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last mo.

Calgary Unveils 2026 Budget Preview With 5.4% Average Residential Tax Hike

An early preview emphasizes targeted investments under a new department-based format.

The overall property tax increase is proposed at 3.6 per cent but will likely be 5.4 per cent for Calgary residential property owners and 1.3 per cent for commercial properties on average.
Artist’s rendering of Scotia Place, currently under construction in Victoria Park.
City of Calgary Chief Administrative Officer David Duckworth at a press conference in 2023. Duckworth said the upcoming budget and subsequent 3.6 per cent property tax increase will meet the needs of Calgarians
Calgary mayoral candidate Jeromy Farkas speaks to media in Calgary on Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025.

Overview

  • City administration outlined $4.6 billion in operating spending and $3.6 billion in capital investments for 2026 to serve a fast‑growing population.
  • The plan holds to a previously approved 3.6% property tax revenue increase, translating on average to 5.4% for residential properties and 1.3% for non‑residential, reflecting a continued 1% tax shift to keep the ratio at 4.48:1.
  • More than $260 million in additional funding is proposed, including $78 million for affordable housing, $61 million for downtown safety and 9‑1‑1, $59 million for transit frequency and upgrades, and $68 million for infrastructure upkeep.
  • Administration highlighted $1.1 billion for water infrastructure alongside ongoing major projects such as the Green Line and the Event Centre.
  • Utility rates for water, wastewater and stormwater are forecast to rise 3.8%, with household dollar impacts to be released in November when the full budget goes to council on Nov. 24 with opportunities for public input.