Calgary Approves 2026 Budget with 4.4% Property Tax Increase

Calgary City Council has approved the 2026 operating and capital budget, which includes a 4.4% property tax increase that will add approximately $135 to the average homeowner’s annual tax bill.

The Budget

The $4.2-billion operating budget prioritizes infrastructure maintenance, transit expansion, emergency services, and affordable housing. The capital budget allocates $1.8 billion over four years for water infrastructure, road rehabilitation, the Green Line LRT, and community facility upgrades.

“This is a budget that reflects the reality of a city that is growing by 5,000 people a month,” said Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “The services our residents depend on don’t get cheaper when more people need them.”

Tax Increase Debate

The 4.4% increase was lower than administration’s recommended 5.1% but higher than the rate of inflation. Several councillors who voted against the budget argued for a freeze, citing the financial pressures already facing Calgary families.

“Residents are already stretched to the breaking point,” said Councillor Dan McLean, who voted against the budget. “The city needs to find efficiencies before it reaches deeper into people’s pockets.”

Key Investments

Notable budget items include $22 million for accelerated water main replacement following the October feeder main break, $15 million for new affordable housing initiatives, and $8 million for Calgary Transit safety improvements. The police budget received a 5.2% increase.

The budget takes effect April 1. Tax notices will be mailed in May.