Calgarians love for way city is run highest in eight years

 Public trust in Calgary’s municipal government reached its highest level in eight years, according to new research released by the City. The 2026 Fall Research Results show growing citizen confidence across key municipal services, quality of life, and tax value.

Ipsos Public Affairs conducted the representative survey of 2,500 Calgarians between August 4 and August 28, 2026.

The findings show that 77 per cent of residents rate their overall quality of life as good.

Satisfaction with City services jumped to 73 per cent, marking its highest level since 2019.

Trust in the City rose sharply to 56 per cent, up nine points from last year.

Meanwhile, 49 per cent of respondents feel they receive good value for their local tax dollars.

“One of the clearest findings in this year’s research is growing confidence in Calgary’s future and in The City of Calgary as its municipal government,” says Chief Administrative Officer David Duckworth. “That confidence is also reflected nationally, with Calgary outperforming comparable Canadian municipalities on key measures including quality of life, service satisfaction, trust and value for tax dollars. But greater confidence also comes with high expectations. Our responsibility is to turn that optimism into action and keep delivering for Calgarians as our city grows.”

Confidence in Calgary is improving

Despite the positive momentum, residents continue to highlight key infrastructure and safety priorities.

Traffic and roads ranked as the top priority for 36 per cent of survey respondents.

Crime and public safety followed at 23 per cent, while housing affordability remained a major concern at 18 per cent.

Additionally, 82 per cent of Calgarians agreed now is the right time to invest in new roads, transit, and public facilities.

The 2026 Fall Survey of Calgarians report as well as other research can be found at calgary.ca/insights.

City officials will formally present the full research report to City Council on October 27, 2026.