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Local Guide

Cheap internet in Calgary: finding value in Cowtown

Calgary's internet market serves over 1.3 million residents spread across a city known for its rapid growth and distinct neighbourhood cultures. From the downtown core to suburban communities like the Deep South and Far North, Calgary's infrastructure varies, but competition between Telus and Shaw/Rogers means residents generally have meaningful choices.

Internet availability across Calgary

Calgary's infrastructure reflects its growth patterns. The inner city, Beltline, Kensington, Mission, Inglewood, has mature cable and increasingly fibre infrastructure. Established suburban communities like the SW, NW, and NE quadrants have solid options from both incumbents.
Newer communities on Calgary's expanding edges may have different infrastructure situations. Some new developments feature modern fibre connectivity from the start, while others rely on whatever infrastructure was installed during initial build-out.
The Shaw-Rogers merger has introduced uncertainty into Calgary's market, which was historically a strong Shaw territory. Existing Shaw customers may see changes, while new customers navigate a transitional landscape.
Telus has invested heavily in fibre throughout Calgary, providing an alternative to the cable-based service from Shaw/Rogers. Resellers like oxio and TekSavvy offer additional options with different pricing structures and service terms.

Why oxio works for Calgary's entrepreneurial culture

Calgary's entrepreneurial culture, shaped by the energy industry's boom-and-bust cycles, has created a population that appreciates straightforward deals and dislikes being locked into inflexible commitments. oxio's transparent pricing and flexible terms resonate with this mindset.
The city's substantial tech sector, growing as Calgary diversifies beyond oil and gas, values online-first services that work on their schedule. No phone queues, no limited customer service hours, just straightforward digital account management.
Many Calgarians work in industries with variable income or project-based employment. Predictable internet costs from oxio's transparent pricing help with household budgeting during uncertain times.
Availability in Calgary is generally good, but always verify at your specific address. New community developments may have different options than established neighbourhoods.

Local notes

  • Calgary's new community developments may have limited provider options initially, check availability before purchasing in a new subdivision.
  • Downtown Calgary condos often have building-specific arrangements, check with your condo board before choosing a provider.
  • Calgary's extreme temperature swings can occasionally affect outdoor infrastructure, understand your provider's policies on weather-related issues.
  • If you work in energy with a compressed work week, reliable home internet is essential for remote work days.
  • The C-Train doesn't offer WiFi, making good home internet even more important for productive work-from-home days.

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Before you switch checklist

  • Check if your current contract has an end date or cancellation fee
  • Note when your current billing cycle ends
  • Confirm oxio availability at your address
  • Review the total monthly cost including taxes and fees
  • Understand equipment requirements (modem, router)
  • Plan for potential service gap during transition

Frequently Asked Questions

Calgary is served by Shaw/Rogers, Telus, and resellers like oxio and TekSavvy. Shaw (now part of Rogers) has historically been the dominant cable provider in Calgary, while Telus offers both DSL and increasingly fibre connections. Resellers like oxio typically offer more competitive pricing and flexible terms without the promotional pricing games. The best choice depends on your address, speed needs, and whether you want to avoid long-term contracts.