Is Alberta a Good Place to Live?

Are you considering making Alberta your new home? If so, there are many things to consider before making the big move. From housing and cost of living to popular attractions and climate in the area, it is essential to get an idea of what life will be like if you choose Alberta as your new home. Schools, driving laws and other factors can help you decide whether moving to Calgary, Edmonton, or some of the smaller towns in the province is right for you.

Should I Move to Alberta? 10 Reasons to Say "Yes!"

1. Strong Economy: Alberta has a robust economy driven by industries such as oil and gas, agriculture, forestry, and technology.
2. Affordable Housing: Compared to some other major Canadian cities, Alberta generally offers more affordable housing options, making it an attractive destination for those looking to buy a new home.
3. Higher Average Salaries: Reported income and wages in Alberta are among the highest in the country. 
4. Big Cities: Calgary and Edmonton are two of the biggest cities in Canada, providing the province with robust amenities and exciting opportunities. 
5. Small Towns: Big city living isn't for everyone. The small towns in Alberta are perfect for people looking for a slower pace of life. 
6. Natural Beauty: Alberta is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes. From the majestic Canadian Rockies to the Badlands, there are endless opportunities for outdoor adventures.
7. No PST: Alberta has no provincial sales tax (PST) and generally lower overall taxes compared to other provinces. 
8. Friendly Atmosphere: A welcoming atmosphere makes it easy for newcomers to settle down in no time.
9. You're Always Connected: Alberta's convenient central location makes it easy to travel anywhere in the country or the world. 
10. Alberta Is Calling: The Alberta is Calling campaign reflects the province's open attitude towards new residents.

Cost of Living in Alberta

Alberta's cost of living is one of the most affordable in Canada. While housing and everyday expenses are cheaper than many other provinces, factors such as long winters and fluctuating energy prices can influence costs, particularly for heating and transportation. Alberta's lack of a provincial sales tax further helps reduce overall living expenses, making it an attractive option for many residents.

Housing

The average home prices in Alberta currently range from $600,000 to $750,000 per month. compared to Ontario or British Columbia, Alberta's housing market remains relatively affordable. Housing costs depend largely on the city and neighbourhood you choose. For example, homebuyers can find condos for sale in Airdrie listed for considerably lower than in Calgary; however, Calgary's most affordable neighbourhoods could potentially have cheaper condos due to the quantity and variety of options.

Renting is also reasonable, with one-bedroom apartments ranging from $900–$1500 per month, depending on location and size.

Alberta offers a variety of housing options, from single-family homes to condos and townhomes. The cost of housing in Alberta is relatively low compared to other provinces, making it an attractive option for those looking to buy or rent a home.

Many different types of homes are available in Alberta, ranging from detached single-family dwellings to high-rise condos in Calgary or Edmonton's bustling core areas. Smaller towns may offer more rural properties, such as acreages with outbuildings. At the same time, larger cities have plenty more choices, including multi-family properties that make great investments.

Food

Grocery costs in Alberta vary depending on your city; however, they remain fairly reasonable compared to other parts of Canada and North America.

Prices for essential food items such as bread, milk and eggs are comparable to those found elsewhere across the country. In contrast, more specialty items may be slightly higher due to their limited availability within the province.

Utilities

Utility bills, including electricity, water, sewage and garbage collection, will depend upon usage. Generally speaking, though, they tend to be lower than most other provinces throughout Canada, with monthly bills averaging around $175 per month.

Childcare Expenses

Childcare expenses in Alberta can vary greatly depending on where you live. The province-wide monthly childcare costs range from $700–$1,000 for full-time care.

Overall Cost of Living In Alberta

Considering all factors mentioned above—housing costs, food prices, utility bills and childcare expenses—it's clear that Albertans enjoy a relatively low living cost compared to much of North America!

Popular Attractions and Things to Do

Alberta is full of exciting attractions and activities for people of all ages. From outdoor adventures like hiking and skiing to shopping and dining options, there is something for everyone in this province.

Outdoor Activities

Alberta offers a variety of activities that are perfect for adventurers looking to explore the great outdoors. Whether you're interested in hiking through the Rocky Mountains or canoeing on one of Alberta's many lakes, there are plenty of opportunities to get outside and enjoy nature.

There are numerous Calgary neighbourhoods with outdoor skating rinks, and Banff is a mountainous wonderland great for exploring. Ski resorts near Calgary like Lake Louise, Sunshine Village, Norquay, Nakiska and Marmot Basin offer some of the best downhill skiing in Canada. For those who prefer cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, Kananaskis Country has over 200 kilometres of trails that wind through pristine wilderness areas with stunning views.

Shopping & Dining Options

There are also plenty of shopping and dining options available throughout Alberta. Downtown Calgary has numerous shops offering everything from clothing to art galleries and unique restaurants serving global cuisine. Edmonton boasts an array of farmers' markets where visitors can purchase fresh produce grown locally while enjoying live music performances by local artists at open-air venues throughout the city during the summer.

Climate in Alberta

Alberta has a variety of climates. The climate varies depending on location but generally has warm summers and cold winters. Average temperatures during the summer months range from 15°C–30°C. During winter, temperatures can drop as low as -20°C.

Average Temperatures by Season

Spring typically brings milder weather with average temperatures ranging from 0°C–15°C, while summer is usually hot and dry, with average temperatures reaching up to 30°C. Fall brings cooler weather, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C–20°C. Winter is usually cold and snowy, with average temperatures dropping to -10°C or colder.

