447,500
- Airdrie Townhome: $350,000
- Down Payment Difference: $19,500 less required (5% down)
- Qualification Advantage: Easier to qualify with lower income requirements
Market Outlook & Timing
May sales eased compared to last year, contributing to the year-to-date decline of 10 per cent in Airdrie, creating opportunities for buyers. More inventory means better selection and potentially more negotiating power.
Meanwhile, Calgary's market shows mixed signals with some property types declining, suggesting buyers have more options across both markets.
The Bottom Line
The savings are real and substantial – often $100,000 to $200,000+ depending on property type. For many families, this difference represents:
- Years of mortgage payments
- Kids' education funds
- Renovation and upgrade budgets
- Financial security and breathing room
👉 Ready to run the numbers for your specific situation? I can help you compare properties, calculate true costs including commuting, and find the perfect home that fits your budget and lifestyle goals. The market data shows now could be an excellent time to make your move to Airdrie.
Selling Your Home?
Get your home's value - our custom reports include accurate and up to date information.