How do property taxes work in Calgary?
Property taxes in Calgary are based on the property's assessed value and the applicable municipal and provincial education tax rates. The City of Calgary issues annual property assessments and collects both the municipal and provincial portions of property taxes. Your assessment is not necessarily the same as what your home would sell for in today's market. When purchasing a home, it's important to factor annual property taxes into your overall housing budget. I can help you review the current taxes on a property you're considering and explain how they are adjusted between the buyer and seller at closing.

Calgary Property Taxes in Brief


  • Calgary property taxes are based on assessed value multiplied by municipal and provincial tax rates.
  • The City collects both the municipal portion and the provincial education portion.
  • Your assessment reflects market value as of July 1 of the previous year.
  • Taxes are adjusted between the buyer and seller at closing.

How Assessments Work


Each year, the City of Calgary assesses every property based on its estimated market value as of July 1 of the previous year and its physical condition as of December 31. Assessment notices are mailed early in the year, and owners who disagree with their assessment can file a complaint within the review period shown on the notice.


How Your Tax Bill Is Calculated


Your property tax is calculated by multiplying your assessed value by the combined municipal and provincial education tax rates set each spring. Tax bills are typically mailed in late May and due at the end of June. Many owners spread payments over the year through the City's monthly Tax Instalment Payment Plan (TIPP).


Assessment vs. Market Value


Your assessed value is not an appraisal or a list price. Because it reflects an earlier valuation date and mass appraisal methods, your home may sell for more or less than its assessment.


Taxes When You Buy or Sell


Property taxes are adjusted on the statement of adjustments at closing. If the seller has prepaid the year's taxes, the buyer reimburses them for the days after possession. If taxes are unpaid, the seller credits the buyer for their share. Your lawyer handles these calculations.


Budgeting Help


When you're considering a home, I can show you the current tax amount so you can include it in your monthly budget with confidence.