Alberta experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year. In spring, there are often thunderstorms that bring rain or snow. Summer tends to be sunny and dry, while fall brings cool days followed by chilly nights. Winter can be freezing and snowy, especially in northern parts of the province; annual precipitation levels vary significantly across Alberta, but most areas receive an average of 25 cm per year.

Driving in Alberta

Driving in Alberta is a great way to get around the province. Before hitting the road—whether you're driving in Calgary to explore the city or driving cross-country—it's essential to familiarize yourself with the rules of the road and traffic laws specific to this area. Drivers should also be aware that cell phone use while driving is prohibited unless they use hands-free technology.

When registering your vehicle in Alberta, you will need proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale or lease agreement, and valid identification, like a driver's license or passport. You will also need to provide proof of insurance which covers liability for bodily injury and property damage caused by accidents. It is important to note that all vehicles registered in Alberta must have minimum third-party liability coverage regardless of whether they are driven within provincial borders.

Public Transportation in Alberta

The largest Albertan cities go to great lengths to ensure their residents' access to transportation options. Calgary's public transportation system—which includes buses and trains—is well-equipped and varied enough to touch nearly every area of the city in addition to the most populated suburbs. Edmonton and its surrounding suburbs also have access to great public transportation, and that access is a motivation for many homebuyers to move to the province.

Schools in Alberta

Public schools in Alberta are funded by the government and offer educational options for students from Kindergarten through Grade 12. Alberta's Ministry of Education provides detailed information about each school district, including ratings and performance results.

Public schools provide various educational opportunities for students, such as language classes, music programs, art classes, physical education courses and more. They can also access specialized services like special needs support and counselling services. Parents can learn more about their local public school system by visiting their local board office or searching online for information about individual schools.

For those who wish to pursue a more specialized education path, several private schools are also available in Alberta. Private schools typically offer smaller classes and extracurricular activities such as sports teams or clubs that public institutions may not provide. Tuition costs vary depending on the type of institution chosen but generally range from $10,000–$20,000 per year for elementary and secondary schooling levels. 

The province also offers numerous options for higher education. Some of the universities in Alberta include the University of Alberta, University of Calgary, and Mount Royal University.

Alberta provides a range of educational options to meet the needs of students and families, whether a student is attending schools in Airdrie or Edmonton.

Disadvantages of Living in Alberta

While it's easy to go on about all of the things people love about Alberta, it's impossible to deny some of the downsides. For some people, Alberta may lack the bustle of Ontario cities or the mild weather of British Columbia. While there are some cons to living in Alberta, they can easily be taken in stride as part of a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

Cold Winters

Alberta is known for its long, cold winters, with temperatures frequently dropping below -20°C (-4°F) and even colder during wind chills. While some enjoy winter sports and activities, the prolonged cold can be challenging for many, requiring heavy-duty clothing, increased heating costs, and the inconvenience of navigating icy roads. Fortunately, the abundant sunshine throughout the province helps compensate.

Housing and Utility Costs

While housing in Alberta’s major cities, like Calgary and Edmonton, is more affordable compared to places like Vancouver or Toronto, prices can still be high, particularly in desirable neighbourhoods. Additionally, the long winters mean higher heating costs, which can significantly impact monthly budgets, especially during economic downturns.

Limited Public Transit

Public transit in Alberta is well-developed only in major cities like Calgary and Edmonton. In smaller towns or rural areas, options are limited, often necessitating personal vehicles for commuting and errands. This reliance on cars can increase transportation costs and make life less convenient for those without access to a vehicle.

Geographic Isolation

As a landlocked province, Alberta is far from coastal areas, making beach vacations or seaside access a long journey. Additionally, the vast distances between cities and towns can create a sense of isolation, particularly for those living in rural areas. Travel to other provinces or countries often involves long drives or flights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Alberta Famous For?

Alberta is famous for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Rocky Mountains, Banff and Jasper National Parks, and iconic sites like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. It is also renowned for its vibrant energy sector, being a leader in oil and gas production in Canada.

The province's cowboy culture shines through its annual Calgary Stampede, known as the "Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth." Alberta is celebrated for its abundant wildlife, sunny climate, and outdoor recreation opportunities, from skiing and snowboarding to hiking and camping. Its cities, Calgary and Edmonton, add to its appeal with festivals, arts, and thriving industries.

Do Alberta Residents Speak English or French?

In Alberta, English is the primary language spoken by the majority of the population. It is the official language used in government, education, and daily communication. While French is one of Canada’s two official languages (along with English), it is less commonly spoken in Alberta compared to provinces like Quebec or New Brunswick.

However, there are French-speaking communities, and services in French are available in some areas, especially in larger cities like Calgary and Edmonton. French immersion programs are also offered in schools for those who want to learn or maintain the language.

What Is the Best Part of Alberta to Live In?

The best place to live in Alberta depends on your priorities. Calgary offers urban living, career opportunities, and proximity to the Rockies, while Edmonton boasts a lower cost of living and vibrant arts and culture. For nature lovers, Canmore and Banff provide stunning mountain scenery and outdoor activities but come with higher housing costs. Lethbridge and Red Deer offer small-town charm, affordability, and family-friendly environments, while Fort McMurray appeals to those in the energy sector with high-paying jobs. Each region has its unique blend of opportunities and lifestyle benefits.

Your Life in Alberta Awaits

Whether you're looking for an exciting new adventure or want to start fresh in a new place, buying a house in Alberta will surely provide the opportunity for the growth and exploration you seek. With all these factors in mind, it's no wonder why so many people are choosing Alberta as their next home. So if you're considering making a move yourself, take some time to research what living in Alberta has to offer—it could be the perfect fit.